US20100163020A1

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Publication number: US20100163020A1
Application number: US12/455,681
Authority: US
Inventors: Roderick A. Hyde; Muriel Y. Ishikawa; Jordin T. Kare; Robert Langer; Eric C. Leuthardt; Elizabeth A. Sweeney; Clarence T. Tegreene; Lowell L. Wood, JR.; Victoria Y.H. Wood
Original assignee: Searete LLC
Current assignee: Searete LLC
Priority date: 2008-12-30
Filing date: 2009-06-04
Publication date: 2010-07-01
Also published as: US9750903B2; US20100163041A1; US20100163040A1; US20100163039A1; US20100163029A1; US9724483B2

Abstract

A method may include dispensing a dose of an inhalable compound according to a dosing instruction set; and maintaining a hands-free article for dispensing the inhalable compound in an operable dispensing position.

Description

CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

The present application is related to and claims the benefit of the earliest available effective filing date(s) from the following listed application(s) (the “Related Applications”) (e.g., claims earliest available priority dates for other than provisional patent applications or claims benefits under 35 USC § 119(e) for provisional patent applications, for any and all parent, grandparent, great-grandparent, etc. applications of the Related Application(s)). All subject matter of the Related Applications and of any and all parent, grandparent, great-grandparent, etc. applications of the Related Applications is incorporated herein by reference to the extent such subject matter is not inconsistent herewith.

RELATED APPLICATIONS

- For purposes of the USPTO extra-statutory requirements, the present application constitutes a continuation-in-part of United States patent application entitled METHODS AND SYSTEMS FOR PRESENTING AN INHALATION EXPERIENCE, naming RODERICK A. HYDE; ROBERT LANGER; ERIC C. LEUTHARDT; ROBERT W. LORD; ELIZABETH A. SWEENEY; CLARENCE T. TEGREENE; AND LOWELL L. WOOD as inventors, filed Dec. 30, 2008, application Ser. No. 12/317,934, which is currently co-pending, or is an application of which a currently co-pending application is entitled to the benefit of the filing date.
- For purposes of the USPTO extra-statutory requirements, the present application constitutes a continuation-in-part of United States patent application entitled METHODS AND SYSTEMS FOR PRESENTING AN INHALATION EXPERIENCE, naming RODERICK A. HYDE; ROBERT LANGER; ERIC C. LEUTHARDT; ROBERT W. LORD; ELIZABETH A. SWEENEY; CLARENCE T. TEGREENE; AND LOWELL L. WOOD as inventors, filed Dec. 31, 2008, application Ser. No. 12/319,143, which is currently co-pending, or is an application of which a currently co-pending application is entitled to the benefit of the filing date.
- For purposes of the USPTO extra-statutory requirements, the present application constitutes a continuation-in-part of United States patent application entitled METHODS AND SYSTEMS FOR PRESENTING AN INHALATION EXPERIENCE, naming RODERICK A. HYDE; ROBERT LANGER; ERIC C. LEUTHARDT; ROBERT W. LORD; ELIZABETH A. SWEENEY; CLARENCE T. TEGREENE; AND LOWELL L. WOOD as inventors, filed Feb. 12, 2009, application Ser. No. 12/378,284, which is currently co-pending, or is an application of which a currently co-pending application is entitled to the benefit of the filing date.
- For purposes of the USPTO extra-statutory requirements, the present application constitutes a continuation-in-part of United States patent application entitled METHODS AND SYSTEMS FOR PRESENTING AN INHALATION EXPERIENCE, naming RODERICK A. HYDE; ROBERT LANGER; ERIC C. LEUTHARDT; ROBERT W. LORD; ELIZABETH A. SWEENEY; CLARENCE T. TEGREENE; AND LOWELL L. WOOD as inventors, filed Feb. 13, 2009, application Ser. No. 12/378,485, which is currently co-pending, or is an application of which a currently co-pending application is entitled to the benefit of the filing date.
- For purposes of the USPTO extra-statutory requirements, the present application constitutes a continuation-in-part of United States patent application entitled METHODS AND SYSTEMS FOR PRESENTING AN INHALATION EXPERIENCE, naming RODERICK A. HYDE; ROBERT LANGER; ERIC C. LEUTHARDT; ROBERT W. LORD; ELIZABETH A. SWEENEY; CLARENCE T. TEGREENE; AND LOWELL L. WOOD as inventors, filed Feb. 20, 2009, application Ser. No. 12/380,013, which is currently co-pending, or is an application of which a currently co-pending application is entitled to the benefit of the filing date.
- For purposes of the USPTO extra-statutory requirements, the present application constitutes a continuation-in-part of United States patent application entitled METHODS AND SYSTEMS FOR PRESENTING AN INHALATION EXPERIENCE, naming RODERICK A. HYDE; ROBERT LANGER; ERIC C. LEUTHARDT; ROBERT W. LORD; ELIZABETH A. SWEENEY; CLARENCE T. TEGREENE; AND LOWELL L. WOOD as inventors, filed Feb. 23, 2009, application Ser. No. 12/380,108, which is currently co-pending, or is an application of which a currently co-pending application is entitled to the benefit of the filing date.
- For purposes of the USPTO extra-statutory requirements, the present application constitutes a continuation-in-part of United States patent application entitled METHODS AND SYSTEMS FOR PRESENTING AN INHALATION EXPERIENCE, naming RODERICK A. HYDE; ROBERT LANGER; ERIC C. LEUTHARDT; ROBERT W. LORD; ELIZABETH A. SWEENEY; CLARENCE T. TEGREENE; AND LOWELL L. WOOD as inventors, filed Feb. 27, 2009, application Ser. No. 12/380,587, which is currently co-pending, or is an application of which a currently co-pending application is entitled to the benefit of the filing date.
- For purposes of the USPTO extra-statutory requirements, the present application constitutes a continuation-in-part of United States patent application entitled METHODS AND SYSTEMS FOR PRESENTING AN INHALATION EXPERIENCE, naming RODERICK A. HYDE; ROBERT LANGER; ERIC C. LEUTHARDT; ROBERT W. LORD; ELIZABETH A. SWEENEY; CLARENCE T. TEGREENE; AND LOWELL L. WOOD as inventors, filed Mar. 2, 2009, application Ser. No. 12/380,679, which is currently co-pending, or is an application of which a currently co-pending application is entitled to the benefit of the filing date.
- For purposes of the USPTO extra-statutory requirements, the present application constitutes a continuation-in-part of United States patent application entitled METHODS AND SYSTEMS FOR PRESENTING AN INHALATION EXPERIENCE, naming RODERICK A. HYDE; ROBERT LANGER; ERIC C. LEUTHARDT; ROBERT W. LORD; ELIZABETH A. SWEENEY; CLARENCE T. TEGREENE; AND LOWELL L. WOOD as inventors, filed Mar. 25, 2009, application Ser. No. 12/383,509, which is currently co-pending, or is an application of which a currently co-pending application is entitled to the benefit of the filing date.
- For purposes of the USPTO extra-statutory requirements, the present application constitutes a continuation-in-part of United States patent application entitled METHODS AND SYSTEMS FOR PRESENTING AN INHALATION EXPERIENCE, naming RODERICK A. HYDE; ROBERT LANGER; ERIC C. LEUTHARDT; ROBERT W. LORD; ELIZABETH A. SWEENEY; CLARENCE T. TEGREENE; AND LOWELL L. WOOD as inventors, filed Mar. 26, 2009, application Ser. No. 12/383,819, which is currently co-pending, or is an application of which a currently co-pending application is entitled to the benefit of the filing date.
- For purposes of the USPTO extra-statutory requirements, the present application constitutes a continuation-in-part of United States patent application entitled METHODS AND SYSTEMS FOR PRESENTING AN INHALATION EXPERIENCE, naming RODERICK A. HYDE; ROBERT LANGER; ERIC C. LEUTHARDT; ROBERT W. LORD; ELIZABETH A. SWEENEY; CLARENCE T. TEGREENE; AND LOWELL L. WOOD as inventors, filed Mar. 31, 2009, application Ser. No. 12/384,104, which is currently co-pending, or is an application of which a currently co-pending application is entitled to the benefit of the filing date.
- For purposes of the USPTO extra-statutory requirements, the present application constitutes a continuation-in-part of United States patent application entitled METHODS AND SYSTEMS FOR PRESENTING AN INHALATION EXPERIENCE, naming RODERICK A. HYDE; ROBERT LANGER; ERIC C. LEUTHARDT; ROBERT W. LORD; ELIZABETH A. SWEENEY; CLARENCE T. TEGREENE; AND LOWELL L. WOOD as inventors, filed Apr. 1, 2009, application Ser. No. 12/384,203, which is currently co-pending, or is an application of which a currently co-pending application is entitled to the benefit of the filing date.
- For purposes of the USPTO extra-statutory requirements, the present application constitutes a continuation-in-part of United States patent application entitled METHODS AND SYSTEMS FOR PRESENTING AN INHALATION EXPERIENCE, naming RODERICK A. HYDE; ROBERT LANGER; ERIC C. LEUTHARDT; ROBERT W. LORD; ELIZABETH A. SWEENEY; CLARENCE T. TEGREENE; AND LOWELL L. WOOD as inventors, filed Apr. 20, 2009, application Ser. No. 12/386,574, which is currently co-pending, or is an application of which a currently co-pending application is entitled to the benefit of the filing date.
- For purposes of the USPTO extra-statutory requirements, the present application constitutes a continuation-in-part of United States patent application entitled METHODS AND SYSTEMS FOR PRESENTING AN INHALATION EXPERIENCE, naming RODERICK A. HYDE; ROBERT LANGER; ERIC C. LEUTHARDT; ROBERT W. LORD; ELIZABETH A. SWEENEY; CLARENCE T. TEGREENE; AND LOWELL L. WOOD as inventors, filed Apr. 21, 2009, application Ser. No. 12/386,669, which is currently co-pending, or is an application of which a currently co-pending application is entitled to the benefit of the filing date.
- For purposes of the USPTO extra-statutory requirements, the present application constitutes a continuation-in-part of United States patent application entitled METHODS AND SYSTEMS FOR PRESENTING AN INHALATION EXPERIENCE, naming RODERICK A. HYDE; ROBERT LANGER; ERIC C. LEUTHARDT; ROBERT W. LORD; ELIZABETH A. SWEENEY; CLARENCE T. TEGREENE; AND LOWELL L. WOOD as inventors, filed Apr. 27, 2009, application Ser. No. 12/387,057, which is currently co-pending, or is an application of which a currently co-pending application is entitled to the benefit of the filing date.
- For purposes of the USPTO extra-statutory requirements, the present application constitutes a continuation-in-part of United States patent application entitled METHODS AND SYSTEMS FOR PRESENTING AN INHALATION EXPERIENCE, naming RODERICK A. HYDE; ROBERT LANGER; ERIC C. LEUTHARDT; ROBERT W. LORD; ELIZABETH A. SWEENEY; CLARENCE T. TEGREENE; AND LOWELL L. WOOD as inventors, filed Apr. 28, 2009, application Ser. No. 12/387,151, which is currently co-pending, or is an application of which a currently co-pending application is entitled to the benefit of the filing date.
- For purposes of the USPTO extra-statutory requirements, the present application constitutes a continuation-in-part of United States patent application entitled METHODS AND SYSTEMS FOR PRESENTING AN INHALATION EXPERIENCE, naming RODERICK A. HYDE; ROBERT LANGER; ERIC C. LEUTHARDT; ROBERT W. LORD; ELIZABETH A. SWEENEY; CLARENCE T. TEGREENE; AND LOWELL L. WOOD as inventors, filed Apr. 30, 2009, application Ser. No. 12/387,321, which is currently co-pending, or is an application of which a currently co-pending application is entitled to the benefit of the filing date.
- For purposes of the USPTO extra-statutory requirements, the present application constitutes a continuation-in-part of United States patent application entitled METHODS AND SYSTEMS FOR PRESENTING AN INHALATION EXPERIENCE, naming RODERICK A. HYDE; ROBERT LANGER; ERIC C. LEUTHARDT; ROBERT W. LORD; ELIZABETH A. SWEENEY; CLARENCE T. TEGREENE; AND LOWELL L. WOOD as inventors, filed May 1, 2009, application Ser. No. 12/387,472, which is currently co-pending, or is an application of which a currently co-pending application is entitled to the benefit of the filing date.

The United States Patent Office (USPTO) has published a notice to the effect that the USPTO's computer programs require that patent applicants reference both a serial number and indicate whether an application is a continuation or continuation-in-part. Stephen G. Kunin,Benefit of Prior-Filed Application, USPTO Official Gazette Mar. 18, 2003, available at http://www.uspto.gov/web/offices/com/sol/og/2003/week11/patbene.htm. The present Applicant Entity (hereinafter “Applicant”) has provided above a specific reference to the application(s) from which priority is being claimed as recited by statute. Applicant understands that the statute is unambiguous in its specific reference language and does not require either a serial number or any characterization, such as “continuation” or “continuation-in-part,” for claiming priority to U.S. patent applications. Notwithstanding the foregoing, Applicant understands that the USPTO's computer programs have certain data entry requirements, and hence Applicant is designating the present application as a continuation-in-part of its parent applications as set forth above, but expressly points out that such designations are not to be construed in any way as any type of commentary and/or admission as to whether or not the present application contains any new matter in addition to the matter of its parent application(s).

SUMMARY

In an aspect, a method includes, but is not limited to, dispensing a dose of an inhalable compound according to a dosing instruction set; and maintaining a hands-free article for dispensing an inhalable compound in an operable dispensing position. In addition to the foregoing, other method aspects are described in the claims, drawings, and text forming a part of the present disclosure.

In an aspect, a method includes, but is not limited to, dispensing a dose of an inhalable compound according to a dosing instruction set; maintaining a hands-free article for dispensing an inhalable compound in an operable dispensing position; and receiving a dose of an inhalable compound for dispensing. In addition to the foregoing, other method aspects are described in the claims, drawings, and text forming a part of the present disclosure.

In an aspect, a method includes dispensing a dose of an inhalable compound according to a dosing instruction set; maintaining a hands-free article for dispensing an inhalable compound in an operable dispensing position; and receiving the inhalable compound. In addition to the foregoing, other method aspects are described in the claims, drawings, and text forming a part of the present disclosure.

In an aspect, a method includes dispensing a dose of an inhalable compound according to a dosing instruction set; maintaining a hands-free article for dispensing an inhalable compound in an operable dispensing position; and supporting a hands-free aerosol delivery system on the body of a mammal. In addition to the foregoing, other method aspects are described in the claims, drawings, and text forming a part of the present disclosure.

In an aspect, a method includes detecting a medical condition parameter of a mammal according to a medical condition parameter request; maintaining a hands-free article for dispensing an inhalable compound in an operable dispensing position; and dispensing a dose of an inhalable compound according to a dosing instruction set. In addition to the foregoing, other method aspects are described in the claims, drawings, and text forming a part of the present disclosure.

In addition to the foregoing, various other method and/or system and/or program product aspects are set forth and described in the teachings such as text (e.g., claims and/or detailed description) and/or drawings of the present disclosure.

The foregoing is a summary and thus may contain simplifications, generalizations, inclusions, and/or omissions of detail; consequently, those skilled in the art will appreciate that the summary is illustrative only and is NOT intended to be in any way limiting. Other aspects, features, and advantages of the devices and/or processes and/or other subject matter described herein will become apparent in the teachings set forth herein.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE FIGURES

FIG. 1A is a front elevation view illustrating a collar for dispensing one or more inhalable compounds.

FIG. 1B is a top plan view of a collar for dispensing one or more inhalable compounds.

FIG. 1C is a partial cross-sectional side elevation view of a collar for dispensing one or more inhalable compounds.

FIG. 1D is a partial cross-sectional side elevation view of a collar for dispensing one or more inhalable compounds.

FIG. 1E is a schematic of a collar for dispensing one or more inhalable compounds.

FIG. 1F is a schematic of a compound for being dispensed by a collar for dispensing one or more inhalable compounds.

FIG. 1G is a schematic of a compound for being dispensed by a collar for dispensing one or more inhalable compounds.

FIG. 1H is a schematic of a collar for dispensing one or more inhalable compounds, where the collar is connected to various storage media.

FIG. 2 illustrates an operational flow representing example operations related to maintaining a hands-free article for dispensing an inhalable compound according to a dosing instruction set, where the hands-free article is maintained in an operable dispensing position.

FIG. 3 illustrates an alternative embodiment of the operational flow ofFIG. 2.

FIG. 4 illustrates an alternative embodiment of the operational flow ofFIG. 2.

FIG. 5 illustrates an alternative embodiment of the operational flow ofFIG. 2.

FIG. 6 illustrates an alternative embodiment of the operational flow ofFIG. 2.

FIG. 7 illustrates an alternative embodiment of the operational flow ofFIG. 2.

FIG. 8 illustrates an alternative embodiment of the operational flow ofFIG. 56.

FIG. 9 illustrates an alternative embodiment of the operational flow ofFIG. 56.

FIG. 10 illustrates an alternative embodiment of the operational flow ofFIG. 56.

FIG. 11 illustrates an alternative embodiment of the operational flow ofFIG. 56.

FIG. 12 illustrates an alternative embodiment of the operational flow ofFIG. 56.

FIG. 13 illustrates an alternative embodiment of the operational flow ofFIG. 56.

FIG. 14 illustrates an alternative embodiment of the operational flow ofFIG. 56.

FIG. 15 illustrates an alternative embodiment of the operational flow ofFIG. 56.

FIG. 16 illustrates an alternative embodiment of the operational flow ofFIG. 56.

FIG. 17 illustrates an alternative embodiment of the operational flow ofFIG. 57.

FIG. 18 illustrates an alternative embodiment of the operational flow ofFIG. 57.

FIG. 19 illustrates an alternative embodiment of the operational flow ofFIG. 57.

FIG. 20 illustrates an alternative embodiment of the operational flow ofFIG. 57.

FIG. 21 illustrates an alternative embodiment of the operational flow ofFIG. 57.

FIG. 22 illustrates an alternative embodiment of the operational flow ofFIG. 57.

FIG. 23 illustrates an alternative embodiment of the operational flow ofFIG. 57.

FIG. 24 illustrates an alternative embodiment of the operational flow ofFIG. 57.

FIG. 25 illustrates an alternative embodiment of the operational flow ofFIG. 57.

FIG. 26 illustrates an alternative embodiment of the operational flow ofFIG. 57.

FIG. 27 illustrates an alternative embodiment of the operational flow ofFIG. 59.

FIG. 28 illustrates an alternative embodiment of the operational flow ofFIG. 59.

FIG. 29 illustrates an alternative embodiment of the operational flow ofFIG. 59.

FIG. 30 illustrates an alternative embodiment of the operational flow ofFIG. 59.

FIG. 31 illustrates an alternative embodiment of the operational flow ofFIG. 59.

FIG. 32 illustrates an alternative embodiment of the operational flow ofFIG. 59.

FIG. 33 illustrates an alternative embodiment of the operational flow ofFIG. 59.

FIG. 34 illustrates an alternative embodiment of the operational flow ofFIG. 60.

FIG. 35 illustrates an alternative embodiment of the operational flow ofFIG. 60.

FIG. 36 illustrates an operational flow representing example operations related to maintaining a hands-free article for dispensing an inhalable compound according to a dosing instruction set, where the hands-free article is maintained in an operable dispensing position.

FIG. 37 illustrates an operational flow representing example operations related to maintaining a hands-free article for dispensing an inhalable compound according to a dosing instruction set, where the hands-free article is maintained in an operable dispensing position.

FIG. 38 illustrates an alternative embodiment of the operational flow ofFIG. 2.

FIG. 39 illustrates an alternative embodiment of the operational flow ofFIG. 2.

FIG. 40 illustrates an alternative embodiment of the operational flow ofFIG. 2.

FIG. 41 illustrates an alternative embodiment of the operational flow ofFIG. 2.

FIG. 42 illustrates an operational flow representing example operations related to maintaining a hands-free article for dispensing an inhalable compound according to a dosing instruction set, where the hands-free article is maintained in an operable dispensing position.

FIG. 43 illustrates an operational flow representing example operations related to maintaining a hands-free article for dispensing an inhalable compound according to a dosing instruction set, where the hands-free article is maintained in an operable dispensing position.

FIG. 44 illustrates an operational flow representing example operations related to maintaining a hands-free article for dispensing an inhalable compound according to a dosing instruction set, where the hands-free article is maintained in an operable dispensing position.

FIG. 45 illustrates an operational flow representing example operations related to maintaining a hands-free article for dispensing an inhalable compound according to a dosing instruction set, where the hands-free article is maintained in an operable dispensing position.

FIG. 46 illustrates an operational flow representing example operations related to maintaining a hands-free article for dispensing an inhalable compound according to a dosing instruction set, where the hands-free article is maintained in an operable dispensing position.

FIG. 47 illustrates an operational flow representing example operations related to maintaining a hands-free article for dispensing an inhalable compound according to a dosing instruction set, where the hands-free article is maintained in an operable dispensing position.

FIG. 48 illustrates an operational flow representing example operations related to maintaining a hands-free article for dispensing an inhalable compound according to a dosing instruction set, where the hands-free article is maintained in an operable dispensing position.

FIG. 49 illustrates an operational flow representing example operations related to maintaining a hands-free article for dispensing an inhalable compound according to a dosing instruction set, where the hands-free article is maintained in an operable dispensing position.

FIG. 50 illustrates an alternative embodiment of the operational flow ofFIG. 49.

FIG. 51 illustrates an alternative embodiment of the operational flow ofFIG. 2.

FIG. 52 illustrates an alternative embodiment of the operational flow ofFIG. 2.

FIG. 53 illustrates an alternative embodiment of the operational flow ofFIG. 2.

FIG. 54 illustrates an operational flow representing example operations related to maintaining a hands-free article for dispensing an inhalable compound according to a dosing instruction set, where the hands-free article is maintained in an operable dispensing position.

FIG. 55 illustrates an operational flow representing example operations related to maintaining a hands-free article for dispensing an inhalable compound according to a dosing instruction set, where the hands-free article is maintained in an operable dispensing position.

FIG. 56 illustrates an operational flow representing example operations related to maintaining a hands-free article for dispensing an inhalable compound according to a dosing instruction set, where the hands-free article is maintained in an operable dispensing position.

FIG. 57 illustrates an operational flow representing example operations related to maintaining a hands-free article for dispensing an inhalable compound according to a dosing instruction set, where the hands-free article is maintained in an operable dispensing position.

FIG. 58 illustrates an operational flow representing example operations related to maintaining a hands-free article for dispensing an inhalable compound according to a dosing instruction set, where the hands-free article is maintained in an operable dispensing position.

FIG. 59 illustrates an operational flow representing example operations related to maintaining a hands-free article for dispensing an inhalable compound according to a dosing instruction set, where the hands-free article is maintained in an operable dispensing position.

FIG. 60 illustrates an operational flow representing example operations related to maintaining a hands-free article for dispensing an inhalable compound according to a dosing instruction set, where the hands-free article is maintained in an operable dispensing position.

FIG. 61 illustrates an operational flow representing example operations related to maintaining a hands-free article for dispensing an inhalable compound according to a dosing instruction set, where the hands-free article is maintained in an operable dispensing position.

FIG. 62 illustrates an operational flow representing example operations related to maintaining a hands-free article for dispensing an inhalable compound according to a dosing instruction set, where the hands-free article is maintained in an operable dispensing position.

FIG. 63 illustrates an alternative embodiment of the operational flow ofFIG. 62.

FIG. 64 illustrates an alternative embodiment of the operational flow ofFIG. 62.

FIG. 65 illustrates an alternative embodiment of the operational flow ofFIG. 62.

FIG. 66 illustrates an alternative embodiment of the operational flow ofFIG. 62.

FIG. 67 illustrates an alternative embodiment of the operational flow ofFIG. 62.

FIG. 68 illustrates an alternative embodiment of the operational flow ofFIG. 62.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

In the following detailed description, reference is made to the accompanying drawings, which form a part hereof. In the drawings, similar symbols typically identify similar components, unless context dictates otherwise. The illustrative embodiments described in the detailed description, drawings, and claims are not meant to be limiting. Other embodiments may be utilized, and other changes may be made, without departing from the spirit or scope of the subject matter presented here.

Referring generally toFIGS. 1A through 1H, a hands-free article for dispensing one or more inhalable compounds is described in accordance with the present disclosure. The hands-free article, such ascollar100, may be worn by a subject102 who can inhale acompound104 dispensed by thecollar100. Although the subject102 is depicted as a human in the accompanying figures, the subject can generally include any biological entity having respiratory organs (e.g., lungs), such as a mammalian entity (e.g., a human, a dog, a lion, or another mammal), an avian entity (e.g., a bird of prey or another avian), an amphibian entity (e.g., a frog or another amphibian), a reptilian entity (e.g., an alligator, a crocodile, a tortoise, or another reptile), as well as other biological entities having respiratory organs.

Thecollar100 is maintained in an operable dispensing position. For example, thecollar100 may comprise a support for a hands-free aerosol delivery system on the body of a mammal. Thus, thecollar100 may be disposed around a portion of the body of the subject102. For example, in one embodiment, thecollar100 may encircle aneck portion106 of the subject102. In an embodiment, thecollar100 may encircle a limb portion (e.g., wrist portion108) of the subject102. In an embodiment, thecollar100 may encircle a torso portion (e.g., chest portion110) of the subject102. In an embodiment, thecollar100 may encircle ahead portion112 of the subject102. It should be noted that the above-mentioned embodiments are provided by way of example and are not meant to be limiting of the present disclosure. Thus, it is contemplated that thecollar100 may be maintained in an operable dispensing position by attaching it to a variety of other portions of the body of the subject102.

Thecollar100 may comprise a support member having afirst end114 and asecond end116. Thefirst end114 may be connected to thesecond end116, encircling and creating a closed loop (e.g., a circle) about the body part of the subject102. In an embodiment, thefirst end114 may be connected to thesecond end116 via amagnet118. In an embodiment, thefirst end114 of thecollar100 may be connected to thesecond end116 of thecollar100 via ahook120. In an embodiment, thefirst end114 may be connected to thesecond end116 via asnap connection122. In an embodiment, thefirst end114 of thecollar100 may be connected to thesecond end116 of thecollar100 via a threadedconnection124. In an embodiment, thefirst end114 may be connected to thesecond end116 via a belt-like connection126. It will be appreciated that this list of connections is provided by way of example and is not meant to be restrictive of the present disclosure. Other fastening devices may be utilized with thecollar100.

Thecollar100 includes adispensing module128 for dispensing some amount of material, such as a dose (e.g., measured quantity, prescribed quantity, therapeutic quantity, etc.) of a compound104 (e.g., organic compound, pharmaceutical compound, therapeutic compound, homeopathic compound, nutraceutical compound, biological material, protein, nucleic acid, cell, peptide, etc.) for modulating, curing, diagnosing, mitigating, preventing, or treating one or more of a disease, disorder, symptom or a condition. Additionally, thecompound104 may be utilized for enhancing one or more of a physical well-being or a mental well-being. Thedispensing module128 may be oriented in order to optimize delivery of thecompound104 to the subject102. For example, in the case of an inhalable compound, the dispensing module may be oriented to optimize respiratory receipt by the subject102. This may include orienting thedispensing module128 such that an outlet (nozzle)130 or jet emanating from thedispensing module128 is pointed at (oriented towards) thenose132 ormouth134 of the subject102.

Some inhalable compounds for utilization with thecollar100 may include, but are not limited to inhalable insulin, an inhalable corticosteroid, an inhalable antibiotic, an inhalable beta-2 agonist, or an inhalable mast cell stabilizer. Further, compounds for utilization with thecollar100 may include a compound that acts locally or systemically. Compounds for utilization with thecollar100 may include a compound having a formulation such that the formulation includes a carrier, such as a gas carrier, a liquid carrier, or a solid carrier. Additionally, compounds for utilization with thecollar100 may include a compound having a formulation such that the formulation includes penetration or absorption enhancers. It should be noted that this list is provided by way of example only and is not meant to be restrictive of the present invention. Further, it will be appreciated that various mechanisms or compounds may be utilized to power (e.g., nebulize) the inhalable compound out of thecollar100, such as O₂(oxygen) or helium-O₂(heliox). Such compounds may be selected for improving the response of the subject (e.g., heliox when utilized with an inhaled bronchodilator such as an inhalable beta-2 agonist).

Further, thedispensing module128 may be maintained in an optimal position for optimizing delivery of thecompound104 to the subject102. In an embodiment, a relative position or direction to a desired respiratory target is determined. For example, a direction to the subject'snose132 may be determined. In an embodiment, a position of thedispensing module128 may then be maintained for optimizing delivery of thecompound104. For example, the orientation of theoutlet130 may be maintained in the direction determined for the subject'snose132. In an embodiment, the position of thedispensing module128 may be maintained via aweight136. In an embodiment, the position of the dispensing module may be maintained via an adhesive138. In an embodiment, the position of thedispensing module128 may be maintained via aslide140. In an embodiment, the position of thedispensing module128 may be maintained via amagnet142. In an embodiment, the position of thedispensing module128 may be maintained via a fastener144 (e.g., a button or a snap). In an embodiment, the position of thedispensing module128 may be maintained via aspring146. It will be appreciated that this list is provided by way of example and is not meant to be restrictive of the present disclosure.

The delivery of thecompound104 can be controlled to optimize or regulate delivery of the material104 to the subject102. The delivery mechanism can be one or more of the same type of material delivery system (e.g., nebulizer), or may include at least two different delivery systems (e.g., nebulizer and a dry powder inhaler), the at least oneoutlet130 may be one of a suite or an array of outlets (e.g., nozzles)148. One or more outlets (e.g., thefirst nozzle130 and a second nozzle150) may be selected to deliver thecompound104. In an embodiment, the first and

second nozzles

130 and150 may be in different locations. The direction of the subject'snose132 may be determined. Then, a discharge direction for thedispensing module128 can be controlled for optimizing delivery of thecompound104. For example, the orientation of thedispensing module128 can be controlled to orient thefirst outlet130 and thesecond outlet150 in the direction determined for the subject'snose132. In an embodiment, directed delivery of thecompound104 may be accomplished via ademand valve152 coupled with programmable dosing. In an embodiment, directed delivery of thecompound104 may be accomplished via a charged particle dispersion. In an embodiment, thefirst outlet130, thesecond outlet150, or the suite ofoutlets148 may include outlets having variable discharge characteristics, such as directional, volumetric, spray area, or other characteristics.

Various mechanical systems for delivering inhalable materials may include, but are not limited to, a vaporizer (e.g., a device for vaporizing liquid material for inhalation), a nebulizer (e.g., a device for administering material in the form of a mist for inhalation), a liquid aerosol system (e.g., a system for propelling fine droplets of material utilizing a gas), a dry powder inhalation system, an atomizer (e.g., a device for reducing a liquid material to a spray or vapor for inhalation), a metered dose inhaler (e.g., a device for releasing a metered dose of material for inhalation), a propellant-delivered system, a piezo-electric inhaler (e.g., an inhaler utilizing a piezo vibrator to deaggregate a material powder for subsequent inhalation by the subject), etc. It is further contemplated that thematerial104 may be provided in removable or replaceable storage units. For example, thematerial104 may be provided in an easily replaceable dose packet. In an embodiment, thematerial104 may be provided in a removable canister. It will be appreciated that these storage units are provided by way of example, and other various storage configurations having varying shapes, sizes, and form factors may be utilized with thecollar100.

Following are a series of flowcharts depicting implementations. For ease of understanding, the flowcharts are organized such that the initial flowcharts present implementations via an example implementation and thereafter the following flowcharts present alternate implementations and/or expansions of the initial flowchart(s) as either sub-component operations or additional component operations building on one or more earlier-presented flowcharts. Those having skill in the art will appreciate that the style of presentation utilized herein (e.g., beginning with a presentation of a flowchart(s) presenting an example implementation and thereafter providing additions to and/or further details in subsequent flowcharts) generally allows for a rapid and easy understanding of the various process implementations. In addition, those skilled in the art will further appreciate that the style of presentation used herein also lends itself well to modular and/or object-oriented program design paradigms.

FIG. 2 illustrates anoperational flow200 representing example operations related to maintaining a hands-free article for dispensing an inhalable compound according to a dosing instruction set, where the hands-free article is maintained in an operable dispensing position. InFIG. 2 and in following figures that include various examples of operational flows, discussion and explanation may be provided with respect to the above-described examples ofFIGS. 1A through 1H, and/or with respect to other examples and contexts. However, it should be understood that the operational flows may be executed in a number of other environments and contexts, and/or in modified versions ofFIGS. 1A through 1H. Also, although the various operational flows are presented in the sequence(s) illustrated, it should be understood that the various operations may be performed in other orders than those which are illustrated, or may be performed concurrently.

After a start operation, theoperational flow200 moves to anoperation210.Operation210 depicts dispensing for inhalation by a user a dose of an inhalable compound according to a dosing instruction set. For example, as shown inFIGS. 1A through 1H, thecollar100 may include amemory154 for storing a dosing instruction set. Thememory154 may be connected to aprocessor156 operatively configured for initiating the dispensing of adose158 of acompound104. In an embodiment, theprocessor156 is connected to apump160. Theprocessor156 may electronically signal thepump160 to dispense thedose158 of thecompound104.

Then,operation220 depicts maintaining in physical association with the user a hands-free article for dispensing an inhalable compound in an operable dispensing position. For example, as shown inFIGS. 1A through 1H, thecollar100 may be maintained in an operable position by positioning aweight136 at one end of thecollar100.

FIG. 3 illustrates alternative embodiments of the exampleoperational flow200 ofFIG. 2.FIG. 3 illustrates example embodiments where theoperation210 may include at least one additional operation. Additional operations may include anoperation302, anoperation304, anoperation306, and/or anoperation308.

In an embodiment, the dispensing order may be dispatched upon thesensor module170 detecting a condition of the subject, such as an asthmatic incident (e.g., a narrowing of the subject's airways). In an embodiment, thesensor module170 may identify a symptom of an asthmatic incident, such as a subject experiencing trouble breathing, a sneeze, a cough, a wheeze, a rhonchus, or a snore. In an embodiment, thesensor module170 may identify a physical condition associated with an asthmatic incident, such as a narrowing of the subject's airways. Other symptoms or conditions detected by thesensor module170 may include, but are not limited to, Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD), bronchitis, abnormally high blood glucose level, etc. Further, it will be appreciated that theprocessor156 may determine the most effective route of administration for a material based upon a particular condition or set of symptoms. In an embodiment, theprocessor156 may determine that an inhalation route of delivery including the nasal cavity is a most effective route of treatment for an asthmatic incident, and may instruct administration of thedose158 of the material104 accordingly (e.g., in a case where thedose158 includes a beta-2 agonist.) In an embodiment, theprocessor156 may be programmed to determine whether a to-be-delivered agent should be provided to the subject via intra-nasal administration or inhalation, or both. For example, for a desired delivery of an agent to the brain of the subject, the device may be programmed to administer such agent through intranasal administration.

FIG. 5 illustrates alternative embodiments of the exampleoperational flow200 ofFIG. 2.FIG. 5 illustrates example embodiments where theoperation210 may include at least one additional operation. Additional operations may include anoperation502, anoperation504, and/or anoperation506.

Theoperation502 illustrates dispensing a dose of a nutraceutical compound. For example, as shown inFIGS. 1A through 1H, thecompound104 may include anutraceutical compound172.

Theoperation504 illustrates dispensing a dose of a therapeutic compound. For example, as shown inFIGS. 1A through 1H, thecompound104 may include atherapeutic compound174.

Theoperation506 illustrates dispensing a dose of a homeopathic compound. For example, as shown inFIGS. 1A through 1H, thecompound104 may include ahomeopathic compound176.

FIG. 6 illustrates alternative embodiments of the exampleoperational flow200 ofFIG. 2.FIG. 6 illustrates example embodiments where theoperation210 may include at least one additional operation. Additional operations may include anoperation602, anoperation604, and/or anoperation606.

Theoperation602 illustrates generating an aerosol of the inhalable compound. For example, as shown inFIGS. 1A through 1H, thecompound104 may include an aerosol which may be dispensed via thenozzle130.

Theoperation604 illustrates generating at least one of a vapor or a powder of the inhalable compound. For example, as shown inFIGS. 1A through 1H, thecompound104 may include a vapor which may be dispensed via the suite ofnozzles148. Alternatively, thecompound104 may include a powder, which may be dispensed via the suite ofnozzles148. Generating a powder may include, for example, generating particles, fine particles, micronized particles, microparticles, or particulates.

Theoperation606 illustrates generating a liquid atomization of the inhalable compound. For example, as shown inFIGS. 1A through 1H, thecompound104 may include an atomized liquid which may be dispensed via thenozzle130.

FIG. 7 illustrates alternative embodiments of the exampleoperational flow200 ofFIG. 2.FIG. 7 illustrates example embodiments where theoperation210 may include at least one additional operation. Additional operations may include anoperation702, anoperation704, anoperation706, and/or anoperation708.

Theoperation702 illustrates administering the inhalable compound via spraying a compound. For example, as shown inFIGS. 1A through 1H, thecompound104 may be sprayed via thenozzle130.

Theoperation704 illustrates administering the inhalable compound via at least one of dusting or powderizing a compound. For example, as shown inFIGS. 1A through 1H, thecompound104 may be dusted via thenozzle130. Powderizing the compound may include, for example, de-agglomeration, or particularizing.

Theoperation706 illustrates administering the inhalable compound via nebulizing a compound. For example, as shown inFIGS. 1A through 1H, thecompound104 may be nebulized and dispensed via thenozzle130.

Theoperation708 illustrates administering the inhalable compound via vaporizing a compound. For example, as shown inFIGS. 1A through 1H, thecompound104 may be vaporized and dispensed via thenozzle130.

In an embodiment, the inhalable compound may include a carrier. For example, a carrier may include a gas carrier, a liquid carrier, or a solid carrier. In embodiments, the carrier may include a hydrocarbon, a fluorocarbon, a propellant, a salt, a saccharide, a lipid, a liposome, a synthetic, or a natural polymer. Further, various formulations including a carrier may include penetration or absorption enhancers.

FIG. 8 illustrates alternative embodiments of the exampleoperational flow5600 ofFIG. 56.FIG. 8 illustrates example embodiments where theoperation5630 may include at least one additional operation. Additional operations may include anoperation802, anoperation804, anoperation806, and/or anoperation808.

Theoperation802 illustrates receiving a dose of a pharmaceutical compound for dispensing. For example, as shown inFIGS. 1A through 1H, thecompound104 may include a pharmaceutical compound178. The pharmaceutical compound178 may be stored in areservoir180 of thecollar100. Thereservoir180 may receive one or more doses of the pharmaceutical compound178 for dispensing.

Theoperation804 illustrates receiving a dose of a therapeutic compound for dispensing. For example, as shown inFIGS. 1A through 1H, thecompound104 may include atherapeutic compound174. Thetherapeutic compound174 may be stored in areservoir180 of thecollar100. Thereservoir180 may receive one or more doses of thetherapeutic compound174 for dispensing. Further, theoperation806 illustrates receiving a dosing instruction set. For example, as shown inFIGS. 1A through 1H, the dosing instruction set may be received via theinterface164. Further, theoperation808 illustrates receiving a dosing instruction set via a wireless transmission. For example, as shown inFIGS. 1A through 1H, the dosing instruction set may be received via theinterface164, which may include a wireless interface for receiving a wireless transmission.

FIG. 9 illustrates alternative embodiments of the exampleoperational flow5600 ofFIG. 56.FIG. 9 illustrates example embodiments where theoperation5630 may include at least one additional operation. Additional operations may include anoperation902, and/or anoperation904. Further, theoperation902 illustrates receiving a dosing instruction set via a processor. For example, as shown inFIGS. 1A through 1H, theprocessor156 may receive a dosing instruction set. Further, theoperation904 illustrates receiving a dosing instruction set via a connectable device containing digital instructions or data. For example, as shown inFIGS. 1A through 1H, thecollar100 may receive a dosing instruction set from a connectable device182 (e.g., a laptop computer, a personal digital assistant (PDA), or a cellular telephone).

FIG. 10 illustrates alternative embodiments of the exampleoperational flow5600 ofFIG. 56.FIG. 10 illustrates example embodiments where theoperation5630 may include at least one additional operation. Additional operations may include anoperation1002, and/or anoperation1004. Further, theoperation1002 illustrates receiving a dosing instruction set via a wire transmission. For example, as shown inFIGS. 1A through 1H, thedevice182 may be connected to theinterface164 via a wired connection. Further, theoperation1004 illustrates receiving a dosing instruction set via an optical transmission. For example, as shown inFIGS. 1A through 1H, thedevice182 may be connected to theinterface164 via an optical connection. For instance, thedevice182 may include an optical transmitter (e.g., a light), and theinterface164 may include an optical receiver (e.g., a light sensor).

FIG. 11 illustrates alternative embodiments of the exampleoperational flow5600 ofFIG. 56.FIG. 11 illustrates example embodiments where theoperation5630 may include at least one additional operation. Additional operations may include anoperation1102, and/or anoperation1104. Further, theoperation1102 illustrates receiving a dosing instruction set via a radio transmission. For example, as shown inFIGS. 1A through 1H, thedevice182 may be connected to theinterface164 via a radio connection. For instance, thedevice182 may include a Radio Frequency (RF) transmitter, and theinterface164 may include an RF receiver. Further, theoperation1104 illustrates receiving a dosing instruction set via a mechanical transmission. For example, as shown inFIGS. 1A through 1H, thedevice182 may be connected to theinterface164 via a mechanical connection.

FIG. 12 illustrates alternative embodiments of the exampleoperational flow5600 ofFIG. 56.FIG. 12 illustrates example embodiments where theoperation5630 may include at least one additional operation. Additional operations may include anoperation1202, and/or anoperation1204. Further, theoperation1202 illustrates receiving a dosing instruction set from a user. For example, as shown inFIGS. 1A through 1H, theinterface164 may be utilized to receive a dosing instruction set from a user166. Further, theoperation1204 illustrates receiving a dosing instruction set from a health care provider. A health care provider may include, for example, a physician, a physician's assistant, a nurse, a nurse practitioner, a pharmacist, or an emergency medical technician. For example, as shown inFIGS. 1A through 1H, theinterface164 may be utilized to receive a dosing instruction set from aphysician168.

FIG. 13 illustrates alternative embodiments of the exampleoperational flow5600 ofFIG. 56.FIG. 13 illustrates example embodiments where theoperation5630 may include at least one additional operation. Additional operations may include anoperation1302, and/or anoperation1304. Further, theoperation1302 illustrates receiving a dosing instruction set from a pharmacist. For example, as shown inFIGS. 1A through 1H, theinterface164 may be utilized to receive a dosing instruction set from apharmacist184. Further, theoperation1304 illustrates receiving a dosing instruction set from at least one of a parent or a guardian. For example, as shown inFIGS. 1A through 1H, theinterface164 may be utilized to receive a dosing instruction set from aparent186.

FIG. 14 illustrates alternative embodiments of the exampleoperational flow5600 ofFIG. 56.FIG. 14 illustrates example embodiments where theoperation5630 may include at least one additional operation. Additional operations may include anoperation1402, and/or anoperation1404. Further, theoperation1402 illustrates receiving a dosing instruction set from at least one of a pet owner, an animal researcher, or an animal owner. For example, as shown inFIGS. 1A through 1H, theinterface164 may be utilized to receive a dosing instruction set from apet owner188. Further, theoperation1404 illustrates receiving a dosing instruction set from a veterinarian health care provider. A veterinarian health care provider may include, among others, a veterinarian, a veterinarian's assistant, or a veterinarian technician. For example, as shown inFIGS. 1A through 1H, theinterface164 may be utilized to receive a dosing instruction set from aveterinarian190. In an embodiment, theinterface164, may be utilized to receive a dosing instruction set from a researcher.

FIG. 15 illustrates alternative embodiments of the exampleoperational flow5600 ofFIG. 56.FIG. 15 illustrates example embodiments where theoperation5630 may include at least one additional operation. Additional operations may include anoperation1502. Further, theoperation1502 illustrates receiving a dosing instruction set from a medical response unit. For example, as shown inFIGS. 1A through 1H, theinterface164 may be utilized to receive a dosing instruction set from amedical response unit192.

FIG. 16 illustrates alternative embodiments of the exampleoperational flow5600 ofFIG. 56.FIG. 16 illustrates example embodiments where theoperation5630 may include at least one additional operation. Additional operations may include anoperation1602, and/or anoperation1604.

Theoperation1602 illustrates receiving a dose of a homeopathic compound for dispensing. For example, as shown inFIGS. 1A through 1H, thecompound104 may include one or morehomeopathic compounds176.

Theoperation1604 illustrates receiving a dose of a nutracetical compound for dispensing. For example, as shown inFIGS. 1A through 1H, thecompound104 may include one or more nutraceutical compounds172.

FIG. 17 illustrates alternative embodiments of the exampleoperational flow5700 ofFIG. 57.FIG. 17 illustrates example embodiments where theoperation5730 may include at least one additional operation. Additional operations may include anoperation1702, anoperation1704, and/or anoperation1706.

Theoperation1702 illustrates receiving the inhalable compound in a reservoir. For example, as shown inFIGS. 1A through 1H, thecompound104 may be received in areservoir180. Further, theoperation1704 illustrates monitoring a quantity of the inhalable compound in the reservoir. For example, as shown inFIGS. 1A through 1H, theprocessor156 may be utilized to monitor thecompound104 in thereservoir180. Further, theoperation1706 illustrates logging a quantity of the inhalable compound in the reservoir. For example, as shown inFIGS. 1A through 1H, theprocessor156 may be utilized to monitor thecompound104 in thereservoir180, and thememory154 may be utilized to keep a log of a quantity of thecompound104 in thereservoir180.

FIG. 18 illustrates alternative embodiments of the exampleoperational flow5700 ofFIG. 57.FIG. 18 illustrates example embodiments where theoperation5730 may include at least one additional operation. Additional operations may include anoperation1802, and/or anoperation1804. Further, theoperation1802 illustrates logging a quantity of the inhalable compound dispensed from the reservoir. For example, as shown inFIGS. 1A through 1H, theprocessor156 may be utilized to monitor an amount of thecompound104 dispensed from thereservoir180, and thememory154 may be utilized to keep a log of a quantity of thecompound104 dispensed from thereservoir180. Further, theoperation1804 illustrates logging a time of the inhalable compound dispensed from the reservoir. For example, as shown inFIGS. 1A through 1H, theprocessor156 may be utilized to monitor a time of dispensing thecompound104 from the reservoir180 (e.g., by utilizing the time keeping module162), and thememory154 may be utilized to keep a log of a time of dispensing thecompound104 from thereservoir180.

FIG. 19 illustrates alternative embodiments of the exampleoperational flow5700 ofFIG. 57.FIG. 19 illustrates example embodiments where theoperation5730 may include at least one additional operation. Additional operations may include anoperation1902, and/or anoperation1904. Further, theoperation1902 illustrates logging a dispersion pattern of the inhalable compound dispensed from the reservoir. For example, as shown inFIGS. 1A through 1H, thecollar100 may include acamera194 for monitoring a dispersion pattern of the dispensedcompound104, and thememory154 may be utilized to log the dispersion pattern. Further, theoperation1904 illustrates logging a species of the inhalable compound dispensed from the reservoir. For example, as shown inFIGS. 1A through 1H, theprocessor156 may be utilized to determine a species of thecompound104 dispensed from thereservoir180, and thememory154 may be utilized to log the determined species.

FIG. 20 illustrates alternative embodiments of the exampleoperational flow5700 ofFIG. 57.FIG. 20 illustrates example embodiments where theoperation5730 may include at least one additional operation. Additional operations may include anoperation2002. Further, theoperation2002 illustrates transmitting a set of logged reservoir information to an external location. For example, as shown inFIGS. 1A through 1H, the information logged by thememory154 may be transmitted to an external location via theinterface164.

FIG. 21 illustrates alternative embodiments of the exampleoperational flow5700 ofFIG. 57.FIG. 21 illustrates example embodiments where theoperation5730 may include at least one additional operation. Additional operations may include anoperation2102, and/or anoperation2104. Further, theoperation2102 illustrates activating an alert when a quantity threshold of the inhalable compound in the reservoir is achieved. For example, as shown inFIGS. 1A through 1H, thecollar100 may include avisual indicator196 for issuing an alert when a quantity threshold of thecompound104 is achieved (e.g., as determined by the processor156). Further, theoperation2104 illustrates activating a visual alert when a quantity threshold of the inhalable compound in the reservoir is achieved. For example, as shown inFIGS. 1A through 1H, thevisual indicator196 may be activated when a quantity threshold of thecompound104 is achieved.

FIG. 22 illustrates alternative embodiments of the exampleoperational flow5700 ofFIG. 57.FIG. 22 illustrates example embodiments where theoperation5730 may include at least one additional operation. Additional operations may include anoperation2202. Further, theoperation2202 illustrates activating an auditory alert when a quantity threshold of the inhalable compound in the reservoir is achieved. For example, as shown inFIGS. 1A through 1H, thecollar100 may include anaudible indicator198 for issuing an auditory alert when a quantity threshold of thecompound104 is achieved.

FIG. 23 illustrates alternative embodiments of the exampleoperational flow5700 ofFIG. 57.FIG. 23 illustrates example embodiments where theoperation5730 may include at least one additional operation. Additional operations may include anoperation2302. Further, theoperation2302 illustrates activating an electronic alert when a quantity threshold of the inhalable compound in the reservoir is achieved. For example, as shown inFIGS. 1A through 1H, thecollar100 may include anelectronic indicator50 for issuing an electronic alert when a quantity threshold of thecompound104 is achieved.

FIG. 24 illustrates alternative embodiments of the exampleoperational flow5700 ofFIG. 57.FIG. 24 illustrates example embodiments where theoperation5730 may include at least one additional operation. Additional operations may include anoperation2402, anoperation2404, and/or anoperation2406.

Theoperation2402 illustrates receiving the inhalable compound in a reloadable reservoir. For example, as shown inFIGS. 1A through 1H, thereservoir180 may include one or more reloadable reservoirs.

Theoperation2404 illustrates receiving the inhalable compound in at least one of a disposable reservoir or a multi-component reservoir. For example, as shown inFIGS. 1A through 1H, thereservoir180 may include one or more disposable reservoirs.

Theoperation2406 illustrates receiving the inhalable compound in a multi-compound reservoir. For example, as shown inFIGS. 1A through 1H, thereservoir180 may include one or more compounds, such as afirst compound104 and a second compound.

FIG. 25 illustrates alternative embodiments of the exampleoperational flow5700 ofFIG. 57.FIG. 25 illustrates example embodiments where theoperation5730 may include at least one additional operation. Additional operations may include anoperation2502, anoperation2504, and/or anoperation2506.

Theoperation2502 illustrates receiving the inhalable compound in a single compound reservoir. For example, as shown inFIGS. 1A through 1H, thereservoir180 may include a single compound, such as thefirst compound104.

Theoperation2504 illustrates receiving the inhalable compound in a dispensing reservoir. For example, as shown inFIGS. 1A through 1H, thecompound104 received in thereservoir180 may be an inhalable compound.

Theoperation2506 illustrates receiving the inhalable compound in a modular reservoir. For example, as shown inFIGS. 1A through 1H, thereservoir180 may include a module reservoir.

FIG. 26 illustrates alternative embodiments of the exampleoperational flow5700 ofFIG. 57.FIG. 26 illustrates example embodiments where theoperation5730 may include at least one additional operation. Additional operations may include anoperation2602, and/or anoperation2604.

Theoperation2602 illustrates receiving the inhalable compound in a programmable reservoir. For example, as shown inFIGS. 1A through 1H, thereservoir180 may include a programmable reservoir, which may be programmable via theprocessor156.

Theoperation2604 illustrates receiving the inhalable compound in a weighted reservoir. For example, as shown inFIGS. 1A through 1H, thereservoir180 may include a weighted reservoir, which may be weighted with aweight136.

FIG. 27 illustrates alternative embodiments of the exampleoperational flow5900 ofFIG. 59.FIG. 27 illustrates example embodiments where theoperation5930 may include at least one additional operation. Additional operations may include anoperation2702, anoperation2704, and/or anoperation2706.

Theoperation2702 illustrates disposing the hands-free aerosol delivery system substantially around a portion of the body of a mammal. For example, as shown inFIGS. 1A through 1H, thecollar100 may encircle theneck portion106 of a subject102. Further, theoperation2704 illustrates encircling a neck portion of the body of a mammal with a support member of the hands-free aerosol delivery device. For example, as shown inFIGS. 1A through 1H, thecollar100 may encircle theneck portion106 of a subject102. Further, theoperation2706 illustrates encircling a wrist portion of the body of a mammal with a support member of the hands-free aerosol delivery device. For example, as shown inFIGS. 1A through 1H, thecollar100 may encircle thewrist portion108 of a subject102.

FIG. 28 illustrates alternative embodiments of the exampleoperational flow5900 ofFIG. 59.FIG. 28 illustrates example embodiments where theoperation5930 may include at least one additional operation. Additional operations may include anoperation2802, and/or anoperation2804. Further, theoperation2802 illustrates encircling a chest portion of the body of a mammal with a support member of the hands-free aerosol delivery device. For example, as shown inFIGS. 1A through 1H, thecollar100 may encircle achest portion110 of the subject102. Further, theoperation2804 illustrates encircling a head portion of the body of a mammal with a support member of the hands-free aerosol delivery device. For example, as shown inFIGS. 1A through 1H, thecollar100 may encircle ahead portion112 of the subject102.

FIG. 29 illustrates alternative embodiments of the exampleoperational flow5900 ofFIG. 59.FIG. 29 illustrates example embodiments where theoperation5930 may include at least one additional operation. Additional operations may include anoperation2902, and/or anoperation2904. Further, theoperation2902 illustrates connecting a first end of a support member of a hands-free aerosol delivery device to a second end of a support member of a hands-free aerosol delivery device while creating a circle about the body part of a mammal. For example, as shown inFIGS. 1A through 1H, thecollar100 may comprise a support member having afirst end114 and asecond end116. Thefirst end114 may be connected to thesecond end116, encircling and creating a closed loop (e.g., a circle) about the body part of the subject102. Further, theoperation2904 illustrates connecting the first end of a support member of the hands-free aerosol delivery device to the second end of a support member of the hands-free aerosol delivery device via a magnet. For example, as shown inFIGS. 1A through 1H, thefirst end114 may be connected to thesecond end116 via amagnet118.

FIG. 30 illustrates alternative embodiments of the exampleoperational flow5900 ofFIG. 59.FIG. 30 illustrates example embodiments where theoperation5930 may include at least one additional operation. Additional operations may include anoperation3002. Further, theoperation3002 illustrates connecting the first end of a support member of the hands-free aerosol delivery device to the second end of a support member of the hands-free aerosol delivery device via a hook. For example, as shown inFIGS. 1A through 1H, thefirst end114 of thecollar100 may be connected to thesecond end116 of thecollar100 via ahook120.

FIG. 31 illustrates alternative embodiments of the exampleoperational flow5900 ofFIG. 59.FIG. 31 illustrates example embodiments where theoperation5930 may include at least one additional operation. Additional operations may include anoperation3102. Further, theoperation3102 illustrates connecting the first end of a support member of the hands-free aerosol delivery device to the second end of a support member of the hands-free aerosol delivery device via a snap connection. For example, as shown inFIGS. 1A through 1H, thefirst end114 may be connected to thesecond end116 via asnap connection122.

FIG. 32 illustrates alternative embodiments of the exampleoperational flow5900 ofFIG. 59.FIG. 32 illustrates example embodiments where theoperation5930 may include at least one additional operation. Additional operations may include anoperation3202. Further, theoperation3202 illustrates connecting the first end of a support member of the hands-free aerosol delivery device to the second end of a support member of the hands-free aerosol delivery device via a threaded connection. For example, as shown inFIGS. 1A through 1H, thefirst end114 of thecollar100 may be connected to thesecond end116 of thecollar100 via a threadedconnection124.

FIG. 33 illustrates alternative embodiments of the exampleoperational flow5900 ofFIG. 59.FIG. 33 illustrates example embodiments where theoperation5930 may include at least one additional operation. Additional operations may include anoperation3302. Further, theoperation3302 illustrates connecting the first end of a support member of the hands-free aerosol delivery device to the second end of a support member of the hands-free aerosol delivery device via a belt-like connection. For example, as shown inFIGS. 1A through 1H, thefirst end114 may be connected to thesecond end116 via a belt-like connection126.

FIG. 34 illustrates alternative embodiments of the exampleoperational flow6000 ofFIG. 60.FIG. 34 illustrates example embodiments where theoperation6010 may include at least one additional operation. Additional operations may include anoperation3402, anoperation3404, and/or anoperation3406.

Theoperation3402 illustrates detecting a blood glucose level in the mammal. For example, as shown inFIGS. 1A through 1H, thesensor module170 may be utilized to detect a blood glucose level in the subject102.

Theoperation3404 illustrates detecting a blood oxygen level in the mammal. For example, as shown inFIGS. 1A through 1H, thesensor module170 may be utilized to detect a blood oxygen level in the subject102.

Theoperation3406 illustrates detecting an infection in the mammal. For example, as shown inFIGS. 1A through 1H, thesensor module170 may be utilized to detect an infection in the subject102.

FIG. 35 illustrates alternative embodiments of the exampleoperational flow6000 ofFIG. 60.FIG. 35 illustrates example embodiments where theoperation6010 may include at least one additional operation. Additional operations may include anoperation3502, anoperation3504, and/or anoperation3506.

Theoperation3502 illustrates detecting vascular dysfunction in the mammal. For example, as shown inFIGS. 1A through 1H, thesensor module170 may be utilized to detect a vascular dysfunction in the subject102.

Theoperation3504 illustrates detecting blood flow in the mammal. For example, as shown inFIGS. 1A through 1H, thesensor module170 may be utilized to detect blood flow in the subject102.

Theoperation3506 illustrates detecting respiratory minute volume in the mammal. For example, as shown inFIGS. 1A through 1H, thesensor module170 may be utilized to detect a respiratory volume in the subject102. In an embodiment, thesensor module170 may be utilized to detect a sneeze of the subject102. In an embodiment, thesensor module170 may be utilized to detect a cough of the subject102. In an embodiment, thesensor module170 may be utilized to detect a wheeze of the subject102. In an embodiment, thesensor module170 may be utilized to detect a rhonchus of the subject102. In an embodiment, thesensor module170 may be utilized to detect a snore of the subject102. In an embodiment, thesensor module170 may be utilized to detect a temperature (e.g., a body temperature) of the subject102. In an embodiment, thesensor module170 may be utilized to detect an expelled gas from the subject102, such as a gas exhaled by the subject.

FIG. 36 illustrates anoperational flow3600 representing example operations related to maintaining a hands-free article for dispensing an inhalable compound according to a dosing instruction set, where the hands-free article is maintained in an operable dispensing position.FIG. 36 illustrates an example embodiment where the exampleoperational flow200 ofFIG. 2 may include at least one additional operation. Additional operations may include anoperation3610.

After a start operation, anoperation210, and anoperation220, theoperational flow3600 moves to anoperation3610.Operation3610 illustrates dispensing a dose of a pharmaceutical compound. For example, as shown inFIGS. 1A through 1H, thecollar100 may be utilized to dispense adose158 of a pharmaceutical compound178 to the subject102.

FIG. 37 illustrates anoperational flow3700 representing example operations related to maintaining a hands-free article for dispensing an inhalable compound according to a dosing instruction set, where the hands-free article is maintained in an operable dispensing position.FIG. 37 illustrates an example embodiment where the exampleoperational flow200 ofFIG. 2 may include at least one additional operation. Additional operations may include anoperation3710.

After a start operation, anoperation210, and anoperation220, theoperational flow3700 moves to anoperation3710.Operation3710 illustrates directing issuance of a dispensing order. For example, as shown inFIGS. 1A through 1H, theprocessor156 may direct issuance of a dispensing order (e.g., to the pump160).

FIG. 38 illustrates alternative embodiments of the exampleoperational flow200 ofFIG. 2.FIG. 38 illustrates example embodiments where theoperation210 may include at least one additional operation. Additional operations may include anoperation3802, anoperation3804, and/or anoperation3806. Further, theoperation3802 illustrates accepting a dosing instruction set from a user. For example, as shown inFIGS. 1A through 1H, theinterface164 may be utilized to receive a dosing instruction set from a user166. Further, theoperation3804 illustrates accepting a dosing instruction set from at least one of a physician, a health care provider, a physician's assistant, a nurse, a nurse practitioner, a registered nurse, a licensed practical nurse, a pharmacist, or an emergency responder. For example, as shown inFIGS. 1A through 1H, theinterface164 may be utilized to receive a dosing instruction set from aphysician168. Further, theoperation3806 illustrates accepting a dosing instruction set from a medical response unit. For example, as shown inFIGS. 1A through 1H, theinterface164 may be utilized to receive a dosing instruction set from amedical response unit192.

FIG. 39 illustrates alternative embodiments of the exampleoperational flow200 ofFIG. 2.FIG. 39 illustrates example embodiments where theoperation210 may include at least one additional operation. Additional operations may include anoperation3902, anoperation3904, and/or anoperation3906. Further, theoperation3902 illustrates validating a dosing instruction set for performing a function. For example, as shown inFIGS. 1A through 1H, theprocessor156 may be utilized to validate a dosing instruction set (e.g., by check the dosing instruction set against information stored in the memory154). Further, theoperation3904 illustrates translating a dosing instruction set for performing a function into a dispensing order. For example, as shown inFIGS. 1A through 1H, theprocessor156 may be utilized to translate a dosing instruction set into a dispensing order (e.g., by referencing the dosing instruction set to a lookup table stored in the memory154). Further, theoperation3906 illustrates translating a medical parameter into a dispensing order. For example, as shown inFIGS. 1A through 1H, theprocessor156 may be utilized to translate a medical parameter into a dispensing order (e.g., by referencing the medical parameter to a lookup table stored in the memory154).

FIG. 40 illustrates alternative embodiments of the exampleoperational flow200 ofFIG. 2.FIG. 40 illustrates example embodiments where theoperation210 may include at least one additional operation. Additional operations may include anoperation4002, anoperation4004, and/or anoperation4006. Further, theoperation4002 illustrates generating a dispensing order according to the instruction set from a user. For example, as shown inFIGS. 1A through 1H, theprocessor156 may be utilized to generate a dispensing order according to an instruction set from a user166 stored in thememory154. Further, theoperation4004 illustrates generating a dispensing order according to the instruction set from a health care professional. For example, as shown inFIGS. 1A through 1H, theprocessor156 may be utilized to generate a dispensing order according to an instruction set from aphysician168 stored in thememory154. Further, theoperation4006 illustrates generating a dispensing order according to the instruction set from a medical response unit. For example, as shown inFIGS. 1A through 1H, theprocessor156 may be utilized to generate a dispensing order according to an instruction set from amedical response unit192 stored in thememory154.

FIG. 41 illustrates alternative embodiments of the exampleoperational flow200 ofFIG. 2.FIG. 41 illustrates example embodiments where theoperation210 may include at least one additional operation. Additional operations may include anoperation4102. Further, theoperation4102 illustrates requesting a dose of the inhalable compound in accordance with a dispensing order received by a dispensing module from a reservoir. For example, as shown inFIGS. 1A through 1H, thedispensing module128 may receive a request from thereservoir180 for a dose of thecompound104.

FIG. 42 illustrates anoperational flow4200 representing example operations related to maintaining a hands-free article for dispensing an inhalable compound according to a dosing instruction set, where the hands-free article is maintained in an operable dispensing position.FIG. 42 illustrates an example embodiment where the exampleoperational flow200 ofFIG. 2 may include at least one additional operation. Additional operations may include anoperation4210.

After a start operation, anoperation210, and anoperation220, theoperational flow4200 moves to anoperation4210.Operation4210 illustrates transmitting a dispensing order to a dispensing module. For example, as shown inFIGS. 1A through 1H, theprocessor156 may transmit a dispensing order to the dispensing module128 (e.g., to the reservoir180).

FIG. 43 illustrates anoperational flow4300 representing example operations related to maintaining a hands-free article for dispensing an inhalable compound according to a dosing instruction set, where the hands-free article is maintained in an operable dispensing position.FIG. 43 illustrates an example embodiment where the exampleoperational flow200 ofFIG. 2 may include at least one additional operation. Additional operations may include anoperation4310.

After a start operation, anoperation210, and anoperation220, theoperational flow4300 moves to anoperation4310.Operation4310 illustrates transmitting a dispensing order to a dispensing module via a wireless transmission. For example, as shown inFIGS. 1A through 1H, thedispensing module128 may receive a dispensing order from aphysician168 via a wireless transmission received by theinterface164.

FIG. 44 illustrates anoperational flow4400 representing example operations related to maintaining a hands-free article for dispensing an inhalable compound according to a dosing instruction set, where the hands-free article is maintained in an operable dispensing position.FIG. 44 illustrates an example embodiment where the exampleoperational flow200 ofFIG. 2 may include at least one additional operation. Additional operations may include anoperation4410.

After a start operation, anoperation210, and anoperation220, theoperational flow4400 moves to anoperation4410.Operation4410 illustrates transmitting a dispensing order to a dispensing module via an optical transmission. For example, as shown inFIGS. 1A through 1H, thedispensing module128 may receive a dispensing order from aphysician168 via an optical transmission received by theinterface164.

FIG. 45 illustrates anoperational flow4500 representing example operations related to maintaining a hands-free article for dispensing an inhalable compound according to a dosing instruction set, where the hands-free article is maintained in an operable dispensing position.FIG. 45 illustrates an example embodiment where the exampleoperational flow200 ofFIG. 2 may include at least one additional operation. Additional operations may include anoperation4510.

After a start operation, anoperation210, and anoperation220, theoperational flow4500 moves to anoperation4510.Operation4510 illustrates transmitting a dispensing order to a dispensing module via a wire transmission. For example, as shown inFIGS. 1A through 1H, thedispensing module128 may receive a dispensing order from aphysician168 via an wire transmission received by theinterface164.

FIG. 46 illustrates anoperational flow4600 representing example operations related to maintaining a hands-free article for dispensing an inhalable compound according to a dosing instruction set, where the hands-free article is maintained in an operable dispensing position.FIG. 46 illustrates an example embodiment where the exampleoperational flow200 ofFIG. 2 may include at least one additional operation. Additional operations may include anoperation4610.

After a start operation, anoperation210, and anoperation220, theoperational flow4600 moves to anoperation4610.Operation4610 illustrates transmitting a dispensing order to a dispensing module via a mechanical transmission. For example, as shown inFIGS. 1A through 1H, thedispensing module128 may receive a dispensing order from aphysician168 via a mechanical transmission received by theinterface164.

FIG. 47 illustrates anoperational flow4700 representing example operations related to maintaining a hands-free article for dispensing an inhalable compound according to a dosing instruction set, where the hands-free article is maintained in an operable dispensing position.FIG. 47 illustrates an example embodiment where the exampleoperational flow200 ofFIG. 2 may include at least one additional operation. Additional operations may include anoperation4710.

After a start operation, anoperation210, and anoperation220, theoperational flow4700 moves to anoperation4710.Operation4710 illustrates transmitting a dispensing order to a dispensing module via a radio transmission. For example, as shown inFIGS. 1A through 1H, thedispensing module128 may receive a dispensing order from aphysician168 via a radio transmission received by theinterface164.

FIG. 48 illustrates anoperational flow4800 representing example operations related to maintaining a hands-free article for dispensing an inhalable compound according to a dosing instruction set, where the hands-free article is maintained in an operable dispensing position.FIG. 48 illustrates an example embodiment where the exampleoperational flow200 ofFIG. 2 may include at least one additional operation. Additional operations may include anoperation4810.

After a start operation, anoperation210, and anoperation220, theoperational flow4800 moves to anoperation4810.Operation4810 illustrates transmitting a dispensing order to a dispensing module via a processor transmission. For example, as shown inFIGS. 1A through 1H, thedispensing module128 may receive a dispensing order from theprocessor156.

FIG. 49 illustrates anoperational flow4900 representing example operations related to maintaining a hands-free article for dispensing an inhalable compound according to a dosing instruction set, where the hands-free article is maintained in an operable dispensing position.FIG. 49 illustrates an example embodiment where the exampleoperational flow200 ofFIG. 2 may include at least one additional operation. Additional operations may include anoperation4910, anoperation4912, anoperation4914, and/or anoperation4916.

After a start operation, anoperation210, and anoperation220, theoperational flow4900 moves to anoperation4910.Operation4910 illustrates controlling delivery of an inhalable compound. For example, as shown inFIGS. 1A through 1H, thedemand valve152 may be utilized to control delivery of thecompound104.

Theoperation4912 illustrates selecting one or more delivery nozzles from a suite of nozzles. For example, as shown inFIGS. 1A through 1H, thesecond nozzle150 may be selected from the suite ofnozzles148.

Theoperation4914 illustrates directing delivery of the inhalable compound from one or more nozzles at different locations. For example, as shown inFIGS. 1A through 1H, thecompound104 may be delivered from thefirst nozzle130 or thesecond nozzle150.

Theoperation4916 illustrates directing delivery of the inhalable compound by controlling a discharge direction. For example, as shown inFIGS. 1A through 1H, the direction of the subject'snose132 may be calculated. Then, a discharge direction for thedispensing module128 may be controlled for optimizing delivery of thecompound104.

FIG. 50 illustrates alternative embodiments of the exampleoperational flow4900 ofFIG. 49.FIG. 50 illustrates example embodiments where theoperation4910 may include at least one additional operation. Additional operations may include anoperation5002, anoperation5004, and/or anoperation5006.

Theoperation5002 illustrates directing delivery via a demand valve coupled with programmable dosing. For example, as shown inFIGS. 1A through 1H, thedemand valve152 may be operatively configured to dispense thecompound104 in accordance with a dosing schedule stored in thememory154.

Theoperation5004 illustrates directing delivery via a charged particle dispersion. For example, as shown inFIGS. 1A through 1H, thedispensing module128 may dispense thecompound104 as a charged particle dispersion.

Theoperation5006 illustrates directing delivery via a nozzle comprising variable discharge characteristics. For example, as shown inFIGS. 1A through 1H, thefirst nozzle130, thesecond nozzle150, or the suite ofnozzles148 may include nozzles having variable discharge characteristics, such as directional, volumetric, spray area, or other characteristics.

FIG. 51 illustrates alternative embodiments of the exampleoperational flow200 ofFIG. 2.FIG. 51 illustrates example embodiments where theoperation220 may include at least one additional operation. Additional operations may include anoperation5102, anoperation5104, and/or anoperation5106.

Theoperation5102 illustrates orienting a dispensing module to optimize respiratory receipt of an inhalable compound. For example, as shown inFIGS. 1A through 1H, thedispensing module128 may be maintained in an optimal position for optimizing delivery of thecompound104 to the subject102.

Theoperation5104 illustrates maintaining a dispensing module in position to optimize respiratory receipt of an inhalable compound. For example, as shown inFIGS. 1A through 1H, the orientation of thenozzle130 may be maintained in the direction determined for the subject'snose132.

Theoperation5106 illustrates determining a relative position or direction to a desired respiratory target. For example, as shown inFIGS. 1A through 1H, the direction to the subject'snose132 may be calculated.

FIG. 52 illustrates alternative embodiments of the exampleoperational flow200 ofFIG. 2.FIG. 52 illustrates example embodiments where theoperation220 may include at least one additional operation. Additional operations may include anoperation5202, anoperation5204, and/or anoperation5206.

Theoperation5202 illustrates maintaining a position of the dispensing module via a weight. For example, as shown inFIGS. 1A through 1H, the position of thedispensing module128 may be maintained via aweight136.

Theoperation5204 illustrates maintaining a position of the dispensing module via an adhesive. For example, as shown inFIGS. 1A through 1H, the position of the dispensing module may be maintained via an adhesive138.

Theoperation5206 illustrates maintaining a position of the dispensing module via a slide. For example, as shown inFIGS. 1A through 1H, the position of thedispensing module128 may be maintained via aslide140.

FIG. 53 illustrates alternative embodiments of the exampleoperational flow200 ofFIG. 2.FIG. 53 illustrates example embodiments where theoperation220 may include at least one additional operation. Additional operations may include anoperation5302, anoperation5304, and/or anoperation5306.

Theoperation5302 illustrates maintaining a position of the dispensing module via a magnet. For example, as shown inFIGS. 1A through 1H, the position of thedispensing module128 may be maintained via amagnet142.

Theoperation5304 illustrates maintaining a position of the dispensing module via a fastener. For example, as shown inFIGS. 1A through 1H, the position of thedispensing module128 may be maintained via a fastener144 (e.g., a button or a snap).

Theoperation5306 illustrates maintaining a position of the dispensing module via a spring. For example, as shown inFIGS. 1A through1H, the position of thedispensing module128 may be maintained via aspring146.

FIG. 54 illustrates anoperational flow5400 representing example operations related to maintaining a hands-free article for dispensing an inhalable compound according to a dosing instruction set, where the hands-free article is maintained in an operable dispensing position.FIG. 54 illustrates an example embodiment where the exampleoperational flow200 ofFIG. 2 may include at least one additional operation. Additional operations may include anoperation5410, anoperation5412, anoperation5414, and/or anoperation5416.

After a start operation, anoperation210, and anoperation220, theoperational flow5400 moves to anoperation5410.Operation5410 illustrates dispensing a tracer compound in association with the inhalable compound. For example, as shown inFIGS. 1A through 1H, thecompound104 may comprise an inhalable compound52 and one or more tracer compounds.

Theoperation5412 illustrates dispensing a visual tracer compound. For example, as shown inFIGS. 1A through 1H, thecompound104 may include avisual tracer54.

Theoperation5414 illustrates dispensing an olfactory tracer compound. For example, as shown inFIGS. 1A through 1H, thecompound104 may include anolfactory tracer56.

Theoperation5416 illustrates dispensing a tastable tracer compound. For example, as shown inFIGS. 1A through 1H, thecompound104 may include atastable tracer58.

FIG. 55 illustrates anoperational flow5500 representing example operations related to maintaining a hands-free article for dispensing an inhalable compound according to a dosing instruction set, where the hands-free article is maintained in an operable dispensing position.FIG. 55 illustrates an example embodiment where the exampleoperational flow200 ofFIG. 2 may include at least one additional operation. Additional operations may include anoperation5510, anoperation5512, anoperation5514, anoperation5516, and/or anoperation5518.

After a start operation, anoperation210, and anoperation220, theoperational flow5500 moves to anoperation5510.Operation5510 illustrates providing an externally observable indication of dispensing of the inhalable compound. For example, as shown inFIGS. 1A through 1H, thecollar100 may include avisual indicator196 for indicating dispensing of the inhalable compound.

Theoperation5512 illustrates providing a visual indication of dispensing of the inhalable compound. For example, as shown inFIGS. 1A through 1H, thecollar100 may include thevisual indicator196 for indicating dispensing of the inhalable compound.

Theoperation5514 illustrates providing a auditory indication of dispensing of the inhalable compound. For example, as shown inFIGS. 1A through 1H, thecollar100 may include anaudible indicator198.

Theoperation5516 illustrates providing a vibrational indication of dispensing of the inhalable compound. For example, as shown inFIGS. 1A through 1H, thecollar100 may include avibrational indicator60.

Theoperation5518 illustrates providing an electromagnetic indication of dispensing of the inhalable compound. For example, as shown inFIGS. 1A through 1H, thecollar100 may include anelectromagnetic indicator62.

FIG. 56 illustrates anoperational flow5600 representing example operations related to maintaining a hands-free article for dispensing an inhalable compound according to a dosing instruction set, where the hands-free article is maintained in an operable dispensing position. InFIG. 56 and in following figures that include various examples of operational flows, discussion and explanation may be provided with respect to the above-described examples ofFIGS. 1A through 1H, and/or with respect to other examples and contexts. However, it should be understood that the operational flows may be executed in a number of other environments and contexts, and/or in modified versions ofFIGS. 1A through 1H. Also, although the various operational flows are presented in the sequence(s) illustrated, it should be understood that the various operations may be performed in other orders than those which are illustrated, or may be performed concurrently.

After a start operation, theoperational flow5600 moves to anoperation5610.Operation5610 depicts dispensing for inhalation by a user a dose of an inhalable compound according to a dosing instruction set. For example, as shown inFIGS. 1A through 1H, thecollar100 may dispense adose158 of acompound104 according to a dosing instruction set stored in amemory154.

Then,operation5620 depicts maintaining in physical association with the user a hands-free article for dispensing an inhalable compound in an operable dispensing position. For example, as shown inFIGS. 1A through 1H, thecollar100 may be maintained in an operable dispensing position with an adhesive138.

Then,operation5630 depicts receiving the dose of the inhalable compound for dispensing. For example, as shown inFIGS. 1A through 1H, thecompound104 may be received via thereservoir180.

FIG. 57 illustrates anoperational flow5700 representing example operations related to maintaining a hands-free article for dispensing an inhalable compound according to a dosing instruction set, where the hands-free article is maintained in an operable dispensing position. InFIG. 57 and in following figures that include various examples of operational flows, discussion and explanation may be provided with respect to the above-described examples ofFIGS. 1A through 1H, and/or with respect to other examples and contexts. However, it should be understood that the operational flows may be executed in a number of other environments and contexts, and/or in modified versions ofFIGS. 1A through 1H. Also, although the various operational flows are presented in the sequence(s) illustrated, it should be understood that the various operations may be performed in other orders than those which are illustrated, or may be performed concurrently.

After a start operation, theoperational flow5700 moves to anoperation5710.Operation5710 depicts dispensing for inhalation by a user a dose of an inhalable compound according to a dosing instruction set. For example, as shown inFIGS. 1A through 1H, thecollar100 may dispense adose158 of acompound104 according to a dosing instruction set stored in amemory154.

Then,operation5720 depicts maintaining in physical association with the user a hands-free article for dispensing an inhalable compound in an operable dispensing position. For example, as shown inFIGS. 1A through 1H, thecollar100 may be maintained in an operable dispensing position with an adhesive138.

Then,operation5730 depicts receiving the inhalable compound. For example, as shown inFIGS. 1A through 1H, thecompound104 may be received via thereservoir180.

FIG. 58 illustrates anoperational flow5800 representing example operations related to maintaining a hands-free article for dispensing an inhalable compound according to a dosing instruction set, where the hands-free article is maintained in an operable dispensing position.FIG. 58 illustrates an example embodiment where the exampleoperational flow5700 ofFIG. 57 may include at least one additional operation. Additional operations may include anoperation5810.

After a start operation, anoperation5710, anoperation5720, and anoperation5730, theoperational flow5800 moves to anoperation5810.Operation5810 illustrates containing the inhalable compound in a reservoir. For example, as shown inFIGS. 1A through 1H, thecompound104 may be contained in thereservoir180.

FIG. 59 illustrates anoperational flow5900 representing example operations related to maintaining a hands-free article for dispensing an inhalable compound according to a dosing instruction set, where the hands-free article is maintained in an operable dispensing position. InFIG. 59 and in following figures that include various examples of operational flows, discussion and explanation may be provided with respect to the above-described examples ofFIGS. 1A through 1H, and/or with respect to other examples and contexts. However, it should be understood that the operational flows may be executed in a number of other environments and contexts, and/or in modified versions ofFIGS. 1A through 1H. Also, although the various operational flows are presented in the sequence(s) illustrated, it should be understood that the various operations may be performed in other orders than those which are illustrated, or may be performed concurrently.

After a start operation, theoperational flow5900 moves to anoperation5910.Operation5910 depicts dispensing for inhalation by a user a dose of an inhalable compound according to a dosing instruction set. For example, as shown inFIGS. 1A through 1H, thecollar100 may dispense adose158 of acompound104 according to a dosing instruction set stored in amemory154.

Then,operation5920 depicts maintaining in physical association with the user a hands-free article for dispensing an inhalable compound in an operable dispensing position. For example, as shown inFIGS. 1A through 1H, thecollar100 may be maintained in an operable dispensing position with an adhesive138.

Then,operation5930 depicts supporting a hands-free aerosol delivery system on the body of a mammal. For example, as shown inFIGS. 1A through 1H, thecollar100 may be supported on the body of the subject102.

FIG. 60 illustrates anoperational flow6000 representing example operations related to maintaining a hands-free article for dispensing an inhalable compound according to a dosing instruction set, where the hands-free article is maintained in an operable dispensing position. InFIG. 60 and in following figures that include various examples of operational flows, discussion and explanation may be provided with respect to the above-described examples ofFIGS. 1A through 1H, and/or with respect to other examples and contexts. However, it should be understood that the operational flows may be executed in a number of other environments and contexts, and/or in modified versions ofFIGS. 1A through 1H. Also, although the various operational flows are presented in the sequence(s) illustrated, it should be understood that the various operations may be performed in other orders than those which are illustrated, or may be performed concurrently.

After a start operation, theoperational flow6000 moves to anoperation6010.Operation6010 depicts detecting a medical condition parameter of a mammal according to a medical condition parameter request. For example, as shown inFIGS. 1A through 1H, thecollar100 may utilize asensor module170 to detect a medical condition parameter for the subject102 according to a request from aphysician168. The request may be received via theinterface164 and then transferred to thesensor module170 via theprocessor156.

Then,operation6020 depicts maintaining in physical association with a user a hands-free article for dispensing an inhalable compound in an operable dispensing position. For example, as shown inFIGS. 1A through 1H, thecollar100 may be maintained in an operable dispensing position with an adhesive138.

Then,operation6030 depicts dispensing for inhalation by the user a dose of an inhalable compound according to a dosing instruction set. For example, as shown inFIGS. 1A through 1H, thecollar100 may dispense adose158 of acompound104 according to a dosing instruction set stored in amemory154.

FIG. 61 illustrates anoperational flow6100 representing example operations related to maintaining a hands-free article for dispensing an inhalable compound according to a dosing instruction set, where the hands-free article is maintained in an operable dispensing position.FIG. 61 illustrates an example embodiment where the exampleoperational flow6000 ofFIG. 60 may include at least one additional operation. Additional operations may include anoperation6110.

After a start operation, anoperation6010, anoperation6020, and anoperation6030, theoperational flow6100 moves to anoperation6110.Operation6110 illustrates recording the detected medical condition parameter data. It will be appreciated that a sleep state may be included as a medical condition. For example, as shown inFIGS. 1A through 1H, the detected medical condition data may be recorded to thememory154.

FIG. 62 illustrates anoperational flow6200 representing example operations related to maintaining a hands-free article for dispensing an inhalable compound according to a dosing instruction set, where the hands-free article is maintained in an operable dispensing position.FIG. 62 illustrates an example embodiment where the exampleoperational flow6000 ofFIG. 60 may include at least one additional operation. Additional operations may include anoperation6210, anoperation6212, and/or anoperation6214.

After a start operation, anoperation6010, anoperation6020, and anoperation6030, theoperational flow6200 moves to anoperation6210.Operation6210 illustrates transferring the detected medical condition parameter data. For example, as shown inFIGS. 1A through 1H, the detected medical condition data stored in thememory154 may be transferred to aflash drive64.

Theoperation6212 illustrates transferring the detected medical condition parameter data to a flash drive. For example, as shown inFIGS. 1A through 1H, the detected medical condition data stored in thememory154 may be transferred to aflash drive64.

Theoperation6214 illustrates transferring the detected medical condition parameter data to a hard drive. For example, as shown inFIGS. 1A through 1H, the detected medical condition data stored in thememory154 may be transferred to ahard drive66.

FIG. 63 illustrates alternative embodiments of the exampleoperational flow6200 ofFIG. 62.FIG. 63 illustrates example embodiments where theoperation6210 may include at least one additional operation. Additional operations may include anoperation6302.

Theoperation6302 illustrates downloading the detected medical condition parameter data to a RAM. For example, as shown inFIGS. 1A through 1H, the detected medical condition data stored in thememory154 may be downloaded to a random access memory (RAM)68. In an embodiment, the detected medical condition data may be transmitted to a processor (e.g., processor156). In an embodiment, the detected medical condition may be transmitted to an external site (e.g., the medical response unit192).

FIG. 64 illustrates alternative embodiments of the exampleoperational flow6200 ofFIG. 62.FIG. 64 illustrates example embodiments where theoperation6210 may include at least one additional operation. Additional operations may include anoperation6402, and/or anoperation6404.

Theoperation6402 illustrates transmitting the detected medical condition parameter to a dispensing module. For example, as shown inFIGS. 1A through 1H, the detected medical condition data stored in thememory154 may be transmitted to thedispensing module128. Further, theoperation6404 illustrates transmitting the detected medical condition parameter to a dispensing module via a wireless transmission. For example, as shown inFIGS. 1A through 1H, the detected medical condition data stored in thememory154 may be transmitted to thedispensing module128 wirelessly.

FIG. 65 illustrates alternative embodiments of the exampleoperational flow6200 ofFIG. 62.FIG. 65 illustrates example embodiments where theoperation6210 may include at least one additional operation. Additional operations may include anoperation6502. Further, theoperation6502 illustrates transmitting the detected medical condition parameter to a dispensing module via a wire transmission. For example, as shown inFIGS. 1A through 1H, the detected medical condition data stored in thememory154 may be transmitted to thedispensing module128 via a wired connection.

FIG. 66 illustrates alternative embodiments of the exampleoperational flow6200 ofFIG. 62.FIG. 66 illustrates example embodiments where theoperation6210 may include at least one additional operation. Additional operations may include anoperation6602. Further, theoperation6602 illustrates transmitting the detected medical condition parameter to a dispensing module via a radio transmission. For example, as shown inFIGS. 1A through 1H, the detected medical condition data stored in thememory154 may be transmitted to thedispensing module128 via a radio signal.

FIG. 67 illustrates alternative embodiments of the exampleoperational flow6200 ofFIG. 62.FIG. 67 illustrates example embodiments where theoperation6210 may include at least one additional operation. Additional operations may include anoperation6702. Further, theoperation6702 illustrates transmitting the detected medical condition parameter to a dispensing module via an optical transmission. For example, as shown inFIGS. 1A through 1H, the detected medical condition data stored in thememory154 may be transmitted to thedispensing module128 via an optical transmission.

FIG. 68 illustrates alternative embodiments of the exampleoperational flow6200 ofFIG. 62.FIG. 68 illustrates example embodiments where theoperation6210 may include at least one additional operation. Additional operations may include anoperation6802. Further, theoperation6802 illustrates transmitting the detected medical condition parameter to a dispensing module via a mechanical transmission. For example, as shown inFIGS. 1A through 1H, the detected medical condition data stored in thememory154 may be transmitted to thedispensing module128 via a mechanical transmission.

In an embodiment, thecollar100 may include a metered dose inhaler for delivering a metered dosage of an inhaled bronchodilator when thesensor module170 detects a condition (e.g., an asthmatic incident including narrowing of the subject's airways) or a symptom indicative of a condition (e.g., narrowing of the subject's airways, wheezing, or decreased exhalation volume). In an embodiment, thesensor module170 transmits the detected condition or symptom to theprocessor156. Theprocessor156 utilizes information stored in thememory154 to determine the most appropriate course of action for the detected condition/symptom. For example, thememory154 may include instructions for dispensing (e.g., via the dispensing module128) a metered dose of the inhaled bronchodilator (which is stored in reservoir180) when the incident is detected. In an embodiment, thememory154 includes instructions for subsequent administration of the bronchodilator at some time after the initial condition/symptom is detected (e.g., in the case of a late-phase allergic reaction). Thememory154 may also include instructions for activating avisual indicator196 so that the subject102 or an observer may be alerted to the subject's condition.

Those having skill in the art will recognize that the state of the art has progressed to the point where there is little distinction left between hardware, software, and/or firmware implementations of aspects of systems; the use of hardware, software, and/or firmware is generally (but not always, in that in certain contexts the choice between hardware and software can become significant) a design choice representing cost vs. efficiency tradeoffs. Those having skill in the art will appreciate that there are various vehicles by which processes and/or systems and/or other technologies described herein can be effected (e.g., hardware, software, and/or firmware), and that the preferred vehicle will vary with the context in which the processes and/or systems and/or other technologies are deployed. For example, if an implementer determines that speed and accuracy are paramount, the implementer may opt for a mainly hardware and/or firmware vehicle; alternatively, if flexibility is paramount, the implementer may opt for a mainly software implementation; or, yet again alternatively, the implementer may opt for some combination of hardware, software, and/or firmware. Hence, there are several possible vehicles by which the processes and/or devices and/or other technologies described herein may be effected, none of which is inherently superior to the other in that any vehicle to be utilized is a choice dependent upon the context in which the vehicle will be deployed and the specific concerns (e.g., speed, flexibility, or predictability) of the implementer, any of which may vary. Those skilled in the art will recognize that optical aspects of implementations will typically employ optically-oriented hardware, software, and or firmware.

In some implementations described herein, Logic and similar implementations may include software or other control structures. Electronic circuitry, for example, may have one or more paths of electrical current constructed and arranged to implement various functions as described herein. In some implementations, one or more media may be configured to bear a device-detectable implementation when such media hold or transmit device detectable instructions operable to perform as described herein. In some variants, for example, implementations may include an update or modification of existing software or firmware, or of gate arrays or programmable hardware, such as by performing a reception of or a transmission of one or more instructions in relation to one or more operations described herein. Alternatively or additionally, in some variants, an implementation may include special-purpose hardware, software, firmware components, and/or general-purpose components executing or otherwise invoking special-purpose components. Specifications or other implementations may be transmitted by one or more instances of tangible transmission media as described herein, optionally by packet transmission or otherwise by passing through distributed media at various times.

Alternatively or additionally, implementations may include executing a special-purpose instruction sequence or invoking circuitry for enabling, triggering, coordinating, requesting, or otherwise causing one or more occurrences of virtually any functional operations described herein. In some variants, operational or other logical descriptions herein may be expressed as source code and compiled or otherwise invoked as an executable instruction sequence. In some contexts, for example, implementations may be provided, in whole or in part, by source code, such as C++, or other code sequences. In other implementations, source or other code implementation, using commercially available and/or techniques in the art, may be compiled/implemented/translated/converted into a high-level descriptor language (e.g., initially implementing described technologies in C or C++ programming language and thereafter converting the programming language implementation into a logic-synthesizable language implementation, a hardware description language implementation, a hardware design simulation implementation, and/or other such similar mode(s) of expression). For example, some or all of a logical expression (e.g., computer programming language implementation) may be manifested as a Verilog-type hardware description (e.g., via Hardware Description Language (HDL) and/or Very High Speed Integrated Circuit Hardware Descriptor Language (VHDL)) or other circuitry model which may then be used to create a physical implementation having hardware (e.g., an Application Specific Integrated Circuit). Those skilled in the art will recognize how to obtain, configure, and optimize suitable transmission or computational elements, material supplies, actuators, or other structures in light of these teachings.

The foregoing detailed description has set forth various embodiments of the devices and/or processes via the use of block diagrams, flowcharts, and/or examples. Insofar as such block diagrams, flowcharts, and/or examples contain one or more functions and/or operations, it will be understood by those within the art that each function and/or operation within such block diagrams, flowcharts, or examples can be implemented, individually and/or collectively, by a wide range of hardware, software, firmware, or virtually any combination thereof. In one embodiment, several portions of the subject matter described herein may be implemented via Application Specific Integrated Circuits (ASICs), Field Programmable Gate Arrays (FPGAs), digital signal processors (DSPs), or other integrated formats. However, those skilled in the art will recognize that some aspects of the embodiments disclosed herein, in whole or in part, can be equivalently implemented in integrated circuits, as one or more computer programs running on one or more computers (e.g., as one or more programs running on one or more computer systems), as one or more programs running on one or more processors (e.g., as one or more programs running on one or more microprocessors), as firmware, or as virtually any combination thereof, and that designing the circuitry and/or writing the code for the software and or firmware would be well within the skill of one of skill in the art in light of this disclosure. In addition, those skilled in the art will appreciate that the mechanisms of the subject matter described herein are capable of being distributed as a program product in a variety of forms, and that an illustrative embodiment of the subject matter described herein applies regardless of the particular type of signal bearing medium used to actually carry out the distribution. Examples of a signal bearing medium include, but are not limited to, the following: a recordable type medium such as a floppy disk, a hard disk drive, a Compact Disc (CD), a Digital Video Disk (DVD), a digital tape, a computer memory, etc.; and a transmission type medium such as a digital and/or an analog communication medium (e.g., a fiber optic cable, a waveguide, a wired communications link, a wireless communication link (e.g., transmitter, receiver, transmission logic, reception logic, etc.), etc.).

In a general sense, those skilled in the art will recognize that the various embodiments described herein can be implemented, individually and/or collectively, by various types of electro-mechanical systems having a wide range of electrical components such as hardware, software, firmware, and/or virtually any combination thereof; and a wide range of components that may impart mechanical force or motion such as rigid bodies, spring or torsional bodies, hydraulics, electro-magnetically actuated devices, and/or virtually any combination thereof. Consequently, as used herein “electro-mechanical system” includes, but is not limited to, electrical circuitry operably coupled with a transducer (e.g., an actuator, a motor, a piezoelectric crystal, a Micro Electro Mechanical System (MEMS), etc.), electrical circuitry having at least one discrete electrical circuit, electrical circuitry having at least one integrated circuit, electrical circuitry having at least one application specific integrated circuit, electrical circuitry forming a general purpose computing device configured by a computer program (e.g., a general purpose computer configured by a computer program which at least partially carries out processes and/or devices described herein, or a microprocessor configured by a computer program which at least partially carries out processes and/or devices described herein), electrical circuitry forming a memory device (e.g., forms of memory (e.g., random access, flash, read only, etc.)), electrical circuitry forming a communications device (e.g., a modem, communications switch, optical-electrical equipment, etc.), and/or any non-electrical analog thereto, such as optical or other analogs. Those skilled in the art will also appreciate that examples of electro-mechanical systems include but are not limited to a variety of consumer electronics systems, medical devices, as well as other systems such as motorized transport systems, factory automation systems, security systems, and/or communication/computing systems. Those skilled in the art will recognize that electro-mechanical as used herein is not necessarily limited to a system that has both electrical and mechanical actuation except as context may dictate otherwise.

In a general sense, those skilled in the art will recognize that the various aspects described herein which can be implemented, individually and/or collectively, by a wide range of hardware, software, firmware, and/or any combination thereof can be viewed as being composed of various types of “electrical circuitry.” Consequently, as used herein “electrical circuitry” includes, but is not limited to, electrical circuitry having at least one discrete electrical circuit, electrical circuitry having at least one integrated circuit, electrical circuitry having at least one application specific integrated circuit, electrical circuitry forming a general purpose computing device configured by a computer program (e.g., a general purpose computer configured by a computer program which at least partially carries out processes and/or devices described herein, or a microprocessor configured by a computer program which at least partially carries out processes and/or devices described herein), electrical circuitry forming a memory device (e.g., forms of memory (e.g., random access, flash, read only, etc.)), and/or electrical circuitry forming a communications device (e.g., a modem, communications switch, optical-electrical equipment, etc.). Those having skill in the art will recognize that the subject matter described herein may be implemented in an analog or digital fashion or some combination thereof.

Those skilled in the art wilt recognize that at least a portion of the devices and/or processes described herein can be integrated into a data processing system. Those having skill in the art wilt recognize that a data processing system generally includes one or more of a system unit housing, a video display device, memory such as volatile or non-volatile memory, processors such as microprocessors or digital signal processors, computational entities such as operating systems, drivers, graphical user interfaces, and applications programs, one or more interaction devices (e.g., a touch pad, a touch screen, an antenna, etc.), and/or control systems including feedback Loops and control motors (e.g., feedback for sensing position and/or velocity; control motors for moving and/or adjusting components and/or quantities). A data processing system may be implemented utilizing suitable commercially available components, such as those typically found in data computing/communication and/or network computing/communication systems.

All of the above U.S. patents, U.S. patent application publications, U.S. patent applications, foreign patents, foreign patent applications and non-patent publications referred to in this specification and/or listed in any Application Data Sheet, are incorporated herein by reference, to the extent not inconsistent herewith.

One skilled in the art will recognize that the herein described components (e.g., operations), devices, objects, and the discussion accompanying them are used as examples for the sake of conceptual clarity and that various configuration modifications are contemplated. Consequently, as used herein, the specific exemplars set forth and the accompanying discussion are intended to be representative of their more general classes. In general, use of any specific exemplar is intended to be representative of its class, and the non-inclusion of specific components (e.g., operations), devices, and objects should not be taken limiting.

Although user166 is shown/described herein as a single illustrated figure, those skilled in the art will appreciate that user166 may be representative of a human user, a robotic user (e.g., computational entity), and/or substantially any combination thereof (e.g., a user may be assisted by one or more robotic agents) unless context dictates otherwise. Those skilled in the art will appreciate that, in general, the same may be said of “sender” and/or other entity-oriented terms as such terms are used herein unless context dictates otherwise.

With respect to the use of substantially any plural and/or singular terms herein, those having skill in the art can translate from the plural to the singular and/or from the singular to the plural as is appropriate to the context and/or application. The various singular/plural permutations are not expressly set forth herein for sake of clarity.

The herein described subject matter sometimes illustrates different components contained within, or connected with, different other components. It is to be understood that such depicted architectures are merely exemplary, and that in fact many other architectures may be implemented which achieve the same functionality. In a conceptual sense, any arrangement of components to achieve the same functionality is effectively “associated” such that the desired functionality is achieved. Hence, any two components herein combined to achieve a particular functionality can be seen as “associated with” each other such that the desired functionality is achieved, irrespective of architectures or intermedial components. Likewise, any two components so associated can also be viewed as being “operably connected”, or “operably coupled,” to each other to achieve the desired functionality, and any two components capable of being so associated can also be viewed as being “operably couplable,” to each other to achieve the desired functionality. Specific examples of operably couplable include but are not limited to physically mateable and/or physically interacting components, and/or wirelessly interactable, and/or wirelessly interacting components, and/or logically interacting, and/or logically interactable components.

In some instances, one or more components may be referred to herein as “configured to,” “configurable to,” “operable/operative to,” “adapted/adaptable,” “able to,” “conformable/conformed to,” etc. Those skilled in the art will recognize that such terms (e.g. “configured to”) can generally encompass active-state components and/or inactive-state components and/or standby-state components, unless context requires otherwise.

While particular aspects of the present subject matter described herein have been shown and described, it will be apparent to those skilled in the art that, based upon the teachings herein, changes and modifications may be made without departing from the subject matter described herein and its broader aspects and, therefore, the appended claims are to encompass within their scope all such changes and modifications as are within the true spirit and scope of the subject matter described herein. It will be understood by those within the art that, in general, terms used herein, and especially in the appended claims (e.g., bodies of the appended claims) are generally intended as “open” terms (e.g., the term “including” should be interpreted as “including but not limited to,” the term “having” should be interpreted as “having at least,” the term “includes” should be interpreted as “includes but is not limited to,” etc.). It will be further understood by those within the art that if a specific number of an introduced claim recitation is intended, such an intent wilt be explicitly recited in the claim, and in the absence of such recitation no such intent is present. For example, as an aid to understanding, the following appended claims may contain usage of the introductory phrases “at least one” and “one or more” to introduce claim recitations. However, the use of such phrases should not be construed to imply that the introduction of a claim recitation by the indefinite articles “a” or “an” limits any particular claim containing such introduced claim recitation to claims containing only one such recitation, even when the same claim includes the introductory phrases “one or more” or “at least one” and indefinite articles such as “a” or “an” (e.g., “a” and/or “an” should typically be interpreted to mean “at least one” or “one or more”); the same holds true for the use of definite articles used to introduce claim recitations. In addition, even if a specific number of an introduced claim recitation is explicitly recited, those skilled in the art will recognize that such recitation should typically be interpreted to mean at least the recited number (e.g., the bare recitation of “two recitations,” without other modifiers, typically means at least two recitations, or two or more recitations). Furthermore, in those instances where a convention analogous to “at least one of A, B, and C, etc.” is used, in general such a construction is intended in the sense one having skill in the art would understand the convention (e.g., “a system having at least one of A, B, and C” would include but not be limited to systems that have A alone, B alone, C alone, A and B together, A and C together, B and C together, and/or A, B, and C together, etc.). In those instances where a convention analogous to “at least one of A, B, or C, etc.” is used, in general such a construction is intended in the sense one having skill in the art would understand the convention (e.g., “a system having at least one of A, B, or C” would include but not be limited to systems that have A alone, B alone, C alone, A and B together, A and C together, B and C together, and/or A, B, and C together, etc.). It wilt be further understood by those within the art that typically a disjunctive word and/or phrase presenting two or more alternative terms, whether in the description, claims, or drawings, should be understood to contemplate the possibilities of including one of the terms, either of the terms, or both terms unless context dictates otherwise. For example, the phrase “A or B” will be typically understood to include the possibilities of “A” or “B” or “A and B.”

With respect to the appended claims, those skilled in the art will appreciate that recited operations therein may generally be performed in any order. Also, although various operational flows are presented in a sequence(s), it should be understood that the various operations may be performed in other orders than those which are illustrated, or may be performed concurrently. Examples of such alternate orderings may include overlapping, interleaved, interrupted, reordered, incremental, preparatory, supplemental, simultaneous, reverse, or other variant orderings, unless context dictates otherwise. Furthermore, terms like “responsive to,” “related to,” or other past-tense adjectives are generally not intended to exclude such variants, unless context dictates otherwise.