ME00629B - Powder filling apparatus and method - Google Patents

Abstract

The invention provides a process, apparatus and system for metered transport of fine powder into cartridges. According to one exemplary example, an apparatus comprising a funnel (12) having an opening (18) is realized. The funnel (12) is adjusted to receive a layer of fine powder (20). At least one chamber (24) is provided, which is movable so that it can be positioned near the opening (18). The bar (28), which has a closer end and a distal end (13), is positioned inside the funnel (12) so that the distal end is near the opening (18). The motor (26) is provided to cause the rod (28) to vibrate when it is in fine powder (20). The invention provides a process, apparatus and system for metered transport of fine powder into cartridges. According to one exemplary example, an apparatus comprising a funnel (12) having an opening (18) is realized. The funnel (12) is adjusted to receive a layer of fine powder (20). At least one chamber (24) is provided, which is movable so that it can be positioned near the opening (18). The bar (28), which has a closer end and a distal end (13), is positioned inside the funnel (12) so that the distal end is near the opening (18). The motor (26) is provided to cause the rod (28) to vibrate when it is in fine powder (20).

Description

TECHNICAL FIELD

The present invention relates in general to the field of fine powder processing, and in particular to the dosed transport and filling of fine powder. In particular, the present invention relates to systems, devices and methods for filling cartridges with unit doses of non-liquid but dispersible fine powder drugs, which are specifically intended for subsequent inhalation by patients.

Effective patient intake of medications is a critical aspect of any successful drug therapy. There are different ways of administering drugs, each of which has its own advantages and disadvantages. Taking drugs orally through tablets, capsules, elixirs and the like may be the most convenient way, but a large number of drugs have an unpleasant taste, and often the size of the tablets makes them difficult to swallow. What's more, such drugs are often broken down in the digestive tract before they can be absorbed. Such decomposition is a particular problem with modern protein medicines, which are quickly diluted due to proteolytic enzymes in the digestive tract. Injection into the subcutaneous tissue is often an effective way to systematically introduce the drug into the human body, including the introduction of proteins, but it is difficult to accept by patients and generates waste, for example, needles, which are difficult to store. Since there is a need for frequent injections of drugs according to a fixed regimen, as in the case of insulin, which is administered once or more times a day, which can lead to non-acceptance by the patient, the development of a number of alternative ways to introduce drugs, including transdermal, intranasal, intrarectal , intravaginal introduction, as well as through the respiratory organs. Of special interest for the present invention are the procedures for introducing the drug through the respiratory organs, which are based on inhalation of the drug in dispersed form or in the form of an aerosol by the patient so that the active drug can reach the outermost areas (alveoli) of the lungs. It has been established that certain drugs are easily absorbed directly into the bloodstream via the alveoli. The introduction of drugs through the respiratory organs is especially useful in the case of introduction of proteins and polypeptides, which are difficult to introduce in any other way. This way of introduction through the respiratory organs can be effective both for systematic introduction and for local introduction for the treatment of lung diseases.

Inhalation (including both systemic and topical delivery) can itself be accomplished in a variety of ways, including liquid nebulizers, metered dose inhalers (MDIs), and dry powder dispersing devices. Devices for dispersing dry powder give particularly good results in the case of introducing drugs based on proteins and polypeptides, which can easily be delivered in the form of dry powder. Many otherwise unstable proteins and polypeptides can be stably stored as lyophilized or in powder form by spraying as such or in combination with a suitable drug carrier. An additional benefit is that the concentration of the dry powder is much higher than the drug in liquid form.

The possibility of introducing proteins and polypeptides in the form of dry powder is problematic in certain aspects. Dosing of many protein or polypeptide based drugs is often critical, so it is often necessary for any dry powder delivery system to be able to accurately, precisely and reproducibly deliver the intended amount of drug. Moreover, many proteins and polypeptides are quite expensive, usually several times more expensive than drugs that are widely used commercially. Therefore, it is of crucial importance that the possibility of efficient introduction of dry powder substances into the target lung region is such that minimal loss of the drug is achieved.

For a particular field of application, fine powder medicaments are delivered to a dry powder dispersing device in small unit dose cartridges that often have a cap that can be punctured or some other access surface (commonly referred to as blister closure elements). For example, dispersing devices, which are described in US Pat. Nos. 5,785,049 and 5,740,794, are designed to receive such a cartridge. After placing the observed cartridge in the mentioned device, the multi-jet ejector device, which has a filling tube, is introduced by breaking through the cover of the observed cartridge, in order to provide access to the powder medicine that is there. The mentioned multi-jet ejector device also creates openings for the passage of air on the lid that allow air to flow through the cartridge and thus draw in and eject the given medicine. What drives this process is a high-velocity air stream that flows past a portion of the tube, such as the outlet end, which draws the powder from the cartridge through the tube into the air stream, forming an aerosol for inhalation by the patient. The high-velocity air stream transports the powder from the cartridge in a partially deagglomerated state, while the final complete deagglomeration takes place in the mixing space, which is located downstream just below the high-velocity air inlet.

Of special importance for the mentioned invention are also the physical properties of powders that slide poorly. Poorly sliding powders are powders whose physical properties, such as the ability to slide, are dominantly influenced by the forces of cohesion between individual units or individual particles (hereinafter the term "individual particles") that make up the observed powder. In such cases, said powder does not slide well, since the particles cannot easily move independently of each other, but move in the form of clumps made up of many particles. When such powder is exposed to low intensity forces, the powder will show a tendency not to slide at all. However, as the intensity of the forces acting on the powder increases relative to the forces of cohesion, the powder will move in the form of large agglomerated "clumps" of individual particles. When the powder stops moving, large agglomerations remain, which leads to uneven density due to the existence of voids and zones of low density between said large agglomerations and zones of local compression.

This type of behavior intensifies with reduced dimensions of individual particles. This is most likely due to the fact that with the reduction of particle dimensions there is an increase in the intensity of cohesion forces, such as van der Waals forces, electrostatic forces, frictional forces and other forces in relation to gravitational and inertial forces, which can be applied to individual particles due to their small mass. This is significant for the said invention, since gravitational and inertial forces, resulting from acceleration, as well as other driving forces are commonly used for processing, transporting and dosing powders.

For example, when dosing said fine powder, before placing it in unit-dose cartridges, the powder often forms uneven agglomerations, thus creating voids and large density variations, thereby reducing the accuracy of the volumetric measurement process (dosing) that is commonly used for dosing. in conditions of highly productive production. Such uneven agglomeration is also undesirable because it is necessary to separate existing agglomerations of observed powder into individual particles, i.e. make them susceptible to dispersing for the purposes of introduction through the respiratory organs. Such deagglomeration often occurs in dispersing devices as a result of the shearing forces created by the air stream used to extract said drug from a unit-dose cartridge or other container with powder or other mechanical energy transfer mechanisms (for example, ultrasound, fan/ drive element and the like). However, if the smaller agglomerations of the powder are too compact, the shear forces present in the observed air current or other dispersing mechanisms will be insufficient to effectively disperse said drug in the form of the smallest individual particles.

Some attempts to prevent agglomeration of individual particles involve the creation of mixtures of multiphase powders (most often it is a drug carrier or diluent), where larger particles (sometimes several times larger), for example approximately 50 µm, are mixed with smaller drug particles. for example, from 1 pm to 5 pm. In this case, smaller particles are attached to larger particles so that during processing and filling, the said powder exhibits the properties of a 50 µm powder. Such powder can slide and be measured more easily. However, one of the disadvantages related to this kind of powder is that it is difficult to separate smaller from larger particles, and that the resulting powdery mass is mostly made up of bulky components of the sliding agent, which can get stuck in the device or the patient's throat.

Current procedures for filling unit-dose cartridges with powder drugs include a direct pouring procedure, where the granulated powder is directly poured under the action of gravity (sometimes in combination with mixing or rough shaking) into the measuring chamber. When the observed chamber is filled to the desired level, then the drug is ejected from the chamber into the cartridge. During such a direct filling process, there may be variations in the density in the observed measurement chamber, which reduces the effect of the measurement chamber when accurately measuring the amount of a unit dose of the drug. Mostly the observed powder is in a granular state which can be undesirable for many applications.

Some attempts have been made to minimize variations in density by compacting the observed powder inside the measuring chamber, that is, before placing it in the given chamber. However, such compaction is undesirable especially in the case of powders consisting of only fine particles, because the dispersibility of such powders is reduced, i.e. reduces the probability that the compact powder thus compressed is separated into individual particles during the introduction of the drug through the respiratory organs using a dispersing device. Therefore, it would be desirable to provide systems and procedures for processing fine powders that would overcome or greatly reduce these or other problems. Such systems and procedures should enable precise dosing

of said fine powder when it is divided into unit doses for placement in unit dose cartridges, especially in the case of small charge masses. Such systems and procedures should ensure that during processing

the observed fine powder remains sufficiently dispersible such that such fine powder can be used in existing inhalation devices, which require the powder to be separated into elementary particles prior to inhalation. Further, such systems and processes should provide rapid processing of the fine powder so that a large number of unit dose cartridges can be quickly filled with unit doses of the fine powder drug in order to reduce cost.

STATE OF THE ART

US Patent No. 5,765,607 describes a machine that measures products into containers and includes a device for delivering the products to the containers.

US Patent No. 4,640,322 describes a machine that applies vacuum by forcing material from a suction funnel through a filter and laterally into a fixed chamber.

US Patent No. 4,509,560 describes a granular material processing device that uses a rotary agitator to mix the granular material.

US Patent No. 2,540,059 describes a powder loading device having a rotating wire stirrer for mixing the powder in a hopper prior to direct gravity feeding of the powder into the metering chamber.

German patent DE 3 607 187 describes a mechanism for measured transport of fine particles. The product brochure "E-300 Powder Filler" describes a powder filler manufactured by Perry Industries, Corona, California, USA.

US Patent No. 3,874,431 describes a machine for filling capsules with powder. The machine uses core tubes that are located on the rotating head of the machine that houses the tools.

British patent no. 1,420,364 describes a membrane device for use in a measuring chamber, which is used to measure the amount of dry powder.

British patent no. 1,309,424 describes a powder loading device having a metering chamber with a piston head used to create a negative pressure in the chamber.

Canadian Patent No. 949,786 describes a machine having measuring chambers which are immersed in powder. A vacuum is then used to fill the chamber with powder.

US Patent No. 5,377,727 describes a device for measuring and conveying material in the form of particles or granules, using a conveyor tank, conveying rollers with axially placed measuring sections, a hopper placed above the conveying rollers and a filling channel, placed between the conveyor and the conveying rollers. There is a blocking element that prevents mixing inside the suction funnel.

EXPOSITION OF THE ESSENCE OF THE INVENTION

The invention provides a system, apparatus and method, the protection of which is claimed by Claims 39, 20 and 1 for the transport of metered fine powder in unit dose cartridges. In one exemplary process, such fine powders are transported by first shaking the fine powders with a vibrating element and then separating the smallest part of the fine powder. The separated fine powder is then transferred to the cartridge, where the separated fine powder is sufficiently dispersed so that it can be dispersed after removal from the cartridge. It is common for a fine powder to contain a drug with individual particles having a mean diameter of less than about 100 pm, usually less than about 10 pm, and most often from 1 pm to 5 pm. Preferably, said fine powder is placed in a funnel that has an opening at the bottom end. The element vibrates to disperse the fine powder. Vibrating the fine powder in the vicinity of said opening helps to transfer some of the fine powder through said opening, where it can be separated in the chamber. The vibration of the mentioned element also helps the deagglomeration of the powder in the measuring chamber, so that the measuring chamber can be filled evenly.

It is recommended that an element that can vibrate vibrates up and down, i.e. to move vertically in relation to the specified powder in the suction funnel. One possibility is to use an ultrasonic funnel for vertical vibration of the element. Alternatively, it is possible that the element also contains a rod, which vibrates back and forth, i.e. laterally, within powder. In another alternative embodiment, the element vibrates orbitally. According to one possibility, said rod is operatively connected to a piezoelectric motor that causes vibrations of the rod. It is recommended that said element vibrates vertically with a frequency of about 1,000 Hz to about 180,000 Hz, and better to be in the range of about 10,000 Hz to about 40,000 Hz, and the best from about 15,000 Hz to about 25,000 Hz. It is recommended that the bar vibrate laterally in the range of about 50Hz to about 50,000 Hz, preferably in the range of about 50Hz to about 5,000 Hz, and most preferably in the range of about 50 Hz to about 1,000 Hz.

According to another embodiment, the element has a remote end located close to the opening. Further, the distal end has a tip portion which vibrates above the chamber to assist in conveying the fine powder from the hopper into said chamber. It is desirable that the part located at the end extends laterally from the element. In one case, the end part has a cylinder when the element vibrates vertically. In another case, the part located at the end contains a transverse part, when the rod vibrates laterally. Preferably, the end portion is vertically spaced from the chamber at a distance of from about 0.01 mm to about 10 mm, more preferably in the range of about 0.5 mm to about 3 mm. This distance chosen helps to keep the powder in a loose state when it is transferred to the chamber.

As it vibrates, the element moves along the opening. For example, the element can be translationally moved along the opening at a speed that is preferably less than 100 cm/s. However, the actual rate of translation will usually depend on the frequency of oscillation of the element. In this way, the element moves along the chamber as it vibrates.

The movement of the element along the opening is particularly convenient when several chambers are in line with the opening.

In this way, said element can be used to help transfer the fine powder from the suction funnel to each of the chambers. As an additional possibility, several elements or rods can vibrate inside the suction funnel itself near the opening. The rods are preferably aligned with each other and translationally move along the observed aperture while vibrating, although in some cases some of the resonators or elements may remain stationary over each of the chambers.

To aid in the separation of the fine powder in the chamber it is desirable to draw air through the bottom of the chamber so as to draw the fine powder into the chamber. After extracting the fine powder, it is conveniently transferred into the cartridge. It is preferable that the transfer of fine powder is achieved by introducing compressed gas into the chamber in order to insert the separated powder into the cartridge. In the long way of carrying out this procedure, the said fine powder is periodically leveled in the suction cup. As one possibility, the powder can be leveled by placing a protruding part above the far end of the vibrating element. In this way, this protruding part vibrates in parallel with the vibrating element. As said element moves translationally along the suction funnel, said projecting part tends to align the fine powder in the suction funnel. According to this case, the transfer of powder is done in a humidity controlled environment.

Another possibility is to adjust the powder separated in the chamber to the amount representing the unit dose. This can be achieved by placing a thin plate (thin sheet) between the suction funnel and the chamber. The mentioned plate has an opening that allows the passage of powder from the suction funnel into the chamber. The chamber then moves relative to the plate, which removes excess powder from the chamber. Alternatively, a sheet of thin sheet metal can be used to remove any excess powder from the chamber when the chamber is rotated.

In one special case, the powder is transferred from the suction funnel to another suction funnel. Conveniently, the secondary hopper vibrates so as to transfer the powder to a steep plane from where it passes to the primary hopper. Another possibility is a solution when the chamber is periodically removed and replaced with a chamber of different dimensions in order to adjust the volume of the chamber. In this way, different dosages can be made using the present invention.

The present invention also provides an apparatus, which serves as an example, for transporting fine powder. This device contains a funnel for storing fine powder. This device also contains at least one chamber that can be moved, so that it can be placed in the immediate vicinity of the opening of the suction funnel. The device also contains an element that vibrates with the near and far end, whereby the element is placed inside the suction funnel, so that the far end is near the opening. There is also a vibrator that causes the mentioned element to vibrate when it is inside the fine powder. In this way, the element can vibrate to agitate the fine powder, thereby assisting its transfer from the hopper to the chamber. It is convenient that the vibrator also contains an ultrasonic funnel that causes vibrations of the mentioned element up and down, i.e. in the vertical direction. Alternatively, a piezoelectric motor can be used to cause lateral vibrations of the element.

The apparatus also contains a mechanism for translating the vibrating element or rod above the chamber when the element vibrates. This type of mechanism has special advantages when multiple chambers are provided in a rotating member that rotates to align the chamber with the opening. A translation mechanism is then applied to translatomo move the element above the rotating member so that the vibrating element passes over each chamber to assist in the powder filling of each. It is desirable that the translator mechanism contains a linear drive mechanism that translates the resonator along the opening at a speed that is less than 100 cm/s.

In another case, the vibrator is adjusted to cause the element to vibrate up and down at a frequency in the range of about 1,000 Hz to about 180,000 Hz, preferably in the range of about 10,000 Hz to about 40,000 Hz, and preferably in the range from about 15,000 Hz to about 25,000 Hz. Preferably, when the vibrating member vibrates up and down, it comprises a cylindrical shaft having a diameter of about 1.0 mm to 10 mm. Preferably, when vibrating laterally, said element also includes a rod or wire having a diameter in the range of about 0.25 mm (0.01 inch) to about 1.0 mm (0.04 inch).

Preferably, the end portion is operatively connected to the distal end of the vibrating element, thereby assisting in the agitation of the fine powder. It is preferable that the end part is vertically away from the chamber at a distance of about 0.01 mm to about 10 mm, better at a distance of about 0.5 mm to about 3.0 mm. In an alternative case, the apparatus has multiple vibrating elements, so that multiple elements can vibrate within the fine powder. As another possibility, the chamber is placed inside the rotary member which is placed in the first position, which aligns the chamber with the opening in the suction funnel, or in the second position, which aligns the chamber with the cartridge. In this way, the chamber can be filled with powder when it is in the first position. Said rotating member is then rotated to another position, which allows the powder to be discharged from the chamber into the cartridge. Preferably, the chamber includes an opening in communication with a vacuum pump to assist transfer of the fine powder from the hopper into the chamber. It is preferable to place the filter along the observed opening for easier extraction of fine powder. It is desirable that the pressurized gas source be in connection with the opening for ejecting the separated fine powder from the chamber into the cartridge. A control unit can be provided to control the activation of the gas source, the vacuum pump and the operation of the vibrator.

The device can contain a mechanism for adjusting the amount of separated powder in the chamber depending on the volume of the chamber. In this way, the amount separated will be exactly the unit amount of the dose. Such an adjustment mechanism may have a lip to remove fine powder above the chamber. In one exemplary embodiment, the adjustment mechanism includes a thin plate having an aperture that may be flush with the chamber during loading. When the rotating member rotates, the edge of the opening removes excess powder from the chamber.

In one particular case, it is envisaged that the vibrating element also contains a projecting part which is placed above the distal end. The projecting part serves to level the powder level inside the suction funnel while the vibrating element is translated translationally along the suction funnel.

In another case, the vibrating element contains a secondary hopper to receive the powder until it reaches the primary hopper. A shaking mechanism is provided to cause the secondary hopper to vibrate when the powder is to be transferred to the primary hopper.

Another case relates to a chamber molded into a modification tool. In this way, the dimensions of the chamber can be changed simply by adding a modification tool with chambers of different dimensions to the aforementioned rotating element.

The invention also provides a system for transporting fine powder. The system contains a number of rotating members, each of which contains a series of chambers. A funnel is placed above each rotating member and has an opening that allows the powder to be transferred into the chambers. A vibrating element is located in each suction funnel and there are vibrators to cause the element to vibrate in the form of an up and down movement. A translation mechanism is provided to translationally move the vibrating members along the hopper to assist in transferring the powder from the hopper into the chambers. It is convenient to provide a control unit to control the operation of the rotary member, the vibrators and the translation mechanism.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF PICTURES

Figure 1 represents a side cross-section of an example of an apparatus for transporting fine powder, according to the invention.

Figure 2 represents a view from the back of the device shown in Figure 1.

Fig. 3 is a detail of the chamber of the apparatus shown in Fig. 1 showing a vibrating rod that is translationally moved above the chamber, according to the invention. Figure 4 represents a view from the left,

aksonometrijski, primera sistema za transport praha, prema pronalasku.

Figure 5 represents a view from the right, axonometrically, of an example of the system from Figure 4.

Figure 6 presents a view of the system from Figure 4.

Figure 7 is a schematic representation

alternative apparatus for transporting powder, according to the invention.

Figure 8 is a schematic representation of another alternative powder transport apparatus according to the invention.

Figure 9 is a schematic view of another alternative powder transport apparatus according to the invention.

Figure 10 represents an axonometric view of a further example of a powder transport apparatus according to the invention.

Figure 11 represents a cross section along the line

11- 11 apparatus from Figure 10.

Figure 12 represents a cross section along the line

12- 12 devices from Figure 10.

Figure 13 represents a view of the rotating member of the apparatus from Figure 10 in a disassembled state.

Figure 14A is a schematic of the removal mechanism for removing excess powder from the rotating element chamber.

Figure 14B is a rear view of the stripping mechanism shown in Figure 14A, when positioned above the pivot member.

Figure 14C is an axonometric view of an alternative mechanism for removing excess powder from the rotating element chamber, according to the invention.

Figure 15 presents an axonometrically specially recommended system for removing excess powder according to the invention.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF INDIVIDUAL EMBODIMENTS OF THE INVENTION

The invention provides methods, systems and apparatus for measured transport of fine powders into cartridges. The fine powders contemplated are very fine and typically have a mean size of less than about 20 µm, typically less than about 10 µm, and more commonly from about 1 µm to 5 µm, although in some cases the invention may also be used for larger particles, for example, up to about 50 µm or larger. The fine powder can consist of various constituents and preferably contains drugs, such as proteins, nucleic acids, carbohydrates, buffers, peptides, other small biomolecules and the like. It is preferable that the cartridges, which are intended to receive fine powder, contain unit doses of the cartridge. Cartridges are intended for storing unit doses of drugs until the need for their use for the respiratory tract. In order to extract the drug from the cartridge, an inhalation device such as that described in US Pat. Nos. 5,785,049 and 5,740,794. However, the procedures covered by this invention are used to prepare the powder to be used in other inhalation devices, which are based on the principle of fine powder dispersion. It is recommended that each cartridge be filled with a precisely measured amount of fine powder to ensure that the patient receives the correct dose. When fine powders are measured and transported, it is necessary to handle the fine powder carefully and not compact it, so that the amount representing the unit dose, which is delivered to the cartridge, is loose enough to be usable, when used with existing inhalation devices . The fine powder, which is prepared according to the invention, will be particularly useful, although its utility is not thereby limited, for "low energy" inhalation devices, which are based on manual handling or by inhaling only to disperse the powder. Such inhalation devices preferably have at least 20% (mass percent) dispersed or extracted by the air stream, more preferably 60% dispersed, and most preferably at least 90% dispersed, as defined in US Pat. 5,785,049, which has already been cited. Since the production cost of fine powder drugs is usually very high, the drug will be conveniently measured and transported to the cartridge with minimal loss. It is desirable that the cartridges be filled rapidly with unit dose amounts so that a large number of cartridges containing metered drug can be produced economically.

According to the invention, the fine powder is separated in a metering chamber (which is pre-dimensioned to define the unit dose volume). The recommended separation procedure is to draw air through a chamber so that the force of air resistance will act on small agglomerations or individual particles, as described in US Pat. 5,775,320. In this way, the fluidized fine powder fills the chamber without major densification and significant void formation. Furthermore, separation in this way allows the fine powder to be measured accurately and reproducibly without unnecessarily reducing the dispersity of the fine powder. The air flow through the chamber can be changed in order to control the density of the separated powder.

After measuring the fine powder, the fine powder is injected into the cartridge in the amount of a unit dose, whereby the ejected fine powder is sufficiently dispersible, so that it can be carried and translated into an aerosol state in the turbulent air flow created by the inhalation or dispersion device. Such an ejection process is described in US patent no. 5,775,320.

Preferably, the shaking of the fine powder is supplemented by vibrating a vibrating member located within the fine powder in the vicinity just above the separation chamber. It is desirable that the element vibrates up and down, i.e. vertically. Alternatively, the element may vibrate laterally. A number of mechanisms can be used to vibrate the elements including an ultrasonic funnel, a piezoelectric motor, a motor that rotates a camshaft or crankshaft, an electric solenoid, and the like. Alternatively, a wire loop can be rotated inside the fine powder to fluidize the powder. Although the shaking is preferably supplemented by vibrating the vibrating member within the fine powder, in some cases it may be desirable for the vibrating member to be directly above the powder in order to fluidize the powder.

Referring to Figures 1 and 2, an example of an apparatus 10 for measuring and transporting unit doses of fine powder medicine will be described. Apparatus 10 contains a recess or funnel 12 having an upper end 14 and a lower end 16. At the lower end (16) there is an opening 18. Inside the funnel 12 is a layer of fine powder 20. Below the funnel 12 is a rotating element 22 with multiple chambers 24 by volume. The rotary member 22 can be rotated to align the chamber 24 with the opening 18, to allow the powder 20 to be transferred from the hopper 12 into the chambers 24.

A piezoelectric motor 26 to which a rod 28 is attached is placed above the funnel 12. The piezoelectric motor 26 is placed above the funnel 12, so that the far end 29 of the rod 28 is located inside the layer of fine powder 20, while it is moved away from the rotating element 22. The lower end 16 the funnel 12 is located directly above the rotating element 22, so that the powder (20), which is in the funnel 12, will not come out between the lower end 16 and the rotating element 22. At the far end 29 of the rod 28, there is a transverse element 30 which is generally directed to the rod 28. It would be desirable for the transverse member 30 to be at least equal in length to the upper diameters of the chambers 24 to help shake the fine powder (20) into the chambers, as will be described in more detail below. As best shown in Figure 1, after the piezoelectric motor 26 is actuated, the rod 28 vibrates back and forth, as shown by arrows 32. Further, as shown by arrow 34, the piezoelectric motor (26) can be translated move along the length of the rotary element 22, which enables the vibration of the transverse element 30 above each of the chambers 24.

Referring now to Figure 3, the transfer of powder (20) from hopper 12 (see Figure 1) to chamber 24 will be described in detail. Inside Chamber 24; an upper filter 36 and a backup filter 38 are located. The upper filter 36 is located in the rotary element 22, so that it is at a known distance from the top of the chamber 24. A line 40 is connected to the chamber 24 to provide suction inside the chamber 24 during filling. and for compressed gas, when the powder 20 is ejected from the chamber 24 in a manner similar to that described in US patent application no. 08/638.515.

When the charge is being prepared, a vacuum is created within the lines 40, due to the passage of air through the chamber 24. Further, the rod 28 vibrates, as shown by arrow 32, when placed above the chamber 24 to help shake the powder bed 20. This process helps in transferring the powder 20 from the layer to the chamber 24. As it vibrates, the rod 28 is translationally moved above the chamber 24, as shown by arrow 34. In this way, the dispersion of the powder layer 20 takes place essentially along the entire opening of the chamber 24. Further, translationally moving the rod 28 will also move the rod 28 above the other chambers so that they can be filled in a similar manner.

As indicated by the arrows 42, the rod 28 is preferably spaced from the rotary member 22 by a distance of about 0.01mm to about 10mm, more preferably in the range of about 0.1mm to about 0.5mm. This vertical distance is recommended to ensure that the powder 20 immediately above the cavity is fluidized and can be drawn into the chamber 24. Referring now to Figures 4-6, an exemplary powder transfer and metering system 44 will be described. System 44 is based on the principles previously set forth in connection with apparatus 10, shown in Figures 1-3. The system 44 includes a base 46 and a support 48 for rotatably holding the rotatable element 50. The rotatable element 50 contains a plurality of chambers 52 (see Figure 6). Preferably, the rotating element 50, including the chambers 52, is equipped with vacuum and compression lines, which are similar to those described in US application no. 08/638.515. Additionally, a vacuum is created to assist in the delivery of the powder 20 to the chamber 52. Upon completion of filling the chambers 52, the rotating element 50 is rotated until the chambers 52 are facing downwards. At that point, compressed gas is forced through chambers 52 to expel the separated powder into cartridges, such as blister packs commonly used in the art.

A funnel 54 is placed above the rotating element 50, which has an elongated opening 56 (see Figure 6). A plurality of piezoelectric motors 58 are operatively mounted on the support 48. A rod 60 is mounted on each of the piezoelectric motors 58. Exemplary piezoelectric motors 58 are commercially available from Piezo Systems, Inc., Cambridge, Mass., USA. Such motors contain two layers of piezoceramics, each of which has an external electrode. An electric field is applied between the two outer electrodes, causing one layer to expand and the other to contract. Rod 60 is preferably stainless steel wire, having a diameter of from about 0.125 mm (0.005 inch) to about 2.5 mm (0.10 inch), more preferably from about 0.5 mm (0.02 inch) to about 1.0mm (0.04 inch). Of course, other materials and geometries can be used when constructing the rod 60. For example, a variety of rigid materials can be used, including metals and their alloys, steel musical wires, carbon fibers, plastic materials, and the like. The shape of the rod 60 need not be circular and/or of uniform cross-section, but with the important feature of being able to disperse the fine powder near the distal end of the rod 60 to fluidize the powder. Preferably, an orthogonal cross member 62 (see Figure 6) is added at the far end of the rod 60. One or more cross members 62 may be placed above the remote cross member as needed to help eliminate voids that form in the bed during operation. When activated, the bars 60 preferably vibrate at a frequency of from about 5 Hz to about 50,000 Hz, preferably from about 50 Hz to about 5,000 Hz, and most preferably from about 50 Hz to about 1,000 Hz.

Piezoelectric motors 58 are added to the translator mechanism 64, which translationally moves the rods 60 along the funnel 54. It is desirable that during translational movement, the transverse

the element 62 is offset vertically above the chambers 52 at a distance of about 0.01 mm to about 10 mm, and better in the range of about 0.1 mm to about 0.5 mm. The translation mechanism 64 consists of a rotating drive drum 64 that rotates a belt 58, which is attached to a platform 70, and which translates along a shaft 72, when activated by a drum 66. In this way, the rods 60 can be translated back and forth. within the funnel 54, so that the rods 60 vibrate above each of the chambers 52. The translatomi mechanism 64 is applied to pass the rod 60 multiple times when attempting to fill the chambers 52. It is preferable that the rods move translatomo at a speed that is less than 200 cm/s, and more preferably less than 100 cm/s. Preferably, the rod 50 passes over each chamber once, preferably twice.

During operation, the funnel 54 is filled with powder to be transferred to the chambers 52. A vacuum is created through each of the chambers 52 when they are in line with the opening 56. At the same time, the piezoelectric motors 58 are activated to cause the rods 60 to vibrate. The translator mechanism 64 is activated to translate move the rods 60 back and forth within the funnel 54 while the rods 50 vibrate. The vibration of the bar 60 loosens the fine powder, which helps to transfer it to the chambers 52. When the chambers 52 are sufficiently filled, the rotating element 50 rotates 180°, which places the chambers 52 in the downward position. As the rotating element 50 rotates, a blade on the bottom edge of the hopper 54 removes any excess powder thereby ensuring that each chamber 52 contains only a unit dose of fine powder.

When in the inverted position compressed gas is forced through each of the chambers 52 to feed the fine powder into the cartridges (not shown). In this way, the usual procedure for transferring the fine powder from the hopper 54 in measured quantities to the cartridges is provided.

Referring to Figure 7, an alternative example of apparatus 74 for delivering metered doses of fine powder will be described. Apparatus 74 includes a housing 76 and a piezo pad 78, which is operatively attached to the housing 76. The piezo pad 78 includes a plurality of apertures 80 (or grating). Above the pad 78 is a funnel 82 with a layer of fine powder 84. A pair of electrical conductors 86 is attached to the pad 78 to activate the piezo-pad 78. When alternating current is supplied to the electrical conductors 86, the pad 78 contracts and expands, thus establishing a state of vibration, as shown by the arrow 88. It follows that the holes 80 are also caused to vibrate which helps to shake the powder bed 84 and more effectively allows the fine powder to fall through the holes 80 into the chamber. A rotating element having chambers in connection with a source of underpressure or a source of overpressure, as described in the previous examples, may also be used with the apparatus 74 to assist in separating the fine powder and feeding the separated powder into the cartridges. A further example of apparatus 100 for transferring metered amounts of fine powder is shown in Figure 8. Apparatus 100 operates in a similar manner to apparatus 10, already described, except that the piezoelectric motor is replaced by motor 102, which has a shaft 104, which drives a coupled shaft. 106. When the shaft 104 oscillates, the rod 108 vibrates within the funnel 110, in a manner similar to that already described in other examples. Further, the rod 108, during vibration, can be translationally moved above the chamber 114 in a manner similar to that already described in other examples.

Another example of apparatus 120 for conveying metered amounts of fine powder is shown in Figure 9. Apparatus 120 includes a motor 122, which rotates a wire stirrer 124. As shown, wire stirrer 124 is placed in a bed of fine powder 126 immediately above chamber 128. this way, when the wire stirrer 124 is rotated, the powder is fluidized and drawn into the chamber 128, in a manner similar to that already described in other examples.

Referring now to Figure 10, another example of apparatus 200 for transferring metered amounts of fine powder will be described. Apparatus 200 works in a similar way, as in other previously described examples, by transferring the powder from the funnel to the measuring chamber of the rotating element. From the rotating element, the powder is inserted into the cartridges in the amount of a unit dose.

Apparatus 200 includes a frame 202 that carries a rotating member 204 so that the rotating member 204 can be rotated by a motor (not shown) located on the frame 202. The frame 202 also carries a recess or primary funnel 206 above the rotating member 206. Above the funnel 206 there is a vibrator 208. As shown in Figures 11 and 12, the vibrating rod 210 is coupled to the vibrator 208. The vibrator 208 is connected to the arm 212 via a clamp 214. On the other hand, the arm 212 is connected to the translation platform 216. The worm motor 217 is used to translate the platform 216 back and forth relative to the frame 202. In this way, the vibrating rod 210 can translate back and forth within the funnel 206.

Referring now to Figures 11 and 12, the apparatus 200 also includes a secondary funnel 218, which is located above the primary funnel 206. Advantageously, the funnel 218 has wings 219, which allow it to be releasably coupled to the frame 202 such that the wings 219 into the slots 220. The funnel 218 contains a housing 222 and a tubular compartment 224 for housing the powder. An inclined outlet 226 extends outside the housing 222 and enters the hopper 206, when the hopper 206 is attached to the frame 202. The tubular section 224 has an opening 228, which allows powder to slide from the tubular section 224 down the inclined outlet 226. A grid 230 located above opening 228 generally prevents the flow of powder down the inclined outlet 226 while the housing 222 is shaken or vibrated. Conveniently, a lock 232 is used to secure the secondary funnel 218 to the frame 202. To remove the secondary funnel 218, the lock 232 is unlocked from the funnel 218 and the funnel 218 is pulled out of the slot 220. In this way, the funnel 218 can conveniently be removed for refilling, cleaning, replacement and the like.

To transfer the powder from the hopper 218, the arm 234 is brought into contact with the housing 222, and shaken or vibrated to vibrate the housing 222. A motor (not shown) is used to shake or vibrate the arm 234. As shown in Figure 12, the housing 222 may have an internal opening 236, which contains a block 238. When the housing is shaken, the block 238 vibrates within the opening 236. As the block 238 grips the walls of the housing 222, it sends shock waves through the housing 222 to help conveying the powder from the tubular section 224 through the opening 228 and through the grate 230. The powder then slides down the inclined outlet 226 until it falls into the funnel 206. The use of the inclined outlet 226 is also convenient because it allows the tubular section 224 to be laterally moved away from the vibrator 208 , so that there is no interference with the movement of the vibrator 208. A particular advantage of including the block 238 inside the opening 236 is that any particles formed when the block 238 vibrates are kept inside the opening 236 and that there is no powder contamination. The vibrator 208 is constructed so that it vibrates the vibrating rod 210 in an up-down direction or in a vertical direction. Conveniently, the vibrator 208 comprises any commercially available ultrasound tube, such as a Branson TW1 ultrasound tube. Preferably, the vibrating bar 210 vibrates at a frequency of from about 1.000Hz to about 180,000Hz, more preferably from about 10.000Hz to about 40,000Hz, and most preferably from about 15,000Hz to about 25,000Hz.

As best shown in Figure 12, the vibrating rod 210 includes an end member 240, which is shaped to optimize the agitation of the fine powder during vibration of the rod 210. As shown, the end member 240 has an outer circumference greater than the outer circumference of the rod 210. Preferably is for the rod 210 to be cylindrical in shape, with a diameter of about 0.5 mm to about 10.0 mm. As shown, end member 240 is also cylindrical in shape and preferably has a diameter of about 1.0 mm to about 10.0 mm. Of course, it should be understood that the vibrating rod 210 and the end member 240 can be constructed to be of different shapes and dimensions. For example, the vibrating rod 210 can be made to taper. The end member 240 may also be made with a tapered profile to minimize lateral movement of the powder as the vibrator 208 is translated through the hopper 206. Preferably, the end member 240 is offset vertically above the rotating member 204 and at a distance from about 0.01 mm to about 10 mm, and more preferably in the range from about 0.5 mm to about 3.0 mm.

The vibrator 208 is used to assist in conveying the fine powder into the metering chambers 242 of the rotating element 204 in a manner similar to that described in the previous examples. More specifically, the motor 217 is used to translate the platform 216 so that the vibrating rod 210 can laterally translate back and forth along the funnel 206. At the same time, the vibrating rod 210 vibrates by moving up and down, ie. radially relative to the rotating element 210 as it passes over each of the metering chambers 242. It is desirable that the vibrator 208 laterally translationally moves along the funnel 206 at a speed that is less than 500 cm/s, and even more preferably that is less than about 100 cm/s. When the sc vibrating bar 210 moves laterally within the hopper 206, there may be a tendency for the vibrating bar 210 to push or pull the powder towards the ends of the hopper 206. Such movement of said powder is mitigated by providing an air surface or projection element 244 on the vibrating bar 210 just above the average height of the powder. within the hopper 206. In this manner, accumulated powder that is higher than the average height is preferably moved and transferred to zones of the hopper 206 that have a lower powder height. Preferably, the projecting element 244 is separated from the end element 240 by a distance of about 2mm to about 25mm, and more preferably by a distance of about 5mm to about 10mm. Alternatively, various stripping mechanisms, such as scrapers, can be added to the vibrator 208 (or can be individually connected) so that they can be swept over the top surface of the powder to level the powder height during the translatory movement of the vibrator 208 along the hopper 206. Alternatively, a vibrating a bar 210, such as a grid, may be placed within the powder bed to assist in leveling the powder height.

As shown in Figures 11 and 12, the rotating element 204 is in the filling position, when the measuring chambers 242 are in line with the funnel 206. As in the other described examples, as soon as the measuring chambers 242 are filled, the rotating element 204 is reversed by 180°, so that the powder is ejected from the metering chambers 242 into the cartridges. Preferably, a Kloeckner packaging machine is used to feed the cartridge packages to the apparatus 200. Referring now to Figure 13, the construction of the rotary member 204 will be described in detail. The rotary member 204 includes a drum 246 having a front end 248 and a rear end. 250. Bearings 252, 254 are placed on the ends 248, 250 which allow the drum 246 to rotate when attached to the frame 202. The rotating member 204 also has a housing 256, a rear slip ring 258 and a front slip ring 259, which are mounted with gas seals. Air inlets 260 and 261 are provided in housing 256. Air inlet 260 is in connection with pair 242a of measurement chamber 242, while inlet 261 is in connection with pair 242b of measurement chamber 242. In this way, air under pressure or in a vacuum can be realized in the first pair of chambers 242a or in the second pair of chambers 242b.

More specifically, air from air inlet 260 passes through slip ring 258, then through opening 264 in seal 270 and opening 265 in manifold 262. Air then passes through manifold 262 and exits through two openings 265a and 265b. Openings 265c, 265d in seal 270 lead air to chambers 242a. Similarly, air from inlet 261 passes through slip ring 259, then through hole 266 in seal 270 and hole (not shown) in manifold 262. Air passes through various holes in manifold 262 and seal 270 in a manner similar to that of described for inlet 260 until it reaches chamber 242b. In this way, two separate air streams are provided.

Alternatively, it will be desirable to eliminate one of the inlets, so that the gas under vacuum or overpressure can be simultaneously delivered to all chambers 242 for measurement.

A modification tool 274 is placed above the manifold 262. The metering chambers 242 are formed into the modification tool 274 and filters are placed between the modification tool 274 and the air fitting 272 to form the bottom of the metering chamber 242. Air can be drawn into the measurement chambers 242 by connecting a vacuum to the air inlet 260 or 261. Similarly, compressed gas may be forced through metering chambers 242 by connecting to a source of compressed gas for air inlets 260, 261. As is the case with the other examples described herein, a vacuum is transmitted through the metering chambers 242 to assist in the suction of the powder into the metering chambers 242 . After moving the drum 246 to the position obtained by rotating it by 180°, the compressed gas is pushed through the measuring chambers 242 in order to expel the powder from the measuring chamber 242.

The drum 246 contains an opening into which the air distributor 262, gasket 270, air fitting 272 and modification tool 274 are placed. A cam 280 is also provided which is inserted into the opening 278. The cam 280 rotates within the opening 278, thereby securing the various components. inside the drum 246. When loosened, it is possible for the modification tool 274 to slide out of the opening 278. In this way, it is possible to easily replace the modification tool 274 with another modification tool with different sizes of measuring chambers 242. In this way, the apparatus 200 can be equipped with a wide range of modification tools, which allow the user to easily change the size of the measurement chambers 242 by simply inserting a new

modification tool 274.

Apparatus 200 also has a mechanism for removing excess powder from measuring chambers 242. Such a powder removal mechanism 282 is shown in Figures 14A and 14B, and is also referred to as a removal plate. For clarity of exposition, the stripping mechanism 282 is omitted from the drawing of Figure 10-12. In Figures 14A and 14B, the rotating element 204 is shown schematically. The stripping mechanism 282 includes a thin plate 284 with openings 286 that are flush with the metering chambers 242 when the rotary member 204 is in the loading position. Preferably, the apertures 286 are slightly larger in diameter than the diameter of the metering chamber 242. In this way, the openings 286 will not interfere with the filling of the measuring chambers 242. Plate 284 is preferably made of brass and has a diameter of about 0.1 mm (0.003 inch). Plate 284 curves toward rotary member 204 so that it generally fills its outer surface. In this way, the plate 284 generally seals the rotating element 204, thus preventing leakage of excess powder between the plate 284 and the rotating element 204. The plate 284 is attached to the frame 202 and remains stationary while the rotating element 204 rotates. In this way, as the powder is transferred to the metering chambers 242, the rotating element 204 is rotated to the dispensing position. During rotation, the edges of the opening 286 remove excess powder from the metering chambers 242, so that only a unit dose remains in the metering chambers 242. The constructive solution of the removal mechanism 282 is convenient, due to the fact that the number of moving parts is reduced, which reduces the generation of static electricity. Further, the removed powder remains inside the hopper 206 where it will be available for transfer to the measuring chambers 242 after they are emptied.

Figure 14C shows an alternative mechanism for removing powder from the metering chambers 242. The mechanism contains a pair of stripping plates 290, 292, which are connected to the funnel 206, and it should be understood that only one plate can be used, depending on the direction of rotation of the rotating element 206. It is desirable that the plates 290, 292 are structurally made of thin sheet metal , such as 0.2 mm (0.005 inch) thick brass sheets and that they are bent toward the rotating element 204. The edges of the plates 290, 292 are approximately coincident with the edges in the opening of the funnel 206. After filling the metering chambers 242, the rotating element 204 is rotated so that the plates 290, 292 (depending on the direction of rotation) remove excess powder from the chambers 242 for measurement.

Referring again to Figures 10-12, the operation of apparatus 200 for loading unit doses of fine powder will be described. Initially, the fine powder is placed in the tubular section 224 of the secondary hopper 218. If necessary, the secondary hopper 218 can be removed from the frame 202 as needed. The housing 222 is then shaken or vibrated for a time sufficient to carry the powder through the opening 228, through the grate 230 and down the inclined outlet 226, from where it falls into the primary funnel 206. The rotating element 206 is placed in the filling position, where the measuring chambers 242 are level with the funnel 206. Then a vacuum is created at the air inlets 260, 261 ( see Figure 13) to draw air through the measuring chambers 242. Under the influence of gravity and aided by vacuum, the powder falls into the metering chambers 242 and generally fills the metering chambers 242. Then the vibrator 208 is activated to cause the rod 210 to vibrate. At the same time, the motor 217 is started to translate the vibrating rod 210 back and forth inside the chamber 206. When the rod 210 vibrates, the end element 240 shapes the path of the air flow at the bottom of the funnel 206 for shaking fine powder. As the end element 240 passes over each of the measurement chambers 242, an aerosol cloud is created which is drawn into the measurement chamber 242 by vacuum and gravity. As the end member 240 passes over each of the metering chambers 242, ultrasonic energy is propagated downward into the metering chambers 242 to agitate the powder already within the metering chamber 242. This allows flow within chamber 242 to equalize any density inconsistencies that may have occurred during previous fills. This property is particularly advantageous because agglomerations or clusters of particles, which may create voids in the measurement chamber 242, can be broken up to more evenly fill the measurement chamber 242.

After one or more passes over each of the metering chambers 242, the rotary member 204 is rotated 180° to the dispensing position when the metering chambers 242 are flush with the cartridges (not shown). When the rotating element 204 rotates, the excess powder is removed from the metering chambers 242, as already described. When it is in the distribution position, compressed gas is supplied through the air inlets 260, 261 to inject unit doses of powder from the metering chambers 242 into the cartridges. The invention also provides a means of adjusting the charge masses by modulating the ultrasonic power applied to the rod 210 as it passes over the metering chamber 242. In this way, the charge masses for the different weighing chambers 242 can be adjusted to compensate for mass differences that may occasionally occur. As one example, if the fourth metering chamber 242 is constantly preparing a dose that is too low in mass, the power supplied to the vibrator 208 may increase slightly each time it passes over the fourth metering chamber 242 . In conjunction with an automatic (or manual) weighing system and control unit, such a solution can be used to create an automatic (or manual) closed-loop mass control system to adjust the vibrator power level for each weighing chamber 242 to provide more accurate masses for charging.

Referring now to Figure 15, an exemplary fine powder metering and conveying system 300 will be described. System 300 operates in a similar manner to apparatus 200, but contains multiple vibrators and multiple funnels to simultaneously charge multiple cartridges with unit doses of fine powder. System 300 includes a frame 302 to which a plurality of rotating elements 304 are rotatably coupled. The rotating elements 304 can be constructed similarly to the rotating elements 204 and contain multiple metering chambers (not shown) for receiving powder. The number of rotating elements 204 and the number of measuring chambers can be changed according to the respective application. Above each rotating element 304 is a primary hopper 306 which carries the powder above the rotating elements 304. A vibrator 308 is positioned above each hopper 306 and includes a vibrating element 310 that serves to shake the powder within the hopper 306 in a manner similar to that described in with the apparatus 200.1 if not shown in the figure for clarity, a secondary funnel, which is similar to the secondary funnel 218 of the apparatus 200, is placed above each of the primary funnels 306, to transfer the powder to the funnels 306, in a manner similar to that described in connection with the device 200.

A motor 312 (only one shown for clarity) is coupled to each of the rotary members 304, to rotate the rotary members 304 between the filling position and the dispensing position, similar to apparatus 200.

Each vibrator 308 is connected to a lever 314 by a clamp 316. The levers 314 are further connected to a common platform 318 which has sliders 319 that can be translated along tracks 321 by means of threads 321 of a motor 322. In this way, the vibrating elements 310 can be simultaneously moved forward- back into funnel 306 by operation of motor 322. Alternatively, each of the vibrators 308 may be coupled to a separate motor so that each vibrator 308 may translate independently.

The frame 302 is connected to a base 324 which includes a plurality of elongated grooves 326. The grooves 326 are adapted to receive the lower ends of a plurality of cartridges 328, which are formed from sheets 330. The sheet 330 is obtained from a sheet metal manufacturer, such as the commercially available Uhlmann Packaging Machine, model no. 1040. It is desirable that the rotating elements 304 have a certain number of metering chambers, where this number corresponds to the number of cartridges 328 in each row of sheets 330. In this way, during each operating cycle, four rows of cartridges 328 can be filled. When the four rows are filled , the metering chambers are refilled and the sheet 330 is moved forward to align the four new rows of cartridges 328 with the funnels 306.

A special advantage of the 300 system is that it can be fully automated. For example, the control unit can be connected to a packaging machine, with a vacuum pump or pressurized gas, motors 312, motor 322 and vibrators 308. Using such a control unit, the sheet 330 can be automatically moved to the appropriate position, where the motor is activated. 312 to level the measuring chambers with funnels 306. Then the vacuum pump is activated to achieve a vacuum through the measuring chambers, while the vibrators 308 are activated, and the motor 322 is used to translate the vibrator 308. As soon as the measuring chambers are filled, the control unit starts motors 312 to rotate the rotating elements 304 until they align with the cartridges 328. The control unit then sends a signal to send compressed gas through the metering chambers to feed the powder into the cartridges 328. When the cartridges 328 are filled, the control unit signals that the machine for the pack moves sheet 330 and repeats the cycle. When necessary, the control unit can be used to start a motor (not shown) to cause the secondary hoppers to vibrate, to transfer the powder to the primary hoppers 306, as already described.

Although the solution using ultrasonic tubes is shown, it is quite understandable that other types of vibrators and vibrating elements can be applied, including those previously described here. Furthermore, it is quite understandable that the number of vibrators and the size of the groove can be varied according to special needs.

While the contemplated invention has been described in some detail using illustrations and examples, for clarity of understanding, it will be apparent that certain changes and modifications may be employed within the scope of the following claims.

Claims (40)

1. The procedure for filling fine powder, characterized by the fact that it consists of placing fine powder (20) in a funnel (12), with an opening (18); vibrating the rod (28) inside the fine powder (20) near the opening (18); movements of the rod (28) through the opening (18) while the rod (28) vibrates; and extracting at least part of the fine powder (20) that comes out of the opening (18) inside the chamber (24), whereby the separated powder (20) is sufficiently loose, so that it can be dispersed after removal from the chamber (24). 2. The method according to Claim 1, characterized in that the rod (28) has a vibrational movement vertically in both directions relative to the powder (20) in the funnel (12). 3. The method according to Claim 2, characterized in that the vibrating rod (28, 210) is connected to the ultrasonic tube, and that the vibrating phase implies the activation of the ultrasonic tube. 4. The method according to Claim 1, characterized in that the vibrating rod (28, 210) vibrates at a frequency of about 1,000 Hz to about 180,000 Hz. 5. The method according to Claim 1, characterized in that the vibrating rod (28) has a remote end (29), which is located near the opening (18) and that the remote end (29) has an attached end element (240), which vibrates through the chamber (24). 6. The method according to Claim 1, characterized in that the end element (240) is vertically placed separately from the chamber (24) at a distance of about 0.01 mm to about 10 mm. 7. The method according to Claim 6, characterized in that it consists of translating the vibrating rod (28, 210) along the opening (18) at a speed that is less than about 100 cm/s. 8. The method according to Claim 1, characterized in that it also consists of periodic leveling of the powder (20) in the funnel (12). 9. A method according to Claim 8, characterized in that the leveling of the powder-in-funnel (12) consists of placing the transverse element (30, 244) on the vibrating rod (28, 210) in a position separated from the distal end (29) of the vibrating rod ( 28, 210). 10. The method according to Claim 1, characterized in that the chambers (24, 52) are in line with the opening (18, 56) and that it includes the movement of the vibrating rod (28, 60) along the opening (18, 56) so that it passes above of each chamber (24, 52). 11. The method according to Claim 1, characterized in that the fine powder-containing drug is composed of individual particles of medium size from about 1 µm to about 100 µm. 12. The method according to Claim 1, characterized in that the extraction phase consists of air suction through the chamber (24, 52). which is placed under the opening (18, 56), whereby the sucked air helps to suck the fine powder (20) into the chamber (24, 52). 13. The method according to Claim 1, characterized in that it also consists of transferring the separated powder (20) from the chamber (24, 52) into the cartridge. 14. The method according to Claim 13, characterized in that the transfer phase consists of introducing compressed air into the chamber (24, 52), so that it inserts the separated powder (20) into the cartridge. 15. The method according to Claim 1, characterized in that it includes adjusting the amount of separated powder (20) so that it is the amount of a unit dose. 16. The method according to Claim 15, characterized in that the adjustment phase consists of placing a thin plate (284) under the funnel (12), where the plate (284) having an opening (286), which is flush with the chamber (24. 242 ) and moving the chamber (24, 242) relative to the plate (284), so as to remove excess powder from the chamber (24, 242). 17. The method according to Claim 1, characterized in that the funnel (12) is a primary funnel (206, 306), and that the loading phase consists of transferring the powder (20) from the secondary funnel (218) to the primary funnel (206, 306) ). 18. The method according to Claim 17, characterized in that it consists of vibrating the secondary funnel (218) so that the powder is transferred to the primary funnel (206, 306). 19. The method according to Claim 1, characterized in that it consists of emptying the separated powder (20) from the chamber (242) and changing the size of the chamber (242). 20. Apparatus for filling fine powder, characterized in that it consists of a funnel (12) with an opening (18), adjusted to receive the fine powder (20) of at least one chamber (242), which moves so as to allow the chamber ( 242) place near the opening (18) the vibrating rod (210), with the near and far end (29), whereby the vibrating rod (210) is placed in the funnel (12), so that the far end (29) is close to the opening ( 18); a vibrator (208) for vibrating the vibrating rod (210) when it is in the fine powder (20) and a mechanism for translating the vibrating rod (210) above the chamber (242). 21. Apparatus according to Claim 20, indicated by the fact that it also contains a rotating element (204) which has several chambers (242) around the circumference, which are in line with the opening (18, 56), and where the translation mechanism is designed to translate the vibrating rod (210) along the opening (18, 56) so that the vibrating rod (210) passes over each chamber (242). 22. Apparatus according to Claim 20, characterized in that the translation mechanism comprises a linear drive mechanism that translates the vibrating rod (210) along the aperture at a speed of less than about 100 cm/s. 23. Apparatus according to Claim 20, characterized in that the vibrator (208) vibrates by vibrating the rod (210) at a frequency of about 1,000 Hz to about 180,000 Hz. 24. Apparatus according to Claim 20, characterized in that the vibrator (208) contains an ultrasonic tube that vibrates the rod (210) vertically in both directions relative to the powder (20). 25. Apparatus according to Claim 24, characterized in that the vibrating rod (210) is of cylindrical geometry and has a diameter of about 1.0 mm to about 10 mm. 26. Apparatus according to Claim 25, characterized in that it also has an end element (240) at the distal end (29) of the vibrating rod (210). 27. Apparatus according to Claim 26, characterized in that the end member (240) extends radially from the vibrating rod (210). 28. Apparatus according to Claim 26, characterized in that the protruding element (244) is placed above the end element (240). 29. Apparatus according to Claim 20, characterized in that the chamber (242) is located inside the rotary element (204), which is placed in the first position, when the chamber (242) is in line with the opening, and in the second position, when the chamber ( 242) flush with the cartridge (328). 30. Apparatus according to Claim 20, characterized in that it has an inlet at the bottom of the chamber (242) and a vacuum pump connected to the inlet, so as to assist the extraction of fine powder (20) from the funnel (206) into the chamber (242). 31. Apparatus according to Claim 30, characterized in that it also has a filter (276) placed at the input. 32. Apparatus according to Claim 30, characterized in that it contains a source of compressed gas which is connected to the inlet, so as to expel the powder (20) from the chamber (242) in the cartridge (328). 33. Apparatus according to Claim 32, characterized in that it also has a control unit for controlling the activation of the gas source and the vacuum pump. 34. Apparatus according to Claim 29, characterized in that it has a plurality of funnels (206) arranged above a plurality of rotating elements (204), each of which has a plurality of chambers (242) and also has a plurality of vibrating rods (20) and a plurality of vibrators ( 208) to vibrate the rods (210). 35. Apparatus according to Claim 20, characterized in that it also contains a plate (284) placed under the funnel (206), wherein the plate (284) has an opening (286) that is flush with the chamber (242), wherein the chamber ( 242) moves relative to plate (284) to allow excess powder (20) to be removed from chamber (242). 36. Apparatus according to Claim 20, characterized in that the funnel (206) is a primary funnel and also has a secondary funnel (218), placed above the primary funnel (206), for transferring the powder (20) into the primary funnel (206). 37. Apparatus according to Claim 36, characterized in that it also contains a shaking mechanism for vibrating the secondary funnel (218). 38. Apparatus according to Claim 29, characterized in that the chamber is formed into a modification tool (274) and that the modification tool (274) is detachably connected to the rotating element (204). 39. A system for filling fine powder, indicated by the fact that it contains several rotating elements (304), each of which has a series of chambers (242) along its circumference; a funnel (306) positioned above each rotating element (304), wherein each funnel (306) has an opening; a vibrating element (310) disposed in each funnel (306), each vibrating element (310) having a distal end (29) near the opening; a vibrator (308) connected to each vibrating element (310) for vibrating (310) vertically in both directions; and a mechanism (322) for translating each vibrating element (310) along each funnel (306) while the elements (310) vibrate. 40. The system according to Claim 39, characterized in that it also contains a control unit for controlling the rotation of the vibrating elements (310), the vibrator (308) and the mechanism (322) for translation.