The high degree of function-integration in only two device components (with a total weight of 0.6 g) has been achieved by an R&D philosophy focusing on identifying the essential device functionality requirements, and on sophisticated engineering.

As a new and innovative device concept, the DirectHaler™ Nasal device eliminates the need for a number of the common device mechanisms. This has allowed us to focus on new principles for nasal delivery.

Below is shown our identification of the most essential functional elements for a powder based nasal device technology. Moving from left to right, the diagram progresses from overall aims to detailed functional elements.

The Powderwhirl Chamber
The R&D program for DirectHaler™ Nasal was initiated on the basis of the expertise and positive results gathered during the development of our dry-powder pulmonary delivery technology.

As shown in the photo sequence below, the powder dose is resting, visible for the patient, in the PowderWhirl chamber before inhalation.

The sequence shows, how the patient generated airflow is a strong source of energy for powder dispersion and entrainment into the blown airstream. When the nasal blow is completed, then the PowderWhirl chamber is completely emptied – ensuring a very high and uniform emitted dose.

 Before Blow

The pre-filled dose in DirectHaler™ Nasal rests in the bottum of the currugations. Ready for inhalation.

 Blow start

The corrugations in the PowderWhirl Chamber make high turbulence. The powder is gradually lifted and dispersed.

 Blow peak

The powder is forced up the currugated wall in the PowderWhirl chamber - for gradual dispersion and entrainment into the blown airstream.

  Blow complete

The nasal dose is delivered. The turbulent flow has completely emptied the DirectHaler™ Nasal.

The DirectHaler™ Nasal integrates three powder dispersion and entrainment principles - and applies them simultaneously.
Three principles governing airflow and powder dispersion are applied in the design, so that DirectHaler™ Nasal delivers the complete dose gradually over one administration as a well-dispersed powder.

First, the air intake is designed for generating and feeding in turbulent air to the PowderWhirl chamber. Secondly, the corrugations of the PowderWhirl chamber are designed to generate turbulent whirls. These recirculation zones contribute to powder dispersion. Finally, the turbulent airflow forces the powder up on the inner walls of the corrugations. From here, it is gradually entrained into the inhaled air stream until the device is completely empty.

Principle 1
Pre-turbulation of air

The air intake of DirectHaler™ Nasal is designed for generating and feeding in turbulent air to the PowderWhirl chamber.

Principle 2
Re-circulation zones

The corrugation are designed to generate turbulent whirls - the re-circulation zones contribute to powder dispersion.

Principle 3
Gradual powder entrainment

The turbulent airflow, forces the powder up on the inner walls. From here, it is gradually entrained into the blown airstream until DirectHaler™ Nasal is completely empty.