WO2022192736A1

WO2022192736A1 - Smart nebulizer system

Info

Publication number: WO2022192736A1
Application number: PCT/US2022/020046
Authority: WO
Inventors: Heikki Haveri; Tuomas Olavi TISSARI
Original assignee: Vyaire Medical, Inc.
Priority date: 2021-03-12
Filing date: 2022-03-11
Publication date: 2022-09-15

Abstract

A smart nebulizer device, including a reusable capsule (102) and a disposable atomizer (104), is disclosed. The capsule includes a processor (110) which detects movement of the capsule and determines when the atomizer is attached. A wireless communication connection is formed with an application operating on a mobile device (600) to inform a user how to operate the nebulizer device. The processor, receives, from and after informing the application, treatment parameters associated with delivering a medication from the medication container by a pump (108) within the capsule, detects attachment of the medication container to the capsule, causes the pump to deliver a dose of the medication from the attached medication container to a nebulizing transducer within the attached atomizer according to the received treatment parameters, detects an inspiration through the attached atomizer and, responsive to the detected inspiration, causes the nebulizing transducer to generate an aerosol from the dose.

Description

SMART NEBULIZER SYSTEM BACKGROUND FIELD

[0001] The subject technology addresses deficiencies commonly encountered in nebulizer devices and operation thereof.

SUMMARY

[0002] Nebulizers, or atomizers, are devices that generate a fine spray or aerosol, usually of a liquid. One particular application of nebulizers is to provide an aerosol containing a dissolved pharmaceutical agent for administration to a patient by inhalation. Such inhalation treatment is highly effective for conditions affecting the subject's respiratory organs. Further, since the lungs are close to the heart and the circulatory system of the body, drug administration by inhalation provides an effective and rapid delivery system for a drug to all organs of the body. In other applications, nebulizers provide a fine spray of water for humidification.

[0003] A nebulizer in the form of an inhaler may be placed directly in the mouth or nose of the subject so that the spray can be entrained in the respiratory gases which are inhaled during normal, spontaneous breathing of the subject. In other applications, a nebulizer may be used in connection with a respiratory ventilator via a Y-connector. Drawbacks to existing nebulizers include, among other things, the inability for reuse after a certain period of time, medication expiration, position dependent respiration, medication waste due to required “charging” of the devices and inconsistent dosing.

[0004] The subject technology solves the foregoing deficiencies by providing an electronic smart reusable nebulizer device. The smart nebulizer device comprises a reusable smart capsule that is configured for use with disposable atomizer units. According to various aspects, the reusable capsule comprises a motion sensor, a wireless connectivity circuitry, a pump, an energy source, one or more electrical contacts, and a processor. The processor may be configured to detect a predetermined movement of the reusable nebulizer capsule based on a sensor signal received from the motion sensor and, responsive to detecting the predetermined movement, connect the pump to the energy source, receive a first electrical signal via the electrical contacts, determine when a disposable atomizer unit is attached to the reusable nebulizer capsule based on a first measured value of the first signal satisfying a first predetermined measurement, form, via the wireless connectivity circuitry, a wireless communication connection with a remote device, confirm operation of a predetermined application on the remote device. The processor may further inform the predetermined application, via the wireless communication connection, responsive to determining the disposable atomizer unit is attached, that the processor is ready to receive a medication container, receive, from and after informing the predetermined application, via the wireless communication connection, treatment parameters associated with delivering a medication from the medication container by the pump, detect, after receiving the treatment parameters, an attachment of the medication container to the reusable nebulizer capsule, cause the pump to deliver a dose of the medication from the attached medication container to a nebulizing transducer within the attached atomizer unit according to the received treatment parameters, receive, from the attached atomizer unit, a second electrical signal via the one or more electrical contacts, detect, based on a change in the second electrical signal, an inspiration through the attached atomizer unit and, responsive to the detected inspiration, cause the nebulizing transducer within the disposable atomizer unit to generate an aerosol from the dose delivered by the pump and to provide the aerosol through the attached atomizer unit.

[0005] According to various aspects, the reusable nebulizing capsule comprises a hermetically sealed plastic housing. The sensor, pump, energy source, and processor are disposed within the housing and insulated from outside elements (such as water), and wherein an upper portion of the housing is configured to removably attach to the medication container, and a lower portion of the housing is configured to removably attached to the disposable atomizer unit, and wherein the electrical contacts are disposed within the lower portion of the housing and configured to contact respective electrical contacts of the nebulizing transducer disposed within the disposable atomizer unit when the disposable atomizer unit is attached to the lower portion of the housing.

[0006] The reusable nebulizing capsule may further comprise a plurality of concentric circular electrical contacts located on a bottom face of the housing of the reusable nebulizer capsule. In this regard, the processor may be further configured to measure a first capacitance between a first inner circular contact of the plurality of concentric circular electrical contacts and a second circular contact that is adjacent to and encompassing the first inner circular contact, measure a second capacitance between the second circular contact and a third circular contact adjacent to and encompassing the second circular contact, and determine, based on the measured first capacitance and the second capacitance, an amount of the dose loaded into a cavity between the nebulizing transducer of the disposable atomizer unit and the plurality of concentric circular electrical contacts, and that is ready to be transformed into the aerosol. Other aspects include corresponding systems, methods, and computer program products for implementation of the foregoing device.

[0007] Further aspects of the subject technology, features, and advantages, as well as the structure and operation of various aspects of the subject technology are described in detail below with reference to accompanying drawings.

DESCRIPTION OF THE FIGURES

[0008] Various objects, features, and advantages of the present disclosure can be more fully appreciated with reference to the following detailed description when considered in connection with the following drawings, in which like reference numerals identify like elements. The following drawings are for the purpose of illustration only and are not intended to be limiting of this disclosure, the scope of which is set forth in the claims that follow.

[0009] FIGS. 1A and IB depict an example nebulizer system embodied in a capsule device, and a corresponding disposable atomizer unit, according to various aspects of the subject technology.

[0010] FIGS. 2A and 2B depict an example disposable applicator tube and medication container for use with nebulizer system 100, according to various aspects of the subject technology.

[0011] FIG. 3 is a diagram of the example nebulizer system, including capsule device connected to the disposable atomizer unit and a corresponding breathing circuit, according to various aspects of the subject technology.

[0012] FIG. 4 is a diagram of the interaction between the capsule device with concentric circular electrical contacts located on a bottom face of housing, nebulizing transducer, and disposable atomizer unit, according to various aspects of the subject technology. [0013] FIGS. 5A to 5D are example connection diagrams for connecting the capsule device, applicator tube, disposable atomizer unit, and medication container according to various aspects of the subject technology.

[0014] FIG. 6 depicts a flow diagram of an example interaction between capsule device and a remote application operating on a wirelessly connected remote device, according to various aspects of the subject technology.

[0015] FIG. 7 depicts an example process for operating a smart nebulizer device, according to various aspects of the subject technology.

[0016] FIG. 8 is a conceptual diagram illustrating an example electronic system for operating the smart nebulizer device, according to various aspects of the subject technology.

DESCRIPTION

[0017] While aspects of the subject technology are described herein with reference to illustrative examples for particular applications, it should be understood that the subj ect technology is not limited to those particular applications. Those skilled in the art with access to the teachings provided herein will recognize additional modifications, applications, and aspects within the scope thereof and additional fields in which the subject technology would be of significant utility.

[0018] The subject technology provides a small battery operated wireless nebulizer, which includes a reusable (non-disposable) hermetically sealed capsule and a disposable atomizer unit. Together these units may be connected to a breathing circuit, which may be part of or connected to a ventilator. The breathing circuit may also be a disposable mouthpiece for use as a standalone inhaler. According to various aspects, the reusable capsule contains a rechargeable battery or other energy source, a pump, a microprocessor and wireless connectivity circuitry, which are sealed within the capsule and protected from outside elements. The capsule include an upper port for connecting a medication and a lower port and lower electrical contacts for connecting to the disposable atomizer unit. In this regard, the capsule may be washed after each use and reused with a new disposable atomizer unit. [0019] The nebulizer capsule is a self-contained computer controlled system for self operation, or may be paired with a remote device such as a mobile smartphone for the remote control of the capsule functions, or the monitoring or analysis of nebulization-related data. For example, the capsule may include an accelerometer or other motion detection device which causes it to turn on or turn off automatically, and various other sensors to determine when it is connected to a disposable atomizer unit or a combination atomizer-mouthpiece unit. In this regard, the capsule may turn on, detect attachment of the atomizer unit and medication container, and actuate the atomizer unit responsive to detecting a breath from the user. In another example, the capsule may pair with the smartphone on detecting movement of the capsule and an available mobile device nearby, and may defer control of its functionality to an application operating on the mobile device.

[0020] The nebulizer capsule and corresponding disposable atomizer unit are particularly useful in clinical environments, such as an intensive care unit (ICU). While nebulizer capsule is adapted to connect to a corresponding atomizer unit, the atomizer unit may be adapted to connect with a ventilator breathing circuit and/or to a mask or cannula. The processor of the nebulizer device is configured to automatically detect and synchronize to patient inhalation and exhalation events, and provide controlled delivery volume of a medicament and controlled delivery depth per breath, and with minimal dead space (less rebreathing of gases). In this regard, the nebulizer capsule and atomizer unit may be suitable for use by intubated, non-intubated, and spontaneously breathing patients. The nebulizer capsule may be breath actuated, or may be paired to the ventilator for control by the ventilator.

[0021] Additionally or in the alternative, the disposable atomizer unit may be adapted to connect with a mouthpiece to be used in a manner similar to a standard inhaler. In this regard, a processor within the nebulizer capsule, communicating with corresponding circuitry in the atomizer unit, provides automated inspiration triggered delivery of liquid medical substances into a patient’s lungs. The patient breathes normally through a mouthpiece attached to the atomizer unit, and the processor within the nebulizer capsule detects inspiration automatically and causes the medical substance to be converted to an aerosol, which travels within the inspiration gas into the patient’s airway and lungs. A corresponding application may be downloaded and run on the patient’s mobile device, and paired (e.g. over a BLUETOOTH connection). The application may provide instructions and guidance for using the capsule, as well as control operation of various capsule functions. The application may also, for example, provide a calendar for therapies and reminders for taking planned doses, and may measure dosages delivered during breathing and save the data to a patient log. When the patient has completed using a particular medication, the disposable atomizer unit and mouthpiece may be discarded, while the nebulizer capsule washed and made ready for future reuse (e.g. with a different medication).

[0022] FIGS. 1 A and IB depict an example nebulizer system 100 embodied in a capsule device 102, and a corresponding disposable atomizer unit 104, according to various aspects of the subject technology. With reference to FIG. 1A, capsule device 102 includes an energy source 106 (e.g. a rechargeable battery), pump 108, processor 110, and wireless connectivity circuitry 112, and one or more external electrical contacts 114. In some implementations, system 100 includes a motion sensor 116. The processor 110, circuitry 112, and/or motion sensor 116 may be integrated into a single printed circuit board 118 (to which the electrical contacts 114 are connected), or may be separate components. All of the foregoing internal components may be fixed within a watertight/airtight housing 120 which prevents exposure of the components to external elements. In this regard, contacts 114 may be integral with the housing such that water is prevented from passing beyond the contacts into the housing.

[0023] In the depicted example, housing 120 includes a liquid tube channel 122 that passes through a center of housing 120. Housing 120 may include, at a top portion of liquid tube channel 122, a fitted connection point 124 for the fitting of a commercially available medication container 134, which connects to liquid tube channel 122 at the connection point. According to some aspects, all of liquid tube channel 122 may be exposed from the connection point 124 to an exit port 128 so that a medication container adapted to fit within liquid tube channel 122 may be inserted therein, and a liquid of the medication container may flow to exit port 128. As will be further disclosed, such a medication container may include a disposable plastic ampule of medication. In some implementations, medication container 134 may be part of a single unit-dose vial of bronchodilator concentrate. In such a manner, fluid within the channel 122 may flow freely from connection point 124 through liquid tube channel 122, and out through exit port 128 into a connected disposable atomizer unit 104. [0024] FIGS. 2A and 2B depict an example disposable applicator tube 132 and medication container 134 for use with nebulizer system 100, according to various aspects of the subject technology. According to various implementations, disposable applicator tube 132 may also be provided for adapting certain medications for use with capsule device 102. Applicator tube 132 may be configured to conform to and fit snugly within liquid tube channel 122. Applicator tube 132 includes a flexible or pliable plastic tube that provides a conduit for passing a liquid through the liquid tube channel 122 of capsule device 102. The pliability of the tube allows it to be acted on by a peristaltic pump to transport a fluid through the tube from medication container 134 to exit port 128.

[0025] According to some implementations, disposable applicator tube 132 may include one or more needles 136 at a top portion of the tube. Connection point 124 aligns the desired medication container 134 with applicator tube 132 so that a fluid port in medication container 134 may be fluidly coupled with applicator tube 132. The fluid coupling may be achieved, for example, by one or more needles 136 extending into a fluid port in the medication container 134 or another connection, such as a needleless connector and access valve. As shown in the example, a first needle 136a may be connected to a liquid channel 137a and a second needle 136b may be connected to an air channel 137b.

[0026] Needles 136 secure applicator tube 132 to medication container 134, which may be used to help placing applicator tube 132 into the liquid tube channel 122. As depicted in FIG. 2A, applicator tube 132 may include a disposable applicator portion 135 that operates as a placement tool for applicator tube. Disposable applicator portion may be made entirely of a plastic material and affixed to applicator tube 132 by way of needles 136 being embedded therein. Disposable portion 135 may also act as a protective casing to insulate the needles from external elements when applicator tube 132 is packaged for delivery to a patient.

[0027] As will be described further below, once applicator tube 132 is inserted within tube channel 122, applicator tube 132 may stay within tube channel 122 while disposable applicator portion 135 is removed. Similarly, medication container 134 may be used to guide and insert applicator tube 132 into tube channel 122. In some implementations, disposable applicator portion 134 is a disposable medicine container 134 (e.g. a fluid solution bag or module). Additionally, after medication container 134 is used, it may be removed from applicator tube 132, making way for attachment of a new medication container 134 to capsule device 102.

[0028] With reference back to FIG. 1A, according to various implementations, pump 108 may be a positive displacement pump such as a peristaltic pump. When a disposable ampule or applicator tube 132 is fitted within liquid tube channel 122, a pumping mechanism 138 such as the depicted pump wheel may apply pressure to the applicator tube 132 through an inner wall of liquid tube channel 122.

[0029] A pump rotor 138 may be in the shape of a star or other configuration with multiple ridges or may be of an oblong shape such as an oval shape. For example, The external circumference of pump rotor 138 may include a number of rollers, lobes, or ridges. In the depicted example, pumping wheel 138 is in the shape of a star. As the rotor turns, the part of the inserted tube becomes under compression and is closed (or "occluded"), forcing the liquid within the tube to move through the tube. Additionally, as the tube opens to its natural state after the passing of the cam fluid flow is induced to the pump. In some implementations, there may be two or more rollers, or wipers, occluding the tube, trapping between them a body of fluid. By this process, the liquid is transported, at ambient pressure, toward exit port 128. Once activated, pump 108 may run continuously, or they may be indexed through partial revolutions to deliver smaller amounts of fluid.

[0030] Wireless connectivity circuitry 112 may include circuitry for one or more forms of wireless transmission, receipt, and communication including radio circuitry for connecting to a wireless access point. Such technologies include, but are not limited to, WiFi, radio frequency transmission including UHF radio waves, BLUETOOTH, cellular services, microwave, free-space optical communication (FSO), electromagnetic induction (e.g. radio frequency identification (RFID)), and the like. The communication may include one or more communication standards which may be used to set up a network between capsule device 102 (via wireless connectivity circuit 112) and the access point. In this regard, capsule device 102 may create, join, or make up part of, a network such as a local area network (LAN), wide area network (WAN), piconet (e.g. an adhoc network using BLUETOOTH), cellular network, or the like. Wireless connection circuitry 112 may continuously broadcast its availability to external devices, and form a network between capsule device 102 once pairing is confirmed by an external device. As will be described further, wireless connection circuitry 112 may be configured to be switched on responsive to a signal from motion sensor 116 and, upon being switched on, may immediately reconnect with a known prior connection (when the connection is available) or begin broadcasting a pairing request to external devices within a predetermined geographic range of capsule device 102.

[0031] FIG. IB is a diagram of an example disposable atomizer unit 104, according to various aspects of the subject technology. Disposable atomizer unit 104 includes an atomizer housing 140 formed of an endurable plastic or similar. Housing 140 may include a wall 142 around a base 144, with the base and wall sized to fit snugly around a lower portion 146 of housing 120 of device capsule 102. Housing 140 may include a bayonet type connection whereby housing 120 and housing 140 may be secured together. Atomizer housing 140 furthers includes a patient connector output port 150 configured to connect to a breathing circuit. In this regard, housing 120, housing 140, and patient connector 150 may be connected together to form a single part.

[0032] Atomizer housing 140 includes a nebulizing transducer 160 fastened to base 144. A substrate of nebulizing transducer 160 can be made of any material suitable for establishing vibrations at ultrasonic frequencies and to have a group of microholes 152 forming a mesh, including an electrically conductive metal such as stainless steel, brass or similar. The substrate may be between 10-500 pm thick and may be overlaid with a piezoelectric ringed coating or layer to form a bimorph which may, when provided with a current, cause nebulizing transducer 160 to vibrate, thereby causing a fluid deposited over microholes 152 to pass through the holes to be aerosolized.

[0033] Nebulizing transducer 160 may include one or more transducer contacts 162 that align and make contact with electrical contacts 114 when atomizer unit is fitted onto capsule device 102. Nebulizing transducer 160 may be secured at an outer edge of its circumference by fastening points 164 (e.g. a suppressor) at one or more locations of wall 142, and securely positioned thereby so that fluid exiting from exit port 122 is deposited over the holes 152, and the nebulized aerosol is provided to output port and patient connector 150 for delivery to a patient.

[0034] Once housing 120 of device capsule 102 and atomizer housing 140 are connected together, a fluid-tight seal between the two housings, which also forms a chamber 148 between the lower portion 146 of housing 120 and nebulizing transducer 160 fastened to base 144. A fluid may be deposited within the chamber 148 through exit port 122, and will be prevented from traversing or leaking to a patient side of housing 140 by the fluid-tight seal.

[0035] FIG. 3 is a diagram of the example nebulizer system 100, including capsule device 102 connected to the disposable atomizer unit 104 and a corresponding breathing circuit 174, according to various aspects of the subject technology. Breathing circuit 174 may be a disposable mouthpiece that adapts to patient connector 150 to form a patient inhaler. Breathing circuit 174 may be a connector for coupling disposable atomizer 104 (and reusable capsule 102) to a ventilator.

[0036] Housing 140 of atomizer unit 104 is fitted onto the lower end of capsule 102, secured together using the previously described bayonet type connection. Chamber 148 is formed between the lower portion of housing 140 and an inner portion of housing 140, within which liquid may be deposited and contained.

[0037] Processor 110 may include or be connected to a memory device for storing various operating parameters for controlling pump 108, motion sensor 116 or other electrical components onboard capsule device 102. Motion sensor 116 may be an accelerometer or position sensor which detects when the capsule device 102 and/or attached atomizer 104 is moved.

[0038] Processor 110, using data received from motion sensor 116, determines the motion or position of the device and compares the motion or position of the device to the operating parameters to determine when nebulizer is moved in a certain predetermined way (e.g. a patient picks up the device or positions it for an inhalation). When the device determines that the criteria is met the processor 110 switches from a low powered mode, in which the energy source 106 is disconnected from the pump 108 and/or connectivity circuitry 112, to a normal powered mode in which energy source 106 is connected and providing power to the various components, including pump 108 and/or connectivity circuitry 112, and begins operations, as described further below.

[0039] When capsule device 102 detects that it has been picked up and moved consistent with being ready to be used by a patient, processor 110 operates wireless connectivity circuitry 112 to connect with an application written for capsule device 102 operating on a mobile device (e.g. through BTLE). Capsule device 102 waits to receive a medication container QR-code information from the application (patient to scan code), and confirmation that it has been connected to atomizer unit 103 and medication container 134 (e.g. connected by the patient).

[0040] According to various implementations, a connection between capsule device 102 and atomizer unit 104 may be detected from one or more signals received from electrical contacts 114 (e.g. capacitive plates). For example, nebulizing transducer 160 may include a piezo transducer that comes into contact with electrical contacts 114 and provides a piezo circuit current to electrical contacts 114 when atomizer unit 104 is fitted onto capsule device 102 (e.g. in the manner described above). The connection may also be detected based on a change in a known resonant frequency at the electrical contacts 114. For example, as will be described further, electrical contacts 114 may include one or more capacitive plates 115 located on lower portion 146 of housing 120 of device capsule 102, and the connection may be detected based on a change in resonant frequency between two or more of the capacitive plates. Additionally or in the alternative, transducer 160 may include capacitive contacts 162 that align and make contact with electrical contacts 114 when atomizer unit is fitted onto capsule device 102, and processor 110 may measure the capacitance between the contacts to determine when transducer is attached and/or whether the transducer is authorized to be connected to capsule device 102.

[0041] FIG. 4 is a diagram of the interaction between the capsule device 102 with concentric circular electrical contacts located on a bottom face of housing 120, nebulizing transducer 160, and disposable atomizer unit 104, according to various aspects of the subject technology. According to various implementations, electrical contacts 114 may include electrically conductive ring-shaped conductors 115 located on the bottom side of lower portion 146 of housing 120, under the electrically insulating surface. Ring-shaped conductors 115 create capacitive electrodes by which processor 110 may determine a capacitance between one or more of the rings, which may change due to the presence of liquid.

[0042] Processor 110 operates in connection with electrical contacts 114 to provide capacitive sensing of liquid within chamber 148. Every second ring-shaped conductor is connected to one electrode and the rest to another electrode. Liquid is fed into chamber 148, between hydrophilic areas of the bottom face of housing 120 and transducer 160 (e.g. a mesh). Capacitance increases as the drop size increases since permeability of liquid is much higher compared to permeability of air. Processor 110 may be configured to stop pump 108 from pumping further medication from medication container 134 and/or applicator tube 132 on detecting a predetermined capacitance across a predetermined number of the rings 115 (e.g. all of the rings or enough of the rings representative of a predetermined area or amount of liquid), and to begin pumping when the capacitance is representative of chamber 148 being empty or not sufficiently filled to a predetermined level.

[0043] With reference to FIG. 3, capsule device 102 may include a microswitch 170 positioned within connection point 124. Processor 110 may detect a connection between a medication container 134 and connection point 124 of capsule device by way of detecting activation of microswitch 170 when medication container 134 is attached to capsule device 102 at connection point 124. Additionally or in the alternative, processor 110 may detect a connection between a medication container 134 and connection point 124 of capsule device by way of detecting liquid between the capacitive plates.

[0044] Pump 108 (e.g. a peristaltic pump) pumps liquid from applicator tube 132, which has been placed into liquid tube channel 122. In some implementations, processor 110 may detect placement of applicator tube 132 within channel 122 by measuring peristaltic pump electrical load current. For example, processor 110 may determine no tube is present when the current satisfies (e.g. is below) a predetermined threshold current, and determine a tube is present when the current satisfies (e.g. is above) the predetermined threshold current. In this regard, pump 108 pumps liquid until the space between the capacitive plates 115 has been filled with liquid (as detected by processor 110). The peristaltic pump pumps more liquid if the amount of liquid between the capacitive plates reduces. The amount of pumped fluid (dosage) can be measured accurately by first detecting the fluid entering between the plates (capacitively) and then counting a number of times pump 108 is actuated. For example, the number of wheel turns may determine the dosage measurement.

[0045] Nebulizing transducer 160 may be configured by way of it being a bimorph to generate a different resistance (or capacitance) at its electrical contacts 162 depending on a flexing of transducer 160 within atomizer unit 104. Processor 110 may measure this resistance (or capacitance) using electrical contacts 114 to detect whether an inspiration or expiration is occurring. For example, when a patient inspiration is occurring (e.g. pressure inside the breathing circuit is less than zero) transducer 160 starts to actuate in a bowing mode, which is detected at contacts 162 by measuring a threshold resistance (or capacitance). Responsive to this detection, processor 110 causes pump 108 to act on applicator tube 132 to dispense fluid into chamber 148 and between the capacitive plates, as the fluid within chamber 148 is converted to an aerosol 172 (e.g. by passing through a mesh portion 166 of transducer 160) within the inspired air flowing in breathing circuit 174. Similarly, when a patient expiration is occurring (e.g. pressure inside the breathing circuit is greater than zero) an opposing threshold resistance (or capacitance) is measured, and processor 110 causes pump 108 to stop delivering fluid to chamber 148.

[0046] In some implementations, pump 108 may provide a fluid to transducer 160 according to a predetermined pressure, and maintain a threshold pressure even after chamber 148 is filled. According to various aspects, pump 108 may maintain the predetermined pressure to hold the liquid on transducer (e.g. within the bounds of a mesh area) until caused to be expelled through the mesh (e.g. by a vibration of a piezoelectric coating). In this regard, the predetermined pressure may be sufficient to hold the liquid within chamber 148 while capsule device 102 (including pump 108) and disposable atomizer unit 104 (including the piezoelectric transducer) are inverted with respect to the earth.

[0047] In some implementations, processor 110 may receive capsule posture information from motion sensor 116 indicating a tilting of capsule device 102. Processor 110 may cause pump 108 to stop delivering fluid if the capsule device 102 is tilted more than a threshold angle with respect to the earth. For example, processor may cause pump 108 to stop delivering the fluid if the capsule is tilted more than 45 degrees to any direction from its main vertical axes.

[0048] Processor 110 is configured to communicate with the remote application when the correct dosage has been delivered. Additionally or in the alternative, processor 110 may wait to communicate with the application until it detects a patient removing atomizer and the medication container together with the liquid tube. When removal of atomizer unit 104 is detected (e.g. by way of electrical connection described above), processor 110 may switch back to low power mode. In some implementations, processor 110 will instruct entering low power mode after failing to detect movement of the capsule for a predetermined period of time. [0049] FIGS. 5A to 5D are example connection diagrams for connecting the capsule device 102, applicator tube 132, disposable atomizer unit 104, and medication container 134 according to various aspects of the subject technology. As shown in FIG. 5 A, applicator tube 132 may be connected to disposable applicator portion 135 by way of needles 136 being inserted into a lower section of disposable applicator portion 135. Alternatively, applicator tube 132 may be connected to medication container 134 by way of being inserted into a fluid port of medication container 134. Applicator tube 132 (or tube-medicament combination) may then be inverted and inserted into tube channel 122 of capsule device 102. By this time, processor 110 may have activated pump 108 (responsive to motion detection), and may further sense the insertion of applicator tube 132 by way of measuring peristaltic pump electrical load current or by sensing an activation of microswitch 170.

[0050] FIG. 5B depicts capsule device 102, applicator tube 132 with disposable applicator portion 135, and disposable atomizer unit 104 connected together. As depicted in FIG. 5C, disposable applicator portion 135 may be removed while keeping applicator tube 132 within tube channel 122. Medication container 134 may then be connected as previously described. FIG. 5D depicts capsule device 102, applicator tube 132, disposable atomizer unit 104, and medication container 134 connected together and ready for therapeutic use by a patient. Medication container 134 may be removed (similar to FIG. 5B) while keeping applicator tube 132 within tube channel 122. In this manner, a new medication container 134 can be attached to provide further therapeutic treatment.

[0051] FIG. 6 depicts a flow diagram of an example interaction between capsule device 102 and a remote application operating on a wirelessly connected remote device 600, according to various aspects of the subject technology. Remote device 600 may be a smartphone, tablet computer, laptop, smartwatch, or other device configured to wirelessly pair with capsule device 102 (via wireless connectivity circuitry 112). In the depicted example, an application 602, including a graphical user interface, is used to interact with a user for operation or monitoring of nebulizer system 100.

[0052] Application 602 may include a calendar to inform the patient of a treatment plan, and may be communicatively connected to a remote server (e.g. cloud server) that is also accessible by a healthcare professional. In this manner, the healthcare professional may manage a treatment plan for the patient through the calendar, including updating medications, doses, time of treatment, corrections to therapy, and update prescriptions. Application 602 may guide the patient to correct actions based on information from the healthcare provider and/or information stored in the memory device of processor 110.

[0053] Processor 110 may detect and communicate all patient actions back to application 602. For example, data pertaining to the operation of pump 108 or motion sensor 116 may be sent to the application for reporting or interpretation. Application 602 may record all patient actions with respect the patient’s treatment plan in the calendar or other log. The healthcare professional may then view the log remotely or when patient visits the healthcare professional’s office and determine whether the patient has followed the treatment plan or whether there were deviations from the plan.

[0054] With reference to FIG. 6, the treatment calendar in application 602 may contain the patient’s daily medication plan (610). The calendar may be updated regularly by the care personnel based on patient’s condition and treatment plan (e.g. weekly, biweekly, monthly or similar), and the calendar may automatically inform the patient to take medication according to the stored schedule. The patient acknowledges the alert by pressing OK button, and the next screen appears to guide the patient through steps to attach a new disposable mouthpiece to nebulizer system 100 (612).

[0055] Nebulizer system 100 detects (using e.g. an accelerometer/position sensor 116) when the patient touches and/or picks up the capsule device 102, and automatically switches from the low energy mode to a normal operational mode. Application 602 informs the patient to attach a new mouthpiece (612). Nebulizer system 100 detects the attachment of the mouthpiece and informs application 602 (e.g. wirelessly through Bluetooth).

[0056] Application 602 guides the patient to scan the QR-code of the medication to ensure the correct treatment is being undertaken by the patient (614). Application 602 may include a mechanism by which the mobile device’s 600 camera is used to perform the scan. Application 602 utilizes image recognition to obtain the QR-code (or barcode) from the medication container 134, and application 602 compares the scanned medication identifier to a predetermined medication identifier in the treatment calendar. Application 602 continues if the medication matches, and informs the user if it does not.

[0057] Once application 602 confirms the correction mediation is being used, application 602 sends the volume of the dosage to processor 110 (via wireless connectivity circuitry 112). Nebulizer system 100 detects when the patient attaches the medication container (as described previously) to capsule device 102 and informs application 602.

[0058] Application 602 guides the patient to attach disposable medication container 134 to nebulizer (616). Nebulizer system 100 detects the container 134 (as described previously) and informs application 602. Application 602 then guides the patient to place the disposable mouthpiece in the patient’s mouth and to take a breath (618).

[0059] Nebulizer system 100 detects inspiration during every breath and delivers aerosolized medication within inspiration. As described previously, the initiation and volume of the breath may be detected by measuring resistance (or capacitance) at electrical contacts 162 (via electrical contacts 114), depending on a flexing of transducer 160 within atomizer unit 104. If nebulizer system 100 detects a breath is too shallow then it may wait for the next inspiration to record the breath. In some implementations, nebulizer system 100 may detect an inspiration and/or expiration phase at electrical contacts 162 by measuring atomizer resonant frequency change, resonant frequency amplitude change, PLL (phase locked loop) VCO (voltage controlled oscillator) voltage change etc.

[0060] Aerosol 172 is delivered to the patient (travels into lungs), and nebulizer system 100 measures the dosage delivered during multiple normal breathes and informs application 602 when the planned dosage has been delivered (620). Nebulizer system 100 shuts down the pump and stops delivering the medication, and application 602 guides the patient to detach disposable mouth piece and medication container from the nebulizer (620).

[0061] Nebulizer system 100 detects when the mouth piece and the medication container 134 have been detached from the capsule device 102 and informs application 602. Nebulizer system 100 proceeds to turn off essential systems (e.g. pump 108) and remain idle. When no movement is detected for a predetermined period of time after medication container 134 and/or atomizer unit 104 is detached, nebulizer system 100 switches to low energy mode. The treatment calendar in application 602 waits until the next planned treatment before restarting the foregoing cycle.

[0062] FIG. 7 depicts an example process for operating the smart nebulizer system 100, according to aspects of the subject technology. For explanatory purposes, the various blocks of example process 700 are described herein with reference to FIGS. 1-6, and the components and/or processes described herein. The one or more of the blocks of process 700 may be implemented, for example, by a computing device, including a processor and other components utilized by the device. In some implementations, one or more of the blocks may be implemented apart from other blocks, and by one or more different processors or devices. Further for explanatory purposes, the blocks of example process 700 are described as occurring in serial, or linearly. However, multiple blocks of example process 700 may occur in parallel. In addition, the blocks of example process 700 need not be performed in the order shown and/or one or more of the blocks of example process 700 need not be performed.

[0063] As described previously, capsule device 102 is formed of a waterproof plastic housing 120, within which one or more sensors 116, pump 108, energy source 106, and processor 110 are disposed and insulated from outside elements. An upper portion of the housing is configured to removably attach to a medication container 134, and a lower portion 146 of the housing is configured to removably attached to a disposable atomizer unit 104. Electrical contacts 114 are disposed within the lower portion of the housing 120 and configured to contact respective electrical contacts 162 of the nebulizing transducer 160 disposed within atomizer unit 104 when atomizer unit 104 is attached to the lower portion of housing 120. Housing 120 may include a micro USB connector (e.g. with a removable waterproof rubber plug) for charging the energy source and communicating with processor 110 directly from a connected computing device. In some implementations, the energy source may be recharged by way of a wireless charging technology, such as inductive charging.

[0064] In the depicted example flow diagram, processor 110 of capsule device 102 detects a predetermined movement of the reusable nebulizer capsule based on a sensor signal received from the motion sensor (702). Responsive to detecting the predetermined movement, processor 110 connects pump 108 to energy source 106 (704) and queries electrical contacts 114 to determine a signal value. In this regard, processor 110 receives a first electrical signal via the electrical contacts (706). Processor 110 determines when an atomizer unit 104 is attached to capsule device 102 based on a first measured value of the first signal satisfying a first predetermined measurement (708).

[0065] Processor 110 forms, via wireless connectivity circuitry 112, a wireless communication connection with a remote device 600 (710), and confirms operation of a predetermined application 602 on remote device 600 (712). Processor 110 informs predetermined application 602, via the wireless communication connection, responsive to determining that atomizer unit 104 is attached, that processor 110 is ready to receive a medication container 134 (714). Application 602 optionally informs the patient to scan medication container 134. The patient scans the QR-code of the medication container 134, and application 602 determines the correct parameters for operating capsule device 102 based on the scanned identifier and sends the parameters to capsule device 102. Processor 110 receives, from and after informing predetermined application 602, via the wireless communication connection, treatment parameters associated with delivering a medication from the medication container by the pump (716).

[0066] Application 602 optionally informs the patient to connect medication container 134 to capsule device 102 in the manner previously described. Processor 110 detects, after receiving the treatment parameters, an attachment of the medication container to the reusable nebulizer capsule (718). Processor 110 causes the pump to deliver a dose of the medication from the attached medication container to nebulizing transducer 160 within the attached atomizer unit 104 according to the received treatment parameters (720). Processor 110 receives, from the attached disposable atomizer unit, a second electrical signal via the one or more electrical contacts (722), and detects, based on a change in the second electrical signal, an inspiration through the attached disposable atomizer unit (724). Responsive to the detected inspiration, processor 110 causes nebulizing transducer 160 within the disposable atomizer unit to generate an aerosol 172 from the dose delivered by the pump 108 and to provide the aerosol through an attached breathing circuit 174 (726).

[0067] In some implementations, reusable nebulizer capsule 102 includes a plurality of capacitive plates 115 disposed on the lower portion of housing 120. In such implementations, detecting the attachment of the medication container to the reusable nebulizer capsule includes measuring a capacitance at one or more of the capacitive plates 115 and determining, based on the measured capacitance satisfying a predetermined capacitive measurement, that a liquid is disposed between at least two of the capacitive plates 115.

[0068] As described previously, a plurality of concentric circular electrical contacts 115 are located on a bottom face of the housing 120 of the reusable nebulizer capsule. The concentric circular electrical contacts 115 may cover a first area of the bottom face of the housing of the reusable nebulizer capsule 102 that is equivalent to a second area of a meshed portion of nebulizing transducer 160 within atomizer unit 102.

[0069] Processor 110 is configured to measure a first capacitance between a first inner circular contact of the plurality of concentric circular electrical contacts and a second circular contact that is adjacent to and encompassing the first inner circular contact, measure a second capacitance between the second circular contact and a third circular contact adjacent to and encompassing the second circular contact. Processor 110 then determines, based on the measured first capacitance and the second capacitance, an amount of the dose loaded into a cavity between the nebulizing transducer of the disposable atomizer unit and the plurality of concentric circular electrical contacts, and that is ready to be transformed into the aerosol 172.

[0070] In further aspects, processor 110 causing pump 108 to deliver the dose of the medication from medication container 134 to atomizer unit 104 (and disposable mouthpiece) may include activating, responsive to the amount of the dose loaded into the cavity not satisfying a threshold dose amount, pump 108 to complete a delivery of the dose to atomizer unit 104. In this regard, the delivery of the dose may be completed based on counting a number of pump activations and capacitively measuring the amount of the dose loaded for each activation.

[0071] In some implementations, processor 110 is further configured to determine, using motion sensor 116, an orientation of reusable nebulizer capsule 102, and determine, based on the identified orientation of capsule 102, that the capsule is tilted more than a predetermined angle with respect to a surface of the earth. Responsive to determining that nebulizer capsule 102 is tilted more than the predetermined angle, processor 110 is configured to prevent pump 108 from delivering further medication from the medication container 134 to the attached atomizer unit 104, and prevent atomizer unit 104 from generating the aerosol 172. Processor may further provide, to a remote device 600, a notification for display by application 602, indicating to reorient the reusable nebulizer capsule.

[0072] As described is step 722, a second electrical signal may be received from the attached atomizer unit. According to various implementations, processor 110 is configured to measure a strength of the detected inspiration based on the second electrical signal, responsive to the strength of the detected inspiration satisfying an inspiration threshold, processor 110 may cause the disposable atomizer unit to generate the aerosol 172 from the dose delivered by pump 108 and to provide the aerosol through the attached disposable atomizer unit. In this regard, processor 110 may cause the generation of the aerosol by providing a current to a piezoelectric portion of the nebulizing transducer 160 to activate the transducer. Additionally, processor 110 may cause pump 108 to maintain a predetermined pressure to hold the dose of the medication within the disposable atomizer unit and against the nebulizing transducer, until caused to be expelled through the mesh by a vibration from a piezoelectric portion of the nebulizing transducer.

[0073] In some implementations, processor 110 may generate a third oscillating electrical signal at the one or more electrical contacts to cause the nebulizing transducer within atomizer unit 104 to vibrate at a predetermined frequency. In some implementations, processor 110 may be configured to detect, based on a change in the second electrical signal (e.g. a resistance or capacitance from contacts 162), an expiration through the attached disposable atomizer unit, and responsive to the detected expiration, stop the pump from delivering the medication from the medication container and prevent the nebulizing transducer from further generating the aerosol from the dose delivered by the pump (e.g. by stopping the vibration of the piezoelectric circuit).

[0074] In some implementations, processor 110 may identify a planned dosage based on the received treatment parameters from application 602. Processor 110 may then count each inspiration through the attached disposable atomizer unit and, responsive to a number of inspirations satisfying a threshold count of inspirations, send a notification to the external device 600 that the dosage has been delivered, prevent pump 108 from delivering the medication to atomizer unit 104, and prevent the atomizer unit from generating the aerosol 172 (by halting the piezoelectric current). Processor 110 may then determine atomizer unit 104 has become detached from the reusable nebulizer capsule 102 based on a second measured value of the first signal satisfying a second predetermined measurement, and proceed to disconnect pump 108 from the energy source 106 responsive to determining that atomizer unit 104 has become detached from the reusable nebulizer capsule 102. In some implementations, the first signal comprises a piezo current provided by the nebulizing transducer 160, a resonant frequency of two capacitive plates 162 associated with the nebulizing transducer, or a capacitance between the two capacitive plates.

[0075] Many aspects of the above-described example 700, and related features and applications, may also be implemented as software processes that are specified as a set of instructions recorded on a computer readable storage medium (also referred to as computer readable medium), and may be executed automatically (e.g., without user intervention). When these instructions are executed by one or more processing unit(s) (e.g., one or more processors, cores of processors, or other processing units), they cause the processing unit(s) to perform the actions indicated in the instructions. Examples of computer readable media include, but are not limited to, CD-ROMs, flash drives, RAM chips, hard drives, EPROMs, etc. The computer readable media does not include carrier waves and electronic signals passing wirelessly or over wired connections.

[0076] The term “software” is meant to include, where appropriate, firmware residing in read only memory or applications stored in magnetic storage, which can be read into memory for processing by a processor. Also, in some implementations, multiple software aspects of the subject disclosure can be implemented as sub-parts of a larger program while remaining distinct software aspects of the subject disclosure. In some implementations, multiple software aspects can also be implemented as separate programs. Finally, any combination of separate programs that together implement a software aspect described here is within the scope of the subject disclosure. In some implementations, the software programs, when installed to operate on one or more electronic systems, define one or more specific machine implementations that execute and perform the operations of the software programs.

[0077] A computer program (also known as a program, software, software application, script, or code) can be written in any form of programming language, including compiled or interpreted languages, declarative or procedural languages, and it can be deployed in any form, including as a stand-alone program or as a module, component, subroutine, object, or other unit suitable for use in a computing environment. A computer program may, but need not, correspond to a fde in a file system. A program can be stored in a portion of a file that holds other programs or data (e.g., one or more scripts stored in a markup language document), in a single file dedicated to the program in question, or in multiple coordinated files (e.g., files that store one or more modules, sub programs, or portions of code). A computer program can be deployed to be executed on one computer or on multiple computers that are located at one site or distributed across multiple sites and interconnected by a communication network.

[0078] FIG. 8 is a conceptual diagram illustrating an example electronic system 800 for operating the smart nebulizer system 100, according to aspects of the subject technology. Electronic system 800 may be a computing device for execution of software associated with one or more portions or steps of process 700, or components and processes provided by FIGS. 1-7. Electronic system 800 may be representative, in combination with the disclosure regarding FIGS. 1-7, of the capsule device 102 described above, including processor 110. According to some implementations, electronic system 800 may also represent a computing device connected to capsule device 102, such as remote device 600. In this regard, electronic system may be a personal computer or a mobile device such as a smartphone, tablet computer, laptop, PDA, an augmented reality device, a wearable such as a watch or band or glasses, or combination thereof, or other touch screen or television with one or more processors embedded therein or coupled thereto, or any other sort of computer-related electronic device having network connectivity.

[0079] Electronic system 800 may include various types of computer readable media and interfaces for various other types of computer readable media. In the depicted example, electronic system 800 includes a bus 808, processing unit(s) 812, a system memory 804, a read-only memory (ROM) 810, a permanent storage device 802, an input device interface 814, an output device interface 806, and one or more network interfaces 816. In some implementations, electronic system 800 may include or be integrated with other computing devices or circuitry for operation of the various components and processes previously described.

[0080] Bus 808 collectively represents all system, peripheral, and chipset buses that communicatively connect the numerous internal devices of electronic system 800. For instance, bus 808 communicatively connects processing unit(s) 812 with ROM 810, system memory 804, and permanent storage device 802.

[0081] From these various memory units, processing unit(s) 812 retrieves instructions to execute and data to process in order to execute the processes of the subject disclosure. The processing unit(s) can be a single processor or a multi-core processor in different implementations.

[0082] ROM 810 stores static data and instructions that are needed by processing unit(s) 812 and other modules of the electronic system. Permanent storage device 802, on the other hand, is a read-and-write memory device. This device is a non-volatile memory unit that stores instructions and data even when electronic system 800 is off. Some implementations of the subject disclosure use a mass-storage device (such as a magnetic or optical disk and its corresponding disk drive) as permanent storage device 802.

[0083] Other implementations use a removable storage device (such as a floppy disk, flash drive, and its corresponding disk drive) as permanent storage device 802. Like permanent storage device 802, system memory 804 is a read-and-write memory device. However, unlike storage device 802, system memory 804 is a volatile read-and-write memory, such a random access memory. System memory 804 stores some of the instructions and data that the processor needs at runtime. In some implementations, the processes of the subject disclosure are stored in system memory 804, permanent storage device 802, and/or ROM 810. From these various memory units, processing unit(s) 812 retrieves instructions to execute and data to process in order to execute the processes of some implementations.

[0084] Bus 808 also connects to input and output device interfaces 814 and 806. Input device interface 814 enables the user to communicate information and select commands to the electronic system. Input devices used with input device interface 814 include, e.g., alphanumeric keyboards and pointing devices (also called “cursor control devices”). Output device interfaces 806 enables, e.g., the display of images generated by the electronic system 800. Output devices used with output device interface 806 include, e.g., printers and display devices, such as cathode ray tubes (CRT) or liquid crystal displays (LCD). Some implementations include devices such as a touchscreen that functions as both input and output devices. [0085] Also, as shown in FIG. 8, bus 808 also couples electronic system 800 to a network (not shown) through network interfaces 816. Network interfaces 816 may include, e.g., a wireless access point (e.g., Bluetooth or WiFi) or radio circuitry for connecting to a wireless access point. Network interfaces 816 may also include hardware (e.g., Ethernet hardware) for connecting the computer to a part of a network of computers such as a local area network (“LAN”), a wide area network (“WAN”), wireless LAN, or an Intranet, or a network of networks, such as the Internet. Any or all components of electronic system 800 can be used in conjunction with the subject disclosure.

[0086] These functions described above can be implemented in computer software, firmware or hardware. The techniques can be implemented using one or more computer program products. Programmable processors and computers can be included in or packaged as mobile devices. The processes and logic flows can be performed by one or more programmable processors and by one or more programmable logic circuitry. General and special purpose computing devices and storage devices can be interconnected through communication networks.

[0087] Some implementations include electronic components, such as microprocessors, storage and memory that store computer program instructions in a machine-readable or computer- readable medium (alternatively referred to as computer-readable storage media, machine-readable media, or machine-readable storage media). Some examples of such computer-readable media include RAM, ROM, read-only compact discs (CD-ROM), recordable compact discs (CD-R), rewritable compact discs (CD-RW), read-only digital versatile discs (e.g., DVD-ROM, dual-layer DVD-ROM), a variety of recordable/rewritable DVDs (e.g., DVD-RAM, DVD-RW, DVD+RW, etc.), flash memory (e.g., SD cards, mini-SD cards, micro-SD cards, etc.), magnetic and/or solid state hard drives, read-only and recordable Blu-Ray® discs, ultra density optical discs, any other optical or magnetic media, and floppy disks. The computer-readable media can store a computer program that is executable by at least one processing unit and includes sets of instructions for performing various operations. Examples of computer programs or computer code include machine code, such as is produced by a compiler, and files including higher-level code that are executed by a computer, an electronic component, or a microprocessor using an interpreter. [0088] While the above discussion primarily refers to microprocessor or multi-core processors that execute software, some implementations are performed by one or more integrated circuits, such as application specific integrated circuits (ASICs) or field programmable gate arrays (FPGAs). In some implementations, such integrated circuits execute instructions that are stored on the circuit itself.

[0089] As used in this specification and any claims of this application, the terms “computer,” “server,” “processor,” and “memory” all refer to electronic or other technological devices. These terms exclude people or groups of people. For the purposes of the specification, the terms display or displaying means displaying on an electronic device. As used in this specification and any claims of this application, the terms “computer readable medium” and “computer readable media” are entirely restricted to tangible, physical objects that store information in a form that is readable by a computer. These terms exclude any wireless signals, wired download signals, and any other ephemeral signals.

[0090] To provide for interaction with a user, implementations of the subject matter described in this specification can be implemented on a computer having a display device, e.g., a CRT (cathode ray tube) or LCD (liquid crystal display) monitor, for displaying information to the user and a keyboard and a pointing device, e.g., a mouse or a trackball, by which the user can provide input to the computer. Other kinds of devices can be used to provide for interaction with a user as well; e.g., feedback provided to the user can be any form of sensory feedback, e.g., visual feedback, auditory feedback, or tactile feedback; and input from the user can be received in any form, including acoustic, speech, or tactile input. In addition, a computer can interact with a user by sending documents to and receiving documents from a device that is used by the user; e.g., by sending web pages to a web browser on a user’s client device in response to requests received from the web browser.

[0091] Implementations of the subject matter described in this specification can be implemented in a computing system that includes a back end component, e.g., as a data server, or that includes a middleware component, e.g., an application server, or that includes a front end component, e.g., a client computer having a graphical user interface or a Web browser through which a user can interact with an implementation of the subject matter described in this specification, or any combination of one or more such back end, middleware, or front end components. The components of the system can be interconnected by any form or medium of digital data communication, e.g., a communication network. Examples of communication networks include a local area network (“LAN”) and a wide area network (“WAN”), an inter network (e.g., the Internet), and peer-to-peer networks (e.g., ad hoc peer-to-peer networks).

[0092] The computing system can include clients and servers. A client and server are generally remote from each other and may interact through a communication network. The relationship of client and server arises by virtue of computer programs running on the respective computers and having a client-server relationship to each other. In some implementations, a server transmits data (e.g., an HTML page) to a client device (e.g., for purposes of displaying data to and receiving user input from a user interacting with the client device). Data generated at the client device (e.g., a result of the user interaction) can be received from the client device at the server.

[0093] Those of skill in the art would appreciate that the various illustrative blocks, modules, elements, components, methods, and algorithms described herein may be implemented as electronic hardware, computer software, or combinations of both. To illustrate this interchangeability of hardware and software, various illustrative blocks, modules, elements, components, methods, and algorithms have been described above generally in terms of their functionality. Whether such functionality is implemented as hardware or software depends upon the particular application and design constraints imposed on the overall system. Skilled artisans may implement the described functionality in varying ways for each particular application. Various components and blocks may be arranged differently (e.g., arranged in a different order, or partitioned in a different way) all without departing from the scope of the subject technology.

[0094] It is understood that the specific order or hierarchy of steps in the processes disclosed is an illustration of example approaches. Based upon design preferences, it is understood that the specific order or hierarchy of steps in the processes may be rearranged. Some of the steps may be performed simultaneously. The accompanying method claims present elements of the various steps in a sample order, and are not meant to be limited to the specific order or hierarchy presented.

[0095] Illustration of Subject Technology as Clauses: [0096] Various examples of aspects of the disclosure are described as numbered clauses (1, 2, 3, etc.) for convenience. These are provided as examples, and do not limit the subject technology. Identifications of the figures and reference numbers are provided below merely as examples and for illustrative purposes, and the clauses are not limited by those identifications.

[0097] Clause 1. A reusable nebulizer capsule, comprising: a motion sensor; wireless connectivity circuitry; a pump; an energy source; one or more electrical contacts; and a processor configured, wherein the motion sensor, wireless connectivity circuitry, pump, processor, and energy source are sealed within the reusable nebulizer capsule, and wherein the processor is configured to: detect a predetermined movement of the reusable nebulizer capsule based on a sensor signal received from the motion sensor; responsive to detecting the predetermined movement; connect the pump to the energy source; receive a first electrical signal via the electrical contacts; determine when a disposable atomizer unit is attached to the reusable nebulizer capsule based on a first measured value of the first electrical signal satisfying a first predetermined measurement; form, via the wireless connectivity circuitry, a wireless communication connection with a remote device; and confirm operation of a predetermined application on the remote device; inform the predetermined application, via the wireless communication connection, responsive to determining the disposable atomizer unit is attached, that the processor is ready to receive a medication container; receive, from and after informing the predetermined application, via the wireless communication connection, treatment parameters associated with delivering a medication from the medication container by the pump; detect, after receiving the treatment parameters, an attachment of the medication container to the reusable nebulizer capsule; cause the pump to deliver a dose of the medication from the attached medication container to a nebulizing transducer within the attached atomizer unit according to the received treatment parameters; receive, from the attached atomizer unit, a second electrical signal via the one or more electrical contacts; detect, based on a change in the second electrical signal, an inspiration through the attached atomizer unit; and responsive to the detected inspiration, cause the nebulizing transducer within the disposable atomizer unit to generate an aerosol from the dose delivered by the pump and to provide the aerosol through the attached atomizer unit.

[0098] Clause 2. The reusable nebulizer capsule of Clause 1, further comprising: a hermetically sealed plastic housing, wherein the motion sensor, pump, energy source, and processor are disposed within the housing and insulated from outside elements, and wherein an upper portion of the housing is configured to removably attach to the medication container, and a lower portion of the housing is configured to removably attached to the disposable atomizer unit, and wherein the electrical contacts are disposed within the lower portion of the housing and configured to contact respective electrical contacts of the nebulizing transducer disposed within the disposable atomizer unit when the disposable atomizer unit is attached to the lower portion of the housing.

[0099] Clause 3. The reusable nebulizer capsule of Clause 2, wherein the atomizer unit is configured to be attached to a portable disposable mouthpiece such that, when attached, the reusable nebulizer capsule, atomizer unit, and disposable mouthpiece function as a standalone inhaler.

[0100] Clause 4. The reusable nebulizer capsule of Clause 2, further comprising a plurality of capacitive plates disposed on the lower portion of the housing, and wherein detecting the attachment of the medication container to the reusable nebulizer capsule comprises: measure a capacitance at one or more of the plurality of capacitive plates; and determine, based on the measured capacitance satisfying a predetermined capacitive measurement, that a liquid is disposed between at least two of the plurality of capacitive plates.

[0101] Clause 5. The reusable nebulizer capsule of Clause 2, further comprising: a plurality of concentric circular electrical contacts located on a bottom face of the housing of the reusable nebulizer capsule, wherein the processor is further configured to: measure a first capacitance between a first inner circular contact of the plurality of concentric circular electrical contacts and a second circular contact that is adjacent to and encompassing the first inner circular contact; measure a second capacitance between the second circular contact and a third circular contact adjacent to and encompassing the second circular contact; and determine, based on the measured first capacitance and the second capacitance, an amount of the dose loaded into a cavity between the nebulizing transducer of the disposable atomizer unit and the plurality of concentric circular electrical contacts, and that is ready to be transformed into the aerosol.

[0102] Clause 6. The reusable nebulizer capsule of Clause 5, wherein causing the pump to deliver the dose of the medication from the medication container to the disposable atomizer unit comprises: activate, responsive to the amount of the dose loaded into the cavity not satisfying a threshold dose amount, the pump to complete a delivery of the dose to the disposable atomizer unit, wherein the delivery of the dose is completed based on counting a number of pump activations and capacitively measuring the amount of the dose loaded for each activation.

[0103] Clause 7. The reusable nebulizer capsule of Clause 5, wherein the plurality of concentric circular electrical contacts covers a first area of the bottom face of the housing of the reusable nebulizer capsule that is equivalent to a second area of a meshed portion of the nebulizing transducer within the disposable atomizer unit.

[0104] Clause 8. The reusable nebulizer capsule of Clause 2, wherein the processor is further configured to: determine, using the motion sensor, an orientation of the reusable nebulizer capsule; determine, based on the determined orientation of the reusable nebulizer capsule, that the nebulizer capsule is tilted more than a predetermined angle with respect to a surface of the earth; responsive to determining that the nebulizer capsule is tilted more than the predetermined angle: prevent the pump from delivering the medication from the medication container to the attached disposable atomizer unit, and prevent the disposable atomizer unit from generating the aerosol; and provide, to the remote device, a notification for display by the application, indicating to reorient the reusable nebulizer capsule.

[0105] Clause 9. The reusable nebulizer capsule of Clause 1, further comprising: measure a strength of the detected inspiration based on the second electrical signal; and responsive to the strength of the detected inspiration satisfying an inspiration threshold, the processor causes the disposable atomizer unit to generate the aerosol from the dose delivered by the pump and to provide the aerosol through the attached atomizer unit.

[0106] Clause 10. The reusable nebulizer capsule of Clause 1, wherein the processor is further configured to: cause the pump to maintain a predetermined pressure to hold the dose of the medication within the disposable atomizer unit and against the nebulizing transducer, until caused to be expelled through a meshed portion of the nebulizing transducer by a vibration from a piezoelectric portion of the nebulizing transducer. [0107] Clause 11. The reusable nebulizer capsule of Clause 1, wherein the processor is further configured to: detect, based on a change in the second electrical signal, an expiration through the attached atomizer unit; and responsive to the detected expiration, stop the pump from delivering the medication from the medication container and prevent the nebulizing transducer from further generating the aerosol from the dose delivered by the pump.

[0108] Clause 12. The reusable nebulizer capsule of Clause 10, wherein causing the nebulizing transducer to generate the aerosol comprises the processor generating a third oscillating electrical signal at the one or more electrical contacts to cause the nebulizing transducer within the disposable atomizer unit to vibrate at a predetermined frequency.

[0109] Clause 13. The reusable nebulizer capsule of Clause 1, wherein the processor is further configured to: identify a planned dosage based on the received treatment parameters; count each inspiration through the attached atomizer unit; responsive to a number of inspirations satisfying a threshold count of inspirations, send a notification to the remote device that the dosage has been delivered, prevent the pump from delivering the medication to the attached atomizer unit, and prevent the disposable atomizer unit from generating the aerosol; determine the disposable atomizer unit has become detached from the reusable nebulizer capsule based on a second measured value of the first electrical signal satisfying a second predetermined measurement; and disconnect the pump from the energy source responsive to determining that the disposable atomizer unit has become detached from the reusable nebulizer capsule.

[0110] Clause 14. The reusable nebulizer capsule of Clause 13, wherein the first electrical signal comprises a piezo current provided by the nebulizing transducer, a resonant frequency of two capacitive plates associated with the nebulizing transducer, or a capacitance between the two capacitive plates.

[0111] Clause 15. A method, comprising: detecting, by a processor within a sealed reusable nebulizer capsule, a predetermined movement of the reusable nebulizer capsule based on a sensor signal received from a motion sensor sealed within the capsule; responsive to detecting the predetermined movement, by the processor: connecting a pump sealed within the capsule to an energy source sealed within the capsule; receiving a first electrical signal via one or more electrical contacts disposed on an external surface of the reusable nebulizer capsule; determining when a disposable atomizer unit is attached to the reusable nebulizer capsule based on a first measured value of the first electrical signal satisfying a first predetermined measurement; forming, via wireless connectivity circuitry, a wireless communication connection with a remote device; and confirming operation of a predetermined application on the remote device; informing the predetermined application, via the wireless communication connection, responsive to determining the disposable atomizer unit is attached, that the processor is ready to receive a medication container; receiving, from and after informing the predetermined application, via the wireless communication connection, treatment parameters associated with delivering a medication from the medication container by the pump; detecting, after receiving the treatment parameters, an attachment of the medication container to the reusable nebulizer capsule; causing the pump to deliver a dose of the medication from the attached medication container to a nebulizing transducer within the attached atomizer unit according to the received treatment parameters; receiving, from the attached atomizer unit, a second electrical signal via the one or more electrical contacts; detecting, based on a change in the second electrical signal, an inspiration through the attached atomizer unit; and responsive to the detected inspiration, causing the nebulizing transducer within the disposable atomizer unit to generate an aerosol from the dose delivered by the pump and to provide the aerosol through the attached atomizer unit.

[0112] Clause 16. The method of Clause 15, wherein the sealed reusable nebulizer capsule comprises a waterproof plastic housing, wherein the sensor, pump, energy source, and processor are disposed within the waterproof plastic housing and insulated from outside elements, and wherein an upper portion of the housing is configured to removably attach to the medication container, and a lower portion of the housing is configured to removably attached to the disposable atomizer unit, and wherein the electrical contacts are disposed within the lower portion of the housing and configured to contact respective electrical contacts of the nebulizing transducer disposed within the disposable atomizer unit when the disposable atomizer unit is attached to the lower portion of the housing.

[0113] Clause 17. The method of Clause 15, further comprising: connecting the atomizer unit to a portable disposable mouthpiece such that, when attached together, the reusable nebulizer capsule, atomizer unit, and disposable mouthpiece function as a standalone inhaler. [0114] Clause 18. The method of Clause 16, further comprising: providing a plurality of capacitive plates disposed on the lower portion of the housing; detecting, by the processor the attachment of the medication container to the reusable nebulizer capsule based on: measuring a capacitance at one or more of the plurality of capacitive plates; and determining, based on the measured capacitance satisfying a predetermined capacitive measurement, that a liquid is disposed between at least two of the plurality of capacitive plates.

[0115] Clause 19. The reusable nebulizer capsule of Clause 16, wherein a plurality of concentric circular electrical contacts is located on a bottom face of the housing of the reusable nebulizer capsule, the method further comprising: measuring a first capacitance between a first inner circular contact of the plurality of concentric circular electrical contacts and a second circular contact that is adjacent to and encompassing the first inner circular contact; measuring a second capacitance between the second circular contact and a third circular contact adjacent to and encompassing the second circular contact; and determining, based on the measured first capacitance and the second capacitance, an amount of the dose loaded into a cavity between the nebulizing transducer of the disposable atomizer unit and the plurality of concentric circular electrical contacts, and that is ready to be transformed into the aerosol.

[0116] Clause 20. The method of Clause 19, wherein causing the pump to deliver the dose of the medication from the medication container to the disposable atomizer unit comprises: activating, responsive to the amount of the dose loaded into the cavity not satisfying a threshold dose amount, the pump to complete a delivery of the dose to the disposable atomizer unit, wherein the delivery of the dose is completed based on counting a number of pump activations and capacitively measuring the amount of the dose loaded for each activation.

[0117] Clause 21. The method of Clause 19, wherein the plurality of concentric circular electrical contacts covers a first area of the bottom face of the housing of the reusable nebulizer capsule that is equivalent to a second area of a meshed portion of the nebulizing transducer within the disposable atomizer unit.

[0118] Clause 22. The method of claim 16, further comprising: determining, using the motion sensor, an orientation of the reusable nebulizer capsule; determining, based on the determined orientation of the reusable nebulizer capsule, that the nebulizer capsule is tilted more than a predetermined angle with respect to a surface of the earth; responsive to determining that the nebulizer capsule is tilted more than the predetermined angle: preventing the pump from delivering the medication from the medication container to the attached disposable atomizer unit, and prevent the disposable atomizer unit from generating the aerosol; and providing, to the remote device, a notification for display by the application, indicating to reorient the reusable nebulizer capsule.

[0119] Clause 23. The method of Clause 15, further comprising: measuring a strength of the detected inspiration based on the second electrical signal; and responsive to the strength of the detected inspiration satisfying an inspiration threshold, causing the disposable atomizer unit to generate the aerosol from the dose delivered by the pump and to provide the aerosol through the attached atomizer unit.

[0120] Clause 24. The method of Clause 15, wherein the processor is further configured to: causing the pump to maintain a predetermined pressure to hold the dose of the medication within the disposable atomizer unit and against the nebulizing transducer, until caused to be expelled through a meshed portion of the nebulizing transducer by a vibration from a piezoelectric portion of the nebulizing transducer.

[0121] Clause 25. The method of Clause 15, wherein the processor is further configured to: detecting, based on a change in the second electrical signal, an expiration through the attached atomizer unit; and responsive to the detected expiration, stopping the pump from delivering the medication from the medication container and prevent the nebulizing transducer from further generating the aerosol from the dose delivered by the pump.

[0122] Clause 26. The method of Clause 25, wherein causing the nebulizing transducer to generate the aerosol comprises the processor generating a third oscillating electrical signal at the one or more electrical contacts to cause the nebulizing transducer within the disposable atomizer unit to vibrate at a predetermined frequency.

[0123] Clause 27. The method of Clause 15, further comprising: identifying a planned dosage based on the received treatment parameters; counting each inspiration through the attached atomizer unit; responsive to a number of inspirations satisfying a threshold count of inspirations, sending a notification to the remote device that the dosage has been delivered, prevent the pump from delivering the medication to the attached atomizer unit, and prevent the disposable atomizer unit from generating the aerosol; determining the disposable atomizer unit has become detached from the reusable nebulizer capsule based on a second measured value of the first electrical signal satisfying a second predetermined measurement; and disconnecting the pump from the energy source responsive to determining that the disposable atomizer unit has become detached from the reusable nebulizer capsule.

[0124] Clause 28. The method of Clause 27, wherein the first electrical signal comprises a piezo current provided by the nebulizing transducer, a resonant frequency of two capacitive plates associated with the nebulizing transducer, or a capacitance between the two capacitive plates.

[0125] Clause 29. A smart nebulizer system, comprising: a disposable atomizer unit comprising a nebulizing transducer; and a sealed watertight reusable capsule device, the capsule device comprising a waterproof plastic housing, the capsule device comprising sealed within the waterproof plastic housing: a sensor; a pump; an energy source; a motion sensor; wireless interface; and a processor, wherein an upper portion of the housing is configured to removably attach to a medication container, and a lower portion of the housing is configured to removably attached to the disposable atomizer unit, and wherein electrical contacts are disposed on an external face of the lower portion of the housing and are configured to contact respective electrical contacts of the nebulizing transducer disposed within the disposable atomizer unit, wherein the processor is configured to: detect a predetermined movement of the reusable capsule device based on a sensor signal received from the motion sensor; responsive to detecting the predetermined movement: connect the pump to the energy source; receive a first electrical signal via the electrical contacts; determine when a disposable atomizer unit is attached to the reusable capsule device based on a first measured value of the first electrical signal satisfying a first predetermined measurement; form, via the wireless interface, a wireless communication connection with a remote device; and confirm operation of a predetermined application on the remote device; inform the predetermined application, via the wireless communication connection, responsive to determining the disposable atomizer unit is attached, that the processor is ready to receive a medication container; receive, from and after informing the predetermined application, via the wireless communication connection, treatment parameters associated with delivering a medication from the medication container by the pump; detect, after receiving the treatment parameters, an attachment of the medication container to the reusable capsule device; cause the pump to deliver a dose of the medication from the attached medication container to a nebulizing transducer within the attached atomizer unit according to the received treatment parameters; receive, from the attached atomizer unit, a second electrical signal via the one or more electrical contacts; detect, based on a change in the second electrical signal, an inspiration through the attached atomizer unit; and responsive to the detected inspiration, cause the nebulizing transducer within the disposable atomizer unit to generate an aerosol from the dose delivered by the pump and to provide the aerosol through the atomizer unit.

[0126] Clause 30. The smart nebulizer system of Clause 29, wherein the capsule device comprises: a plurality of concentric circular electrical contacts located on a bottom face of the housing of the reusable capsule device, wherein the processor is further configured to: measure a first capacitance between a first inner circular contact of the plurality of concentric circular electrical contacts and a second circular contact that is adjacent to and encompassing the first inner circular contact; measure a second capacitance between the second circular contact and a third circular contact adjacent to and encompassing the second circular contact; and determine, based on the measured first capacitance and the second capacitance, an amount of the dose loaded into a cavity between the nebulizing transducer of the disposable atomizer unit and the plurality of concentric circular electrical contacts, and that is ready to be transformed into the aerosol.

[0127] It is understood that the specific order or hierarchy of steps in the processes disclosed is an illustration of example approaches. Based upon design preferences, it is understood that the specific order or hierarchy of steps in the processes may be rearranged. Some of the steps may be performed simultaneously. The accompanying method claims present elements of the various steps in a sample order, and are not meant to be limited to the specific order or hierarchy presented.

[0128] The previous description is provided to enable any person skilled in the art to practice the various aspects described herein. The previous description provides various examples of the subject technology, and the subject technology is not limited to these examples. Various modifications to these aspects will be readily apparent to those skilled in the art, and the generic principles defined herein may be applied to other aspects. Thus, the claims are not intended to be limited to the aspects shown herein, but is to be accorded the full scope consistent with the language claims, wherein reference to an element in the singular is not intended to mean “one and only one” unless specifically so stated, but rather “one or more.” Unless specifically stated otherwise, the term “some” refers to one or more. Pronouns in the masculine (e.g., his) include the feminine and neuter gender (e.g., her and its) and vice versa. Headings and subheadings, if any, are used for convenience only and do not limit this disclosure.

[0129] The term website, as used herein, may include any aspect of a website, including one or more web pages, one or more servers used to host or store web related content, etc. Accordingly, the term website may be used interchangeably with the terms web page and server. The predicate words “configured to,” “operable to,” and “programmed to” do not imply any particular tangible or intangible modification of a subject, but, rather, are intended to be used interchangeably. For example, a processor configured to monitor and control an operation or a component may also mean the processor being programmed to monitor and control the operation or the processor being operable to monitor and control the operation. Likewise, a processor configured to execute code can be construed as a processor programmed to execute code or operable to execute code.

[0130] The term automatic, as used herein, may include performance by a computer or machine without user intervention; for example, by instructions responsive to a predicate action by the computer or machine or other initiation mechanism. The word “example” is used herein to mean “serving as an example or illustration.” Any aspect or design described herein as “example” is not necessarily to be construed as preferred or advantageous over other aspects or designs.

[0131] A phrase such as an “aspect” does not imply that such aspect is essential to the subject technology or that such aspect applies to all configurations of the subject technology. A disclosure relating to an aspect may apply to all configurations, or one or more configurations. An aspect may provide one or more examples. A phrase such as an aspect may refer to one or more aspects and vice versa. A phrase such as an “implementation” does not imply that such implementation is essential to the subject technology or that such implementation applies to all configurations of the subject technology. A disclosure relating to an implementation may apply to all implementations, or one or more implementations. An implementation may provide one or more examples. A phrase such as an “implementation” may refer to one or more implementations and vice versa. A phrase such as a “configuration” does not imply that such configuration is essential to the subject technology or that such configuration applies to all configurations of the subject technology. A disclosure relating to a configuration may apply to all configurations, or one or more configurations. A configuration may provide one or more examples. A phrase such as a “configuration” may refer to one or more configurations and vice versa.

[0132] All structural and functional equivalents to the elements of the various aspects described throughout this disclosure that are known or later come to be known to those of ordinary skill in the art are expressly incorporated herein by reference and are intended to be encompassed by the claims. Moreover, nothing disclosed herein is intended to be dedicated to the public regardless of whether such disclosure is explicitly recited in the claims. No claim element is to be construed under the provisions of 35 U.S.C. §112, sixth paragraph, unless the element is expressly recited using the phrase “means for” or, in the case of a method claim, the element is recited using the phrase “step for.” Furthermore, to the extent that the term “include,” “have,” or the like is used in the description or the claims, such term is intended to be inclusive in a manner similar to the term “comprise” as “comprise” is interpreted when employed as a transitional word in a claim.

Claims

WHAT IS CLAIMED IS:

1. A reusable nebulizer capsule, comprising: a motion sensor; wireless connectivity circuitry; a pump; an energy source; one or more electrical contacts; and a processor configured, wherein the motion sensor, wireless connectivity circuitry, pump, processor, and energy source are sealed within the reusable nebulizer capsule, and wherein the processor is configured to: detect a predetermined movement of the reusable nebulizer capsule based on a sensor signal received from the motion sensor; responsive to detecting the predetermined movement: connect the pump to the energy source; receive a first electrical signal via the electrical contacts; determine when a disposable atomizer unit is attached to the reusable nebulizer capsule based on a first measured value of the first electrical signal satisfying a first predetermined measurement; form, via the wireless connectivity circuitry, a wireless communication connection with a remote device; and confirm operation of a predetermined application on the remote device; inform the predetermined application, via the wireless communication connection, responsive to determining the disposable atomizer unit is attached, that the processor is ready to receive a medication container; receive, from and after informing the predetermined application, via the wireless communication connection, treatment parameters associated with delivering a medication from the medication container by the pump; detect, after informing the predetermining application, an attachment of the medication container to the reusable nebulizer capsule; cause the pump to deliver a dose of the medication from the attached medication container to a nebulizing transducer within the attached atomizer unit according to the received treatment parameters; receive, from the attached atomizer unit, a second electrical signal via the one or more electrical contacts; detect, based on a change in the second electrical signal, an inspiration through the attached atomizer unit; and responsive to the detected inspiration, cause the nebulizing transducer within the disposable atomizer unit to generate an aerosol from the dose delivered by the pump and to provide the aerosol through the attached atomizer unit.

2. The reusable nebulizer capsule of claim 1, further comprising: a hermetically sealed plastic housing, wherein the motion sensor, pump, energy source, and processor are disposed within the housing and insulated from outside elements, and wherein an upper portion of the housing is configured to removably attach to the medication container, and a lower portion of the housing is configured to removably attached to the disposable atomizer unit, and wherein the electrical contacts are disposed within the lower portion of the housing and configured to contact respective electrical contacts of the nebulizing transducer disposed within the disposable atomizer unit when the disposable atomizer unit is attached to the lower portion of the housing.

3. The reusable nebulizer capsule of claim 2, wherein the atomizer unit is configured to be attached to a portable disposable mouthpiece such that, when attached, the reusable nebulizer capsule, atomizer unit, and disposable mouthpiece function as a standalone inhaler.

4. The reusable nebulizer capsule of claim 2, further comprising a plurality of capacitive plates disposed on the lower portion of the housing, and wherein detecting the attachment of the medication container to the reusable nebulizer capsule comprises: measure a capacitance at one or more of the plurality of capacitive plates; and determine, based on the measured capacitance satisfying a predetermined capacitive measurement, that a liquid is disposed between at least two of the plurality of capacitive plates.

5. The reusable nebulizer capsule of claim 2, further comprising: a plurality of concentric circular electrical contacts located on a bottom face of the housing of the reusable nebulizer capsule, wherein the processor is further configured to: measure a first capacitance between a first inner circular contact of the plurality of concentric circular electrical contacts and a second circular contact that is adjacent to and encompassing the first inner circular contact; measure a second capacitance between the second circular contact and a third circular contact adjacent to and encompassing the second circular contact; and determine, based on the measured first capacitance and the second capacitance, an amount of the dose loaded into a cavity between the nebulizing transducer of the disposable atomizer unit and the plurality of concentric circular electrical contacts, and that is ready to be transformed into the aerosol.

6. The reusable nebulizer capsule of claim 5, wherein causing the pump to deliver the dose of the medication from the medication container to the disposable atomizer unit comprises: activate, responsive to the amount of the dose loaded into the cavity not satisfying a threshold dose amount, the pump to complete a delivery of the dose to the disposable atomizer unit, wherein the delivery of the dose is completed based on counting a number of pump activations and capacitively measuring the amount of the dose loaded for each activation.

7. The reusable nebulizer capsule of claim 5, wherein the plurality of concentric circular electrical contacts covers a first area of the bottom face of the housing of the reusable nebulizer capsule that is equivalent to a second area of a meshed portion of the nebulizing transducer within the disposable atomizer unit.

8. The reusable nebulizer capsule of claim 2, wherein the processor is further configured to: determine, using the motion sensor, an orientation of the reusable nebulizer capsule; determine, based on the determined orientation of the reusable nebulizer capsule, that the nebulizer capsule is tilted more than a predetermined angle with respect to a surface of the earth; responsive to determining that the nebulizer capsule is tilted more than the predetermined angle: prevent the pump from delivering the medication from the medication container to the attached disposable atomizer unit, and prevent the disposable atomizer unit from generating the aerosol; and provide, to the remote device, a notification for display by the application, indicating to reorient the reusable nebulizer capsule.

9. The reusable nebulizer capsule of claim 1, further comprising: measure a strength of the detected inspiration based on the second electrical signal; and responsive to the strength of the detected inspiration satisfying an inspiration threshold, the processor causes the disposable atomizer unit to generate the aerosol from the dose delivered by the pump and to provide the aerosol through the attached atomizer unit.

10. The reusable nebulizer capsule of claim 1, wherein the processor is further configured to: cause the pump to maintain a predetermined pressure to hold the dose of the medication within the disposable atomizer unit and against the nebulizing transducer, until caused to be expelled through a meshed portion of the nebulizing transducer by a vibration from a piezoelectric portion of the nebulizing transducer.

11. The reusable nebulizer capsule of claim 1, wherein the processor is further configured to: detect, based on a change in the second electrical signal, an expiration through the attached atomizer unit; and responsive to the detected expiration, stop the pump from delivering the medication from the medication container and prevent the nebulizing transducer from further generating the aerosol from the dose delivered by the pump.

12. The reusable nebulizer capsule of claim 10, wherein causing the nebulizing transducer to generate the aerosol comprises the processor generating a third oscillating electrical signal at the one or more electrical contacts to cause the nebulizing transducer within the disposable atomizer unit to vibrate at a predetermined frequency.

13. The reusable nebulizer capsule of claim 1, wherein the processor is further configured to: identify a planned dosage based on the received treatment parameters; count each inspiration through the attached atomizer unit; responsive to a number of inspirations satisfying a threshold count of inspirations, send a notification to the remote device that the dosage has been delivered, prevent the pump from delivering the medication to the attached atomizer unit, and prevent the disposable atomizer unit from generating the aerosol; determine the disposable atomizer unit has become detached from the reusable nebulizer capsule based on a second measured value of the first electrical signal satisfying a second predetermined measurement; and disconnect the pump from the energy source responsive to determining that the disposable atomizer unit has become detached from the reusable nebulizer capsule.

14. The reusable nebulizer capsule of claim 13, wherein the first electrical signal comprises a piezo current provided by the nebulizing transducer, a resonant frequency of two capacitive plates associated with the nebulizing transducer, or a capacitance between the two capacitive plates.

15. A method, comprising: detecting, by a processor within a sealed reusable nebulizer capsule, a predetermined movement of the reusable nebulizer capsule based on a sensor signal received from a motion sensor sealed within the capsule; responsive to detecting the predetermined movement, by the processor: connecting a pump sealed within the capsule to an energy source sealed within the capsule; receiving a first electrical signal via one or more electrical contacts disposed on an external surface of the reusable nebulizer capsule; determining when a disposable atomizer unit is attached to the reusable nebulizer capsule based on a first measured value of the first electrical signal satisfying a first predetermined measurement; forming, via wireless connectivity circuitry, a wireless communication connection with a remote device; and confirming operation of a predetermined application on the remote device; informing the predetermined application, via the wireless communication connection, responsive to determining the disposable atomizer unit is attached, that the processor is ready to receive a medication container; receiving, from and after informing the predetermined application, via the wireless communication connection, treatment parameters associated with delivering a medication from the medication container by the pump; detecting, after informing the predetermining application, an attachment of the medication container to the reusable nebulizer capsule; causing the pump to deliver a dose of the medication from the attached medication container to a nebulizing transducer within the attached atomizer unit according to the received treatment parameters; receiving, from the attached atomizer unit, a second electrical signal via the one or more electrical contacts; detecting, based on a change in the second electrical signal, an inspiration through the attached atomizer unit; and responsive to the detected inspiration, causing the nebulizing transducer within the disposable atomizer unit to generate an aerosol from the dose delivered by the pump and to provide the aerosol through the attached atomizer unit.

16. The method of claim 15, wherein the sealed reusable nebulizer capsule comprises a waterproof plastic housing, wherein the sensor, pump, energy source, and processor are disposed within the waterproof plastic housing and insulated from outside elements, and wherein an upper portion of the housing is configured to removably attach to the medication container, and a lower portion of the housing is configured to removably attached to the disposable atomizer unit, and wherein the electrical contacts are disposed within the lower portion of the housing and configured to contact respective electrical contacts of the nebulizing transducer disposed within the disposable atomizer unit when the disposable atomizer unit is attached to the lower portion of the housing.

17. The method of claim 15, further comprising: connecting the atomizer unit to a portable disposable mouthpiece such that, when attached together, the reusable nebulizer capsule, atomizer unit, and disposable mouthpiece function as a standalone inhaler.

18. The method of claim 16, further comprising: providing a plurality of capacitive plates disposed on the lower portion of the housing; detecting, by the processor the attachment of the medication container to the reusable nebulizer capsule based on: measuring a capacitance at one or more of the plurality of capacitive plates; and determining, based on the measured capacitance satisfying a predetermined capacitive measurement, that a liquid is disposed between at least two of the plurality of capacitive plates.

19. The reusable nebulizer capsule of claim 16, wherein a plurality of concentric circular electrical contacts is located on a bottom face of the housing of the reusable nebulizer capsule, the method further comprising: measuring a first capacitance between a first inner circular contact of the plurality of concentric circular electrical contacts and a second circular contact that is adjacent to and encompassing the first inner circular contact; measuring a second capacitance between the second circular contact and a third circular contact adjacent to and encompassing the second circular contact; and determining, based on the measured first capacitance and the second capacitance, an amount of the dose loaded into a cavity between the nebulizing transducer of the disposable atomizer unit and the plurality of concentric circular electrical contacts, and that is ready to be transformed into the aerosol.

20. The method of claim 19, wherein causing the pump to deliver the dose of the medication from the medication container to the disposable atomizer unit comprises: activating, responsive to the amount of the dose loaded into the cavity not satisfying a threshold dose amount, the pump to complete a delivery of the dose to the disposable atomizer unit, wherein the delivery of the dose is completed based on counting a number of pump activations and capacitively measuring the amount of the dose loaded for each activation.

21. The method of claim 19, wherein the plurality of concentric circular electrical contacts covers a first area of the bottom face of the housing of the reusable nebulizer capsule that is equivalent to a second area of a meshed portion of the nebulizing transducer within the disposable atomizer unit.

22. The method of claim 16, further comprising: determining, using the motion sensor, an orientation of the reusable nebulizer capsule; determining, based on the determined orientation of the reusable nebulizer capsule, that the nebulizer capsule is tilted more than a predetermined angle with respect to a surface of the earth; responsive to determining that the nebulizer capsule is tilted more than the predetermined angle: preventing the pump from delivering the medication from the medication container to the attached disposable atomizer unit, and prevent the disposable atomizer unit from generating the aerosol; and providing, to the remote device, a notification for display by the application, indicating to reorient the reusable nebulizer capsule.

23. The method of claim 15, further comprising: measuring a strength of the detected inspiration based on the second electrical signal; and responsive to the strength of the detected inspiration satisfying an inspiration threshold, causing the disposable atomizer unit to generate the aerosol from the dose delivered by the pump and to provide the aerosol through the attached atomizer unit.

24. The method of claim 15, wherein the processor is further configured to: causing the pump to maintain a predetermined pressure to hold the dose of the medication within the disposable atomizer unit and against the nebulizing transducer, until caused to be expelled through a meshed portion of the nebulizing transducer by a vibration from a piezoelectric portion of the nebulizing transducer.

25. The method of claim 15, wherein the processor is further configured to: detecting, based on a change in the second electrical signal, an expiration through the attached atomizer unit; and responsive to the detected expiration, stopping the pump from delivering the medication from the medication container and prevent the nebulizing transducer from further generating the aerosol from the dose delivered by the pump.

26. The method of claim 25, wherein causing the nebulizing transducer to generate the aerosol comprises the processor generating a third oscillating electrical signal at the one or more electrical contacts to cause the nebulizing transducer within the disposable atomizer unit to vibrate at a predetermined frequency.

27. The method of claim 15, further comprising: identifying a planned dosage based on the received treatment parameters; counting each inspiration through the attached atomizer unit; responsive to a number of inspirations satisfying a threshold count of inspirations, sending a notification to the remote device that the dosage has been delivered, prevent the pump from delivering the medication to the attached atomizer unit, and prevent the disposable atomizer unit from generating the aerosol; determining the disposable atomizer unit has become detached from the reusable nebulizer capsule based on a second measured value of the first electrical signal satisfying a second predetermined measurement; and disconnecting the pump from the energy source responsive to determining that the disposable atomizer unit has become detached from the reusable nebulizer capsule.

28. The method of claim 27, wherein the first electrical signal comprises a piezo current provided by the nebulizing transducer, a resonant frequency of two capacitive plates associated with the nebulizing transducer, or a capacitance between the two capacitive plates.

29. A smart nebulizer system, comprising: a disposable atomizer unit comprising a nebulizing transducer; and a sealed watertight reusable capsule device, the capsule device comprising a waterproof plastic housing, the capsule device comprising sealed within the waterproof plastic housing: a sensor; a pump; an energy source; a motion sensor; wireless interface; and a processor, wherein an upper portion of the housing is configured to removably attach to a medication container, and a lower portion of the housing is configured to removably attached to the disposable atomizer unit, and wherein electrical contacts are disposed on an external face of the lower portion of the housing and are configured to contact respective electrical contacts of the nebulizing transducer disposed within the disposable atomizer unit, wherein the processor is configured to: detect a predetermined movement of the reusable capsule device based on a sensor signal received from the motion sensor; responsive to detecting the predetermined movement: connect the pump to the energy source; receive a first electrical signal via the electrical contacts; determine when a disposable atomizer unit is attached to the reusable capsule device based on a first measured value of the first electrical signal satisfying a first predetermined measurement; form, via the wireless interface, a wireless communication connection with a remote device; and confirm operation of a predetermined application on the remote device; inform the predetermined application, via the wireless communication connection, responsive to determining the disposable atomizer unit is attached, that the processor is ready to receive a medication container; receive, from and after informing the predetermined application, via the wireless communication connection, treatment parameters associated with delivering a medication from the medication container by the pump; detect, after informing the predetermining application, an attachment of the medication container to the reusable capsule device; cause the pump to deliver a dose of the medication from the attached medication container to a nebulizing transducer within the attached atomizer unit according to the received treatment parameters; receive, from the attached atomizer unit, a second electrical signal via the one or more electrical contacts; detect, based on a change in the second electrical signal, an inspiration through the attached atomizer unit; and responsive to the detected inspiration, cause the nebulizing transducer within the disposable atomizer unit to generate an aerosol from the dose delivered by the pump and to provide the aerosol through the atomizer unit.

30. The smart nebulizer system of claim 29, wherein the capsule device comprises: a plurality of concentric circular electrical contacts located on a bottom face of the housing of the reusable capsule device, wherein the processor is further configured to: measure a first capacitance between a first inner circular contact of the plurality of concentric circular electrical contacts and a second circular contact that is adjacent to and encompassing the first inner circular contact; measure a second capacitance between the second circular contact and a third circular contact adjacent to and encompassing the second circular contact; and determine, based on the measured first capacitance and the second capacitance, an amount of the dose loaded into a cavity between the nebulizing transducer of the disposable atomizer unit and the plurality of concentric circular electrical contacts, and that is ready to be transformed into the aerosol.