HUE032966T2 - Test machine for devices diffusing a diffusable product - Google Patents

Description

TEST MACHINE FOR DEVICES DIFFUSING A DIFFUSIBLE PRODUCT Technical Field

The present invention relates in genera} to the field of the analysis of products capable of being aspirated, respirated or inhaled by a user, and of the corresponding diffusion devices.

More particularly it relates to a test machine, capable of analysing at least one diffusion device of a product capable of being aspirated,, respirated dr inhaled by a user of the diffusion device and/or of analysing a product diffused by such a diffusion device.

The machine enables a physical-chemical or sensorial analysis of the diffused products having physiological, therapeutic or other properties. The invention also has applications for the determination of the state of functioning of ali types of diffusion devices for such products, in a non-exhaustive manner, the examples of use of such devices can be the "vaping" of e-liquids intended for electronic cigarettes, the diffusion of medical products, health or well-being products, etc,

Technologies! background ::: ......................................

Existing test machines (see for example EP 0 434 S2C M) are currently mainly intended for samples for the analysis of the smoke of conventional cigarettes, They are called "smoking machines" in the relevant field.

Known smoking machines for e-liquids are currently rare, restricted to specific diffusion devices of the market, often artisanal, and do not reliably reproduce the use conditions of the devices *>y users.

Prior Art A known system for studying electronic cigarettes is for example the CET! 8 system from Cerulean, the word "CET!" being the acronym for “Cerulean e-Cigarette Testing Instrument", This system enables an operator to select the shape, volume and duration of bursts of the diffused product, as well as the number and spacing between the bursts enabling vapours to be captured at a filter pad ín view of offline chemical analysis, However, this system does not enable the diffusion devices to be 'determined, or new products with other new physiological or therapeutic products to be tested and characterised.

The document CN 103512827 discloses a method and test device for the performance of an electronic cigarette.

Summary of the invention

The invention aims to propose a multipurpose system with multiple functions for the determining of ai! types of products that can be aspirated, respirated or inhaled by a user and the corresponding diffusion devices.

To this end., the Invention proposes a machine for analysing at least one diffusion device of a product capable of being aspirated, respirated or inhaled by a user of the diffusion device and/or for analysing a product diffused by such a diffusion device, comprising: one automatic control device; one inlet compartment with controlled atmosphere, with át least one support capable of mechanically holding the diffusion device in saso miet compartment; at least one actuator attached to the diffusion device, and controlled by the automatic control device in such a way as to produce specific mechanical actions on the diffusion device; at least one element for regulating the temperature and/or the humidity of the atmosphere in the inlet compartment, operating under the control of the automatic control device; one outlet compartment with controlled atmosphere; at least one element: for regulating, the pressure, the temperature and/or the humidity in the outlet compartment, controlled by the automatic control device in such a way as to obtain:: in the atmosphere of the outlet compartment predetermined conditions of pressure, temperature and/or humidity; * at least one ventilation element connected to the diffusion device and configured to such as to incur a flow entering the diffusion device from the Inlet compartment and simultaneously force in the outlet compartment a flow emerging from the diffusion device, the said ventilation element being controlled by the automatic control device in such a way as to produce ventilation with predetermined characteristics; and, at least one analysis hardware element enabling the analysis of a flow diffused by the diffusion device which is forced into the outlet compartment, in order to determine the state of functioning of the diffusion device or to characterize the diffused flow.

The invention has advantages relating to the functional aspect of the machine, but also to its adaptability to the different possible uses of the devices tested, thanks to its capacity to reproduce the use environment and the behaviour of users when using the devices. indeed the machine enables the action of the users on the devices and the functional situations of the devices to he simulated. For example, during the tests, the stresses applied to the devices in the actual situation of oral and/or nasal, active and/or passive inhalation can be reproduced precisely.

The reproducible stresses are notably: inspiration and expiration with controlled flow, pressure, duration bndf febusncy, simulation of the temperature of or al and/or nasaf humidity, activation of the devices, - inclination and movements of the devices taken by the user, for example from 90* to +90° or from Ö to +180° in relation to the horizontal, unlike the systems of the market only enabling tests to be performed horizontally, -- etc.

The machine enables study of the life cycle.M.^-.dsiid^^idl^B^^^st^-h^yeen···''·······-·-·-·-· the devices and the products used.

Brief Description of the Drawings

Other characteristics and advantages of the invention will aiso appear upon reading the following description. This is purely illustrative and must be read in light of the attached drawings in which: -> Fig, iis a diagram of a diffusion device of the electronic cigarette type;

Fig. 2 is a functional diagram df a test machine according to the principle of the invention, in an embodiment hawi|g 9 analysis lines arranged in groups of 3 analysis lines; tig, 3 is a diagram showing one embodiment of a group of three analysis lines of a test machine according to Fig. 2; and.

Fig. 4 Is a diagram showing one embodiment of a group of three analysis lines used for the calibration of a test machine according to Fig, 2,

Detailed description of embodiments

Diffusion is 3 physical process which is characterised by a change of state of a liquid or soiid product into a diffused state,, that is in the form of a gas or cloud of extremely fine particles. According to the size of the particles in the cloud, tins is smoke (particles with size from 0.1 to 0,5 microns approx.}, vapours (particles with size from 0,5 to 0.8 microns approx.}, mist or spray (particles with size from 0,8 to 10 microns approx.)., or aerosols (particles with approx, some ten microns or more).

Thus, for example,, a vaporizer is a diffusion (or diffuser) device enabling certain liquids to be converted into vapours.

The proposed test machine is described -below,, as a non-limiting example, in its application to testing diffusion devices of the electronic cigarette type. An electronic cigarette,, also called e-cigarette, is a thermal vaporizer. It produces aromatic vapours from a liquid solution, under the effect of heat. Such liquids are aiso called e-ilquids, or e-fluids. The vaporisation temperature is located between 250 and 300°C approx., while the diffusion temperature is the outlet temperature of the device between 30 and 60*C. However, the invention should not be limited to this example, because the proposed machine can be used for other types of diffusion devices, such as, for-example: other types of thermal vaporizers, •i com press!on vaporizers, decompression vaporizers, * chemical reaction vaporizers producing a gas, aerosol generation vaporizers, solid particle generation diffusers, liquid particle generation vaporizers, soiid impregnation diffusers, etc. in general, the machine also enables the testing of products diffusible by all types of diffusion devices, whether portable or not. The products can be found in liquid form, in ge! or paste form, or in solid form capable of being vaporised or otherwise diffused by the devices.

The electronic cigarette simulates the act of smoking thanks to a system of production of aromatised vapour and possibly charged with nicotine according to doses that can range from 0 mg/ml to 20 rag/roi. This vapour is capable of being aspirated, respi rated or inhaled by the user.

With reference to the diagram of Fig. 1, an electronic cigarette 100 is comprised essentially of an: electric battery 101 and an atomizer 102 powered by the battery 1Ö1, The atomizer it$e!f comprises a heating resistance 103, a reservoir of diffusible product or e-liquid 104 and an end piece 105 intended to be held with the mouth by the user in order to aspirate the bursts of the diffused product. In some cases, the e-cígaretíe 100 also comprises an activation button 106 enabling the user to control the production of vapour or vaporisation.

The autonomy of the electronic cigarette depends on the technology and size of the battery 101. The e-dgarette 10!) can be provided with a system of variation of the voltage delivered by the battery, which enables the power absorbed by the atomizer Ml tp be controlled, and thus the volume Of vapour delivered. The reservoir 104 can be made of plastic, more or less reinforced, its capacity can vary, like its shape, according to the features of the application. The activation button can for example: actuate a switch arranged between the battery 101 and the heating resistance 103 of the atomizer 102. Ffg. 2 Is a functional diagram of a test machine according to the principle of the invention, capable of analysing at least one diffusion device of a productcapable of being aspirated, resplrated or inhaled by a user of the diffusion device and/or of analysing a product diffused by such a diffusion device. in the ®mbodiittents:,::th@: inschii^e comprises at ieast one assemblage of N analysis lines configured for the analysis in parallel of an assemblage of at feast: N respective connected diffusion devices, where N is a whole number at least equal to three.

Each analysis line is dedicated to the testing of a ;-iáieivi-Ge, ensuring for example the vaping of e-iiquids intended for the electronic cigarette, or the diffusion of medical products, health or well-being products, or other products capable of being aspirated, resplrated or inhaled by a user of the diffusion device. In the example shown, the devices are electronic cigarettes as explained above with reference to Fig, 1.

In the embodiments, furthermore, the N analysis lines can be grouped in a number M of assemblages of H/M analysis lines where: h4 is a whole number at least equal to 2 and a whole sub-multiple of N.

The machine can then comprise: a number M of inlet chambers In the inlet compartment, each connected to N/M respective analysis lines, and a number N of outlet chambers in the outlet compartment, each connected to a respective analysis line, fach of the M assemblages of N/M analysis lines connects one of the M Inlet chambers to a number N/M of outlet chambers, through one of the respective diffusion devices to be tested.

In an embodiment illustrated in Fig. 2, the machine has nine analysis lines configured for testing nine diffusion devices, In other words, in the example shown N Is equal to nine (N-9).

In the example shown,, furthermore, the analysis lines are ar ranged In groups of three analysis Sines respectively dedicated to testing three groups of three devices each,, réspl^ively the triplets of devices 11-13, 21-23 and 31-33. In other words, in the example shown M is equal to three {M~3}. the machine comprises one inlet compartment 1 thus having three inlet chambers 10* 20 and 30, each connected to a triplet of analysis lines, i.e., th# analysis lines connected to the triplets of devices 11-13, 21-23 arid. 31-33r...respec®yely*'.'-'il^----aaal-Ysls---ttne--%&ss··········^ comprises a support to mechanically hold the diffusion device corinecled to said anaipls line ip the corresponding Inlet chamber of the inlet compartment 1.

The machine shown also comprises an outlet compartment 2 having nine outiét Chambers 111, 112, 113, 121, .1.22, 123, 131, 132 and 133, each connected to a respective analysis Sine.

Each of the three assemblages of lines of three analysis lines connects one of the 3 inlet chambers 1Ö, 20 and 30 to three outlet chambers, i.e. the triplets of outlet chambers 111113,121-123, and 131-133, through one of the diffusion devices to be tested 12-13, 21-23 and 31-33, respectively. in addition, the machine comprises N ventilation elements, i.e. ventilation elements 2Í1, 212, 213, 221, 222, 223, 231, 232 and 233, They are each connected to one of the diffusion devices 11, 12, 13, 21, 22, 23·, 31, 32 and 33, respectively. They are arranged between the inlet compartment 1 and the outlet compartment 2. bach of the ventilation elements 211, 212, 213, 221, 222, 223, 231, 232 and 233 connected to the diffusion devices 11, 12, 13, 21, 22, 23, 31, 32 and 33, respectively, is arranged such as to incur a flow entering the diffusion device from the inlet compartment or the inlet chamber connected to the device, and to simultaneously force a flow emerging from the diffusion device in the outlet compartment or the outlet chamber. The ventilation elements can he arranged so as to ventilate the inlet compartment towards the outlet compartment, or vice versa. They can be controlled individually, or in groups. Thus, in the example shown, each of the triplets of ventilation elements 2Π-213, 221-223, and 231-233 aspirates from (or, according to the direction of ventilation, conveys back to) the Inlet chamber 10, 20 or 30, respectively.

The grouping of the lines within an assemblage of U/M lines as described -above enables the acceleration of the number of tests carried out simultaneously, and the answer to an O.f'.T (French Smoking Prevention Organisation) recommendation presented In the report on cigarettes of May 201.3 (http://fwww.oftaasso.fr/docatei/Rapporte~dgarette VF :i.pdf:page 67) which recommends repeating tests three times per device, and per set of test conditions. In addition, this enables rapid identification of the failure of a device or an analysis line, by the abnormal differences of the results obtained for one analysis line compared with the other lines of the same group. Indeed this enables the determination of a difference of functioning between the devices in strictly identical functioning conditions within a triplet of lines, especially thanks to the common infet chamber for die triplet.

According to the principle of the invention, the inlet compartment 1 has controlled atmosphere. More particularly, in the case of grouping the analysis lines as described above, the atmosphere in each inlet chamber of the compartment 1 is controlled, This Is achieved thanks to at least one element for regulating the temperature and/or humidity of the atmosphere considered. This element operates under the control of a control device 3, or automatic control device, in Tig. 2, the commands generated and sent for this purpose to the inlet compartment 1 by the automatic control device 3 are shown by the arrow 301.

This enables control of the temperature and/or humidity of the flow entering into the tested diffusion devices in order to increase the relevance of the tests carried out and their reproducibility. This also enables participation in the control of the machine's temperature, in csrder notably to take account of the variations of its conditions of functioning according to the time (e.g. rise in temperature during functioning),

The Inlet compartment or more particularly its inlet chambers include at least one support capable of mechanically holding each of the diffusion devices, Advantageously the inlet compartment or, according to the case, its Inlet chambers, also comprise at least one actuator connected to each diffusion device. This actuatorcan be poh®ts|Íéd the automatic control device in such a way as to produce specific rnechanicai actions on the diffusion device. In Fig, 2, the commands generated and sent for this purpose to the inlet compartment 1 by the automatic control device 3 are shown by the arrow 302.

For example., such an actuator can comprise a cylinder arranged to modify the inclination of the diffusion device In relation to the horizontal, the inclination of the devices is for example adjustable from -90" to +90°. This enables reproduction of the actual use conditions of the diffusion devices, notably the cycles of use and an Inclination of the device in relation to the horizontal whereas in known smoking machines the devices are always arranged horizontal.

For the devices provided with an aeSvatiorv button 106 as shown in the example of Fig. 1, another actuator can comprise a mini-cylinder with adjustable position, enabling the activation erf each device bv the automatic controi device according to predetermined sequences. The frequency, duration and spacing between the activations of the device can thus be controlled, to reproduce the cycles of use in conformity with actual use by the users. ............... ............................................ ......................:;i

Preferably, the actuators connected to devices of the samegroup are contFOÍied in the same way, in order to ensufe the effect of triplication of the analyses that can he sought by the grouping of the analysis ilnes. As a variant, one actuator can activate several devices slmultaneeusiyj fprexample all the devices of the same group.

The elements for ventilation 2X1, 212, 213, 221, 222, 223, 231, 232 and 233 connected to the diffusion devices 11, 12, 13, 21, 22, 23, 31, 32 and 33, respectively, can also be :controlled by the automatic controi device 3 in such a way as to each: produce ventilation having predetermined characteristlcs. in FlIplíi'theiícoiPíóáPdsildnerated and sent for this purpose by the automatic controi device 3 to the elements for ventilation 211, 212, 213, 221, 222, 223, 231, 232 and |3S are shown by the arrow 303. each element for ventilation can be controlled by the automatic control device in such a way ás to reproduce the bursts of diffused product that can actually be generated by the user from the diffusion device.

Preferably, group are controlled in the same way, in order to ensure the effect of triplication of the analyses that can be sought by the grouping of the analysis lines. the outlet compartment 2 also has controlled atmosphere:. More particularly, for a machine having N outlet chambers respectively connected to N diffusion devices to be tested, the atmosphere In each of said N outlet chambers can be controlled separately. This is achieved thanks to at least one element for regulatingthe temperature and/or the humidity in the outlet compartment, or the outiét chamber considered of said compartment. This regulation is operated under the control: of the automatic control device 3 in such a way as to obtain In the atmosphere of the outlet compartment predetermined conditions of pressure, temperature and/or humidity.

In Fig. 2, the commands generated and sent for this purpose to the outlet compartment 2 by the automatic control device 3 are shown by the arrow 304. in one example, the element for regulating the pressure, temperature and/or the humidity in the outlet compartment 2, or in each of its chambers 111, 112, 113, 121, 122, 123, 131, 132, and 133, is controlled by the automatic control device 3 in such a way as to reproduce in the atmosphere of said outlet compartment or said outiét chamber, the predetermined conditions of pressure, temperature and/or humidity of an actual Ofaf and/or nasal environment of a user of the diffusion device connected to the corresponding analysis: line.

Furthermore the machine can comprise iá management unit 4 which is configured to control the automatic control device according, in particular, to the data obtained from one in particular of the M assemblages of analysis lines dedicated to the calibration;«f the machine. This calibration can he based on the settings of the commands generated by thes automatic: control device 3. according to the measurements carried out in real time for the; machine itself, on a batch of devices dedicated to calibration, i.e. for example the devices 11,13;and:p:i0f the group of devices connected to the group of analysis lines at the top of Fig. 2. in Rg. 2, the settings generated by the management unit 4 and sent to the automatic; control device 3 are shown by the arrow 401. The. data measured for this purpose aft he ©utiat; compartment 2 is shown by the arrow 402. in the embodiments, the control unit 3 and/br the nianágement unit; 4 are provided by art Infeirated device comprising a calculator and a human-machine interface, or via a separate device like for example a generic programmed computer, or a program (software) intended to be executed by such a generic computer, in all cases, the machine functions from a relative data base, in particular, with different possible types of use of the devices by the users (e*g. statistical data),

Finally, the machine also includes at least one analysts hardware element enabling the analysis of a flow diffused by the diffusion device which is forced into the outlet compartment or the corresponding outiét chamber, in order to determine the state of functioning of the diffusion device or to characterise the diffused flow. One part of the analysis hardware element can be shared for several analysis Sines, for example for the lines of the same assemblage or group of Sines. Conversely, another part of the analysts hardware element can be specific to each analysis line. in Fig. 2, the analysis data collected by the management Unit 4 from the outlet compartment 2 Is shown by the arrow 403. The unit 4 saves ail the analysis date predbcedduring:the tests carried out, for later use.

For feasbhS of readability of the drawings, the analysis hardware elements are not shown in Fig, 2, and will be explained below with reference to Fig. 3. ........Other characteristics.and advantages specific to the embodiments of the machine will appear along with the description that will .'follow the embodiments of the analysis lines; given in relation to Fig. 3 and Fig. 4. Given the grouping of the analysis lines by assemblages of three lines in the example considered up to now, each of these figures shows the arrangement of the equipment connected to an assemblage or group of three analysis lines. Clearly this does not limit the invention; other groupings, or conversely the absence of grouping of the lines,, being possible options,

Firstly, below with refereneefofig, 3, the embodiments of an assemblage of operational analysis lines will be presented, that are dedicated to the analysis properly speaking of diffusion devices or the products diffused by them. Thereafter, an assemblage of analysis lines dedicated to calibration will be explained with reference to Fig. 4,

Shown in Fig, 3 is the assemblage of three analysis lines of Fig. 2 connected to the devices 21, 22 and 23. bach analysis line comprises a support to mechanically hold the diffusion device connected to said analysis line in the inlet chamber 20.

In order to reproduce aclua! use conditions, the Inclination of the devices 21, 22 and 23 can be adjusted, for example from -90 to +90* or from 0 to +180*, by means of an actuator 21a, 2.2a and 23a, respectively. This can be a cylinder connected mechanically, in the case of diffusion devices that are provided with an activation button, such as the button marked 106 in Fig. 1, other actuators like mini-cylinders 21b, 22b, and 23b with adjustable position enable the automatic activation of each device. Optionally, this activation can be controlled individually for each device, However, as part of the triplication of the tests, an identical and simultaneous activation is controlled for the three devices of the same assemblage of devices.

The actuators connected to the diffusion devices can be controlled by the automatic control device 3 in such a way as to reproduce the predetermined actions that can be actually exerted on the diffusion device by a user of said device. The movements of the devices can be reproduced, optionally, between the phases of activation of the devices, or during such phases.

The automatic control device 3 of Fig. 2 controls and regulates the temperature and the humidity of the flow entering into the devices, by means of the control and regulation of the temperature and.the humidity of the atmosphere in the inlet chamber 20. To this end, there are provided a temperature and humidity sensor 20a, a system 20b of temperature regulation capable of heating or cooling the air m the chamber 20, as well as a system 20c of humidity regulation in the chamber 20. The system 20b is capable of heating or cooiing the air in the chamber 20. The system 20c is capable of drying and humidifying the air in the chamber 20. This enables thi fixing of the use conditions of the diffusion devices throughout the tests that are carried out. in certain embodiments, the inlet chamber can also comprise at least one flow inlet to receive a predetermined gaseous, liquid or solid flow, and/or a flow of ambient air. This enables definition of the physical >chemicai environment in which the devices are used. Thus, the air in the inlet chamber can be standardised, for example charged with COj. Another flow Inlet can enable having enter into.the chamber 20 a part at least of the fiow diffused in the outlet compartment 2 by one or severs! of the diffusion devices, and which is thus brought into the inlet compartment. This can enable allowing for the natural -evolution of the use conditions of the devices during actual use, for example in a confined space like the compartment of a motor vehicle.

Id the example of Fig. 3, the elements for ventilation 221, 222 and 223 of the analysis lines connected to the devices 21,22 and 23, respectively, are shown as being arranged sn the outlet compartment 2. This is only a non-limiting example, in one embodiment, the elements for ventilation 221, 222 and 223 can each comprise a pump 221a, 222a end 223a, respectively, as well as a three-way valve 221b, 222b and 223b, respectively,

The pump and the three-way valve are controlled by the automatic control device 3, for example, to reproduce the bursts of diffused product that can actually be generated by the user from the diffusion device.

The pump can be, for example, a peristaltic pump with membrane or diaphragm, or any other type of pump suited to the needs of the application, it meets for example the following characteristics, recommended in the above mentioned O.F.T report: variable flow rate: from 2 to 138 millilitres in 2 seconds; generated depression; from -2 to -IS millibars.

The three-way valve (aspiration, delivery and discharge) enables simulation of the type of bursts, especially sharp or gradual. As a variant, the flow can be regulated with other .eq.u.i.p.m.e.n.b.for example .one,,or more regulators of flow rate and pressure, Instead and in place of the three-way valve.

ThO maehihd can comprise a temperature sensor 2a and a system 2b of temperature reiulitioh, arranged to control the temperature in the outlet compartment 2. The system lb Is capable of heating or cooling the atmosphere in this compartment. This enables constant maintenance of the temperature of functioning of the different equipment installed in the outiét compartment 2, notably the elements for ventilation 221, 222 and 223.

The control of the temperature and humidity in the outlet chambers 121, 122 and 123 can be performed individually for each chamber by means of temperature and humidity sensors 1:21a, 122a, and 123a, respectively.

The regulation of temperature and humidity in the outlet chambers 12.1, 122 and 123 can also be individualised for each chamber.

However, in the example shown in Fig. 3, a system 24 of humidity regulation (by humidification and drying) is shared between the lines. The cheek valves 121b, 122b and :123b are arranged between the systems 24 and 25 and each outlet chamber 121, 122 and 123, respectively. These valves are controlled by the automatic control device 3 to regulate the humidity individually in each outlet chamber on the basis of information transmitted by the sensor 121¾ 122a, and 123a of each of the outiét chambers 121,122 and 123, respectively.

This principle of shared functioning is used, in the example such as represented by temperature regulation {irt heating and in cooling), thanks to a system of temperature regulation 25,

While not shown in Fig, 2, the means of control and regulation of the pressure in the outlet chambers 121, 122, and 123 can also be provided. They can be individualised for each chamber, or shared by the three chambers of the assemblage of the analysis line considered.

Examples of the analysis hardware elements will now be described. This anaiysis hardware enables anaiysis of a flow diffused by each diffusion device 21, 22 and 23, and which is delivered either into the outlet compartment 2, more particularly in the outiét chamber, 121,. 122 and 123, respectively, or In the inlet compartment 1, more particularly the iniet chambers 10, 20 and 30. It thus enables determination of the state of functioning of the diffusion devices or characterisation of the flow diffused as part for example of the study of the diffusible products. in the embodiments, the anaiysis hardware can comprise temperature sensors 21c, 22c and 23c, arranged to measure the temperature of the flow leaving the diffusion device 21, 22 and 23, respectively, and delivered Into the outlet compartment 121,12 and 123, respectively. Temperature measurement in this location enables determination of the state of functioning of the diffusion device, indeed, for diffusion devices that are heating devices like electronic cigarettes, the temperature of the diffused product is a direct indication of the state of functioning of the device.

If the diffusion device is not a heating device, the temperature of the diffused flow is nevertheless characteristic of the diffusion, because a temperature measurement gives relevant information about the state of functioning of the devices.

The anaiysis hardware cun be configured to enable continuous or sampled sensory analysis of the product diffused by the diffusion devices 21, 22 and 23 and delivered into the outiét chambers 121, 122 and 123 of the outlet compartment 2 or the iniet chambers 10, 20 or 30 of the Inlet compartment 1.

Thus, in an emlödíment as shown, the anaiysis hardware comprises a screen 2b in front: of which the flow diffused by the diffusion device is delivered to enable a visual characterisation of said flow by an operator. In one example, useful in particular for vapours with essentially white colour, the screen can be black or a dark colour. Conversely, If the diffused product has a dark colour, the screen can be white or a light colour. The screen can he removable, in order for it to be replaced each time with a screen of colour most appropriately possible according to the products diffused. Advantageously, the screen can be connected to s lighting element configured to produce controlled lighting conditions.

In the embodiments, there can also be provided another element such as an image sensor enabling an Image rapture in view of later analysis. This can be a CMOS imager, digital camera, webcam, etc, in the example shown, the machine comprises a system 2? of low collection and treatment. Such a system enables substamps dangerous for persons and/or for the environment to be collected, it can* for Mappie, be an active carbon filter, or a bag arranged to collect ail the flows diffused by the three diffusion devices 2¾ 22 and 23, it is also possible to provide such a system for each individual analysis line.

Furthermore the analysis hardware cars comprise an element for taking samples of flow, for.,a,.physieahehemicai..analysis of the product diffused by the diffusion device and delivered into the outlet compartment, or individually into the outlet chambers 121,122 and 123 and into the inlet compartment 1 in the inlet chambers 10, 20 and 30.

The analysis hardware can also comprise a condensation module arranged to collect, in liquid form, ail or part at the product diffused by the diffusion device and delivered into the outlet, compartment, for physical-chemical analysis of said product. This is useful should the analysis be easier to perform on a liquid form of the diffused products.

The analysis hardware can further comprise a sterile analysis bag arranged to catch all the flow diffused by at ieast one of the diffusion devices and delivered into the outlet compartment 2. Advantageously there can be a specific bag arranged at the outlet of each chamber 123, 122 and 123, or a common bag to collect ail the vapours generated by the three devices 21, 22 and 23 and in the inlet compartment 1 In the Inlet chambers 10, 20 and 30.

Any other analytic device needed to determine the flow can be provided, in addition or In :plpé of the examples given above. ligy Í shows the analysis lines of all the three;andipis lines; shown at the top of Fig, 2, These lines ere connected to the devices 13., 12 and 13, and are used;in the calibration of the machine, in this figure ai! the elements corresponding to the elements: already described in relation to Fig. 3 are not referenced again in order not to overload the figure at the expense of its readability. Simply note the elements for ventilation 211., 212. and 213 connected to the devices 11,12 and 13., respectively.

Whereas for the assemblages of operational analysis lines, the elements for analysis can be limited to one temperature sensor per line like the sensors 21c, 22c and 23c shown In Fig, 3, for the analysis lines of the assemblage dedicated to calibration shown in Fig. 4, the machine is provided, at the outlet of the devices, with three sensors per line: the temperature sensors 11c, 12c and 13c, respectively, and further the depression sensors lid, 12d and 13d, respectively, and finally the flow rate sensors lie, 12e and 13e, respectively, The order of arrangement of these three types of sensors in· the suction pipe between the diffusion devices and the element for ventilation of each anaiysis line is irrelevant and is not limited to the example shown in Fig. 4. These sensors enabii the machine (pump, valves, etc.} to be calibrated according to the installed; device and the configuration of the test protocol.

The analysis hardware shown here comprises, apart from the means already shown in Fig. 3 for the operational, analysis lines, the condensation modules 111c; 112c and 113c ananged to collect, in liquid form, ai! or part of the product diffused by the diffusion devices and delivered into the outlet compartment 2, at the outiét of the chambers 111, 111 and 113.. respeetiveiy, These condensates can be used for the physicai-chemica! aoliysis pf the diffused product, and advantageously in its liquid form. The valves Hid, 112d and 113d, for example of the manual valves, can he connected to the condensation modules 111c, 112c and 113c, respectively, to enable these modules to be drained to remove the condensates.

The machine described above can be used in the field of the physical-chemical anaiysis of the diffused products and the performance of the devices. Also, fh more specific applications like the study of the quantities of substances aspirated, rsspirated or inhaled by users, or the development and determination of the diffusion devices, diffusible products, administration methods, etc.

In a non-exhaustive manner, the machine can be used in the following different applications; chemical anaiysis o? diffused substances, testing diffusion devices, - testing new products., ·· testing new devices,

Ti: testing new administration methods, > etc.

The machine can be presented in the form of modular and mobile equipment, mounted on -a skid or-a portable platform, in such a way as to be able to be transported easily to different stations within a laboratory, for example. It can be installed in a laboratory or In any other premises. It enables direct visual access to the diffusion devices and the flows leavlng the devices.

The lnvention provides a response to three functional objectives: the testing and determination of the funxdrioning Of difÉísiön devices with products of different compositions (clogging, life time, production or not of smoke, etc.), - the analytical use of the composition of the entering and leaving hows (quaritltefiye, chemical cdmiposltlon, chemical, physical and optica! characterisation, etc,}. the characterisation of the flows entering and leaving the device by their sensory aspects (colour, density, opacity, transparency, odours, tastes). furthermore the machine enables the number of tests performed simultaneously to be multiplied thanks to a series of connection lines to the devices and So read data .continuously on the functioning of the devices. fhe present invention: ta been described and illustrated in the preseht detailed description and in the Figures. The invention is not limited, however, to the embodiments presented, Other variants and embodiments can be worked out end implemented by a person skilled In the field on reading the present description -arai Ilié appended Figures.

In the claims, the term "comprise” does not exclude other elements or other steps. The Indefinite articie "a" does not exclude the plurai. A single processor or several other units can be used to implement the invention. The different characteristics presented and/or claimed can advantageously be combined. Their presence in the description or in the different dependent claims does not exclude this possibility. The signs of reference 'Should not be understood as limiting the scope of the invention.

Claims (9)

EXAMINATION MACHINE DISTRIBUTABLE PRODUCT DIFFUSION EQUIPMENT INDIVIDUAL INDICATORS I. Machine for analysis of diffusion device distributing a product suitable for aspiration, inhalation, or inhalation by at least one sheave / lubricant, and / or for the analysis of a product distributed by such a diffusion device which includes ; * an accessor automation (3): - a controlled atmosphere compartment (!) Sepllbfe is a support thread for retaining the mechanics of the dMiSi (11, 12, 13) in the input compartment: at least one actuator for the diffusion device (21a) , 22a, 23a) by. automatic control in such a way as to exert specific mechanical effects on the diffusion device; - inserting a unit (20a, 20b, 20c) that controls the temperature and / or humidity of the atmosphere in the inlet compartment and which operates under the automatic s thousands; - a controlled atmosphere outlet (2); - at least one unit (121a, 122a, 123a, 24, 2% which controls the pressure, temperature and / or humidity in the output compartment and which is controlled by the automaton such that the pressure, temperature determined in the atmosphere of the output compartment - and / or moisture conditions, - at least one ventilation unit (221, 222, 223) belonging to the diffusion device, which is arranged to generate a material stream entering the diffusion device from the inlet compartment, and thereby delivering a flow of material from the diffusion device to the output compartment in time, controlled by the automaton such that ventilation with defined characteristics is provided, and at least one analyzing device (2 te. 22c, 23c, 26). - to characterize the operating state of the diffusion device or to characterize the dispersed material stream - allows the analysis of the flow of material diffused by the diffusion device into the output compartment, 2. A machine according to claim 1, wherein the inlet compartment itself has a * & & ^, a stream of material flow inlet for a defined flow of gas, liquid or solid and / or ambient air. and / or receiving at least a portion of the material stream dispersed by the diffusion device in the output compartment, which part is then returned to the input compartment. The machine according to claim 1 or 2, wherein the actuator belonging to the diffusion device is controlled by the automaton in such a way that the effects that the diffusion device user can actually exercise on the device can be reproduced, 4. As shown in 1-3. Machine according to any one of claims 1 to 3, wherein the pressure, temperature and / or humidity control unit in the output compartment is controlled by the automaton in such a manner that the pressure, temperature and / or sink content determined by the actual oral and / or nasal environment of the user in the output compartment atmosphere to be reproducible, Ι, ίΑζ. .1-4. A machine according to any one of claims 1 to 3, wherein the ventilation unit is controlled by the automaton in such a way that the sniffs actually taken by the user from the dispersed product in the diffusion device can be reproduced. Machine according to any one of claims 1-4, wherein the ventilation unit comprises a pump (221a, 222a, 223a) and a three-way valve (22ik 222b, 223b). . 1-6 A machine according to any one of claims 1 to 3, wherein the analyzing means comprises a sampling unit of material stream for the purpose of chemical analysis of the diffusion device dispensed and delivered to the output compartment. Machine according to claim 7. wherein the analyzing means comprises a condensation module disposed so that, for the purpose of its physicochemical analysis, the product retrieves, in liquid form, all or part of the product distributed by the diffusion device and delivered to the output compartment. A machine according to any one of claims 1-8, wherein the analyzing device comprises an analytical bag positioned to collect the total stream of material dispersed by the diffusion device and delivered to the output compartment. The machine according to any one of claims 1-9, wherein the analyzing device allows for an organoleptic analysis of the product dispersed by the diffusion device and delivered to the output compartment by continuous or sampling means, i.e., the machine according to claim 10, in time the analyzer includes an umbrella). which is a strip for a lighting unit suitable for creating a controlled light, and a stream of material dispersed by the diffusion device before the screen, so that the operator can visualize the material stream, or that it can capture an image sensor image for later analysis, A machine according to any one of claims 1 to 11, wherein the analyzer comprises a temperature sensor (21c, 22c, 23c) disposed to measure the output of the diffusion device from the diffusion device. and the temperature of the output stream fed into the output compartment. A machine according to any one of claims M2, comprising a group of at least one N analysis line, each of which is suitable for parallel analysis of a group of at least N diffusion apparatus, wherein -N: is equal to at least 3 equal integers each including a support, at least one actuating unit, and a ventilation unit for the diffusion apparatus of the particular demo line, as defined in claim 1, disposed between the input compartment and the output compartment; . which includes: a group M as defined in claim 13, wherein E1 is an integer equal to or greater than 2, and N is an integer divider, - a number of input chambers in the input compartment, each of which is M and - N number of output chambers in the output compartment, each of which belongs to a particular analysis line. - each of the El groups, each consisting of N analysis lines, connects N / E to one of the input chamber E1! with output chamber 15, 15, A, 14, point machine. which includes a control which is particularly suited to the control of the data from the analyzer lines from the ali M group for which the calibration of the machine is intended.