CA2237853C — Locking mechanism for a spring-actuated device

USPTO Abstract

A spring-actuated output drive device is used for example in medical aeros ol therapy for a miniaturised high-pressure producing device for atomising a small dose of a liquid medicament. A locking stressing mechanism for such an outpu t drive device is to be stressed with the application of a relatively small amount of force and is to be released with one hand and is to operate reliably over a prolonged period of time. The locking stressing mechanism comprises a force step-up transmission means, for example a screw thrust transmission means, f or stressing the spring, an annularly arranged locking member with engaging locking surfaces, two abutments for limiting the travel of the spring and a release button. It is compact, economical to produce, easy to assemble and comprises components with a low rate of wear. It can be reliably and easily handled by unskilled persons, even when high spring forces are involved. A medicament to be atomised can thus be metered with a very high degree of accuracy.