Injection systems, syringes and seals

Abstract

The injection system (1) comprises: a sealing gasket (100) including a top end (140) and a plurality of engaging claws (122), wherein the top end (140) has an elliptical cross-sectional shape whose length in the height direction is longer than its length in the width direction orthogonal to the height direction; a plunger (110) engaging with the sealing gasket (100); a cylinder (91) into which the sealing gasket (100) is inserted; and an injection device (2) configured to move the plunger (110) forward to inject a liquid medicine in the cylinder (91), wherein the plurality of engaging claws (122) are displaced between an expanded position and a contracted position, and include an expanded hole (H) dividing an inlet and an outlet and an inner surface (S) inclined in a direction away from a perpendicular line (P) passing through the center of the hole (H), wherein two engaging claws (122) arranged in the height direction have the same shape and size, and two engaging claws (122) arranged in the width direction have the same shape and size.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present invention relates to an injection system equipped with a syringe filled with a liquid medicine. Background Art

[0002] In the past, plungers and gaskets used in syringes for injecting liquid medicines, for example, are described in Patent Document 1 as pistons having a portion that can expand and contract and syringes having a first inner diameter and a second inner diameter that is smaller than the first inner diameter. The terminal portion of the piston shaft is inserted into the space of the piston. Then, when the piston advances to the second inner diameter in the syringe, the portion that can expand and contract contracts. As a result, the protrusion of the piston (gasket) engages with the groove of the piston shaft (plunger).

[0003] Prior art literature

[0004] Patent Literature

[0005] Patent Document 1: Japanese Patent Application Publication No. 2014-111185 Summary of the invention

[0006] Problem that the invention aims to solve

[0007] In Patent Document 1, the miniaturization of the injection device is not sufficiently achieved.

[0008] Solutions for solving problems

[0009] In order to solve the above-mentioned problems, an injection system as an example of the present invention includes: a sealing gasket, which includes a top end portion and a plurality of engaging claws, the top end portion having an elliptical cross-sectional shape whose length in the height direction is longer than the length in the width direction perpendicular to the height direction; a plunger, which engages with the sealing gasket; a cylinder, into which the sealing gasket is inserted; and an injection device, which is configured to move the plunger forward to inject the drug solution in the cylinder, the plurality of engaging claws displace between an expanded position and a contracted position, and the plurality of engaging claws include an inner surface that divides an inlet and outlet with an enlarged diameter and is inclined in a direction away from a perpendicular line passing through the center of the hole, and among the plurality of engaging claws, two engaging claws arranged in the height direction have the same shape and size, and two engaging claws arranged in the width direction have the same shape and size.

[0010] In addition, as another example of the present invention, a syringe includes: a sealing gasket, which includes a top end portion and a plurality of engaging claws, the top end portion having an elliptical cross-sectional shape whose length in the height direction is longer than the length in the width direction orthogonal to the height direction; and a barrel, into which the sealing gasket is inserted, the plurality of engaging claws are displaced between an expanded position and a contracted position, and the plurality of engaging claws include an inner surface that includes a hole with an enlarged diameter that divides an inlet and an outlet and is inclined in a direction away from a perpendicular line passing through the center of the hole, and among the plurality of engaging claws, two engaging claws arranged in the height direction have the same shape and size, and two engaging claws arranged in the width direction have the same shape and size.

[0011] Moreover, as another example of the present invention, a sealing gasket includes a top end portion and a plurality of engaging claws, wherein the top end portion has an elliptical cross-sectional shape whose length in the height direction is longer than the length in the width direction orthogonal to the height direction, the plurality of engaging claws are displaced between an expanded position and a contracted position, and the plurality of engaging claws include an enlarged hole dividing an inlet and outlet and an inner surface inclined in a direction away from a perpendicular line passing through the center of the hole, and among the plurality of engaging claws, two engaging claws arranged in the height direction have the same shape and size, and two engaging claws arranged in the width direction have the same shape and size.

[0012] Further features of the present invention will become apparent from the following description of the embodiments shown illustratively with reference to the accompanying drawings. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0013] Figure 1 This is a schematic perspective view of the injection head.

[0014] Figure 2 This is a schematic perspective view of the injection head.

[0015] Figure 3 This is a schematic perspective view of the adapter.

[0016] Figure 4 This is a schematic exploded perspective view of a syringe.

[0017] Figure 5 is a schematic rear view of the syringe.

[0018] Figure 6 It is a schematic cross-sectional view of the gasket according to the first embodiment.

[0019] Figure 7 This is a schematic perspective view of the gasket as seen from the rear.

[0020] Figure 8 It is a schematic cross-sectional view for explaining the connection between the plunger and the seal.

[0021] Fig. 9 It is a schematic cross-sectional view for explaining the connection between the plunger and the gasket.

[0022] Fig.10 It is a schematic cross-sectional view of a gasket according to a second embodiment. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0023] Hereinafter, the exemplary embodiments for implementing the present invention will be described in detail with reference to the accompanying drawings. However, the relative positions of the dimensions, materials, shapes and constituent elements described in the following embodiments are arbitrary and can be changed according to the structure of the device to which the present invention is applied or various conditions. In addition, unless otherwise specified, the scope of the present invention is not limited to the embodiments specifically described below. In addition, in the following description, the front side ("front") corresponds to the top end side of the syringe, and the opposite side corresponds to the rear side ("rear").

[0024] [First embodiment]

[0025] Figure 1 and Figure 2 is a schematic perspective view of an injection system 1 for injecting a medical solution. Figure 1 The injection system 1 before the syringe 90 is mounted is shown. Figure 2 90 is mounted on the injection system 1. Figure 1 As shown, the injection system 1 includes an injection head 2 as an example of an injection device. The injection head 2 is configured to inject the drug solution in the barrel 91 of the syringe 90 by advancing the plunger 110 .

[0026] The injection system 1 is connected to an imaging device (not shown) by wire or wirelessly. Moreover, various data are sent and received between the imaging device and the injection system 1 when the liquid medicine is injected and when the image is taken. Such imaging devices include, for example, MRI (Magnetic Resonance Imaging) equipment, CT (Computed Tomography) equipment, angiography equipment, PET (Positron Emission Tomography) equipment, SPECT (Single Photon Emission Computed Tomography) equipment, CT angiography equipment, MR angiography equipment, ultrasonic diagnostic equipment, and angiography equipment.

[0027] The injection head 2 of the injection system 1 includes a sealing gasket 100 ( Figure 4) of the injection head 2. The pushing portion 4 is controlled by a control unit (not shown) to push the sealing gasket 100 in the syringe 90 and move forward, thereby delivering the liquid medicine in the syringe 90. In addition, the pushing portion 4 includes a driving mechanism not shown in the figure and a plunger 110 connected to the driving mechanism. Specifically, the control unit controls the motor in the injection head 2 in such a manner that the plunger 110 moves forward when the motor rotates forward and moves backward when the motor rotates reversely. Moreover, the injection head 2 may further include a reading unit that reads a data carrier such as an RFID or a barcode provided on the syringe 90.

[0028] The driving mechanism of the pushing portion 4 includes a transmission mechanism connected to the shaft of the motor, a ball screw shaft connected to the transmission mechanism, a ball screw nut mounted on the ball screw shaft, and an actuator connected to the ball screw nut. In addition, the transmission mechanism has a pinion connected to the shaft of the motor and a helical gear connected to the ball screw shaft. Moreover, the transmission mechanism transmits the rotation from the motor to the ball screw shaft. Therefore, the rotation of the shaft of the motor is transmitted to the ball screw shaft via the pinion and the helical gear. Thus, the ball screw shaft rotates with the transmitted rotation. Then, the ball screw nut slides in the forward direction or the backward direction along with the rotation of the ball screw shaft. Along with the sliding of the ball screw nut, the plunger 110 of the pushing portion 4 advances or retreats.

[0029] In addition, the injection system 1 includes: a console (not shown), which has a touch panel as a display unit for displaying the injection status of the drug solution; and a control device (not shown), which has a control unit and a power supply. The console and the injection head 2 can be connected to each other by wire or wirelessly. Moreover, a remote operating device such as a manual switch can be connected to the console by wire or wirelessly. The remote operating device can also be used to start or stop the injection of the drug solution. In addition, the injection head 2 and the control device can be integrated with a caster bracket (not shown). Alternatively, the injection head 2 and the control device can be separately provided and mounted on the caster bracket.

[0030] The control device pre-stores data of the action mode (injection program) and data of the drug solution. When injecting the drug solution into the patient, the operator operates the touch panel of the console to input the patient's body data and the type of drug solution such as the injection speed, injection amount, injection time, weight, height, body surface area, heart rate and cardiac output. Then, the control device calculates the optimal injection conditions based on the input data and the pre-stored data. Then, the control device determines the amount of drug solution injected into the patient and the injection program based on the calculated injection conditions.

[0031] In addition, when determining the amount of the medicinal solution and the injection procedure, the control device causes the touch panel of the console to display specified data or charts. Thus, the operator can confirm the displayed data or charts. The data of the action mode (injection procedure) and the data of the medicinal solution can also be input from an external storage medium. Alternatively, an injection head display can also be provided on the injection head 2, and the control device causes the injection head display to display specified data or charts. In the case where the injection head display is a touch panel, the operator can set injection conditions, etc. from the injection head display. In addition, the injection head display can be built into the injection head 2 or installed on the side of the injection head 2.

[0032] When injecting liquid medicine, the operator turns on the power of the injection head 2, such as Figure 2 As shown, the syringe 90 is mounted on the injection head 2. Then, the operator presses the injection button displayed on the touch panel. When the injection button is pressed, the control unit sends a forward rotation signal to the motor as a driving voltage. According to the forward rotation signal, the shaft of the motor rotates in the forward direction, and the plunger 110 of the pushing part 4 moves forward. Then, when the injection is completed and the syringe 90 is removed, the control unit sends a reverse rotation signal to the motor as a driving voltage to retract the plunger 110. According to the reverse rotation signal, the shaft of the motor rotates in the reverse direction, and the plunger 110 retracts.

[0033] When the injection head 2 is provided with an operation panel, the operator can also press the injection button of the operation panel. In addition, the operator can also press the button of the manual switch to start the injection. Alternatively, the operator can also turn on the power of the injection head 2 after the syringe 90 is mounted.

[0034] Figure 3 2 is a schematic perspective view showing an adapter 8 for mounting a syringe 90 on an injection head 2. Figure 3 As shown, the adapter 8 includes two grooves having a substantially U-shaped cross-sectional shape, and the adapter 8 can be detachably mounted on the holder 7 of the injection head 2. As an example, the holder 7 has a receiving portion 71 having a shape complementary to the outer shape of the adapter 8. Moreover, the operator mounts the adapter 8 on the holder 7 by inserting the adapter 8 into the receiving portion 71. In addition, the adapter 8 can also be formed integrally with the holder 7.

[0035] In addition, a step portion 72 protruding inward is formed on the holder 7. Thus, a groove is defined between the adapter 8 and the holder 7, and the groove constitutes a flange 92 ( Figure 4). In addition, the holder 7 has two holding portions 73 having a substantially U-shaped cross-sectional shape for holding the rear end portion of the syringe 90. That is, the syringe 90 has a substantially elliptical cross-sectional shape, and the holding portion 73 of the holder 7 has a shape complementary to the outer shape of the syringe 90. As a result, the width of the holding portion 73 in the horizontal direction, which is orthogonal to the vertical direction of the syringe 90, is also reduced in accordance with the amount of reduction in the width of the syringe 90 in the horizontal direction orthogonal to the vertical direction of the syringe 90. As a result, the width of the injection head 2 in the horizontal direction can be reduced, thereby reducing the size of the injection head 2. That is, compared with the case where the syringe 90 has a circular cross-sectional shape, the width of the syringe 90 is reduced, so that the injection head 2 can be miniaturized. According to the miniaturized injection head 2, the injection system 1 can be installed in a CT examination room with a smaller space. In particular, in the injection head 2 that can carry two syringes 90, the miniaturization effect is greater. Alternatively, the holder 7 can be configured in a manner that can carry one or more than three syringes 90. In this case, the holding portion 73 is formed in a number corresponding to the number of syringes 90 that can be carried.

[0036] In addition, a pair of engaging portions 83 are formed on the front surface of the adapter 8 in such a manner that the holding portion 73 is sandwiched therebetween. As an example, the engaging portions 83 include a straight portion extending downward and a protruding portion formed at the lower end of the straight portion. The engaging portions 83 are elastic and are formed by a protrusion 95 ( Figure 4 ) is pressed and deformed. Specifically, the engaging portion 83 is displaced backward when pressed by the protrusion 95. Then, the engaging portion 83 is displaced forward by its own elasticity and returns to its original position. As a result, the protruding portion of the engaging portion 83 passes over the protrusion 95 and is located above it. As a result, since the engaging portion 83 abuts against the protrusion 95, the upward movement of the syringe 90 is restricted by the engaging portion 83.

[0037] Moreover, when the protrusion 95 passes over the engaging portion 83, the operator can feel the snapping feeling. Thus, the operator can feel that the syringe 90 has been mounted in the correct position. Alternatively, the engaging portion 83 may be formed only on one side relative to the holding portion 73, or a total of three or more engaging portions 83 may be formed on both sides relative to the holding portion 73. In addition, the engaging portion 83 may have other structures as long as it has a protruding portion configured to be able to move forward and backward. For example, the engaging portion 83 may also include an elastic body protruding forward and a cover member covering the elastic body.

[0038] In addition, the adapter 8 is formed with a hole portion 82 for discharging liquid such as a drug solution to the outside of the injection head 2. Specifically, in the case where the liquid overflows onto the adapter 8, the liquid can be discharged to the outside through the hole portion 82. Therefore, an opening (not shown) corresponding to the hole portion 82 is also formed in the retaining member 7. In addition, the adapter 8 can also be configured to carry the syringe 90. In this case, a groove for accommodating the flange 92 and a retaining portion for holding the syringe 90 are formed in the adapter 8. Moreover, the adapter 8 can also be omitted, and a groove for accommodating the flange 92 can be formed in the retaining member 7.

[0039] Figure 4 FIG. 2 is a schematic exploded perspective view of the syringe 90, showing the syringe 90 as viewed from the front and above. Figure 4 As shown, the syringe 90 includes a barrel 91 having a top end 93 and a flange 92 inserted between the adapter 8 and the holder 7. In addition, the syringe 90 includes a seal 100 that can slide in the barrel 91. The seal 100 is inserted into the barrel 91, and the outer surface of the inserted seal 100 abuts against the inner surface of the barrel 91. In addition, the seal 100 is engaged with the front end 111 of the plunger 110, and the plunger 110 is used to make the seal 100 slide in the barrel 91.

[0040] The sealing gasket 100 includes a sealing member 140 as a top end portion having an elliptical cross-sectional shape. In the cross-section of the sealing member 140, the length in the height direction is longer than the length in the width direction orthogonal to the height direction. In addition, the sealing gasket 100 includes a suction piece (Japanese: suction piece) 120, which has a plurality of divided engaging claws 122, and the top end of the suction piece 120 is inserted into the sealing member 140. The suction piece 120 is made of an elastic resin such as POM (polyacetal resin), and can be manufactured by molding. In addition, the sealing member 140 is made of butyl rubber, for example, and can be manufactured by molding.

[0041] The sealing gasket 100 is engaged with the plunger 110 by engaging the engaging claw 122 with the front end portion 111 of the plunger 110. Moreover, when the motor rotates forward while the engaging claw 122 is connected to the plunger 110, the pushing portion 4 presses the plunger 110 in the forward direction. Then, when the plunger 110 and the sealing gasket 100 move forward, the drug solution in the cylinder 91 is pushed out through the top end portion 93. As a result, the drug solution is injected into the patient's body through an extension hose connected to the top end portion 93. After the drug solution is injected, when the motor rotates in the reverse direction, the pushing portion 4 pulls the plunger 110 in the backward direction, and the sealing gasket 100 moves backward. In addition, the engaging claw 122 may also include a groove for embedding an O-ring. In this case, by embedding the O-ring, the expansion of the engaging claw 122 can be limited. In addition, the top end portion 93 can be connected to the extension hose by means of a locking connector, a Luer lock or a push-in connector.

[0042] The barrel 91 into which the gasket 100 is inserted has a cross-sectional shape complementary to the gasket 100. That is, the barrel 91 has a substantially elliptical cross-sectional shape, and the length in the height direction of the cross-section is longer than the length in the width direction orthogonal to the height direction. Therefore, when the rear end of the syringe 90 is held in the retaining portion 73 of the retaining member 7, the two side surfaces of the rear end abut against the inner surface of the retaining portion 73. Thus, the syringe 90 is prevented from rotating relative to the retaining member 7. For example, when injecting a medicinal solution, the gasket 100 is pushed into the barrel 91 by the plunger 110 that rotates and moves forward. At this time, the rotational force is also transmitted to the syringe 90 via the gasket 100. However, since the two side surfaces of the rear end abut against the inner surface of the retaining portion 73, the rotation of the syringe 90 can be prevented.

[0043] The plunger 110 is made of, for example, stainless steel or aluminum, and can be manufactured by welding a solid, substantially cylindrical front end portion 111 to a hollow tube. Alternatively, the plunger 110 can be manufactured by screwing a solid front end portion 111 into a hollow tube. Furthermore, the front end portion 111 can also be manufactured using a material other than stainless steel or aluminum, for example, a material having a higher hardness than the gasket 100. An annular engaging groove 112 extending in the circumferential direction is formed in the front end portion 111. Furthermore, by inserting the protrusion 124 ( Figure 6 ), so that the sealing gasket 100 and the plunger 110 are engaged.

[0044] Figure 5 1 is a schematic rear view of the syringe 90 with the gasket 100 inserted. Figure 5 As shown, the syringe 90 has a protrusion 95, and the protrusion 95 is formed two on each side with respect to the barrel 91, and a total of four are formed. Moreover, the protrusion 95 protrudes laterally from the annular portion 96, and the annular portion 96 protrudes rearward from the flange 92. That is, a substantially annular annular portion 96 is formed on the flange 92, and the protrusion 95 is formed to protrude from the annular portion 96. When the syringe 90 is mounted, the protrusion 95 passes over the engaging portion 83 of the adapter 8. Moreover, after the syringe 90 is mounted, the engaging portion 83 abuts against the protrusion 95, so that the upward movement of the syringe 90 is restricted. Alternatively, the protrusion 95 may be formed only one on one side with respect to the hole H formed in the center of the sealing gasket 100, or a total of three or more may be formed on both sides with respect to the hole H.

[0045] The flange 92 has a generally oval shape. Figure 5 The height direction of the first portion 97 located at the lower side ( Figure 5The length L1 in the vertical direction (in the middle vertical direction) is longer than the length L2 in the height direction of the second part 98 located on the upper side. That is, in the height direction, the length L1 of the first part 97 extending upward from the cylinder 91 is longer than the length L2 of the second part 98 extending downward. As a result, the operator can visually identify the correct orientation and vertical direction of the syringe 90. In addition, by making the first part 97 longer, the contact area between the retainer 7 or the adapter 8 and the flange 92 is increased. As a result, the syringe 90 can be stably held and can withstand a higher injection pressure. Moreover, an arrow 99 indicating the insertion direction is marked on the first part 97 of the flange 92.

[0046] Alternatively, the second portion 98 extending upward may be longer than the first portion 97 extending downward. In this case, the operator can also visually recognize the correct orientation and insertion direction of the syringe 90. Furthermore, when the second portion 98 extending upward is longer, when the flange 92 is inserted into the groove between the retainer 7 and the adapter 8, it is possible to prevent the second portion 98 from being inserted downward by mistake. That is, the depth of the groove corresponds to the length of the shorter first portion 97, so that when the second portion 98 is inserted in the wrong direction, the second portion 98 will hit the bottom of the groove before the protrusion 95 passes over the engaging portion 83. Therefore, the operator cannot get a snap-fit ​​feeling, but can recognize the wrong orientation. Thus, the operator can correct the syringe 90 to the correct orientation and load it.

[0047] In the gasket 100, two engaging claws 122 arranged in the height direction as one direction have the same shape and size. In addition, two engaging claws 122 arranged in the width direction as another direction orthogonal to the height direction have the same shape and size. Thus, the displacement amount in the height direction and the displacement amount in the width direction of the engaging claws 122 can be made substantially the same. In other words, since the gasket 100 has a substantially elliptical shape, if the shape and size of the plurality of engaging claws 122 are made the same, the displacement amount in the height direction of the engaging claws 122 from the displacement start and the displacement amount in the width direction from the displacement start are different. Therefore, in a manner that the displacement amounts of all the engaging claws 122 are substantially the same, the shapes and sizes of the engaging claws 122 arranged in the height direction and the engaging claws 122 arranged in the width direction are made different.

[0048] That is, in the gasket 100 having a substantially elliptical outer shape, the two engaging claws 122 arranged in the height direction are formed to be the same size. In addition, in the gasket 100, the engaging claws 122 arranged in the width direction are formed to be the same size. Moreover, a substantially circular hole H for inserting the front end portion 111 of the plunger 110 is formed in the central portion surrounded by the four engaging claws 122. Therefore, the height of the engaging claws 122 arranged in the height direction is longer than the height of the engaging claws 122 arranged in the width direction. In addition, a substantially fan-shaped recess 129 is formed in each engaging claw 122. Moreover, a protrusion 124 engaging with the engaging groove 112 of the plunger 110 is formed on the periphery of the hole H. Moreover, when the plunger 110 is inserted until the end surface of the front end portion 111 abuts against the bottom of the hole H, the engaging groove 112 and the protrusion 124 are opposite.

[0049] Figure 6 It is a schematic cross-sectional view of the sealing gasket 100 along the front-to-back direction and the height direction. The suction piece 120 has a substantially disc-shaped insertion portion 121, and a plurality of intersecting ribs (not shown) are formed on the insertion portion 121. In addition, an annular groove 125 is formed between the insertion portion 121 and the engaging claw 122. In addition, the sealing member 140 has an annular protrusion 141 formed on its outer periphery. Moreover, the annular protrusion 141 abuts against the inner surface of the cylinder 91, thereby sealing the cylinder 91. In addition, in Figure 2 In the embodiment, three annular protrusions 141 are formed, but two, one, or more than four annular protrusions may be formed. In addition, a space for accommodating the insertion portion 121 is formed in the sealing member 140, and the rear end portion of the sealing member 140 protrudes toward the space.

[0050] A substantially fan-shaped recess 129 is formed in the engaging claw 122 of the suction piece 120. The recess 129 can be used to reduce the wall thickness of the engaging claw 122. Therefore, the engaging claw 122 is easier to deform than the insertion portion 121. In addition, the portion where the annular groove 125 is formed is thinner than the portion where the engaging claw 122 is formed and the insertion portion 121. Thus, the annular groove 125 becomes the starting point for deformation of the engaging claw 122. The bottom of the annular groove 125 has a shape with a substantially semicircular cross section. Alternatively, the bottom of the annular groove 125 may also have a substantially trapezoidal or triangular cross-sectional shape in a manner that narrows toward the inside.

[0051] The hole H of the suction member 120 narrows toward the bottom, and when the plunger 110 is inserted into the hole H, the end surface of the front end portion 111 abuts against the bottom of the hole H. Moreover, in a state where the end surface of the front end portion 111 abuts against the bottom of the hole H, a gap is generated between the outer surface of the front end portion 111 and the inner surface S of the hole H. That is, the inner surface S of the hole H is inclined toward the center of the bottom. Therefore, the front end portion 111 inserted into the hole H is guided in a manner of sliding on the inner surface S inclined toward the center of the bottom. As a result, the front end portion 111 can be aligned with the center of the hole H.

[0052] Figure 7 FIG. 2 is a schematic three-dimensional view of the sealing gasket 100 as viewed from the rear. Figure 7 As shown, the suction piece 120 of the sealing gasket 100 includes a plurality of engaging claws 122 having a roughly fan-shaped shape, and as an example, includes four engaging claws 122. Alternatively, the suction piece 120 may also include two or three, or more than five engaging claws 122. In addition, gaps are formed between adjacent engaging claws 122, and when the sealing gasket 100 advances in the cylinder 91, each engaging claw 122 is displaced in a manner that the adjacent engaging claws 122 approach each other. The gaps all have the same length and width, and therefore, during displacement, the position change of each engaging claw 122 relative to the plunger 110 can be suppressed. That is, as the sealing gasket 100 advances, each engaging claw 122 is displaced in a manner that they approach each other by the same distance.

[0053] Each engaging claw 122 includes a protrusion 124 that engages with the engaging groove 112 of the plunger 110. The protrusion 124 protrudes toward the center of the suction member 120. In addition, the top of the protrusion 124 has a rounded corner so that it is easy to insert into the engaging groove 112. Figure 7 In the figure, only one protrusion 124 is denoted by a reference numeral. However, the protrusion 124 is formed on all four engaging claws 122 .

[0054] In addition, an annular groove 125 is formed between the insertion portion 121 and the engaging claw 122. The engaging claw 122 is connected to the insertion portion 121 at the portion where the annular groove 125 is formed. In order to facilitate displacement (deformation) of the engaging claw 122, the portion where the annular groove 125 is formed is thinner than the portion where the protrusion 124 is formed. In addition, a hole H surrounded by the protrusion 124 is formed in the suction piece 120, and the plunger 110 is inserted into the hole H in a manner of engaging with the engaging claw 122.

[0055] [Connection between the plunger 110 and the seal 100]

[0056] Reference Figure 8 and Fig. 9 , illustrating the connection between the plunger 110 and the sealing gasket 100. Figure 8It is a schematic cross-sectional view of syringe 90 before plunger 110 is inserted into hole H of suction tool 120 . Fig. 9 1 is a schematic cross-sectional view of the syringe 90 in a state where the plunger 110 has advanced the seal 100. Figure 8 and Fig. 9 represents a cross section passing through the central axis of the cylinder 91 and along the length direction. Figure 8 and Fig. 9 In FIG. 1 , the suction member 120 and the sealing member 140 are shown as a whole. Figure 8 and Fig. 9 , only the upper half in the height direction of the plunger 110 and the sealing gasket 100 is shown. The lower half in the height direction of the plunger 110 and the sealing gasket 100 has substantially the same shape as the upper half except for the flange 92.

[0057] like Figure 8 As shown in FIG. 1 , the gasket 100 has a hole H with an enlarged entrance. That is, in the hole H, the entrance into which the plunger 110 is inserted has a larger inner diameter than the bottom into which the end surface of the front end portion 111 of the plunger 110 is pressed. In addition, the gasket 100 has a hole H at the expanded position ( Figure 8 ) and the contracted position ( Fig. 9 ) between the engaging claw 122. The engaging claw 122 includes an inner surface S that divides the hole H and is inclined in a direction away from a perpendicular line P passing through the center of the hole H (bottom).

[0058] The engaging claw 122 has a protrusion 128 protruding in a direction away from the perpendicular line P passing through the center of the hole H. In addition, a diameter expansion portion 94 for accommodating the protrusion 128 is formed at the rear end of the cylinder 91. That is, the inner diameter of the rear end of the cylinder 91 is larger than the inner diameter of the other parts of the cylinder 91. Moreover, when the gasket 100 is assembled to the cylinder 91, the protrusion 128 is accommodated by the diameter expansion portion 94, and the entirety of the gasket 100 is accommodated in the cylinder 91. Alternatively, the rear portion of the engaging claw 122 may also extend outward from the cylinder 91. In addition, the engaging claw 122 has a protrusion 124 protruding inward of the hole H. Moreover, the plunger 110 has an annular engaging groove 112 that engages with the protrusion 124. In addition, the diameter expansion portion 94 may be an inclined surface or a curved surface that narrows toward the center of the cylinder 91 in addition to the step-like step.

[0059] like Fig. 9As shown in FIG. 1 , when the plunger 110 is inserted into the hole H, the end surface of the front end portion 111 abuts against the bottom of the hole H. Then, when the plunger 110 presses the sealing gasket 100, the sealing gasket 100 moves forward in the cylinder 91. When the sealing gasket 100 moves forward, the protrusion 128 of the engaging claw 122 abuts against the enlarged diameter portion 94 of the cylinder 91. Then, when the protrusion 128 passes through the enlarged diameter portion 94, the engaging claw 122 is displaced toward the vertical line P. At this time, the engaging claw 122 is deformed with the center of the bottom of the annular groove 125 as the starting point.

[0060] Thus, even if the front end portion 111 is inserted into the hole H at a position offset from the vertical line P, the front end portion 111 is displaced so that the central axis of the front end portion 111 is aligned with the vertical line P. That is, the front end portion 111 is pressed by the portion corresponding to the bottom of the annular groove 125 and displaced toward the center of the hole H. Therefore, it is possible to suppress the central axis of the plunger 110 from tilting relative to the gasket 100. Fig. 9 As shown in FIG. 1 , when the protrusion 128 passes through the enlarged diameter portion 94, the engaging claw 122 contracts. Then, the protrusion 124 of the engaging claw 122 located at the contracted position intrudes into the engaging groove 112, and the protrusion 124 engages with the engaging groove 112. Thus, the gasket 100 is connected to the plunger 110. In addition, along with the displacement of the engaging claw 122, the annular groove 125 is deformed in a manner of expanding.

[0061] Then, when the seal 100 moves forward in the barrel 91, the seal member 140 pushes the liquid medicine in the barrel 91. As a result, the liquid medicine is pushed out from the top end 93 and injected into the patient's body through the extension hose or the like. After the liquid medicine is injected, the plunger 110 retreats, and the seal 100 connected to the plunger 110 also retreats. Then, when the plunger 110 and the seal 100 retreat to a position where the protrusion 128 is accommodated by the enlarged diameter portion 94, the engaging claw 122 expands outward and the protrusion 124 is disengaged from the engaging groove 112.

[0062] As a result, the protrusion 124 is disengaged from the engagement groove 112. That is, when the plunger 110 and the sealing gasket 100 retreat until the engagement claw 122 moves to the expanded position, the protrusion 124 is disengaged from the engagement groove 112. In addition, as the engagement claw 122 moves, the annular groove 125 shrinks in a manner to return to its original shape. When the plunger 110 retreats further, the sealing gasket 100 stays in the engagement groove 112 by the friction between the sealing member 140 and the cylinder 91. Figure 8 As a result, the plunger 110 is disengaged from the gasket 100 and moves toward Figure 8 The position before insertion shown is backed off.

[0063] According to the plunger 110 and the gasket 100 involved in the first embodiment, the engagement claws 122 are deformed starting from the center of the bottom of the annular groove 125. Therefore, the plurality of engagement claws 122 are uniformly displaced toward the vertical line P of the suction member 120. Thus, when the plunger 110 is separated from the gasket 100, the front end portion 111 can be prevented from being located at a position offset from the vertical line P. Therefore, it is possible to prevent the engagement groove 112 of the front end portion 111 from being caught on the protrusion 124.

[0064] In addition, according to the plunger 110 and the gasket 100 involved in the first embodiment, when the gasket 100 and the plunger 110 are connected, the plunger 110 can be suppressed from shaking relative to the gasket 100. In addition, since the gasket 100 and the plunger 110 are directly connected, the distance between the syringe 90 and the pressing part 4 can be shortened. Therefore, the size of the injection head 2 in the injection system 1 can be reduced.

[0065] Moreover, according to the syringe 90 involved in the first embodiment, the dimension in the width direction can be reduced compared with the case of having a substantially circular cross-sectional shape. That is, the width of the syringe 90 can be reduced, or the size of the syringe 90 can be reduced. Moreover, by increasing the dimension in the height direction of the syringe 90 in a manner having a substantially elliptical cross-sectional shape, a syringe 90 with the same capacity and smaller can be formed. As a result, the injection head 2 can be miniaturized and lightweight. In particular, when an actuator having a rotation transmission mechanism housed in a shell is built into the frame of the injection head 2, the injection head 2 can be miniaturized in a coordinated manner. Moreover, by increasing the dimension in the height direction, the contact area with the retaining portion 73 is increased. Thus, the syringe 90 can be stably fixed.

[0066] In addition, according to the syringe 90 involved in the first embodiment, the syringe 90 can be held in the holding portion 73 only by the operation of inserting the syringe 90 into the holding portion 73. Thus, the operation of rotating the syringe 90 and mounting it on the injection head 2 is omitted, and the syringe 90 can be mounted more easily. In addition, since the width of the syringe 90 is reduced, an operator with a small hand can also easily grasp the syringe 90. In addition, since both side surfaces in the width direction are flat, rolling of the syringe 90 can be suppressed when placed on a flat surface such as a workbench.

[0067] Moreover, in the height direction (depth direction), the distance and contact area with the retaining portion 73 are increased, so that the drug solution can be stably injected. That is, the two side surfaces (inner surfaces) in the width direction of the syringe 90 function as fixed guides for guiding the sealing gasket 100. Therefore, when the sealing gasket 100 slides, the rotation of the sealing gasket 100 or the suction piece 120 relative to the cylinder 91 due to the sliding resistance during injection can be suppressed. As a result, the deformation of the sealing gasket 100 that causes the backflow can be suppressed, and the forward and backward movement of the plunger 110 can be stably performed. Moreover, since the flange 92 can be reduced, it is possible to reduce materials and reduce costs when manufacturing the cylinder 91.

[0068] In addition, since the diameter of the syringe 90 is different in the height direction and the width direction, the operator can visually recognize the orientation and the loading and unloading direction of the syringe 90. In addition, by marking the scale on the upper surface of the barrel 91, the portion marked with the scale is located above the holder 7 or the adapter 8. Therefore, it is easier for the operator to observe the scale. Moreover, in the case where air is mixed in the barrel 91, since the air is retained in the upper space in the barrel 91, the air stays at a position further away from the top end 93, and it can be suppressed from flowing out to the patient side.

[0069] [Second embodiment]

[0070] In the first embodiment, the gasket 100 includes the sealing member 140 and the suction piece 120. On the other hand, in the second embodiment, the gasket 200 includes the suction piece 220 and the O-ring 230, which is different from the first embodiment. Fig.10 The second embodiment is described, but in the description of the second embodiment, the differences from the first embodiment are described, and the same reference numerals are given to the components described in the first embodiment, and their description is omitted. Unless otherwise specified, the components marked with the same reference numerals perform substantially the same actions and functions, and their effects are also substantially the same.

[0071] Fig.10 2 is a schematic cross-sectional view of the sealing gasket 200 along the front-back direction and the height direction. The sealing gasket 200 includes: a suction piece 220 including a top end portion having an elliptical cross-sectional shape; and an O-ring 230 embedded in the suction piece 220. The O-ring 230 is accommodated in an annular O-ring groove 223 formed on the peripheral surface of the suction piece 220. Moreover, the cylinder 91 is sealed by the O-ring 230 abutting against the inner surface of the cylinder 91. Alternatively, there may be more than two O-rings 230, in which case more than two O-ring grooves 223 are formed.

[0072] In addition, the suction piece 220 has a plurality of engaging claws 222 and an annular groove 225 formed between the engaging claws 222 and the O-ring groove 223. In order to facilitate displacement of the engaging claws 222, the portion where the annular groove 225 is formed is thinner than the other portions. A substantially fan-shaped recess 229 is formed in each engaging claw 222. By using the recess 229, the wall thickness of the engaging claw 222 can be made thinner. Therefore, the engaging claw 222 is more easily deformed.

[0073] A hole H having a shape narrowing toward the bottom is formed in the central part surrounded by the engaging claws 222. When the plunger 110 is inserted into the hole H, the end face of the front end portion 111 of the plunger 110 abuts against the bottom of the hole H. Moreover, in a state where the end face of the front end portion 111 abuts against the bottom of the hole H, a gap is generated between the outer surface of the front end portion 111 and the inner surface S of the hole H. Therefore, the front end portion 111 inserted into the hole H is guided in a sliding manner on the inner surface S inclined toward the center of the bottom. Thus, the front end portion 111 can be aligned with the center of the hole H. A gap is formed between adjacent engaging claws 222, and when the sealing gasket 200 advances in the cylinder 91, each engaging claw 222 is displaced in a manner that the adjacent engaging claws 222 are close to each other. The gaps between the engaging claws 222 have the same length. Thus, when displaced, the position change of each engaging claw 222 relative to the plunger 110 can be suppressed.

[0074] Each engaging claw 222 includes a protrusion 224 that engages with the engaging groove 112 of the plunger 110. The top of the protrusion 224 is rounded so that it is easy to insert into the engaging groove 112 of the plunger 110. The sealing gasket 200 of the second embodiment has an inner surface S that divides the hole H with an enlarged diameter and an annular groove 225 that becomes the starting point of deformation in the same manner as the first embodiment. In addition, the engaging claw 222 has a protrusion 228 that protrudes outward. In addition, when the sealing gasket 200 is installed on the cylinder 91, the protrusion 228 is accommodated by the enlarged diameter portion 94 of the cylinder 91, and the entire sealing gasket 200 is accommodated in the cylinder 91.

[0075] When the plunger 110 and the seal 200 are connected, the plunger 110 is inserted into the hole H, and the end surface of the front end portion 111 of the plunger 110 abuts against the bottom of the hole H. Then, when the plunger 110 presses the seal 200, the seal 200 moves forward in the cylinder 91. When the seal 200 moves forward, the protrusion 228 of the engaging claw 222 abuts against the enlarged diameter portion 94. Then, as the protrusion 228 passes through the enlarged diameter portion 94 as it moves forward, the engaging claw 222 is displaced toward the vertical line P. At this time, the engaging claw 222 is deformed with the center of the bottom of the annular groove 225 as the starting point.

[0076] Thus, even if the front end portion 111 is inserted into the hole H to a position offset from the vertical line P, the front end portion 111 is displaced in such a manner that the central axis of the front end portion 111 is aligned with the vertical line P. Therefore, it is possible to suppress the central axis of the front end portion 111 from tilting relative to the gasket 200. When the protrusion 228 passes through the enlarged diameter portion 94, the engaging claw 222 contracts. Then, the protrusion 224 of the engaging claw 222 located at the contracted position intrudes into the engaging groove 112 of the plunger 110, and the protrusion 224 engages with the engaging groove 112. Thus, the gasket 200 is connected to the plunger 110. In addition, along with the displacement of the engaging claw 222, the annular groove 225 is deformed in a manner of expanding.

[0077] Then, when the sealing gasket 200 moves forward in the barrel 91, the suction piece 220 pushes the liquid medicine in the barrel 91. As a result, the liquid medicine is pushed out from the top end 93. After the liquid medicine is injected, the plunger 110 retreats, and the sealing gasket 200 connected to the plunger 110 also retreats. Then, when the plunger 110 and the sealing gasket 200 retreat to a position where the protrusion 228 is accommodated by the enlarged diameter portion 94, the engaging claw 222 expands outward, and the protrusion 224 of the displaced engaging claw 222 is disengaged from the engaging groove 112.

[0078] In addition, the annular groove 225 narrows to return to its original shape with the displacement of the engagement claw 222. When the plunger 110 further retreats, the seal 200 stays in the cylinder 91 due to the friction between the O-ring 230 and the cylinder 91. As a result, the plunger 110 is separated from the seal 200 and retreats to the position before insertion.

[0079] According to the plunger 110 and the gasket 200 involved in the second embodiment, the engaging claws 222 are also deformed starting from the center of the bottom of the annular groove 225. Therefore, the plurality of engaging claws 222 are uniformly displaced toward the vertical line P of the suction member 220. Thus, when the plunger 110 is separated from the gasket 200, the front end portion 111 can be prevented from being located at a position offset from the vertical line P. Therefore, it is possible to prevent the engaging groove 112 of the front end portion 111 from being caught on the protrusion 224.

[0080] In addition, according to the plunger 110 and the gasket 200 involved in the second embodiment, when the gasket 200 and the plunger 110 are connected, the plunger 110 can be suppressed from shaking relative to the gasket 200. In addition, since the gasket 200 and the plunger 110 are directly connected, the distance between the syringe 90 and the pressing part 4 can be shortened. Therefore, the size of the injection head 2 in the injection system 1 can be reduced. In addition, since the size in the width direction can be reduced, a smaller syringe 90 with the same capacity can be formed. As a result, the injection head 2 can be miniaturized and lightweight.

[0081] The present invention has been described above with reference to each embodiment, but the present invention is not limited to the above-mentioned embodiment. Inventions modified within the scope of the present invention and inventions equivalent to the present invention are also included in the present invention. In addition, the above-mentioned embodiments and modifications can be appropriately combined within the scope of the present invention.

[0082] For example, a notch or a hole may be formed in the engaging claws 122 and 222. Thus, since the portion with the notch or the hole is deformed, the engaging claws 122 and 222 are easily displaced. In addition, the inner surface S of the gasket 100 and 200 may be divided into two surfaces with different inclinations. In addition, the inner surface S may also constitute a continuous inclined surface or a curved surface. Moreover, the above-mentioned gaskets 100 and 200 may also have an egg-shaped outer shape in which the length in the height direction is longer than the length in the width direction orthogonal to the height direction. In this case, the cylinder 91 has a shape complementary to the egg-shaped outer shape.

[0083] In addition, the syringe 90 filled with the medicinal solution can also be a prefilled syringe. In addition, the medicinal solution can be filled into the syringe 90 manually or by using the injection head 2 or the filler. Moreover, a data carrier such as an RFID or a barcode can be set in the syringe 90. The information of the filled medicinal solution is stored in the data carrier. Moreover, the injection system 1 can read the stored information from the data carrier with the help of the injection head 2 and control the injection amount of the medicinal solution. For example, the control device can calculate the optimal injection amount per unit body weight based on the information (iodine amount) of the read medicinal solution and display it on the touch panel of the console. In addition, when filling the empty syringe 90 with medicinal solution, the medicinal solution can also be sucked from a large-capacity bottle provided with a data carrier. Thus, the amount of medicinal solution in the large-capacity bottle can be monitored and the medicinal solution can be injected multiple times. In addition, the information of the medicinal solution stored in the data carrier of the large-capacity bottle can also be read and written to the RFID tag of the empty syringe 90. Moreover, the read information can also be used for the setting of the injection head 2.

[0084] Furthermore, a notch may be formed partially on the outer circumference of the flange 92. Specifically, the flange 92 may have two arc portions that are arc-shaped relative to the central axis of the syringe 90 and two flat portions that are formed between the arc portions and face each other. In this case, the adapter 8 may be provided with, for example, a locking claw, a convex portion, or a latch as an engaging portion that engages with the notch.

[0085] Moreover, instead of forming the enlarged diameter portion 94 on the cylinder 91, a skirt portion extending to the rear of the flange 92 may be formed. The inner surface of the skirt portion is inclined, and the protrusion 128 of the engaging claw 122 is accommodated in such a manner that the engaging claw 122 is located in the expanded position. Therefore, the inner dimension of the skirt portion is set to be the same as the outer dimension of the engaging claw 122 in the expanded state. That is, the skirt portion has a shape that narrows toward the top end portion 93. As a result, the engaging claw 122 of the gasket 100 inserted into the inner side of the skirt portion does not shift to the contracted position. In addition, even when the engaging claw 122 is slightly displaced, the intervals between the relative protrusions 124 can maintain a state in which the plunger 110 can be inserted.

[0086] In this case, after the front end portion 111 of the plunger 110 is inserted, the plunger 110 presses the seal 100, and the seal 100 moves forward in the cylinder 91. When the seal 100 moves forward, the protrusion 128 of the engaging claw 122 passes through the skirt and abuts against the inner surface of the cylinder 91. And, as the seal 100 moves forward, the engaging claw 122 is displaced toward the center of the hole H of the suction piece 120 by the reaction force from the inner surface of the cylinder 91.

[0087] Furthermore, instead of forming the enlarged diameter portion 94 in the cylinder 91, the rear portion of the sealing gasket 100 may be made to protrude outward from the cylinder 91. In this case, when the plunger 110 presses the sealing gasket 100, the sealing gasket 100 moves forward in the cylinder 91. When the sealing gasket 100 moves forward, the protrusion 128 of the engaging claw 122 passes over the rear end of the cylinder 91 and abuts against the inner surface of the cylinder 91. Furthermore, when the protrusion 128 passes over the rear end of the cylinder 91, the engaging claw 122 is displaced toward the vertical line P of the suction member 120 by the reaction force from the inner surface of the cylinder 91.

[0088] A part or all of the above-mentioned embodiments may be further described as the following supplementary notes, but are not limited to the following supplementary notes.

[0089] [Note 1]

[0090] An injection system, wherein

[0091] The injection system includes:

[0092] A sealing gasket comprising a plurality of engaging claws, the engaging claws comprising an inner surface of a hole whose diameter is enlarged to define an inlet and an outlet and a protrusion protruding in a direction away from a perpendicular line passing through the center of the hole, the engaging claws being displaced between an expanded position and a contracted position;

[0093] a plunger inserted into the hole in a manner engaged with the engaging claw;

[0094] a cylindrical body into which the sealing gasket is inserted, the cylindrical body abutting against the protrusion of the engaging claw of the inserted sealing gasket; and

[0095] The injection device is configured to move the plunger forward to inject the liquid medicine in the cylinder.

[0096] The seal is formed with an annular groove that serves as a starting point for deformation of the engagement claw.

[0097] [Note 2]

[0098] The injection system according to Supplementary Note 1, wherein an expanded diameter portion for accommodating the protrusion is formed at a rear end portion of the cylinder.

[0099] This application claims the benefit of priority based on Japanese Patent Application No. 2018-200114 filed on October 24, 2018, the entire contents of which are hereby incorporated by reference as a part of this application.

[0100] Description of Reference Numerals

[0101] 1. injection system; 2. injection device; 91. cylinder; 100. sealing gasket; 110. plunger; 200. sealing gasket.

Claims

1. An injection system, wherein: The injection system includes: A sealing gasket including a plurality of engaging claws; A plunger engaged with the sealing gasket; a cylinder into which the sealing gasket is inserted; and The injection device is configured to move the plunger forward to inject the liquid medicine in the cylinder. The plurality of engaging claws are displaced between an expanded position and a retracted position, and the plurality of engaging claws include an inner surface that defines a portion for insertion of the plunger and is inclined in a direction away from a perpendicular line passing through a center of the portion, The sealing gasket is formed with a groove which becomes a starting point for deformation of the engaging claw. The bottom of the groove has a semicircular cross-sectional shape, In the radial direction of the gasket, a portion of the engaging claw is located between the portion into which the plunger is inserted and the bottom of the groove.

2. The injection system according to claim 1, wherein: The plurality of engaging claws each include a protrusion protruding in a direction away from the vertical line, An enlarged diameter portion for accommodating the protrusion is formed at the rear end portion of the cylindrical body.

3. The injection system according to claim 1 or 2, wherein: The sealing gasket includes a top end portion having an elliptical cross-sectional shape whose length in a height direction is longer than its length in a width direction orthogonal to the height direction. Among the plurality of engagement claws, two engagement claws arranged in the height direction have the same shape and size, and two engagement claws arranged in the width direction have the same shape and size.

4. A syringe, wherein: The syringe includes: A sealing gasket including a plurality of engaging claws; and a cylinder into which the sealing gasket is inserted, The plurality of engaging claws are displaced between an expanded position and a retracted position, and the plurality of engaging claws include an inner surface that defines a portion for insertion of the plunger and is inclined in a direction away from a perpendicular line passing through a center of the portion, The sealing gasket is formed with a groove which becomes a starting point for deformation of the engaging claw. The bottom of the groove has a semicircular cross-sectional shape, In the radial direction of the gasket, a portion of the engaging claw is located between the portion into which the plunger is inserted and the bottom of the groove.

5. A sealing gasket, wherein: The sealing gasket includes a plurality of engaging claws. The plurality of engaging claws are displaced between an expanded position and a retracted position, and the plurality of engaging claws include an inner surface that defines a portion for insertion of the plunger and is inclined in a direction away from a perpendicular line passing through a center of the portion, The sealing gasket is formed with a groove which becomes a starting point for deformation of the engaging claw. The bottom of the groove has a semicircular cross-sectional shape, In the radial direction of the gasket, a portion of the engaging claw is located between the portion into which the plunger is inserted and the bottom of the groove.

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