Abstract: A drug receptacle for use with a respiratory inhaler device. The drug receptacle has a fluid flow rate indicator on an outer surface thereof. The fluid flow rate indicator comprises a corrugated portion having at least one and preferably a plurality of corrugations extending radially from the outer surface of the drug receptacle. The flow rate indicator is operable to generate a sound signal. The present invention also relates to a corrugated flow rate indicator having a connection portion for connection to the outer surface of a drug receptacle.

Abstract: The present invention provides a training device for training a user to use a pressurised metered dose inhaler (PMDI). The device comprises a body, air expulsion means (e.g. bellows) for expelling air along an air flow path and an actuator for actuation of the air expulsion means. The air flow path comprises a restriction such that upon expulsion of air along the air flow path, an audible signal is generated. The audible signal mimics that generated during use of a PMDI.

Abstract: In a meter for assessing ventilatory capacity, the piston is free of any sliding contact with the body of the meter except over a region which extends axially not less than about 25% of the piston's diameter. In this way, tilting of the piston is avoided. Sliding contact is further reduced by the piston or wall having contact ribs extending axially.

Abstract: A respiratory test apparatus for lung function comprises a chamber into which air can be blown by a subject to displace a piston. The chamber communicates with a space shielded from the incoming air flow to provide a measure of the static air pressure in the chamber, a pressure transducer providing an input of that pressure value a data processor. The data processor is arranged to provide outputs indicative of such functions as a subject's peak respiratory flow rate and the volume of air exhaled.

Abstract: An applanation tonometer having an applanating member mounted on an arm pivoted in a body; a manual adjustment knob mounted in the body; and two spiral springs in series between the knob and the arm via an intermediate spindle, thus giving a low-rate spring arrangement without the attendant difficulty of the spring coils binding on each other.