Applicator for applying a fluid

Abstract

The present invention relates to an application device for intravitreal administration, in particular of a fluid, comprising a preferably prefilled syringe and an actuation mechanism for actuating the syringe. The application device preferably comprises a prefilling device, in particular in addition to the actuation mechanism. The prefilling device is preferably prevented from being advanced beyond a defined end position. The syringe can preferably be moved within a housing of the application device and / or can be positioned completely inside the housing.

Description

[0001] The invention relates to an application device for the intravitreal administration, in particular of fluids, and to the use of an application device according to the preamble of claim 1 or 16 .

[0002] Although the present invention is particularly suitable for intravitreal injection of drugs (i.e., injecting drugs directly into the eye, especially into the vitreous body), the application device of the present invention can also be used in other contexts, especially for the administration or injection of fluids or drugs. The present invention is particularly advantageous in the medical field for the direct administration or injection of drugs or other fluids into the human or animal body or parts thereof.

[0003] WO 2014 / 005728 A1 relates to a small volume syringe suitable for ophthalmic injection. The syringe is pre-filled with a drug and comprises a body, a stopper and a plunger. The plunger comprises a plunger contact surface arranged to contact the stopper so that the plunger can be used to force the stopper toward the outlet of the syringe body.

[0004] WO 00 / 69488 A2 relates to a syringe device comprising a housing and a syringe having a needle, the syringe being movable relative to the housing. The syringe device comprises a penetration arrangement operable to move the needle from a rearward position to a forward position, a return arrangement for moving the needle in a rearward direction and an injection arrangement for expelling the contents of the syringe through the needle. Further, the injection device comprises a control button arranged on the housing, the control button triggering the penetration arrangement and the injection arrangement stepwise. The button is arranged to have at least a component of movement perpendicular to the needle axis. The syringe device is not suitable for intravitreal injection.

[0005] US 2006 / 0069350 A1 relates to a medical syringe pen having a housing for accommodating a syringe. The pen comprises a drive mechanism and an actuating member for releasing the drive mechanism and actuating a device to deliver fluid from the syringe to a user. After delivering the fluid, the syringe is retracted into the housing. The syringe pen is not suitable for intravitreal injections.

[0006] US 2010 / 0241102 A1 relates to an intravitreal injection device comprising an injection assembly adapted to receive a syringe. In response to user input, the injection assembly is adapted to first automatically and sequentially transfer the syringe into the patient's eye, and then secondarily dispense an injection from the syringe. The injection device does not have a pre-filling device.

[0007] GB 2541445 A relates to an injection device. The injection device comprises a prefilled syringe having a stopper for expelling a medicament. The housing comprises a syringe, a plunger for driving the stopper and a pre-injection mechanism having an operating member movable relative to the housing. The pre-injection mechanism is arranged to move the syringe towards the plunger when the operating member moves, so that the stopper contacts the plunger. Rotation of the operating member causes the shuttle to be axially displaced so that it presses on a shoulder of the syringe barrel. Pre-injection is driven by removing a cap from the syringe. The injection device is not suitable for intravitreal injection.

[0008] It is an object of the present invention to provide an application device which is safe to use, easy to use and / or ensures a correct and / or precise dosing of the fluid or drug to be administered, in particular in the case of intravitreal administration.

[0009] This object is achieved by an application device according to claim 1 or 16 or by a use according to claim 53. Advantageous further developments are subject matter of the dependent claims.

[0010] The administration device according to the present invention comprises a syringe and an actuation mechanism for actuating the syringe. The syringe is preferably a prefilled syringe, i.e. a syringe containing a fluid or a drug to be dispensed and / or administered to a patient from the syringe. The syringe comprises a syringe body and a piston arranged in the body, the piston being movable in the syringe body.

[0011] According to one aspect of the invention, the applicator comprises a housing, wherein the actuation mechanism is configured to move the syringe or the syringe body relative to the housing. This is beneficial for easy use and handling of the applicator.

[0012] According to another aspect which can also be realized independently, the application device comprises a housing, wherein the syringe and / or the injection needle attached thereto is or can be configured to be completely positioned inside the housing, in particular so that the syringe and / or the injection needle does not protrude from the housing. This facilitates safe handling of the application device.

[0013] According to another aspect that can also be realized independently, the application device comprises a priming device in addition to the actuation mechanism. In particular, the priming device is separate and / or functionally decoupled from the actuation mechanism. In this way, priming can be performed without the possibility of accidentally actuating the syringe (which may lead to unintended dispensing of the fluid). Thus, easy and safe handling of the application device can be achieved.

[0014] According to another aspect that can also be realized independently, the application device comprises a pre-filling device and a blocking device, the pre-filling device being configured to act on the piston of the syringe, the blocking device being used to prevent the pre-filling device from moving the piston beyond the pre-filling position and / or to the end of the syringe. This ensures a correct, precise and / or defined pre-filling and contributes to easy and safe handling of the application device. In particular, the blocking device is configured to prevent the pre-filling device from being pushed beyond a defined end position.

[0015] The syringe preferably comprises an injection needle or is connectable to said injection needle, in particular by a Luer connection.

[0016] The actuation mechanism is preferably configured to move the syringe, in particular the syringe body, relative to the housing into the syringe's application position. Specifically, the syringe or its piston is not actuated when the syringe is moving into the application position. This contributes to safe and easy handling of the application device.

[0017] Further, the actuation mechanism is preferably configured to actuate the syringe after moving the syringe, in particular the syringe body, into the application position. The steps of first moving the syringe or the syringe body into the application position and then actuating the syringe are preferably performed in one common movement of the actuation mechanism. In particular, the syringe is actuated by moving the piston located in the body of the syringe. This contributes to safe and easy handling of the application device.

[0018] Further, the actuation mechanism is preferably configured to position the syringe and / or the injection needle completely inside the housing after actuation of the syringe, in particular automatically. In other words, after actuation of the syringe, in particular after administration or dispensing of the fluid, the syringe and / or the injection needle are preferably automatically retracted into the housing or covered by the housing. Thus, a safe and easy handling of the application device is achieved.

[0019] Preferably, the actuation mechanism comprises return means, in particular a spring, for moving the syringe and the housing or a part thereof relative to each other. This contributes to safe and easy handling of the applicator.

[0020] According to a preferred aspect, the actuation mechanism comprises a push element for actuating or moving the piston of the syringe, the push element preferably comprising a coupling device for coupling to the syringe body, especially in the application position, in particular so that the position of the syringe or the syringe body relative to the push element is fixed by the coupling. This contributes to safe and easy handling of the application device.

[0021] In a preferred embodiment, the actuation mechanism comprises a preferably button-shaped actuation element. The actuation element is preferably configured for manual and / or direct actuation by a user of the applicator, in particular independently of an actuation of the pre-filling device. Preferably, the actuation element is configured to be actuated in a direction transversely, in particular perpendicularly, to the longitudinal extension of the syringe and / or to the direction of movement of the pre-filling device. This contributes to safe and easy handling of the applicator.

[0022] The actuation mechanism preferably comprises a transmission or gear for moving the syringe. Preferably, the transmission is driven by the button-shaped actuation element. This facilitates safe and easy handling of the applicator.

[0023] The actuation element is preferably arranged laterally at the housing and / or at or near an axial end of the applicator comprising the application opening and / or near an axial end of the applicator opposite to the axial end comprising the pre-filling device or its actuation section. In this way, the application is preferably designed for one-handed actuation and / or can be actuated by the index finger of a user, in particular when holding the applicator like a pen.

[0024] According to a preferred aspect, the syringe and / or the injection needle can be retracted into the housing, preferably automatically, in particular by the transmission device. Retracting the syringe and / or the injection needle is preferably performed, in particular automatically, after the application or dispensing of the fluid. This contributes to safe and easy handling of the application device.

[0025] According to another preferred embodiment, the housing comprises or consists of two housing parts which are movable relative to each other and / or relative to the syringe barrel. This facilitates safe and easy handling of the applicator.

[0026] Preferably, the above-mentioned return means or spring is arranged in the housing and / or between the two housing parts. Preferably, the spring is configured to move the housing parts apart. In this way, it is possible to achieve automatic movement of the housing parts apart, for example for covering the syringe and / or the injection needle by one of the housing parts or for retracting the syringe into the housing, in particular after administration or dispensing of a fluid. This contributes to safe and easy handling of the application device.

[0027] According to another preferred aspect, the application device is configured in such a way that, during actuation of the piston of the syringe, the first of the two housing parts moves relative to the syringe body and the second of the two housing parts, wherein the syringe body and the first housing part do not move relative to each other. In particular, the push element for moving the piston is rigidly connected to the first housing part or forms a part or section of the first housing part. This contributes to safe and easy handling of the application device.

[0028] In the sense of the present invention, the term "pre-filling" preferably refers to the preparation of an application device before the application of the fluid contained in the application device or syringe, wherein a small portion of the fluid contained in the syringe is dispensed so that air bubbles that may be contained in the fluid are removed and the volume contained in the syringe after pre-filling corresponds to the desired dose to be administered to the patient. Typically, the volume of the fluid contained in the (pre-filled) syringe slightly exceeds the volume of the dose to be administered, so that the air contained in the syringe can be removed by pre-filling without affecting the dose to be administered. However, the use of the term "pre-filling" does not mean that the syringe is actually filled with fluid. In other words, "pre-filling" refers in particular to the movement of the piston of the syringe into a defined position (hereinafter also referred to as "pre-filling position"). In particular, the pre-filling device can be actuated or moved even if the syringe is empty (i.e. not filled with liquid or drug). Therefore, all other actions performed during the pre-filling process or performed for pre-filling (such as, the movement of the pre-filling device or the movement of the piston of the syringe) can be performed with an empty syringe (i.e., a syringe that is not pre-filled).

[0029] In the sense of the present invention, the term "application position" preferably refers to the position of the syringe and / or the injection needle attached thereto, in which the fluid contained in the syringe can be dispensed or administered to the patient without performing additional steps other than actuating the syringe for dispensing the fluid. Specifically, the application position is the position of the syringe body during the administration of the fluid contained in the syringe to the patient. However, the application position is defined relative to other parts of the application device, in particular the housing or parts thereof. Therefore, the application position does not involve the patient.

[0030] In the sense of the present invention, the terms "administer" and "dispense" and terms related thereto preferably refer to dispensing a fluid from an administration device or a syringe, in particular via an injection needle attached to the syringe. Although it is preferred that the administration device according to the present invention is used to administer the drug directly to the patient's body (e.g., by using an injection needle and / or by injecting the drug directly into the eye, in particular into the vitreous body), these terms also refer to dispensing a fluid in the absence of a patient. In particular, the term "administer" may also be used to dispense a fluid in the absence of a patient.

[0031] In the sense of the present invention, the term "actuating syringe" and related terms preferably refer to the movement of the piston relative to the syringe body, especially in the direction of the outlet of the syringe, through which the fluid can be dispensed. Therefore, the term "actuating syringe" can also be replaced by the term "actuating piston".

[0032] In the sense of the present invention, the term "moving the syringe" preferably refers to a preferably linear movement of the syringe body, in particular relative to other parts of the application device (e.g., the housing). In particular, in the sense of the present invention, merely actuating or moving the piston relative to the syringe body without moving the syringe body is not to be understood as a movement of the syringe. In particular, the term "moving the syringe" can therefore also be replaced by the term "moving the piston". Further, when it is easy to understand from the context that the term "syringe" refers in particular to the syringe body (such as, in the term "moving the syringe"), the term "syringe" can be replaced by the term "syringe body".

[0033] The aspects and features of the invention mentioned above as well as the aspects and features of the invention which will become apparent from the claims and the following description can in principle be implemented independently of one another, but can also be implemented in any combination or order.

[0034] Further aspects, advantages, features and characteristics of the present invention will become apparent from the claims and the following description of preferred embodiments with reference to the accompanying drawings, in which:

[0035] FIG. 1 shows a schematic perspective view of a first embodiment of an application device according to the invention;

[0036] FIG2 shows a schematic side view of the applicator according to the first embodiment being held by a user;

[0037] FIG3 shows a schematic cross-section of the applicator according to the first embodiment, with the syringe in a rest position;

[0038] FIG4 shows a schematic cross-section of an application device according to a first embodiment, wherein priming has been performed;

[0039] FIG5 shows a schematic cross-section of the applicator according to the first embodiment, wherein the syringe is in the application position and the syringe is not actuated;

[0040] 6 shows a schematic cross-section of the applicator according to the first embodiment, with the syringe in the application position and the syringe actuated;

[0041] FIG7 shows a schematic cross-section of the applicator according to the first embodiment, wherein the syringe is positioned in a retracted or rest position;

[0042] FIG8 shows a schematic perspective view of a second embodiment of an application device according to the invention;

[0043] FIG9 shows a schematic side view of an applicator according to a second embodiment being held by a user;

[0044] FIG10 shows a schematic cross-section of an applicator according to a second embodiment, with the syringe in a rest position;

[0045] Fig. 11 shows a schematic cross-section of an applicator according to a second embodiment, with the syringe in the application position and the syringe not actuated;

[0046] FIG12 shows a schematic cross-section of an applicator according to a second embodiment, wherein the syringe is actuated;

[0047] FIG13 shows a schematic cross-section of an applicator according to a second embodiment, wherein the syringe is positioned within the housing of the applicator;

[0048] FIG. 14 shows a schematic perspective view of an applicator according to a third embodiment; and

[0049] FIG. 15 shows a schematic cross-section of an application device according to a third embodiment.

[0050] In the drawings, which are merely schematic and sometimes not drawn to scale, the same reference numerals are used for identical or similar parts and components, wherein corresponding or comparable characteristics and advantages may be achieved even if a repeated description of these is not given.

[0051] The figures show different embodiments of the application device according to the invention, wherein the embodiments shown have in particular several common features. Therefore, features described in conjunction with one embodiment can preferably also be implemented with another embodiment. Therefore, for the sake of brevity, a repeated description of features common to more than one embodiment is avoided. Furthermore, different embodiments can in particular be combined.

[0052] In the following, the invention will first be described with reference to Figures 1 to 6, which show a first preferred embodiment of the invention in several depictions. Afterwards, further embodiments will be described.

[0053] Fig. 1 shows an application device 1 according to a first embodiment in a perspective view.

[0054] The application device 1 is in particular an intravitreal application device and / or is configured for intravitreal application and / or injection of a fluid F, in particular a medicament, ie directly application and / or injection of the fluid F into the patient's eye E, in particular into the vitreous body thereof.

[0055] Preferably, all parts of the applicator 1 described hereinafter are sterile and / or can be sterilized. In particular, the applicator and / or parts thereof are configured to be sterilized by autoclave.

[0056] The application device 1 comprises a syringe 2. The application device 1 or syringe 2 is configured to dispense a fluid F, in particular to apply the fluid F directly to a body or a part thereof, in particular an eye E, particularly preferably the vitreous body, of a patient (not shown). This facilitates safe and easy handling of the application device.

[0057] The syringe 2 is preferably pre-installed and / or permanently mounted in and / or integrated with the applicator 1. However, solutions are also conceivable in which the syringe 2 can be inserted into the applicator 1 by the user.

[0058] The applicator 1 and / or the syringe 2 are preferably disposable articles and / or are configured for single use.

[0059] The syringe 2 comprises a syringe body 3 and a piston 4 or is composed of the syringe body and the piston.

[0060] The syringe body 3 is preferably at least substantially cylindrical and / or elongated, in particular designed as a barrel. Specifically, the syringe 2 or the syringe body 3 is arranged at least substantially parallel to the longitudinal extension or axis L of the application device 1 and / or the syringe 2, in particular coaxial and / or symmetrical.

[0061] Terms like “axial”, “coaxial”, “radial” etc. preferably relate to the axis L, if not explicitly indicated otherwise.

[0062] The piston 4 is arranged within the body 3 and preferably fits tightly and / or sealingly in the body 3 such that the fluid F cannot pass between the piston 4 and the body 3 .

[0063] The piston 4 is movable (in particular linearly and / or along an axis L) within the syringe body 3 .

[0064] The syringe body 3 preferably comprises a collar 3A at an axial end opposite to the outlet 7. In particular, the collar 3A surrounds a cylindrical section of the syringe body 3 and / or protrudes radially therefrom, in particular in an annular manner.

[0065] According to a preferred aspect, the syringe 2 is pre-filled with or contains a fluid F. The fluid F is in particular a drug or medicament to be administered to a patient, for example, a VEGF antagonist, Bevacizumab, Ranibizumab, Aflibercept and / or Pegaptanib. However, other drugs or medicaments are also possible.

[0066] Further, it is also possible that the syringe 2 is configured to be filled or refilled by a user of the applicator 1 and / or that the syringe 2 is not pre-filled. Alternatively or additionally, the syringe 2 may be removed from the housing 8 and / or replaced.

[0067] The syringe 2 may further comprise an injection needle 5, for example a stake needle and / or a needle which is not detachable from the syringe 2. However, it is also possible that the syringe 2 is only configured to be connected to the injection needle 5 and / or that the injection needle 5 is detachable from the syringe 2, in particular by means of a Luer connection or system widely used in the medical field, in particular a Luer lock or a Luer slip.

[0068] The syringe 2 comprises or defines a chamber 6 for the fluid F. The chamber 6 is preferably formed or delimited by the body 3 and the piston 4. The chamber 6 has a variable volume. By moving the piston 4 relative to the syringe body 3, the volume of the chamber 6 can be changed (in particular reduced).

[0069] Further, the syringe 2 or the syringe body 3 comprises an outlet 7 for dispensing the fluid F. The outlet 7 is preferably arranged at an axial end of the syringe 2 .

[0070] The piston 4 is preferably movable only towards the outlet 7 and / or not away from the outlet 7 .

[0071] The injection needle 5 is preferably arranged at the outlet 7 or can be connected to said outlet.

[0072] The fluid F may be dispensed from the syringe 2 by moving the piston 4 towards the outlet 7 , such that the volume of the chamber 6 decreases and the fluid F contained in the chamber 6 is expelled through the outlet 7 .

[0073] The application device 1 preferably comprises a housing 8. The syringe 2 is preferably arranged inside the housing 8. The housing 8 preferably surrounds or encloses at least a major part of the syringe 2 or the syringe body 3. Preferably, the syringe 2 can be completely positioned inside the housing 8, so that no part of the syringe 2 protrudes from the housing 8. In particular, this also applies to the injection needle 5 attached to a part of the syringe 2 or forming said part.

[0074] The housing 8 may be at least partially transparent in order to allow a visual inspection of the interior of the applicator 1 , in particular the interior of the syringe 2 .

[0075] The housing 8 preferably protects the syringe 2 , the syringe body 3 and / or the needle 5 from external influences.

[0076] The applicator 1 preferably comprises a particularly rigid cover or shield 27 for the injection needle 5. In particular, the shield 27 is configured to protect the injection needle 5 from damage and / or to ensure the sterility of the injection needle 5.

[0077] The shield 27 is preferably detachable from the injection needle 5 , the applicator 1 , the housing 8 and / or the syringe 2 .

[0078] The housing 8 preferably comprises an application opening 15 for the syringe 2 and / or the injection needle 5 at an axial end of the application device 1 .

[0079] The syringe 2 or the syringe body 3 is preferably movable within the housing 8 and / or relative to the housing. In particular, the syringe 2 or the syringe body 3 is movable between a retracted or rest position (particularly shown in Figures 3 and 4) and an application position (particularly shown in Figure 5). The retracted or rest position is in particular the position in which the syringe 2 is positioned when the application device 1 is not in use or actuated.

[0080] The application position is in particular a position where fluid F dispensing for administration of the fluid F to a patient can occur. In the application position, the outlet 7 and / or the injection needle 5 preferably protrude out of the housing 8. In the application position, the injection needle 5 and / or the syringe 2, in particular the outlet 7, preferably extends through the application opening 15.

[0081] The applicator 1 comprises an actuation mechanism 9 for actuating the syringe 2, in particular for moving the piston 4 relative to the syringe body 3, particularly preferably towards the outlet 7.

[0082] Preferably, the application device 1 comprises, in particular in addition to and / or separately from the actuation mechanism 9, a priming device 10 configured for priming. The term "priming" is as defined above.

[0083] The priming device 10 is preferably separate and / or functionally decoupled from the actuation mechanism 9. Thus, priming can be performed, in particular by the priming device 10, without actuating the syringe 2 by the actuation mechanism 9.

[0084] The priming device 10 is preferably configured and / or arranged to actuate the piston 4 and / or to move the piston 4 relative to the syringe body 3. In particular, the priming device 10 is configured to move or push the piston 4 towards the outlet 7 of the syringe 2.

[0085] The priming device 10 is preferably configured to move the piston 4 to a defined end position, also referred to hereinafter as the “priming position.” In particular, the piston 4 cannot be moved by the priming device 10 beyond the priming position.

[0086] The term "priming position" preferably refers to a position into which the piston 4 is moved for priming. When the piston 4 is in the priming position, the chamber 6 preferably has a (precisely) desired or predetermined volume and / or contains an amount of fluid F corresponding to said volume, in particular a volume that precisely corresponds to one dose of the fluid F to be administered to the patient.

[0087] In the priming position, the piston 4 is preferably spaced apart from the axial end of the syringe 2 comprising the outlet 7 .

[0088] The application device 1 and / or the pre-filling device 10 are preferably configured in such a way that actuation of the application device 1, in particular dispensing of the drug and / or moving the piston 4 beyond the pre-filling position, is only possible after the pre-filling and / or is prevented before and / or during the pre-filling. For example, the pre-filling device 10 can be configured to (mechanically) block actuation of the application device 1 before being moved into the pre-filling position.

[0089] The syringe body 3 is preferably open at an axial end 14 of the syringe 2 or syringe body 3 opposite the outlet 7. In particular, the prefilling device 10 extends into the syringe body 3 through the axial end 14 or its opening.

[0090] The prefilling device 10 is preferably movable relative to the housing 8 and / or relative to the syringe barrel 2 , in particular along and / or parallel to the axis L.

[0091] The pre-filling device 10 may be configured for a single actuation. In other words, it is possible that the pre-filling device 10 may be actuated only once. The pre-filling device 10 is preferably configured to be locked, in particular by engagement with the housing 8 or a part thereof, when the piston 4 is moved into the pre-filling position by the pre-filling device 10. Preferably, the pre-filling device 10 cannot be moved again after pre-filling.

[0092] Locking the prefilling device 10 by or after prefilling preferably serves as an indication to the user of the administration device 1 that the prefilling has been performed, the administration device 1 is ready for use (particularly to administer a drug to a patient) and / or that the administration device 1 has been used.

[0093] As an alternative or in addition, the pre-filling device 10 and / or the applicator 1 may comprise a cap or the like (not shown) for covering the pre-filling device 10. In particular, the cap may be detachable from the housing 8 or the applicator 1. The cap preferably covers the pre-filling device 10 such that the cap prevents (accidental) actuation of the pre-filling device 10.

[0094] The priming device 10 is preferably physically isolated from the piston 4. Thus, it is preferably impossible for the piston 4 to be moved in a direction away from the outlet 7 by the priming device 10. This prevents the piston 4 from moving away from the outlet 7, for example when the priming device 10 is (accidentally) moved away from the piston 4 and / or the outlet 7. Thus, air drawn into the syringe 2 and / or the piston 4 when the fluid F is administered or injected into the patient's body is prevented from moving away from the outlet 7. Injury to the patient by accidentally moving the priming device 10 in the wrong direction is thus avoided.

[0095] The prefilling device 10 is preferably partially arranged within the housing 8 and / or the syringe body 3 and / or extends into the syringe 2 or the syringe body 3 .

[0096] Preferably, the prefilling device 10 comprises an actuation section 11 which is arranged in particular outside the housing 8 so that it can be actuated by a user. Preferably, the actuation section 11 is arranged on an axial end of the application device 1 , in particular opposite the application opening 15 .

[0097] The application device 1 preferably comprises a blocking device 12 for blocking or stopping the pre-filling device 10 and / or for preventing the pre-filling device 10 from moving beyond a defined end position. Thus, the blocking device 12 preferably defines an end position of the pre-filling device 10. The blocking device 12 is preferably arranged on the inner wall 16 of the housing 8 and / or is formed in one piece with the inner wall 16. The blocking device 12 preferably forms a stop for the pre-filling device 10. In particular, the blocking device 12 protrudes from the inner wall 16 of the housing 8 and / or forms a bulge of or on the inner wall.

[0098] The pre-filling device 10 is preferably elongated and / or rod-shaped. At its end comprising the actuation section 11, the pre-filling device 10 preferably has an enlarged cross section and / or diameter, in particular perpendicular to the longitudinal extension and / or the axis L of the pre-filling device 10, so that the pre-filling device 10 or the actuation section 11 comprises a contact area 13, which is configured and / or arranged to contact the blocking device 12. The contact area 13 preferably extends transversely, in particular at least substantially perpendicularly to the axis L and / or the longitudinal extension of the pre-filling device 10.

[0099] In particular, the prefilling device 10 can be moved (linearly) into the housing 8 and / or the application device 1 and / or towards the syringe 2, in particular the piston 4, preferably until the contact area 13 contacts the blocking device 12, thereby blocking further movement of the prefilling device 10.

[0100] In Fig. 3, the pre-filling device 10 is shown in an unactuated position. In Fig. 4, the pre-filling device 10 has been moved from the unactuated position of Fig. 3 into an actuated or defined end position by moving the pre-filling device 10 towards the outlet 7 and / or the application opening 15. This is indicated by the arrow in Fig. 4.

[0101] Therefore, the piston 4 is preferably not moved by the pre-filling device 10 beyond the predetermined pre-filling position. In particular, it is not possible to reduce the volume of the chamber 6 to (at least substantially) zero by moving the piston 4 towards the outlet 7 by the pre-filling device 10. In particular, the actuation of the syringe 2 is performed by actuating a part different from the part that is actuated for pre-filling (i.e., the pre-filling device 10). Therefore, the pre-filling cannot result in reducing the chamber 6 to a smaller volume than expected. Therefore, it is prevented that a portion of the dose of the fluid F or drug to be administered to the patient is removed from the chamber 6 by or during the pre-filling.

[0102] The syringe 2, the piston 4, the housing 8, the blocking device 12, the pre-filling device 10 and / or the contact area 13 are preferably sized and / or arranged in such a way that, when the pre-filling device 10 moves towards the piston 4, the piston 4 moves into the pre-filling position until the contact area 13 contacts the blocking device 12.

[0103] The actuation mechanism 9 is preferably configured for moving the syringe 2 or syringe body 3 relative to the housing 8 .

[0104] Preferably, priming by the priming device 10 takes place or is performed prior to moving and / or actuating the syringe 2 .

[0105] The actuation mechanism 9 comprises several parts which interact or work together, in particular to actuate the syringe 2 and / or to move the syringe 2 (in particular relative to the housing 8 ).

[0106] The actuation mechanism 9 is preferably configured to move the syringe 2 into the application position relative to the housing 8. The movement into the application position can be performed in particular without actuating the syringe 2, i.e. without moving the piston 4 relative to the syringe body 3 when the syringe 2 is moved by the actuation mechanism 9. This is shown in particular in Figures 4 and 5.

[0107] Further, the actuation mechanism 9 is preferably configured for actuating the syringe 2 or moving the piston 4 relative to the syringe body 3, preferably towards the outlet 7, in particular after the syringe 2 has been moved into the administration position. This is particularly shown in Figure 6. The arrows in Figure 5 indicate that the syringe 2 moves from the rest position shown in Figure 4 into the administration position shown in Figure 5.

[0108] Further, the actuation mechanism 9 is preferably configured to position the syringe 2 and / or the injection needle 5 at least substantially completely inside the housing 8, for example by retracting the syringe 2 into the housing 8, in particular after actuating the syringe 2. Preferably, positioning the syringe 2 and / or the injection needle 5 inside the housing 8 is or can be performed automatically. This is particularly shown in Figure 7. The arrow in Figure 6 indicates that the syringe 2 moves from the application position shown in Figure 6 to the rest or retracted position shown in Figure 7.

[0109] Thus, in a particularly preferred embodiment, the actuation mechanism 9 is configured to first move the syringe 2 into the application position, subsequently actuate the syringe 2 by moving the piston 4 towards the outlet 7, such that the fluid F contained in the chamber 6 of the syringe 2 is dispensed, and subsequently (again) position the syringe 2 completely inside the housing 8, e.g., by retracting the syringe 2 into the housing 8, such that the syringe 2 and / or the injection needle 5 do not protrude from the housing 8. Preferably, these steps are subsequently and / or automatically performed by a single actuation of the application device 1 or the actuation mechanism 9, as will be described in further detail below. Thus, a safe and easy handling of the application device 1 can be achieved.

[0110] The actuation mechanism 9 preferably comprises return means 17. The return means 17 is preferably configured and / or arranged to bias or urge the syringe 2, in particular the syringe body 3, into a retracted or rest position.

[0111] The return means 17 is preferably a spring, particularly preferably a helical spring and / or a compression spring.

[0112] The actuation mechanism 9 preferably comprises a push element 18, which is configured to actuate the piston 4, in particular in addition to and / or independently of the pre-filling device 10. In particular, the push element 18 can be moved further toward the syringe 2 and / or the outlet 7 than the pre-filling device 10. The push element 18 is preferably configured to move or push the piston 4 until the axial end of the syringe 2 including the outlet 7, in particular by actuating, pushing or moving the piston 4 with the push element 18 so that the desired dose of the fluid F, in particular all the fluid contained in the chamber 6, can be dispensed through the outlet 7. The push element 18 is preferably separate and / or physically isolated from the piston 4 and / or is not rigidly connected to the piston.

[0113] The push element 18 is preferably rod-shaped and / or elongated and / or extends along and / or parallel to the axis L. Preferably, the push element 18 is partially arranged in the syringe body 3 and / or extends into the syringe body 3. Particularly preferably, the push element 18 is positioned adjacent to the pre-filling device 10 and / or extends at least substantially parallel to the pre-filling device 10. The push element 18 is preferably located completely inside the housing 8. The push element 18 is preferably configured to move independently of the pre-filling device 10.

[0114] The push element 18 preferably comprises coupling means 19 for coupling the push element 18 to the syringe body 3 .

[0115] Preferably, the pushing element 18 or the coupling device 19 can be coupled with the syringe 2 , in particular the syringe body 3 , in two different coupling positions.

[0116] In the first coupling position, the push element 18 is preferably coupled to the syringe body 3 in such a way that the position of the syringe body 3 relative to the push element 18 is at least temporarily fixed, in particular so that the syringe 2 is moved out of the rest position and / or towards the application position when the push element 18 is moved towards the application opening 15. In the first coupling position, the push element 18 is preferably movable relative to the pre-filling device 10.

[0117] Preferably, the push element 18 can be coupled with the syringe body 3 in the second coupling position, in particular automatically and / or after the coupling in the first coupling position. Preferably, after the coupling in the first coupling position and / or before the coupling in the second coupling position, the coupling in the first coupling position is released and / or the push element 18 is moved relative to the syringe body 3. It is particularly preferred that the coupling in the second coupling position occurs only after the push element 18 has moved the piston 4 towards the outlet 7. Therefore, the coupling in the second coupling position preferably occurs only after the fluid F has been dispensed from the syringe 2.

[0118] In other words, the coupling in the first position preferably occurs in the rest position of the syringe 2 and / or during the movement of the syringe 2 from the rest position into the application position. The coupling in the second coupling position preferably occurs only when or after the syringe 2 has been moved into the application position and / or during the movement of the syringe 2 from the application back to the rest position or the retracted position.

[0119] The first coupling is depicted in Figures 3, 4 and 5. The second coupling is depicted in Figures 6 and 7.

[0120] The coupling means 19 preferably comprise or are formed by one or several flaps or arms 19A, 19B.

[0121] The push element 18 preferably comprises a first arm 19A, which is preferably arranged laterally at the push element 18. In particular, the first arm 19A protrudes laterally or obliquely from the push element 18 and / or is arranged transversely or obliquely to the axis L and / or the push element 18. The arm 19A is preferably constructed in one piece with the push element 18.

[0122] The coupling in the first coupling position is preferably achieved by the first arm 19A. The diameter and / or cross section of the push element 18 is preferably enlarged by the first arm 19A. The diameter and / or cross section of the push element 18 with the first arm 19A is preferably larger than the inner diameter or cross section of the syringe body 3, so that the arm 19A contacts the axial end 14 of the syringe body 3.

[0123] The syringe body 3, the push element 18 and the arm 19A are preferably arranged in such a way that, when the syringe 2 is in the rest position and / or the application device 1, in particular the actuation element 20, is not actuated, the arm 19A contacts the axial end 14 of the syringe 2 or the syringe body 3. This is shown in particular in Figures 3 and 4.

[0124] When the push element 18 moves towards the application opening 15, the syringe body 3 preferably moves with the push element 18 due to the connection with the first arm 19A at the axial end 14. Therefore, the push element 18 preferably does not move relative to the syringe body 3 and / or the piston 4, so that the syringe 2 is not actuated by moving into the application position.

[0125] The application device 1 preferably comprises a stopper 26 for the syringe 2. Specifically, the stopper 26 is configured to stop the syringe 2 in the application position and / or to define the application position. Specifically, the stopper 26 is configured to contact the collar 3A of the syringe 2.

[0126] The stopper 26 is preferably located inside the housing 8. Preferably, the stopper 26 is formed in one piece with the housing 8 or a part 8A, 8B thereof, in particular an inner wall thereof.

[0127] When the syringe 2 has reached the application position, the push element 18 may preferably be advanced further towards the application opening 15 , in particular so that the piston 4 is actuated, in particular moved towards the outlet 7 .

[0128] The coupling device 19 or the first arm 19A is preferably flexible. Specifically, the first arm 19A is configured to deform and / or rotate toward the push element 18, thereby reducing the diameter and / or cross-section of the push element 18, so that the connection between the arm 19A and the syringe body 3 is released, and the push element 18 can be further pushed into the syringe body 3 to move or actuate the piston 4.

[0129] The first arm 19A is preferably deformed by (further) pushing the pushing element 18 toward the outlet 7 and / or (further) actuating or pressing the actuating element 20 downward when the syringe 2 (has) reached the administration position and / or when further movement of the syringe 2 or the syringe body 3 toward the administration opening 15 is blocked by the stop member 26.

[0130] The coupling device 19 is preferably configured for coupling in the second coupling position only when or after the piston 4 has been moved by the push element 18 towards the outlet 7. The coupling device 19 preferably comprises a second arm 19B for coupling in the second position. The second arm 19B is preferably arranged on the rod 23.

[0131] The rod 23 is preferably rigidly connected to the push element 18, in particular via a connecting portion 24. The connecting portion 24 is preferably arranged between the push element 18 and the rod 23. The push element 18, the rod 23 and the connecting portion 24 preferably form a U-shape, in particular wherein the push element 18 and the rod 23 are parallel to each other. The rod 23 is preferably positioned completely inside the housing 8 and / or outside the syringe 2 or the syringe body 3.

[0132] The second arm 19B is preferably flexible. Specifically, the second arm 19B is configured to deform and / or rotate toward the rod 23 so that the rod 23 and / or the second arm 19B can pass through the collar 3A.

[0133] The second arm 19B is preferably configured to engage the collar 3A of the syringe 3, in particular on the side of the collar 3A facing the outlet 7. The second arm 19B is preferably elastic. The second arm 19B is preferably arranged at the rod 23 in such a way that: the second arm 19B passes through the collar 3A when the push element 18 pushes the piston 4 towards the outlet 7, and / or the second arm 19B engages the collar 3A, in particular on the side facing the outlet 7, when the piston 4 has moved far enough towards the outlet 7.

[0134] When the push element 18 and / or the rod 23 moves away from the application opening 15, in particular after application of the fluid F, the syringe 2 or the syringe body 3 preferably moves together with the push element 18 and / or the rod 23 due to the connection in the second connection position, in particular due to the engagement of the second arm 19B with the collar 3A.

[0135] Although the above explanations are mainly made with reference to the first embodiment shown in FIGS. 1 to 7 , the explanations and features described are also applicable to the other embodiments shown in FIGS. 8 to 13 , and are not limited to the first embodiment.

[0136] Hereinafter, some particular features of the first embodiment will be described with particular reference to FIGS. 1 to 7 before discussing further embodiments.

[0137] The applicator 1 and / or the actuation mechanism 9 preferably comprises an actuation element 20 which is configured for actuating the applicator 1 , in particular the syringe 2 and / or the actuation mechanism 9 .

[0138] The actuating element 20 is preferably configured or formed to be button-like and / or plunger-like.

[0139] The actuation element 20 is preferably arranged laterally at the application device 1, in particular a region or face of the actuation element which is configured as an actuation face in a radial direction relative to the axis L. Preferably, the actuation element 20 extends through an opening or recess 21 of the housing 8, the recess 21 preferably being arranged laterally at the housing 8. Preferably, the actuation element 20 protrudes from the housing 8.

[0140] The actuation element 20 is preferably arranged at or near the axial end of the application device 1 comprising or forming the application opening 15. The actuation element 20 is preferably arranged at or near the axial end end of the application device 1, which is opposite to the (axial) end comprising the pre-filling device 10 and / or its actuation section 11. Preferably, the actuation element 20 is arranged closer to the end comprising the application opening 15 than to the end comprising the pre-filling device 10.

[0141] The actuating element 20 preferably extends transversely, in particular at least substantially perpendicularly, to the axis L and / or to the direction of movement of the push element 18 and / or to the direction of movement of the prefilling device 10 .

[0142] Preferably, the actuating element 20 is movable in a direction transversely, in particular perpendicularly, to the axis L and / or to a direction of movement of the push element 18 and / or to a direction of movement of the prefilling device 10 .

[0143] Preferably, the actuation element 20 is configured to be actuated manually and / or directly by a user of the applicator 1 , in particular by an index finger of the user.

[0144] As shown in FIG. 2 , the applicator 1 and / or the actuation element 20 are preferably arranged and / or configured for one-handed actuation, in particular in such a way that the applicator 1 can be held like a pen and / or between the thumb and the index and / or middle finger of a user of the applicator 1, in particular so that the actuation element 20 can be actuated, in particular pressed downwards, with the index finger when holding the applicator 1. Preferably, the user does not have to change his grip in order to actuate the applicator 1 and / or the actuation element 20, in particular during and / or after puncturing the patient's body, in particular the eye, with the needle 5. This makes it easier and safer to use the applicator 1. Preferably, shaking or swaying of the applicator 1 during use is thus prevented.

[0145] The applicator 1 is preferably constructed in such a way that actuation of the applicator 1 and / or administration of the fluid F is performed in a manner other than by pressing an actuation means of a syringe, such as a piston or a plunger, located at an axial end of the applicator 1 or of the syringe 2. Preferably, the applicator 1 does not comprise means for actuating the syringe 2, said means being positioned and / or configured to be actuated at the axial end of the applicator 1 opposite to the axial end comprising the outlet 7 and / or the application opening 15.

[0146] The actuating element 20 is preferably biased and / or forced into the unactuated position, in particular by return means 17. This is illustrated in particular in Figures 3 to 7 .

[0147] The spring or return means 17 is preferably arranged outside the housing 8 and / or between the housing 8 and the actuating element 20 , in particular transversely or perpendicularly to the axis L and / or the movement direction of the prefilling device 10 and / or the push element 18 .

[0148] The return means 17 is preferably configured to be compressed upon actuation of the actuation element 20 .

[0149] The pushing element 18 is preferably movable or actuatable by actuation of an actuating element 20 , in particular by pressing the actuating element 20 downwards, ie by moving the actuating element 20 towards the housing 8 and / or in a direction perpendicular to the axis L.

[0150] The actuating element 2 is preferably provided additionally and / or separately from the prefilling device 10. The actuating element 20 is preferably mechanically and / or functionally decoupled from the prefilling device 10, in particular so that the actuating element 20 and the prefilling device 10 can be actuated independently and / or work or move independently of each other.

[0151] The actuation element 20 and / or the prefilling device 10 may be configured such that an actuation or pressing down of the actuation element 20 is blocked, in particular by the prefilling device 10 , as long as no priming has been performed or the prefilling device 10 has not been advanced into the priming position.

[0152] The actuation mechanism 9 preferably comprises a gear or transmission 22. The transmission 22 is preferably configured to transmit the actuation or movement of the actuation element 20 to the pushing element 18 or to convert the movement of the pushing element. In particular, the transmission 22 is configured to convert the movement of the actuation element 20 into a movement of the pushing element 18, which is transverse to, in particular at least substantially perpendicular to, the movement direction of the actuation element 20.

[0153] Further, the transmission device 22 preferably includes or forms a gear train. The transmission ratio, in particular the ratio between the moving distance of the actuating element 20 and the moving distance of the pushing element 18 and / or the rod 23, is preferably greater than 1:3, in particular greater than 1:5 and / or less than 1:20, in particular less than 1:10.

[0154] The transmission 22 preferably comprises a gearwheel 22A. Particularly preferably, the gearwheel 22A is a double gearwheel, i.e. a gearwheel comprising two different ring gears or toothed rims 22B, 22C. The two ring gears or toothed rims 22B, 22C preferably have different diameters, in particular wherein the diameter of the first rim 22B (hereinafter indicated as inner rim 22B) is smaller than the diameter of the second toothed rim 22C (hereinafter indicated as outer rim 22C).

[0155] The actuating element 20 preferably comprises one or more toothed racks or rods. Specifically, the gear 22A and the actuating element 20 together form one or more racks and pinions.

[0156] The actuating element 20 preferably comprises or forms one of the toothed rods. Specifically, the actuating element 20 and the inner toothed rim 22B of the gearwheel 22A together form a first rack and pinion.

[0157] Preferably, the rod 23 comprises or forms a second toothed rod in the toothed rod. Specifically, the rod 23 and the outer toothed edge 22C of the large gear 22A form a second rack and pinion.

[0158] In this way, a relatively small movement distance of the actuating element 20 is converted into a much larger movement distance of the pushing element 18. This is advantageous for easy handling of the applicator 1.

[0159] Moving the syringe 2 into the application position and / or actuating the syringe 2, in particular dispensing the fluid F, can preferably be performed by a single and / or continuous actuation of the actuating element 20, in particular by pressing the actuating element 20 downwards (towards the housing 8 and / or in a direction transverse to the axis L). In particular after applying the fluid F and / or actuating the actuating element 20, the syringe 2 is preferably automatically retracted into the housing 8 or moved (returned) into a retracted or rest position.

[0160] In the sense of the present invention, "retracting" the syringe 2 into the housing 8 preferably refers to the movement of the syringe 2 or the syringe body 3 relative to the housing 8 or its parts 8A, 8B, so that when the retraction is completed, the syringe 2 is positioned inside the housing 8. In particular, the syringe 2 and / or the injection needle 5 do not extend out of the housing 8 in the retracted position. In one embodiment, retracting the syringe 2 can be performed by moving the syringe 2 relative to the housing 8. However, in another embodiment, it is also possible that the housing parts 8A, 8B are moved relative to each other and / or at least one of the housing parts 8A, 8B is moved relative to the syringe 2 or the syringe body 3, so that the syringe 2 is surrounded and / or covered by the housing 8 by the relative movement.

[0161] In particular, the term "retracting the syringe 2" refers to the movement of the syringe 2 from the administration position into a retracted or rest position.

[0162] The return device 17 is preferably configured to position the syringe 2 (automatically) in the housing 8 and / or to retract the syringe 2 into the housing 8. The return device 17 is preferably configured to move the syringe 2 (automatically) from the application position to the retracted or static position. Specifically, the return device 17 is configured to move the syringe 2 by returning the actuating element 20 to the starting position, and the actuating element 20 is positioned in the starting position before being actuated or pressed downwards. The movement of the actuating element 20 is preferably converted into the movement of the syringe 2 to the retracted or static position by the actuating mechanism 9 (especially the transmission 22, the pushing element 18, the coupling device 19 and / or the rod 23).

[0163] In the following, in particular, an application device 1 according to a second embodiment shown in FIGS. 7 to 12 will be described. As explained above, the second embodiment shares a number of features with the first embodiment. Therefore, the main differences of the second embodiment compared to the first embodiment will be discussed below. Therefore, if not otherwise indicated, the above explanations related to the first embodiment preferably also apply to the second embodiment.

[0164] According to the second embodiment, the applicator 1 or the housing 8 preferably comprises two housing parts 8A and 8B, distinguished hereinafter by the terms "first housing part 8A" and second housing part 8B".

[0165] The housing parts 8A, 8B are preferably arranged coaxially with respect to each other and / or with respect to the axis L.

[0166] The housing parts 8A, 8B are preferably movable relative to each other, in particular linearly and / or along the axis L. The housing parts 8A, 8B are preferably movable relative to each other in a telescopic manner.

[0167] Preferably, the second housing portion 8B at least partially extends into the first housing portion 8A and / or the first housing portion 8A at least partially surrounds the second housing portion 8B, or vice versa.

[0168] The application device 1, in particular the housing 8, particularly preferably the second housing part 8B, preferably comprises or forms a cover or shield 27 for the injection needle 5, the housing part 8B preferably at least radially surrounding the injection needle 5. However, the shield 27 can also be a part that is detachable from the housing 8 or the first housing part 8A.

[0169] The shield 27 preferably comprises one or more openings or recesses 27A, in particular when the injection needle 5 is connectable to and / or detachable from the applicator 1 and / or the syringe 2, for example by a Luer connection.

[0170] The one or more recesses 27A are preferably arranged laterally on the shield 27. Preferably, two recesses 27A are provided, in particular wherein the recesses 27A are arranged on diametrically opposite sides of the shield 27.

[0171] The injection needle 5 and / or the interior of the shield are preferably accessible through the one or more recesses 27A. The recess 27A is preferably configured to allow and / or facilitate the connection of the injection needle 5 to the syringe 2, in particular via a Luer connection, and / or the removal or disassembly of the injection needle 5 from the syringe 2. Further, inspection of the injection needle 5 is made possible by the one or more recesses 27A.

[0172] The applicator 1 preferably comprises alignment means 25 for aligning the applicator 1 with the eye E of the patient.

[0173] Preferably, the second housing part 8B forms or comprises the alignment means 25 .

[0174] The alignment device 25 is preferably arranged at the axial end of the housing 8 or of the housing part 8B comprising the application opening 15 .

[0175] The alignment device 25 preferably comprises or forms an alignment zone 25A. The alignment device 25 and / or the alignment zone 25A are preferably configured for direct contact with the patient's eye E. Preferably, the alignment zone 25A extends transversely to the longitudinal extension and / or the axis L of the second housing part 8B. The alignment zone 25A is preferably arranged at an axial end of the alignment device 25.

[0176] Alignment region 25A is preferably at least substantially flat, planar and / or layered.

[0177] In particular, the alignment means 25 and / or the alignment zone 25A are curved and / or comprise a (slight) curvature and / or an at least substantially spherical shape and are thus particularly adapted to the shape of the eye E.

[0178] The alignment device 25 is preferably elongated, tubular, cannula-shaped and / or at least substantially cylindrical. In particular, the alignment device 25 at least partially surrounds the needle 5.

[0179] The actuation mechanism 9 of the application device 1 according to the second embodiment is in principle very similar and / or partly identical to the actuation mechanism 9 of the application device 1 according to the first embodiment. In particular, the above explanations about the prefilling device 10 and the actuation of the syringe 2 by the push element 18 (especially the steps of first moving the syringe 2 to the actuation position, then actuating the syringe 2 and subsequently positioning the syringe 2 again in the housing 8 or retracting the syringe 2) also apply to the second embodiment.

[0180] In contrast to the first embodiment, the applicator 1 according to the second embodiment preferably does not comprise a button-shaped actuation element.

[0181] The applicator 1 and / or the syringe 2 according to the second embodiment is preferably configured to be actuated by moving the housing parts 8A, 8B relative to each other, in particular by a linear movement.

[0182] Further, in the second embodiment, a spring or return means 17 is arranged inside the housing 8 and / or between the first housing part 8A and the second housing part 8B. The return means 17 is preferably arranged coaxially with the longitudinal extension and / or axis L of the housing 8 or housing parts 8A, 8B.

[0183] Preferably, the return means 17 is configured or arranged to force the first housing part 8A and the second housing part 8B apart and / or into a rest position.

[0184] The push element 18 of the second embodiment is preferably formed in one piece with the housing 8 , in particular the first housing part 8A, and / or is not movable relative to the first housing part 8A.

[0185] The housing 8 , in particular the first housing part 8A, preferably forms part of the actuation mechanism 9 , in particular by comprising or forming the pushing element 18 .

[0186] The pushing element 18 and / or the priming device 10 are preferably arranged coaxially with the return means 17 and / or extend into or through the return means 17. In particular, the return means 17 surrounds the pushing element 18 and / or the priming device 10.

[0187] The actuating mechanism 9 according to the second embodiment preferably does not comprise a transmission 22 .

[0188] The syringe 2 is preferably configured to be moved into the application position and / or to be actuated by an especially linear movement of the first housing part 8A relative to the second housing part 8B. By this movement, the return means 17 is preferably compressed.

[0189] The stop 26 is preferably arranged on the second housing part 8B, in particular on its inner wall.

[0190] The push element 18 can or preferably is connected to the syringe 2 via a coupling device 19, in particular its arms 19A, 19B, as explained above in conjunction with the first embodiment. Preferably, the position of the syringe 2 relative to the first housing part 8A and / or the push element 18 is fixed by the coupling, at least until the syringe 2 has reached the application position.

[0191] In other words, the syringe 2 is preferably configured to move relative to the second housing part 8B, in particular from a rest position into an application position, when the first housing part 8A is moved relative to the second housing part 8B, in particular towards the application opening 15 .

[0192] When the syringe 2 has reached the application position, the syringe 2 can preferably be actuated and / or the fluid F can be applied by further movement of the first housing part 8A relative to the second housing part 8B. By said further movement, the coupling of the coupling device 19 or the arm 19A to the syringe body 3 is preferably released, so that the push element 18 moves further towards the piston 4 and thus actuates the piston 4 or the syringe 2.

[0193] When the piston 4 is actuated, in particular when the piston 4 is moved toward the outlet 7, the first housing part 8A preferably moves relative to the syringe 2 and / or the second housing part 8B, in particular so that the syringe 2 and / or the second housing part 8B moves into or toward the first housing part 8A. This can be seen in particular by comparing Figures 11 and 12.

[0194] Subsequently, the syringe 2, in particular the injection needle 5, can preferably be completely positioned inside the housing 8 and / or retracted into said housing, in particular automatically.

[0195] The coupling device 19 according to the second embodiment preferably comprises only one or exactly one coupling arm 19 A. The coupling arm 19A can preferably be coupled with the syringe body 3 in two different coupling positions.

[0196] The syringe body 3 preferably includes a recess 28 or the like configured to couple with the arm 19A in the second coupling position. In a preferred embodiment, the arm 19A is configured to engage with the recess 28 of the syringe body 3 and thereby couple to the syringe body 3 in the second coupling position when the piston 4 is pushed toward the outlet 7 by the pushing element 18. In particular, the arm 19A is elastic so that it automatically engages the recess 28 when it reaches its position.

[0197] The coupling of the arm 19A in the second coupling position enables in particular the syringe 2 to be retracted into the housing 8 .

[0198] A solution with a coupling device 19 comprising only one arm 19A configured to engage with the syringe body 3 in two different positions may also be preferably achieved in the first embodiment of the applicator.

[0199] The return means 17 is preferably configured to (automatically) position the syringe 2 inside the housing 8 or to retract the syringe 2 into the housing 8. In particular, the application device 1 is configured to retract the syringe 2 by moving the second housing part 8B relative to the first housing part 8A (in particular by moving the housing parts 8A, 8B apart by a (compressed) spring or the return means 17, in particular so that the second housing part 8B is pushed out of the first housing part 8A), whereby the second housing part 8B covers the syringe 2 and / or the injection needle 5. In particular, when retracting the syringe 2, the second housing part 8B moves relative to the syringe 2 and / or the syringe 2 does not move relative to the first housing part 8A.

[0200] The application device 1 is configured in particular to carry out the method described hereinafter.

[0201] A method for using or actuating an application device 1 and / or for dispensing or applying a fluid F from / using the application device 1 and / or for administering or injecting a drug to a patient, in particular directly into the patient's body or a part thereof, preferably comprises one or more of the following steps:

[0202] Preferably, first, the shield 27 is detached from the applicator 1 .

[0203] The prefilling device 10 is preferably advanced into a defined end position, in particular by pushing it towards the application opening 15 , thereby preferably moving it parallel to the axis L. By moving the prefilling device, the piston 4 is preferably moved or pushed into the prefilling position.

[0204] It is possible to carry out the priming by the priming device 10 before removing the shield 27 .

[0205] Preferably, the applicator 1 is positioned in a desired position relative to the body of a patient to whom the drug or fluid F is to be administered, for example, the applicator is placed on or over a vein into which the drug is to be injected, or on an eye E into which the drug is to be injected.

[0206] Additionally, it is possible to anesthetize the patient's eye E before positioning the application device 1 relative to the eye E.

[0207] The positioning of the applicator 1 may be supported or facilitated by an alignment device 25 .

[0208] Preferably, the application device 1 is actuated after priming or actuating the priming device 10. According to a preferred aspect, the application device 1 is not actuatable before priming and / or is actuatable only after priming or actuating the priming device.

[0209] Actuation of the applicator 1 is preferably performed by actuating the actuation means 20 and / or moving the housing parts 8A, 8B relative to one another.

[0210] The fluid F or drug contained in the application device 1 or syringe 2 is preferably administered to the patient. This is preferably performed by actuating the application device 1 (e.g., by actuating or pressing down the actuation element 20 and / or by moving the housing parts 8A, 8B relative to each other), preferably so that the syringe 2 is first moved into the administration position and then actuated, so that the fluid F is expelled from the syringe 2 and / or administered to the patient.

[0211] After administration of the fluid F, the injection needle 5 is preferably retracted into the application device 1, in particular into the housing 8. This is preferably performed automatically, in particular by releasing the actuation element 20 and / or the housing parts 8A, 8B for retracting the syringe 2. In particular, the force for actuating the actuation element 20 and / or for moving the housing parts 8A, 8B relative to each other is reduced or removed, for example by removing a finger for pressing the actuation element 20 downwards.

[0212] In the following, particularly preferred embodiments of the present invention will be described. In Figs. 14 and 15 a preferred embodiment is shown.

[0213] The third embodiment of the application device 1 is similar to the first embodiment. Therefore, only the differences with respect to the first embodiment will be described hereinafter, and the above explanations, in particular those in connection with the first embodiment, preferably also apply to the third embodiment.

[0214] The application device 1 according to the third embodiment preferably comprises a locking device 10A for preventing (unintended) priming, in particular for preventing a movement of the priming device 10 towards the syringe 2. The locking device 10A is preferably configured for (mechanically) locking the priming device 10. Preferably, the locking device 10A forms a stop for the priming device 10.

[0215] The locking device 10A is preferably arranged or arrangeable between the prefilling device 10 , in particular the actuation section 11 , and the housing 8 and / or a part thereof.

[0216] The locking device 10A is preferably configured to at least partially surround the pre-filling device 10. Specifically, the locking device 10A has a U-shape.

[0217] The locking device 10A is preferably removable, in particular in a direction transverse to, in particular perpendicular to, the axis L, from the pre-filling device 10 and / or the application device 1 .

[0218] The applicator 1 according to the first embodiment may also comprise locking means 10A.

[0219] In the third embodiment, the position of the syringe 2 (especially the syringe body 3 ) in the housing 8 is preferably fixed and / or the syringe 2 (especially the syringe body 3 ) is immovable relative to the housing 8 .

[0220] The push element 18 is preferably formed by a plate-shaped and / or flat element configured to act on the piston 4. As an alternative or in addition, the push element 18 or a section thereof can be configured to at least partially surround or clamp the piston 4, in particular a radially extending plate arranged at the axial end of the piston 4. This is particularly shown in Figure 15.

[0221] The application device 1 according to the third embodiment is preferably configured so that only the piston 4 of the syringe 2 is moved by actuating the actuating element 20, and / or so that the body 3 of the syringe 3 is not moved or is not movable by actuating the actuating element 20. The transmission ratio of the transmission 22 is preferably at least substantially 1: 1. The gearwheel 22A preferably comprises only one or exactly one toothed rim.

[0222] The pushing element 18 is preferably directly connected to the rod 23 and / or extends transversely, in particular perpendicularly, to the rod 23 .

[0223] The applicator 1 according to the third embodiment may comprise return means 17 (not shown in FIGS. 14 and 15 ) for returning the actuating element 20 to the non-actuated position after actuation, as described above. However, preferably, the actuating element 20 and / or the return means 17 are not coupled to the syringe 2 or the syringe body 3 and / or are not configured to move the syringe 2 relative to the housing 8. Therefore, the return means 17 is preferably only configured for returning the actuating element 20 to the non-actuated position after actuation.

[0224] The applicator 1 according to the third embodiment preferably comprises a needle shield 27 as described above in connection with the second embodiment.

[0225] The various aspects and features of the invention can be implemented independently of each other, but can also be implemented in any desired combination and / or order.

[0226] List of reference numerals:

[0227] 1 Applicator 22C Outer edge

[0228] 2 syringe 23 rod

[0229] 3 Syringe body 24 Connection part

[0230] 3A collar 25 alignment device

[0231] 4 Piston 25A Alignment area

[0232] 5 Injection needle 26 Stopper

[0233] 6 Chamber 27 Shield

[0234] 7 Exit 27A Depression (shield)

[0235] 8 Shell 28 Recessed

[0236] 8A First housing part

[0237] 8B Second housing part

[0238] 9 Actuation mechanism

[0239] 10 Pre-filling device E Eye

[0240] 10A Locking device F Fluid

[0241] 11 Actuation section L axis

[0242] 12 Blocking device

[0243] 13. Contact area

[0244] 14 Axial end

[0245] 15 Application opening

[0246] 16 Inner wall

[0247] 17 Return Device

[0248] 18 Driving element

[0249] 19 Connecting device

[0250] 19A First Arm

[0251] 19B Second Arm

[0252] 20 Actuating element

[0253] 21 Depression

[0254] 22 Transmission

[0255] 22A Large gear

[0256] 22B Inner Edge

Claims

1. An intravitreal application device (1) for applying a fluid (F), the application device (1) comprising a syringe (2) and an actuation mechanism (9) for actuating the syringe (2), characterized in that The application device (1) comprises a pre-filling device (10) and a blocking device (12), wherein the pre-filling device is configured to act on the piston (4) of the syringe (2), the blocking device is used to prevent the pre-filling device (10) from moving the piston (4) to the end of the syringe (2), and the blocking device (12) forms a stopper for the pre-filling device (10); and the application device (1) comprises a housing (8), the syringe (2) and / or the injection needle (5) attached thereto can be completely positioned inside the housing (8), and / or the actuating mechanism (9) is configured to move the syringe (2) relative to the housing (8), in, The actuating mechanism (9) comprises a push element (18) for actuating the piston (4) of the syringe (2), the push element (18) comprising coupling means (19) for coupling to the body (3) of the syringe (2).

2. An intravitreal application device (1) for applying a fluid (F), the application device (1) comprising a syringe (2) and an actuation mechanism (9) for actuating the syringe (2), characterized in that The application device (1) comprises a pre-filling device (10) and a blocking device (12), wherein the pre-filling device is configured to act on the piston (4) of the syringe (2), the blocking device is used to prevent the pre-filling device (10) from moving the piston (4) to the end of the syringe (2), and the blocking device (12) forms a stopper for the pre-filling device (10); and the application device (1) comprises a housing (8), the syringe (2) and / or the injection needle (5) attached thereto can be completely positioned inside the housing (8), and / or the actuating mechanism (9) is configured to move the syringe (2) relative to the housing (8), in, The housing (8) comprises two housing parts (8A, 8B), which are movable relative to each other and / or the syringe (2), and the application device (1) is configured so that during actuation of the piston (4) of the syringe (2), a first housing part of the housing parts (8A, 8B) moves relative to the syringe body (3) and the second housing part of the housing parts (8A, 8B), while the syringe body (3) and the first housing part (8A) do not move relative to each other.

3. The application device according to claim 1 or 2, characterized in that The priming device (10) is configured and / or arranged to actuate the piston (4) and / or to move the piston (4) relative to the syringe body (3).

4. An application device according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that The priming device (10) is configured to move or push the piston (4) towards the outlet (7) of the syringe barrel (2).

5. Applicator according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that The pre-filling device (10) is physically isolated from the piston (4).

6. Applicator according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that The pre-filling device (10) comprises an actuation section (11) arranged outside the housing (8) of the application device (1).

7. An application device according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that The blocking device (12) protrudes from the inner wall (16) of the housing (8) and / or forms a protrusion of the inner wall (16).

8. An application device according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that The priming device (10) is separate and / or functionally decoupled from the actuating mechanism (9).

9. An application device according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that The application device (1) comprises, in addition to the actuation mechanism (9), a pre-filling device (10).

10. An application device according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that The actuating mechanism (9) comprises a pushing element (18) configured to actuate the piston (4).

11. The application device according to claim 10, characterized in that The application device (1) comprises the pushing element (18) in addition to the pre-filling device (10).

12. The application device according to claim 10 or 11, characterized in that The pushing element (18) is configured to actuate the piston (4) independently of the priming device (10).

13. An application device according to any one of claims 10 to 12, characterized in that The pushing element (18) extends at least substantially parallel to the pre-filling device (10).

14. An application device according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that The actuation mechanism (9) is configured to move the syringe (2) relative to the housing (8) into an administration position.

15. Applicator according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that The actuation mechanism (9) is configured to move the syringe (2) without actuating the syringe (2).

16. An application device according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that The actuating mechanism (9) comprises a spring for moving the syringe (2) and the housing (8) or a part thereof (8A, 8B) relative to each other.

17. The application device according to claim 16, characterized in that The spring is arranged between the two housing parts (8A, 8B).

18. The applicator according to claim 17, characterized in that The spring is configured to move the housing parts (8A, 8B) apart.

19. An application device according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that The actuating mechanism (9) comprises an actuating element (20).

20. The applicator according to claim 19, characterized in that The actuating element (20) is button-shaped.

21. The application device according to claim 19 or 20, characterized in that The actuation element (20) is configured for manual actuation independently of the priming device (10).

22. An application device according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that The actuating mechanism (9) comprises a transmission device (22) for moving the syringe (2).

23. The applicator according to claim 22, characterized in that The injection cylinder (2) is retractable via the transmission device (22).

24. The applicator according to claim 22, characterized in that The transmission device (22) is driven by the actuating element (20).

25. An application device according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that The applicator (1) comprises an alignment device (25) configured to align the applicator (1) with the patient's eye (E).

26. The applicator according to claim 25, characterized in that The alignment device (25) comprises an alignment area (25A) configured for direct contact with the patient's eye (E).

27. An application device according to claim 25 or 26, characterized in that The alignment region (25A) is layered.

28. An application device according to any one of claims 25 to 27, characterized in that The alignment region (25A) is curved.

29. An application device according to any one of claims 25 to 28, characterized in that The alignment device (25) comprises or forms an alignment zone (25A) extending transversely to the longitudinal extension of the housing (8) or a part thereof (8A, 8B) and / or to the axis (L) of the applicator (8).

30. An application device according to any one of claims 25 to 29, characterized in that The housing (8) or a part (8A, 8B) of the applicator (1) comprises or forms the alignment means (25).