System and method for locking a controlled drug treatment device

Abstract

A system and method for controlling a locked drug dispensing device is presented herein. The dispensing device can include a housing portion and a nozzle portion that is depressible into the housing to administer a drug. The device can include a vial lock to secure a drug vial within the device and a nozzle lock to control administration of the drug. The dispensing device can further include a sensor to identify a user, such as a biometric sensor and / or a micro gesture sensor. Parameters for locking the nozzle and / or vial can be configured via a physician device. Reminders, user pairing, and other user communications can be facilitated via a patient device. The dispensing device can include a partial depression sensor and a lock feature to further prevent tampering. A top load dispensing device can include a disposable nozzle.

Description

[0001] Cross-references to related applications

[0002] This application claims priority to U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 62 / 969,421, filed February 3, 2020, the disclosure of which is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety. Technical Field

[0003] The present invention relates to a system and method for controlling drug dispensing, and more particularly to a system and method for dispensing drugs via a time-controlled device linked to a network platform. Background Technology

[0004] Conventional personal medication dispensing devices (such as intranasal sprays) are often used effectively for delivering nebulized medications. Traditional intranasal sprays consist of a pump with a narrow nozzle that atomizes the liquid as it is propelled through the nozzle and exits through the delivery orifice. The resulting mist is inhaled and efficiently absorbed through the tissues, thereby providing effective treatment.

[0005] Intranasal spray devices have been used to deliver medication for a range of conditions, including allergies, pain relief, and depression. For conditions such as pain relief and depression, the risk of abuse associated with medications delivered through the device is high due to the addictive nature of the medications used to treat those conditions. For example, ketamine has shown great effectiveness in treating serious conditions such as bipolar disorder. However, given the addictive nature of medications like ketamine, healthcare providers are hesitant to administer them or otherwise prescribe them for home use. Healthcare providers are often concerned about patients abusing or misusing medications, people other than those abusing medications, and the theft and / or sale of medications.

[0006] Abuse and misuse are attributable not only to the addictive nature of the drug but also to its efficacy in delivering relief from a patient's symptoms. Because of the relief provided, patients may be compelled to use more than their prescribed dose. Consequently, patients who need the drug may receive only a small dose or supply each time they visit their healthcare provider. As a result, some patients must visit their healthcare provider frequently (e.g., several times a week). For those who cannot afford heavy transportation costs or long periods away from their workplace, the need for frequent visits to healthcare providers is not only inconvenient but also a barrier to obtaining the medication. Summary of the Invention

[0007] Systems and methods are provided for dispensing medication with a lockout dispensing device. The dispensing device can be shaped to form an exoskeleton around a medication vial. The dispensing device can include one or more lockout mechanisms to prevent removal of the vial and / or administration of a dose. The system can include the dispensing device and a computing device that can be linked to the dispensing device to configure parameters of the dispensing device (e.g., timeouts, tamper detection, misuse, biometric inputs, user authentication) for engaging and disengaging the lockout mechanisms.

[0008] The dispensing device can include a nozzle and a housing that can be integral or separable components that can be slidably engaged to one another to form an exoskeleton around the vial. The nozzle can include a housing interface configured to slidably engage the nozzle to the housing.

[0009] The dispensing device can include a vial lock that can be locked to prevent removal of the vial from the dispensing device and unlocked to allow removal of the dispensing device. In some examples, the vial lock can further include a stop to limit movement of the nozzle relative to the housing (e.g., to set a fully extended position of the nozzle and / or a fully depressed position of the nozzle). In examples where the nozzle is separable from the housing, the vial lock can further inhibit separation of the nozzle from the housing when locked and allow separation of the nozzle from the housing when unlocked.

[0010] The dispensing device can include a dose lock that can be locked to prevent movement of the nozzle relative to the housing, thereby preventing administration of the medication. The dose lock can be unlocked to allow the nozzle to be depressed into the housing and / or extended out of the housing, thereby allowing administration of the medication. In examples where the nozzle is separable from the housing, the dose lock can further inhibit separation of the nozzle from the housing and / or removal of the vial from the device when locked.

[0011] The dispensing device can include a sensor configured to detect partial depression of the nozzle and a circuit configured to lock the dose lock in response to a signal from the sensor. The sensor can include an optical sensor positioned to observe movement of the nozzle relative to the housing.

[0012] In examples where the nozzle is separable from the housing, the nozzle can function with the vial to deliver medication in the absence of the housing. The housing can include a dose lock and a vial lock. The nozzle can include features that the dose lock and / or vial lock can engage and lock to. The housing can include a sensor to detect movement of the nozzle. The nozzle can include features thereon that are detectable by the sensor of the housing. The sensor and features on the nozzle can be positioned and otherwise configured to allow the device to detect partial depression of the nozzle. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF DRAWINGS

[0013] The application will be more fully understood and appreciated by reading the following detailed description, taken in conjunction with the accompanying drawings, in which:

[0014] FIG. 1 is a perspective view of an embodiment of the system according to the application;

[0015] FIG. 2 is a schematic cross-sectional representation of an embodiment of the system in the unlocked position, taken along line A;

[0016] FIG. 3A is a schematic cross-sectional representation of an embodiment of the system in the locked position, taken along line A;

[0017] FIG. 3B is a schematic cross-sectional representation of an embodiment of the system in the locked position, taken along line B;

[0018] FIG. 4 is a schematic representation of an embodiment of the method according to the application;

[0019] FIG. 5 is a schematic representation of an embodiment of the method according to the application;

[0020] FIG. 6 is a schematic representation of an embodiment of the method according to the application;

[0021] FIG. 7A is a top perspective view of an embodiment of the motor assembly in the locked position;

[0022] FIG. 7B is a side perspective view of an embodiment of the motor assembly in the unlocked position;

[0023] FIG. 7C is a top view of an embodiment of the motor assembly in the unlocked position;

[0024] FIG. 8A is a side perspective view of an embodiment of the first and second parts of the housing with the motor assembly;

[0025] FIG. 8B is another side perspective view of an embodiment of the first and second parts of the housing in the unlocked position; and

[0026] FIG. 8C is a top perspective view of an embodiment of the first and second parts of the housing in the locked position.

[0027] FIG. 9 is a profile view of another embodiment of the dispensing device according to the application.

[0028] FIG. 10is a side view of a nozzle and vial according to the present invention.

[0029] FIG. 11A and FIG. 11B is a nozzle and vial according to the present invention FIG. 10 is an orthogonal side view of the nozzle and vial illustrated in

[0030] FIG. 12 is a side view of a vial, retaining ring and spring according to the present invention.

[0031] FIG. 13 is a cross-sectional view of a dispensing device according to the present invention as FIG. 9 illustrated and oriented in

[0032] FIG. 14A is a top view of a housing according to the present invention.

[0033] FIG. 14B is a cross-sectional view of a housing according to the present invention as oriented in Figure 14.

[0034] FIG. 15 is an exploded view of a dispensing device according to the present invention as FIG. 9 illustrated in

[0035] FIG. 16A to FIG. 16C is an illustration of an alternative handle portion of a nozzle of a dispensing device according to the present invention as FIG. 9 illustrated in

[0036] FIG. 17 is an exploded view of another embodiment of a dispensing device according to the present invention.

[0037] FIG. 18A is a cross-sectional view of a dispensing device according to the present invention as FIG. 17 illustrated in

[0038] FIG. 18B is a cross-sectional view of a dispensing device according to the present invention as FIG. 17 illustrated in

[0039] FIG. 19 is a block diagram of a system according to the present invention. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0040] With reference to the appended drawings, the present application can be a system, a method and / or a computer program product. The computer program product can include a non-transitory computer readable storage medium (or multiple non-transitory computer readable storage media) (e.g., a solid state storage medium such as a memory or memory

[0041] The computer readable storage medium can be a tangible device that can retain and store instructions for use by an instruction execution device. The computer readable storage medium can be, for example, but is not limited to, an electronic storage device, a magnetic storage device, an optical storage device, an electromagnetic storage device, a semiconductor storage device, or any suitable combination of the foregoing. A non-exhaustive list of more specific examples of the computer readable storage medium includes the following: a portable computer diskette, a hard disk, a random access memory (RAM), a read-only memory (ROM), an erasable programmable read-only memory (EPROM or Flash memory), a static random access memory (SRAM), a portable compact disc read-only memory (CD-ROM), a digital versatile disk (DVD), a memory stick, a floppy disk, a mechanically encoded device such as punch-cards or raised structures in a groove having instructions recorded thereon, and any suitable combination of the foregoing. A computer readable storage medium, as used herein, is not to be construed as being transitory signals per se, such as radio waves or other freely propagating electromagnetic waves, electromagnetic waves propagating through a waveguide or other transmission media (e.g., light pulses passing through a fiber-optic cable), or electrical signals transmitted through a wire.

[0042] Computer readable program instructions described herein can be downloaded to respective computing / processing devices or external computers or external storage devices from a computer readable storage medium or to an external computer or external storage device via a network, for example, the Internet, a local area network, a wide area network and / or a wireless network. The network can comprise copper transmission cables, optical transmission fibers, wireless transmission, routers, firewalls, switches, gateway computers and / or edge servers. A network adapter card or network interface in each computing / processing device receives computer readable program instructions from the network and forwards the computer readable program instructions for storage in a computer readable storage medium within the respective computing / processing device.

[0043] Computer readable program instructions for carrying out operations of the present application can be assembly instructions, instruction-set-architecture (ISA) instructions, machine instructions, machine dependent instructions, microcode, firmware instructions, state-setting data, or any combination of either source code or object code in one or more programming languages including an object oriented programming language such as Smalltalk, C++ or the like and conventional procedural programming languages such as the "C" programming language or similar programming languages. The computer readable program instructions can execute entirely on the user's computer, partly on the user's computer, as a stand-alone software package, partly on the user's computer and partly on a remote computer or entirely on the remote computer or server. In the latter scenario, the remote computer can be connected to the user's computer through any type of network, including a local area network (LAN) or a wide area network (WAN), or the connection can be made to an external computer (for example, through the Internet using an Internet Service Provider). In some embodiments, electronic circuitry including, for example, programmable logic circuitry, field-programmable gate array (FPGA), or programmable logic array (PLA) can execute the computer readable program instructions by utilizing state information of the computer readable program instructions to personalize the electronic circuitry, in order to perform aspects of the present application.

[0044] The computer readable program instructions can also be loaded onto a computer, other programmable data processing apparatus, or other device to cause a series of operational steps to be performed on the computer, other programmable apparatus or other device to produce a computer implemented process such that the instructions which execute on the computer or other programmable apparatus provide processes for implementing the functions / acts specified in the flowchart and / or block diagram block or blocks.

[0045] These computer readable program instructions can be provided to a processor of a general purpose computer, special purpose computer, or other programmable data processing apparatus to produce a machine, such that the instructions, which execute via the processor of the computer or other programmable data processing apparatus, create means for implementing the functions / acts specified in the flowchart and / or block diagram block or blocks. These computer readable program instructions can also be stored in a computer readable storage medium that can direct a computer, a programmable data processing apparatus, and / or other devices to function in a particular manner, such that the computer readable storage medium having instructions stored therein comprises an article of manufacture including

[0046] Computer readable program instructions can also be loaded onto a computer, other programmable data processing device, or other device to cause a series of operational steps to be performed on the computer, other programmable device or other device to produce a computer implemented process such that the instructions executed on the computer, other programmable device, or other device implement the functions / acts specified in the flowchart and / or block diagram block or blocks.

[0047] The flow and block diagrams in the drawings show the architectural, functional, and operational views of possible implementations of systems, methods, and computer program products according to various embodiments of the present application. In this regard, each block in the flowchart or block diagrams can represent a module, segment, or portion of code, which comprises one or more executable instructions for implementing the specified logical functions ("instructions"). In some alternative implementations, the functions noted in the blocks can occur out of the order noted in the figures. For example, two blocks shown in succession may, in fact, be executed substantially concurrently or the blocks can sometimes be executed in the reverse order, depending upon the functionality involved. It will also be noted that each block of the block diagrams and / or flowchart illustrations, and combinations of blocks in the block diagrams and / or flowchart illustrations, can be implemented by special purpose hardware-based systems that perform the specified functions or acts or combinations of special purpose hardware and computer instructions.

[0048] Referring again to the drawings, wherein like reference numerals refer to like parts throughout the several views, in FIG. 1 a perspective view of an embodiment of a system according to the present application is seen. FIG. 1 An embodiment of a system including a dispensing device 100 and a computing device 200 is shown. The computing device 200 can be a smartphone, a portable tablet, a laptop computer, a desktop computer, and any other similar device. FIG. 1 The external components of an embodiment of the dispensing device 100 are also shown. The dispensing device 100 includes a cylindrical housing 102 having a first closed end 104 and a second closed end 106. A nozzle 108 extends perpendicularly from a surface 104a of the first closed end 104. The second closed end 106 can further include a floor 106a that is secured to the housing 102 with fasteners, such as star screws, which would prevent easy tampering with the housing 102. Other fasteners are contemplated, such as magnetic fasteners, custom "keyed" screws, or similar locking devices. The housing 102 further includes a recess 110 having a display screen 112 therein. The display screen can be a panel display, such as a monochrome OLED graphic display or other LED display, for example.

[0049] Referring to FIG. 2 a schematic cross-sectional representation of an embodiment of the system in the unlocked position taken along line A is shown. FIG. 2The internal components of the dispensing device 100 are shown in the unlocked position with the nozzle 108 depressed. The housing 102 of the dispensing device 100 further comprises a first portion 114 and a second portion 116. The first portion 114 of the housing 102 is connected to both the first closed end 104 and the second portion 116.

[0050] In the depicted embodiment, the second portion 116 of the housing 102 is connected to the second closed end 106 or floor 106a and provides a base for the dispensing device 100. The second portion 116 houses a liquid container 118 that is configured to store a liquid medicinal composition. In the depicted embodiment, the liquid container 118 is cylindrical in shape so as to provide a high fit within the similarly cylindrical housing 102. An example of a cylindrical liquid container 118 is a stock vial of a threaded size.

[0051] To provide access to the medicinal contents of the liquid container 118, the liquid container 118 includes a pump assembly 120. In the depicted embodiment, the pump 120 is centrally located within the liquid container 118. The pump assembly 120 is structured and operates as a standard pump assembly used in conventional intranasal spray devices. When pressure is applied on the nozzle 108 toward the surface 104a of the first closed end 104, the pump assembly 120 propels the liquid medicinal composition stored within the liquid container 118 through a passageway 122 in the nozzle 108, thereby expelling the liquid medicinal composition from the dispensing device 100. Thus, in the unlocked position, the liquid medicinal composition can be freely expelled from the dispensing device 100. FIG. 2

[0052] Referring to FIG. 3A-3B , schematic cross-sectional representations of embodiments of the system in the locked position are shown taken along lines A and B, respectively. In the depicted embodiment, the first portion 114 of the housing 102 further comprises a solenoid 124 locking mechanism therein. The solenoid 124 operates perpendicular to the movement of the pump assembly 120. In one embodiment, when the solenoid 124 is activated, it moves into the path of the nozzle 108, thereby blocking sufficient movement of the nozzle 108 toward the surface 104a of the first closed end 104 and preventing the pump assembly 120 from expelling the liquid medicinal composition from the dispensing device 100. The solenoid 124 is shown in the unlocked position in FIG. 2 and in the locked position in FIG. 3A-3B In alternative embodiments, the solenoid 124 can comprise attachments such as U-shaped clips that block the path of the nozzle 108 and interrupt the movement of the pump assembly 120.

[0053] Still referring to FIG. 3A-3B , in the depicted embodiment, the solenoid 124 is activated in response to an electrical signal sent from a processor, such as a printed circuit board 126. As shown in​FIG. 3A As shown in FIG. 12B, a printed circuit board 126 is positioned within the second portion 116 of the housing 102, toward the second closed end 106. The printed circuit board 126 is operably connected to and powered by a battery 128, which is also positioned within the second portion 116, at the second closed end 106. The battery 128 can be a rechargeable lithium ion battery or similar type of power source.

[0054] In alternative embodiments, the locking mechanism is a motor assembly 300. In FIG. 7A-8C FIG. 13A, various views of an embodiment of the motor assembly 300 locking mechanism are shown. First referring to FIG. 7A FIG. 13B, a top perspective view of the motor assembly 300 is shown in a locked position. The motor assembly 300 includes a motor 302 connected to a first gear 304, which is positioned within an opening 306 of an internal gear 308. The internal gear 308 includes a center lock 310 having a keyway 312 extending therethrough. Similar to the embodiment in which the locking mechanism is the solenoid 124 FIG. 3A-3B The motor assembly 300 interrupts or otherwise blocks the movement of the pump assembly 120. In the embodiment shown in FIG. 7A FIG. 13C, the shaft 314 of the pump assembly 120 extends through the center lock 310 of the internal gear 308. To facilitate locking, there is one or more keys 316 protruding from the shaft 314 of the pump assembly 120. The keys 316 are configured or otherwise fit to slide into the keyway 312 of the center lock 310. In the embodiment shown in FIG. 7A FIG. 13D, the keys 316 rest on the center lock 310 and are blocked from sliding into the keyway 312. Thus, the nozzle 108 attached to the pump assembly 120 cannot be compressed when the keys 316 are not aligned with the keyway 312.

[0055] Now referring to FIG. 7B-7C FIG. 13E, a side perspective view and a top view of the motor assembly 300 are shown in an unlocked position. From the locked position shown in FIG. 7B FIG. 13B, the motor 302 is activated by an electrical signal from the printed circuit board 126, which causes the gear 304 to rotate, thereby causing the internal gear 308 to rotate. The opening 306 in the internal gear 308 limits the rotation of the internal gear 308 because it can only rotate in either direction until it gets stuck on the gear 304. As the internal gear 308 rotates, the lock 310 and the keyway 312 also rotate. The internal gear 308 rotates until it is in the unlocked position shown in FIG. 7B FIG. 13E. In the unlocked position, the keys 316 of the shaft 314 of the pump assembly 120 are aligned with the keyway 312 extending through the lock 310. Once the motor assembly 300 is in the unlocked position, the nozzle 108 can be compressed. The compression of the nozzle 108 causes the keys 316 on the shaft 314 of the pump assembly 120 to slide into the keyway 312 of the lock 310, as shown in FIG. 7CAs shown in the diagram, when nozzle 108 is released, key 316 on shaft 314 slides out of keyway 312, and internal gear 308 can rotate back to its original position. FIG. 7A The locking position is shown in the figure.

[0056] Turn now FIG. 8A-8C Various perspective views of a first portion 114 and a second portion 116 of an embodiment of a housing 102 having a motor assembly 300 are shown. In the depicted embodiment, the first portion 114 of the housing 102 includes a pump assembly 120, a printed circuit board 126, and a battery 128 (not shown), and the second portion 116 of the housing 102 includes a liquid container 118 (not shown). First refer to... FIG. 8B A side view of a first portion 114 and a second portion 116 of a housing 102 in the unlocked position is shown. The first portion 114 of the housing 102 has an aperture 318 along the outer circumference of its bottom surface 320. A disk 324 stacked on top of the bottom surface 320 of the first portion 114 of the housing 102 has a cutout 326 along the outer circumference of the disk 324. The cutout 326 is configured to align with the aperture 318 in the bottom surface 320 of the first portion 114. Still referring to... FIG. 8B The motor 302 of the motor assembly 300 includes a second gear 322 on the side of the motor 302 opposite to the first gear 304. The second gear 322 is used to rotate the disk 324 on the bottom surface 320 of the first part 114.

[0057] Now for reference FIG. 8A The second portion 116 of the housing 102 includes a plurality of L-shaped flanges 328 extending from the top surface 330 of the second portion 116. The L-shaped flanges 328 are configured to engage with orifices 318 in the bottom surface 320 of the first portion 114 and cutouts 326 in the disk 324. FIG. 8B In the unlocked position shown, the L-shaped flange 328 is aligned with the opening 318 in the bottom surface 320 of the first portion 114 and the cutout 326 in the disc 324. Therefore, the second portion 116 can be pulled and removed from the first portion 114 of the housing 102.

[0058] In order to reach FIG. 8C In the locked position shown, when the motor 302 receives an electrical signal from the printed circuit board 126, it causes the second gear 322 to rotate, which in turn rotates the disk 324. The rotation of the disk 324 causes the cutout 326 to no longer align with the L-shaped flange 328. Therefore, the L-shaped flange 328, and consequently the second portion 116 of the housing 102, cannot be removed from the first portion 114. In some embodiments, the disk 324 is spring-loaded, such that the locked position is the default position of the disk 324.

[0059] The circuit described as activating the lock mechanism can also be connected to one or more signal LEDs 130 on the housing 102, as shown in FIG. 1. In one embodiment, the signal LEDs 130 light up when the solenoid 124 is activated and the dispensing device 100 is in the locked position. In alternative embodiments, the signal LEDs 130 can light up in colors, such as red when the solenoid 124 is activated and the dispensing device 100 is in the locked position, and green when the solenoid 124 is deactivated or otherwise inactivated and the dispensing device 100 is in the unlocked position. FIG. 1

[0060] The circuit is also connected to and powers a screen 112 within a recess 110 on the housing 102. In the embodiment shown in FIGS. 1 and 2, the recess 110 is enclosed by a lens 132. The lens 132 protects the screen 112 from liquids, debris, and other contaminants while still allowing the user to clearly view the screen 112. In the depicted embodiment, the lens 132 is flush with the housing 102 to allow the user to easily manipulate the dispensing device 100. In one embodiment, the lens 132 can include a biometric sensor therein. In alternative embodiments, such as the alternative embodiment shown in FIG. 3, the biometric sensor 134 is located at a separate location along the housing 102. The biometric sensor 134 can include a fingerprint scanner, an iris scanner, a heart rate detector, or the like. The lens 132 can also include touch screen capabilities so that the user can enter a password on a keypad displayed on the screen 112. The biometric sensor 134 and the password element provide an additional layer of security for gaining access to the medication, which verifies the individual using the device and sends a signal to the printed circuit board 126 to move the solenoid 124 into the unlocked position. FIG. 2 FIG. 3A FIG. 1

[0061] In some embodiments, the dispensing device 100 can further include a photocell 136 located within the housing and connected to the circuit. The photocell 136 detects light conditions inside the device. Thus, the photocell 136 can detect when the dispensing device 100 has been tampered with or broken. In other embodiments, the dispensing device 100 can further include a medication sensor 138 connected to the circuit, which monitors the level of medication in the liquid container 118. Thus, the medication sensor 138 can send a signal to the printed circuit board 126 when the liquid container 118 is empty or has a low volume of medication remaining.

[0062] ​​​​The pump assembly 120 can additionally include a haptic switch 140. The haptic switch 140 operates as a momentary switch, which is activated when the pump assembly 120 is actuated sufficiently. The haptic switch 140 is operably connected to the printed circuit board 126, where the sufficient actuation of the pump assembly 120 is recorded. Circuitry from the printed circuit board 126 additionally extends to a real-time clock chip 142. The real-time clock chip 142 can be used to provide the date and time displayed on the screen 112. As will be discussed later, the real-time clock chip 142 can also be used in conjunction with the solenoid 124 and the haptic switch 140 to lock the dispensing device 100.

[0063] Referring now to FIG. 4-6 , a schematic representation of an embodiment of the method according to the present application is shown. In use, the components in the dispensing device 100 can communicate with a web platform accessible on a computing device 200 to control the dispensing of medication. The printed circuit board 126 can communicate with the computing device 200 using Bluetooth Low Energy (BLE) as a wireless protocol. Thus, the printed circuit board 126 can be programmed from the computing device 200. For example, a healthcare provider can adjust settings on the web platform via a terminal on the computing device 200. The healthcare provider can indicate the number of doses of medication stored in the liquid container 118 and the minimum time period between doses. This information is then transmitted to the printed circuit board 126. The printed circuit board 126 calculates the number of doses based on feedback from the haptic switch 140 and determines the time period between doses based on data from the real-time clock chip 142.

[0064] In addition to programming the dispensing device 100, the healthcare provider can also utilize the web platform to observe status information from the dispensing device 100. For example, dose times, lock status, tamper alerts, and remaining doses are information that can be pushed from the dispensing device 100 to the web platform via a wireless network and / or cellular data, which can ultimately be accessed by the healthcare provider at a terminal on the computing device 200. Additionally, the web platform can also include a calendar interface or other scheduling format for tracking patient doses and prescription regimens. Thus, the dispensing device 100, the healthcare provider’s computing device 200, and the patient’s smartphone (as explained below) can exchange status information via GSM or some other similar digital cellular network.

[0065] The biometric sensor 134 can be programmed by the patient with the healthcare provider present. For example, the healthcare provider can adjust settings on the web platform to allow for programming of the biometric sensor 134. The biometric sensor 134 can then scan the patient’s fingerprint, for example, to assign the patient’s identity to a particular dispensing device 100. Once programmed, the biometric sensor 134 will require identity verification before the dispensing device 100 can be used.

[0066] Once the dispensing device 100 is programmed on the healthcare provider's computing device 200 via the network platform, the patient can use the dispensing device 100. To obtain medication, the patient will first prove his or her identity by actuating the biometric sensor 134, such as by placing a finger on the biometric sensor 134 for a fingerprint scan verification. Once the patient's identity is verified, the patient can self-administer a first dose of medication.

[0067] In an alternative embodiment, the patient's smartphone or other computing device can serve as a second layer of authentication to utilize the dispensing device 100. For example, the patient can access the patient interface of the network platform on his or her smartphone. At dosing time, the patient can be required to authenticate himself or herself via the smartphone. For example, the patient can complete authentication by unlocking his or her phone via a passcode or fingerprint sensor. In another embodiment, the healthcare provider can send a temporary or one-time PIN code from the healthcare provider interface of the network platform to the patient interface of the network platform. Thus, the patient can access the network platform on his or her smartphone, retrieve the PIN code, and enter the PIN code on the dispensing device 100 to unlock it.

[0068] To administer a first dose, the patient holds the dispensing device 100 so that the nozzle 108 is proximate to or partially within a nostril, and exerts pressure to the surface 104a of the first closed end 104 toward the nozzle 108. The pump assembly 120 expels medication from the nozzle 108 so that the patient can inhale the medication. When the pump assembly 120 is actuated, the tactile switch 140 is also triggered. The tactile switch 140 sends a signal to the printed circuit board 126 that the pump assembly 120 has been actuated, indicating that a dose has been administered. At the same time, the printed circuit board 126 correlates the signal from the tactile switch 140 with the time provided by the real-time clock chip 142.

[0069] If the healthcare provider has set a minimum time period between doses, receiving the signal from the tactile switch 140 will also cause the printed circuit board 126 to actuate the solenoid 124. The solenoid 124 will move into the path of the nozzle 108, thereby preventing the patient from administering a subsequent dose of medication. The dispensing device 100 will remain in a locked position, with the solenoid 124 blocking actuation of the nozzle 108, until the minimum time period has elapsed. The printed circuit board 126 can monitor the time using data received from the real-time clock chip 142. Once the minimum time period has elapsed after actuation of the tactile switch 140, the printed circuit board 126 will trigger the solenoid 124 to retract, thereby allowing the patient to fully depress the nozzle 108 to administer a subsequent dose. Thereafter, the locking process is repeated.

[0070] In embodiments where one or more signal LEDs 130 are located on the housing 102, the signal LEDs can illuminate a red color when the solenoid 124 is in the path of the nozzle 108, which indicates that a dose can not be administered, and the signal LEDs can illuminate a green color when the solenoid 124 is retracted, which signals to the patient that a subsequent dose is available. Since the printed circuit board 126 can be in wireless communication with the computing device 200, a signal from the printed circuit board 126 can be transmitted to the computing device 200 that alerts the patient that the next dose is available. In alternative embodiments, the drug sensor 138 can transmit a signal to the printed circuit board 126 and ultimately to the computing device 200 that indicates that the liquid container 118 is empty or has a low volume of remaining drug. This alerts the patient to initiate the process of refilling the prescription drug.

[0071] In embodiments where the housing 102 includes a photocell 136, the photocell 136 can be configured to send a signal to the printed circuit board 126 when the photocell 136 detects light above a programmed threshold. The printed circuit board 126 can be programmed to transmit a signal to the computing device 200 accessible to the healthcare provider. The signal can manifest as an alert on a web platform that notifies the healthcare provider that the dispensing device 100 has been tampered with. In additional embodiments, the printed circuit board 126 can be programmed to send data from any component or combination of components of the dispensing device 100 to the computing device 200 operated by the healthcare provider and / or by the patient. The healthcare provider and the patient can then access the data to improve adherence to the treatment plan.

[0072] FIG. 9 to FIG. 15 And also FIG. 17 , FIG. 18A and FIG. 18B respectively illustrate two additional embodiments of dispensing devices 400, 600. The components and / or design strategies of the various dispensing device embodiments 100, 400, 600 are combinable or exchangeable as understood by one of skill in the relevant art in light of the teachings of this disclosure. For example, although not explicitly illustrated, the additional embodiments 400, 600 can include the signal LEDs 130, the lens 132, the screen 112, the photocell 136, the drug sensor 138, the tactile switch 140, the real-time clock 142, any combination thereof, or variations thereof. Likewise, the additional embodiments 400, 600 can include appropriate circuitry and mechanical structure to support such components.

[0073] One of the illustrated embodiments 400 includes sensors 442, 444, 446 ( FIG. 14B ) and visual features 490, 492, 494 ( FIG. 10) to detect a depressed level of the nozzle 460. Such a sensor and visual feature can be incorporated into other dispensing device embodiments 100, 600 illustrated herein or variations thereof as understood by one of skill in the relevant art in light of the teachings of the present disclosure. The dispensing devices 100, 400, 600 can be configured to lock the nozzle 108, 460, 660 when the nozzle is partially depressed for an extended period of time and / or when the user performs a partial depression and returns the nozzle to the fully extended position. This prevents the user from administering multiple partial doses in an attempt to bypass the safety of the dispensing device 100, 400, 600.

[0074] The dispensing devices 100, 400, 600 can further include a ratcheting dose lock, such as FIG. 13 the dose lock 420 illustrated in FIG. 4, and FIG. 18A the dose lock 620 illustrated in FIG. 6. When the dose lock 420, 620 is in the locked position and the nozzle is partially depressed, the illustrated dose locks 420, 620 are ratcheting engaged to allow the nozzle 460, 660 to return to the fully extended position and inhibit the nozzle from being depressed further. Alternatively, the ratchet can be shaped to allow the nozzle to be depressed and inhibit extension of the nozzle. Each design has certain advantages. For example, a locking ratchet (which inhibits depression of the nozzle) immediately prevents further administration of the medication when the lock is engaged, which can be a desirable feature where preventing administration of too much medication is the primary concern. A dose forcing ratchet (which inhibits extension of the nozzle) prevents partial depressions from occurring when the lock is engaged, but can not stop completion of a dose, which can be a desirable feature where preventing small doses is the primary concern.

[0075] The additional embodiments 400, 600 can function with one or more computing devices, such as FIG. 1 the computing device 200 illustrated in FIG. 2, other computing devices disclosed herein, and / or one or more computing devices as understood by one of skill in the relevant art in light of the teachings of the present disclosure. The dispensing devices 400, 600 can be used to perform FIG. 4 to FIG. 6The dispensing devices 400, 600 can be directly and / or remotely connected to a computing device (e.g., the illustrated computing device 200) via Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, cellular, etc. to control the dispensing devices 400, 600 (lock / unlock, load biometric / load new nasal spray device / change dosing schedule). The dispensing devices 400, 600 can communicate with the computing device 200 to alert a physician via a push notification in the event that a patient misses a dose or tampers with the device. The dispensing devices 400, 600 can be configured (e.g., by a physician) to produce an output to alert a patient when to dose. This output can be many different outputs known in the art, including but not limited to a light, display content, a sound or other alarm, or communication content with another device such as a patient mobile phone. The dispensing devices 400, 600 can further monitor patient usage of the dispensing devices 400, 600 and provide information / data related to patient usage directly via a display or other means on the device 400, 600 to the computing device 200 to inform a physician about patient adherence to a prescription. The dispensing devices 400, 600 can have a timed lock (preset by a physician) and / or a scheduled lock. The timed lock can be preset by an authorized user (e.g., a physician). The scheduled lock can be remotely set and / or edited via a network platform (or other networked platform) that is accessible via a physician’s computing device.

[0076] Both options still require patient credentials to unlock the device. This can be done using a biometric scanner on the device or in the future using biometric (fingerprint / face / eye) scanning capabilities on a user’s mobile phone.

[0077] Generally, the dispensing devices 400, 600 provide secure drug delivery and include a disposable portion containing a drug and a reusable outer skeleton or housing component. The outer skeleton secures the disposable portion containing the drug / medicament and controls when and how the substance is dispensed. In some embodiments, the outer skeleton is capable of securing (e.g., encasing) a standardized nasal spray device 500. The outer skeleton can lock and unlock the nozzle movement of the standardized nasal sprayer 500. The locking and unlocking of the device 400, 600 (dosing) can be remotely controlled and / or configured (Wi-Fi / BT) via a mobile phone application and network platform as prescribed by a physician / physician. The nozzle can include lock details that interface with the outer skeleton lock mechanism.

[0078] The standardized nasal spray device / vial 500 can be inserted into the outer skeleton from multiple locations, including but not limited to the top (see FIG. 9 to FIG. 15 The dispensing devices 400, 600 can be directly and / or remotely connected to a computing device (e.g., the illustrated computing device 200) via Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, cellular, etc. to control the dispensing devices 400, 600 (lock / unlock, load biometric / load new nasal spray device / change dosing schedule). The dispensing devices 400, 600 can communicate with the computing device 200 to alert a physician via a push notification in the event that a patient misses a dose or tampers with the device. The dispensing devices 400, 600 can be configured (e.g., by a physician) to produce an output to alert a patient when to dose. This output can be many different outputs known in the art, including but not limited to a light, display content, a sound or other alarm, or communication content with another device such as a patient mobile phone. The dispensing devices 400, 600 can further monitor patient usage of the dispensing devices 400, 600 and provide information / data related to patient usage directly via a display or other means on the device 400, 600 to the computing device 200 to inform a physician about patient adherence to a prescription. The dispensing devices 400, 600 can have a timed lock (preset by a physician) and / or a scheduled lock. The timed lock can be preset by an authorized user (e.g., a physician). The scheduled lock can be remotely set and / or edited via a network platform (or other networked platform) that is accessible via a physician’s computing device. FIG. 17 , FIG. 18A and FIG. 18BThe top-loaded dispensing device 400 can include a nozzle 460 that is separable from the housing 402. The nozzle 460 can be disposable and can attach to a standardized nasal sprayer. Alternatively, a custom disposable vial can be constructed to include a nozzle portion following the design strategy of the disposable nozzle 460. Because the nozzle 460 of the top-loaded dispensing device 400 is disposable, the nozzle 460 can be disposed of and / or cleaned separately from the reusable housing 402 of the device 400, thereby potentially providing better hygiene as compared to the bottom-loaded dispensing device 600. The bottom-loaded device 600 can be configured to receive a standard vial 500 without the need for a specialized nozzle 460, and thus can potentially provide convenience and / or cost savings over the top-loaded device 400.

[0079] The dispensing devices 400, 600 can include sensors (e.g., optical / imaging) to detect nozzle movement and device tampering, micro-movement sensors to detect user-specific movement patterns to detect when different users handle the devices 400, 600, and / or a drug neutralizing agent (e.g., a powder or sponge) to chemically neutralize the drug released from the internal vial 500. As discussed above and as will be appreciated by those of skill in the relevant art, one or more of these features can also be combined and / or interchanged with the features of the device 100.

[0080] Details of each additional embodiment 400, 600 will now be discussed with respect to the accompanying figures.

[0081] FIG. 9 is a side view of a top-loaded dispensing device 400 according to the present application. The dispensing device 400 includes a housing 402 and a nozzle 460 that together form an exoskeleton that encloses (at least partially) and secures a vial 500 (not shown in this view) FIG. 10

[0082] FIG. 10 ​The nozzle 460 and vial 500 are illustrated in FIG. 1 1 as being snapped together. The nozzle 460 includes a housing interface 480 that snaps onto the vial 500, allowing the nozzle 460 to be depressed and providing features thereon for locking the combined nozzle 460 and vial 500 into the housing 402. The combined nozzle 460 and vial 500, whether mated during production or after production, can deliver the medication with and without the housing 402, which allows the healthcare provider to choose whether to provide the medication in the housing 402 to a particular patient when given a particular medication. Because the nozzle 460 is not integral with the housing 402, the nozzle 460 can be discarded or cleaned separately from the housing 402, thereby potentially providing a more sanitary product compared to a reusable dispensing device having an integral nozzle. Further, the opening 412 through which the nozzle 460 slides during operation is the same opening from which the vial is removed, thereby eliminating the need for a second opening for vial removal. Without a second opening for vial removal, the cover 418 of the housing 402 can have a smoother and thus potentially more tamper-resistant outer surface.

[0083] The device 400 is oriented vertically about a longitudinal axis L-L that intersects the orthogonal planes A, B. The housing 402 has a first, top end 404 having a first, top surface 404a that is orthogonal to the longitudinal axis L-L and the planes A, B. The housing 402 has a second, bottom end 406 having a second, bottom surface 406b that is substantially parallel to the first surface 404a. The nozzle 460 extends perpendicularly from the top surface 404a of the housing 402. The housing 402 has an opening 412 on the top surface 404a, and the nozzle 460 has a housing interface 480 that is configured to be positioned within the opening 412 and to slidably engage the housing 402. When the nozzle 460 is slidably engaged to the housing 402 (as illustrated) and the nozzle 460 is unlocked, the nozzle 460 can be translated from a fully extended position (as illustrated in FIG. 1 1 ) to a fully depressed position (where the bottom surface 470 of the engagement ring 466 of the nozzle 460 is proximate to the top surface 404a of the housing 402), similar to the depressed position of the nozzle 108 relative to the housing surface 104a (as illustrated in FIG. 1 1 ) and the fully extended position of the nozzle 108 relative to the housing surface 104a (as illustrated in FIG. 1 1 ). FIG. 9 FIG. 2

[0084] As used herein, the terms "fully extended position" and "fully depressed position" refer to the extreme positions between which a nozzle moves for its intended purpose of providing a dose.

[0085] ​​The housing 402 may further include a biometric sensor 408, which may function similarly to the biometric sensor 134 described elsewhere herein. For example, the circuitry of the device 400 may use a fingerprint scan on the sensor 408 to determine whether to unlock the dosage lock. Additionally, or alternatively, the circuitry of the device 400 may use a fingerprint scan on the sensor (e.g., by a physician) to determine whether to unlock the vial. The housing 402 may include a finger cover 410. The finger cover 410 may include a display, and / or the display may be positioned elsewhere on the housing 402.

[0086] The display can function similarly to the display 112 described elsewhere in this document.

[0087] The device 400 may further include a removable nozzle cap 461.

[0088] FIG. 10 It is connected to the nozzle 460 of the 500-unit medicine vial. FIG. 9 Side views in the same orientation. Common reference. FIG. 9 and FIG. 10 Without damaging the housing 402, and preferably without damaging the nozzle 460, such as FIG. 10 The nozzle 460 and vial 500 assembled in the middle can be obtained from FIG. 9 The housing 402 is removed. During use, the nozzle 460 and vial 500 are replaceable and preferably disposable. The housing 402 can be reloaded with a new nozzle 460 and vial 500 assembly. The vial 500 can be loaded via an opening 412 in the top surface 404a of the housing 402. Therefore, the housing 402 includes a chamber 414 sized to receive the vial 500. FIG. 13 Furthermore, the chamber 414 can be accessed via an opening 412 in the top surface 404a of the housing 402.

[0089] When assembled to nozzle 460, the outer surface of housing 402 may be completely devoid of fasteners or other externally accessible means for opening device 400. In some applications, it may be desirable to provide a discharge port 419 to allow liquid released from vial 500 within device 400 to exit device 400. In other applications, it may be desirable to capture liquid released from vial 500 within device 400 (e.g., FIG. 14A and FIG. 14B (The sponge in chamber 414 shown in the figure).

[0090] FIG. 11A and FIG. 11B These are orthogonal side views of nozzle 460 and vial 500, where... FIG. 11A Looking FIG. 10the left side of the assembly illustrated in FIG. 11B Looking at FIG. 10 the right side of the assembly illustrated in FIG. 12 is FIG. 10 , FIG. 11A and FIG. 11B the assembly illustrated in FIGS. 460 is removed. Referring collectively to FIG. 10 , FIG. 11A , FIG. 11B and FIG. 12 , the nozzle 460 includes a conical portion 462, an engagement ring 466, and a housing interface 480, a spring 478, and a retention ring 476. Preferably, the conical portion 462, the engagement ring 466, and the housing interface 480 are molded as a single piece, i.e., the handle portion 463. Alternatively, at least one of the conical portion 462, the engagement ring 466, and the housing interface 480 can be separately molded and secured together to form the handle portion 463.

[0091] The conical portion 462 has a dispensing end 472, a base end 474, and a fluid passageway 464 extending along the longitudinal axis L-L through the base end 474 and the dispensing end 474. The engagement ring 466 extends radially from the base end 474 of the conical portion to provide a top surface 468 against which a user can provide a force to depress the nozzle 460. A bottom surface 470 of the engagement ring 466 faces away from the dispensing end 472. The bottom surface 470 can be further shaped or otherwise configured to contact a top surface 404a of the housing 402 when the device 400 is assembled to inhibit the housing interface 480 from being depressed further into the housing 402. The housing interface 480 has an outer surface 482 that encircles the longitudinal axis L-L, an upper end 484 that is secured to the engagement ring 466, an open lower end 486, and a passageway 488 that extends between the upper end 484 and the lower end 486. The vial 500 and the nozzle 460 that are assembled during production because they are pre-assembled do not require further assembly as it pertains to the healthcare provider and thus provide greater convenience.

[0092] The nozzle 460 can be fitted to the vial 500 by the following steps: first, placing the retaining ring 476 and spring 478 on the vial 500, and then sliding the housing interface 480 over the spring and retaining ring 476. The housing interface 480 may include flexible hooks 481 that extend to move onto the vial 500 and engage under a ridge on the vial to engage and secure the nozzle 460 to the vial 500. The interior of the conical portion 462 and the engagement ring 466 may be shaped to fit onto the vial nozzle. The vial and nozzle assembly may further include an adapter or vial nozzle cap to aid in fitting the nozzle 460 to the vial 500. In this way, the nozzle 460 can be fitted onto existing vials of standard sizes. Alternatively, the vial 500 and nozzle 460 may be specifically designed in a consistent and / or integrated manner.

[0093] The nozzle 460 includes features that function together with the housing 402 to control the dispensing of medication into the vial 500, as described in more detail below. FIG. 10 , FIG. 11A and FIG. 11B As illustrated, medication can also be dispensed when the nozzle 460 and vial assembly are located outside the housing. This allows medications to be packaged identically regardless of whether they are intended to be regulated during use, thus increasing convenience and potentially saving costs.

[0094] refer to FIG. 10 The housing interface includes openings 490, 492, 494 in its outer surface 482 to aid in detecting partial depressurization of the nozzle 460. When the nozzle 460 is depressed on the vial 500, movement of the housing interface 480 relative to a portion of the nozzle 460 (e.g., retaining ring 476) is visible through the openings 490, 492, 494. The housing 402 may include one or more sensors to detect this portion of the nozzle 460 (e.g., retaining ring 476) moving through the openings 490, 492, 494. FIG. 10Three openings 490, 492, 494 are illustrated that are positioned such that three depressed positions of the nozzle 460 are detectable. The housing interface 480 can include one or more such openings 490, 492, 494 for the same purpose, with the maximum number of openings limited by physical design constraints as understood by one of skill in the relevant art in light of the teachings of the present disclosure. Preferably, the outer surface 482 of the housing interface 480 is in high contrast visually with the retaining ring 476 so that the retaining ring 476 can be easily visualized by the optical sensor relative to the housing interface 480. When the nozzle 460 and vial 500 assembly is installed in the housing 402, the retaining ring 476 is substantially fixed relative to the optical sensor, while the openings 490, 492, 494 move to cover and uncover the view of the retaining ring 476 by the optical sensor. The optical sensor checks for movement at the beginning of the dose and at the end of the dose by detecting the movement of the top opening 490 and the bottom opening 494 on the housing interface 480. If the dose is started but not pushed all the way to the bottom, the dose lock 420 will engage (see FIG. 13 and FIG. 14B are described in greater detail).

[0095] As illustrated in FIG. 10 and FIG. 11A , the housing interface 480 includes grooves 496 for locking the depression of the nozzle 460 into the housing 402, i.e., inhibiting the user from receiving a dose. Two grooves 496 are illustrated. The lower groove is positioned to hold the nozzle at the fully extended position when the housing interface 480 is slidably engaged to the housing 402.

[0096] FIG. 13 and FIG. 14B The housing dose lock 420 is illustrated engaging the grooves 496 on the nozzle 460.

[0097] Referring collectively to FIG. 10 , FIG. 11A , FIG. 13 and FIG. 14B , during the intended use of the device 400, the user allows the nozzle to return to the fully extended position after each application of medicament, and after the application is complete, the nozzle 460 is locked in the fully extended position by engaging the lower groove with the dose lock 420. However, the user can inadvertently engage the dose lock 420 (see FIG. 13 and FIG. 11B) the vial lock is inadvertently or intentionally partially depressed. In this case, the upper groove is positioned to engage the dose lock 420 when the nozzle is partially depressed and inhibit further depression of the nozzle. At least the upper groove can have an angled shape such that, although the nozzle 460 is inhibited from further depression, the vial lock can slide out of the groove 496 downward to allow the nozzle 460 to further extend from the housing 402. In use, if the vial lock engages the upper groove while the nozzle 460 is locked, when the depression force is removed from the nozzle 460, the spring 478 pushes the nozzle 460 out of the housing 402 toward the fully extended position. The dose lock 420 can thereby slide from the upper groove to the lower groove. Although one upper groove is shown, the housing 402 can further include additional angled grooves positioned to engage the vial lock when the nozzle 460 is depressed at multiple partially depressed positions. The angled notches can thereby function as a ratchet, allowing one-way movement of the nozzle 460 when the vial lock is engaged. The number and position of the angled notches can be determined by physical design constraints, as understood by one of skill in the relevant art.

[0098] The ratcheting engagement action of the dose lock 420 can thereby lock out a user attempting to surreptitiously defeat the dose lock 420 when the user applies a dose (by depressing the nozzle 460), then slowly release the nozzle 460 toward the extended position, stopping just short of reaching the fully extended position and engaging the lower groove 496 (see also FIG. 13 ), and then attempting to depress the nozzle 460 again.

[0099] Referring to FIG. 14B , the housing interface 480 can further include a vial lock opening 498. The vial lock opening 498 can be shaped, sized, and otherwise configured to engage the vial lock 430 of the housing 402 (see FIG. 13 and FIG. 9 ). When the vial lock extends into the opening 498, engagement of the vial lock to the lower ledge 499 of the opening 498 can inhibit the nozzle from being pulled out of the housing 402. The opening 498 can be sized such that the vial lock freely travels through the opening 498 when the nozzle 460 is depressed to deliver medication. The opening can be further sized such that the vial lock engages the upper ledge 497 of the opening 498 to set the fully extended position of the nozzle 460. Alternatively, the fully extended position of the nozzle 460 can be set and / or aided by engagement of additional features on the housing 402 and the housing interface 480, as understood by one of skill in the relevant art in light of the teachings of the present disclosure.

[0100] FIG. 14B is a cross-sectional view of the device 400 oriented as illustrated in FIG. 15 and cut along the plane B. Several components of the housing 402 are removed to highlight the dose lock 420 and the vial lock 430. InFIG. 14B and FIG. 11A Additional components of the housing 402 (including the base 416) are illustrated in FIGS.

[0101] Each of the locks 420, 430 includes a motor 426, 436, a cam 424, 434, and a sliding extension 422, 432, respectively. When the nozzle 460 is at the fully extended position as illustrated, the sliding extension 422 of the dose lock engages a lower groove 496 on the housing interface 480, and the sliding extension 432 of the vial lock engages a lower ledge 499 of the vial lock opening 498 of the housing interface 480.

[0102] When both the dose lock 420 and the vial lock 430 are locked and the nozzle is in the fully extended position, the dose lock 420 prevents depression of the nozzle 460 and the vial lock prevents extension of the nozzle 460. When the dose lock 420 is open, the vial lock 430 provides a stop to set the fully depressed position of the nozzle 460.

[0103] The lower ledge 499 of the vial lock opening 498 and the bottom, mating surface of the sliding extension 432 of the vial lock 430 are each angled downward and inward. When in this position, the vial lock 430 is inhibited from disengaging the housing interface 480, while the dose lock 420 remains engaged to the lower groove 496. If the user were to attempt to pull the nozzle 460 out of the housing 402, the sliding extension 432 can slide against the lower ledge 499, extending further into the housing interface 480, thereby further engaging the housing interface 480.

[0104] To remove the nozzle 460 and the vial 500, an authorized user (e.g., a physician or pharmacist) will send a command to the dispensing device 400 to remove the vial 500. The dose lock 420 will disengage, the authorized user will push the nozzle 460 downward to disengage the undercut on the housing interface 480, a sensor (e.g., an optical sensor that observes one or more of the openings 490, 492, 494) will sense that the nozzle 460 is depressed, and the vial lock 430 will unlock and then the vial 500 can be removed.

[0105] The opening of each lock 420, 430 can include rotation of the respective motor 426, 436, which causes the respective cam 242, 434 to turn and the respective sliding extension 422, 432 to slide outward away from the housing interface 480, thereby disengaging the housing interface 480. The closing of each lock 420, 430 can include reverse rotation of the respective motor 426, 436, which causes the respective cam 242, 434 to turn in the opposite direction as opening to release the respective sliding extension 422, 432, allowing the spring 428, 438 (respectively) to push the respective sliding extension 422, 432 toward the housing interface 480, thereby engaging the housing interface 480. FIG. 14A ) will push the respective sliding extension 422, 432 toward the housing interface 480, thereby engaging the housing interface 480.

[0106] Dose lock 420 can include an angled sliding extension 422 shaped to engage grooves 496 on housing interface 480 of nozzle 460. Extension 422 of dose lock 420 can span multiple grooves 496 (see FIG. 14B ) ratcheting engagement.

[0107] FIG. 14B and FIG. 13 are top views of housing 402 orthogonal to planes A and B, respectively. FIG. 14A is a cross-sectional view of housing 402 cut at plane C, as indicated in FIG. 13 .

[0108] FIG. 10 illustrates top surface 404a, opening 412, chamber cavity 414, sliding extension 422 of dose lock 420, and sliding extension 432 of vial lock 430. Vial lock 430 includes an upper fin and a lower fin. The lower fin is shaped to engage a lower ledge 499 of vial lock opening 490 of housing interface 480 of nozzle 460, as illustrated in FIG. 14B . The upper fin is shaped to engage an upper ledge 497 of vial lock opening 498 to set a fully extended position of nozzle 460. Opening 412 includes a key extension 413. Housing interface 480 is recessed on the side illustrated in FIG. 15 to properly orient nozzle 460 when housing interface 480 is inserted into opening 412.

[0109] FIG. 14BAdditional componentry of the housing 402 and locks 420, 430 is illustrated. Each lock 420, 430 includes a respective spring 428, 438 attached to a respective sliding extension 422, 432 to move the lock 420, 430 to a closed position when a respective cam is positioned as illustrated. The cams 424, 434 are positioned as mirror images of one another, and can alternatively be positioned in other ways as understood by those of skill in the relevant art in light of the teachings herein. To open the locks 420, 430, the cam 424 of the dose lock 420 is rotated clockwise and the cam 434 of the vial lock 430 is rotated counterclockwise (i.e., in the opposite direction due to the mirror symmetry of the cams 424, 434). As the respective cams 424, 434 are rotated, they engage respective tabs 423, 433 on the respective sliding extensions 422, 432, thereby pushing against the springs 428, 438 and moving the sliding extensions 422, 432 outward to an open position. The tabs 423, 433 are centered on the respective sliding extensions 422, 432 to minimize lateral movement of the extensions 422, 432, thus reducing the risk of jamming the locks as compared to non-centered engagement. The tabs 423, 433 and cams 424, 434 are preferably configured such that the cams 424, 434 have a small contact area and thus a lower friction as compared to a larger contact area.

[0110] Another option is to rotate one or both of the cams 424, 434 beyond 90 degrees past the tabs 423, 433. This option does not rely on the friction of the motor gear box to keep the locks 420, 430 open, and thus allows more options with respect to the motor selection.

[0111] Each lock 420, 430 includes a stop 415, 417 against which a vertical extension 425, 435 of the respective cam 424, 434 presses when the cam has reached the end of its rotational travel. Each stop 415, 417 is preferably integral with a base 416 of the housing 402 (see also FIG. 1 ) rather than with the respective sliding extension 422, 432. The stop 415, 417 integral with the base 416 can reduce the likelihood of the respective sliding extension 422, 432 rotating (and thus jamming) when the respective cam 424, 434 engages the respective stop 415, 417 as compared to a stop integral with the sliding extension 422, 432. The base 416 can also provide structural support to engage to or otherwise engage to the springs 428, 438 and motors 426, 436.

[0112] Still referring to FIG. 15The housing 402 includes a printed circuit board 440 to which are connected electrical components that together form an electrical circuit for performing various functions of the device 400. The circuit board 440 can include a processor and a non-transitory computer readable medium having instructions thereon that, when executed by the processor, cause the circuit to perform the functions described herein, including the functions described with respect to the systems illustrated in FIG. 16A to FIG. 16C FIGS. 1-12. The circuit board 440 need not have the particular form as illustrated. For example, the circuit of the housing 402 can include a backplane, a flexible circuit, discrete components, free wiring, and / or combinations thereof. The functions described herein can be implemented with several forms of circuitry as will be appreciated by those skilled in the relevant art(s) in light of the teachings of the present disclosure. The circuit of the device 400 can further include the drug sensor 138, the tactile switch 140, and / or the real-time clock as described elsewhere herein.

[0113] The circuit includes three optical sensors 442, 444, 446 mounted to the circuit board 440. Each sensor 442, 444, 446 is positioned to view a respective opening 494, 492, 490 in the housing interface 480 of the nozzle 460. Each sensor 442, 444, 446 is configured to provide a sensor signal indicative of a depressed position of the housing interface. At least the middle sensor 444 is positioned to provide a sensor signal indicative of a partially depressed position of the nozzle between the fully extended position and the fully depressed position. Monitoring the partial depression of the nozzle 460 is useful for determining proper administration of the drug and / or tamper prevention. In some embodiments, the circuit can be configured to close the dose lock 420 in response to receiving a sensor signal from the middle sensor indicative of an extended partially depressed position and / or repeated partial depressions of the nozzle 460. In some embodiments, the processor is configured to receive the sensor signal and execute instructions in the memory to cause the circuit to activate the motor 426, thereby turning the cam 424 and closing the lock 420.

[0114] The device 400 can include additional or alternative sensors and / or indicators for detecting partial depression of the nozzle 460. As one example, the housing interface 480 can include a high-contrast image in place of an opening, such as a series of horizontal lines across the outer surface 482 of the housing interface 480. When the nozzle 460 is depressed, the circuitry can determine the number of lines that have passed in front of the one or more optical sensors 442, 444, 446 based on signals from the one or more optical sensors. Additionally, or alternatively, the thickness of the horizontal lines can vary, thereby producing different sensor signals depending on which line is observed by the optical sensor. As another example, the housing interface 480 can include a conductive strip, and the circuit board 440 can include two or more contacts positioned to simultaneously electrically contact the conductive strip when the nozzle 460 is partially depressed. The circuitry of the housing 402 can detect when the contacts are shorted, thereby detecting partial depression of the nozzle 460 at one or more partial depression positions.

[0115] The top opening 490 and the bottom opening 494 can be used to determine when the nozzle 460 is in the fully extended position or the fully depressed position. Alternatively, the housing 402 can include limit switches to detect when the nozzle 460 is in the fully extended and / or fully depressed positions.

[0116] Engagement of the cams 424, 434 to the stops 415, 417 can be detected by monitoring current to the respective motors 426, 436. When the circuitry detects an increase in current above a predetermined threshold (e.g., as provided by instructions in memory), the circuitry can reduce or remove power to the motors 426, 436.

[0117] The circuitry can further include sensors (e.g., optical sensors) for detecting the vial 500.

[0118] The circuitry can be powered by a battery 448 integrated into the housing 402. The circuitry can include battery charge regulation and battery protection circuitry (e.g., overvoltage, undervoltage, overcurrent, etc.).

[0119] The circuitry can be configured to hold the dose lock 420 for a set dose amount (e.g., as input by a physician or pharmacist) and then return the dose lock 420 to the closed / locked position. When returned to the closed / locked position, the spring 428 pushes the dose lock extension 422 to engage the housing interface 480.

[0120] FIG. 11Ais an illustration of the exploded view of the components of the device 400 and the vial 500. The nozzle 460 includes a handle portion 463, a spring 478, and a retaining ring 476. The vial 500 includes a liquid container 502, an atomizer 504, and a vial nozzle 508. The housing 402 includes a top cover 451, a light guide 453, and a top ring 454, which together form the top surface 404a of the housing 402. The housing 402 further includes a light emitting diode (LED) board 452, which includes LEDs positioned to illuminate the light guide 453. The same or additional LEDs can provide illumination for optical sensors in the housing 402. The components of the dose lock 420 and the vial lock 430 are secured to the base 416 by respective lock covers 427, 437. The circuit board 440 includes a scan nest 456 mounted thereon to which the biometric sensor 408 can be mounted. The lock covers 427, 437 and the circuit board 440 are secured to the base by screws 455. Of course, alternative fasteners, glues, snaps, or other strategies can be used to secure the component parts to the base 416 and / or within the housing 402, as will be appreciated by those of skill in the relevant art in light of the teachings of the present disclosure.

[0121] The housing 402 can be charged via inductive charging. The housing 402 includes an inductive coil 450 positioned near the bottom end 406 of the device 400, inside the cover 418. The cover 418 can include a common mode ring 457 near the bottom end 406 to increase stability to inhibit the device 400 from tipping over during charging. The electronic circuitry of the housing 402 can include circuitry for inductively charging the battery 448 with the coil 450, including circuitry designed according to currently available inductive chargers and other such wireless charging solutions yet to be developed. Incorporating wireless charging into the housing eliminates the need for a charging port, thereby eliminating an entry point for the user, and thus can provide a more robust device against tampering as compared to devices with wired charging ports. Further, as the user does not have direct access to the charging mechanism, the device with wireless charging can be more resistant to damage as compared to devices with wired charging ports, at least to the charging circuitry.

[0122] The entire assembly has no exposed screws, and the cover 418 is clamped to the base 416. The mechanical and electrical parts can be assembled and tested for functionality on the base 416 before the cover 418 is clamped in place.

[0123] FIG. 11B is FIG. 15 and FIG. 16A to FIG. 16CThe illustration shows an alternative handle portion 463 of the nozzle of the dispensing device 400. The handle portion 463 includes an upper portion 463a and a lower portion 463b, which are manufactured as two separate parts. The upper portions 463a and 463b include clips 465 that can engage with each other to secure the upper portion 463a to the lower portion 463b in a tamper-proof manner, meaning that the recipient of the medication cannot easily separate the upper portion 463a and the lower portion 463b. The handle portion 463 may include a cradle 467 sized to accommodate the vial nozzle 508 (see Figure 1). FIG. 9 to FIG. 15 The size of the bracket 467 can be configured to accommodate a larger depressor 510 that can be found on many pharmaceutical vials 500 currently used in the industry.

[0124] The dispensing device 400 can be dispensed using the following steps, which include: FIG. 16A to FIG. 16C The nozzle 460 of the handle portion 463 illustrated is assembled to the vial 500 as follows: The vial nozzle 508 is removed from the vial 500; a retaining ring 476 and a spring 478 are placed on the vial 500; the housing interface 480 is slid across the spring and retaining ring 476; the vial nozzle 508 is placed on the vial 500 such that the pressing tab 510 is positioned within the bracket 467 of the lower portion 463b of the handle portion 463; and the upper portion 463a of the handle portion 463 is fastened to the vial nozzle 508 and the lower portion 463b of the handle portion 463 is secured. The sequence of securing the nozzle 460 to the vial 500 can be implemented in various ways, wherein the steps are performed in a different order than that listed, as understood by those skilled in the art; for example, the vial nozzle 408, spring, and / or retaining ring 476 may be secured within the handle portion 463 before the vial 500 is inserted into the handle portion 463. The housing interface 480 may include flexible hooks 481 that extend to move onto the vial 500 and engage below a ridge on the vial to engage and secure the nozzle 460 to the vial 500. Once the nozzle 460 of the dispensing device is attached to the vial 500, the nozzle 460 can be inserted into the housing 402, and the dispensing device 400 can proceed as described above. FIG. 17 It functions as described in the text.

[0125] FIG. 18A An example geometry of handle portion 463 is illustrated, which has a separate section that can secure the vial nozzle 508 in a tamper-proof manner. Other alternatives including handle portion 463 (which includes two vertically divided sections and / or more than two separate sections) can be constructed, as understood by those skilled in the art.

[0126] FIG. 17This is an exploded view of another embodiment of the dispensing device 600 according to the present invention. FIG. 18B Is it like this? FIG. 17 The diagram shows a cross-sectional view of the dispensing device indicated in plane A. FIG. 17 Is it like this? FIG. 9 to FIG. 15 The diagram shows a cross-sectional view of the dispensing device indicated in plane B.

[0127] FIG. 17 The dispensing device 600 shown in the figure and FIG. 17 The differences between the devices 400 shown in the figure include that the vial 500 can be loaded from the bottom of the device 600 and that the nozzle is integrated with the housing (i.e., it cannot be separated without damage or special disassembly). FIG. 18A The dispensing device 600 illustrated herein may have circuitry and components (e.g., mechanical and / or electrical components) to perform partial dose detection, biometric scanning, wireless and / or wired communication with other computing devices, programmable timing of doses, micro-movement detection, drug identification, drug dosage sensing, and other such functions as described with respect to other dispensing device embodiments 100, 400 elsewhere herein.

[0128] Common reference FIG. 18B , FIG. 9 to FIG. 15 and FIG. 9 to FIG. 15 The dispensing device 600 includes a handle portion 663, a top cover 651, an LED panel 652, a light guide 653, a top edge 654, a housing interface 680, a spring 678, a base 616, a battery 648, a biometric sensor 608, a sliding dose lock extension 622, a dose lock cam 624, a dose lock motor 626, a C-shaped vial lock extension 632, a vial lock cam 634, a vial lock motor 636, a circuit board 640, a cap 618, a finger cap 610, a cap co-molding component 657, and a base 658.

[0129] The top cover 651, LED board 652, light guide 653, and top edge 654 are similar to FIG. 9 to FIG. 15 The corresponding components 451, 452, 453, and 454 of the dispensing device 400 shown in the figure are assembled.

[0130] The nozzle of device 600 includes a handle portion 663, a spring 678, and a housing interface 680. The handle portion 663 includes a conical portion and a connecting ring, which are similar to... FIG. 10 The dispensing device 400 shown in the figure has a nozzle 460, a handle portion 463, a conical portion 462, and a connecting ring 466. The handle portion 463 and the housing interface 680 are clamped together.

[0131] The housing interface 680 has an outer surface 682 on which features for detecting partial depressurization of the nozzle are included, these features being similar toFIG. 9 to FIG. 15 Features on the outer surface 482 of the housing interface 480 of the dispensing device 400 illustrated herein. Similarly, the circuitry of the device 600 (i.e., the circuit board 640 and other electrical components) includes sensors for detecting the position and / or movement of features on the housing interface 680.

[0132] Device 600 includes a limit switch to detect when the nozzle of device 600 is in a fully extended and / or fully depressed position. Additionally, or alternatively, device 600 may include openings in housing interface 480 (these openings are similar to...) FIG. 9 to FIG. 15 The openings 490, 494 of the device 400 shown in the figure are used to detect when the nozzle of the device 600 is in the fully extended and / or fully depressed position.

[0133] The housing interface 680 further includes recesses 696 positioned to engage the dose lock extension 622. The recesses 696 may be angled to suppress depressurization and allow nozzle extension when the handle 663 is partially depressed. The dose lock 620 (including the dose lock extension 622, cam 624, and motor 626) can be ratcheted into engagement across the recesses 696, similar to... FIG. 9 to FIG. 15 The device 400 illustrated in the figure has a dose lock 420 and a recess 496. The dose lock extension 622 includes an angled crossbar 695 fitted within the angled recess 696. The dose lock extension 622 has a ring shape. The dose lock is pressed into a locked position by a spring 628. A cam 624 of the dose lock and a motor 626 are positioned on opposite sides of the ring of the dose lock extension 622 (compared to the angled crossbar 695). To open the dose lock, the motor 626 is activated to rotate the cam 624 pressing against the dose lock extension 622 against the force of the spring 628, thereby moving the angled crossbar 695 out of the recess 696.

[0134] The bottle lock 630 includes a C-shaped bottle lock extension 632, a bottle lock cam 634, and a bottle lock motor 636. FIG. 19The general orientation of vial lock 630 is inverted compared to vial lock 430 of device 400 illustrated in FIG. 4 to facilitate removal of vial 500 via the bottom 606 of device 600. Base 658 fits into base 616 and is held in place by vial lock extension 632 engaging a groove 698 on base 658. To open vial lock 630, motor 636 is activated to rotate cam 634, thereby disengaging vial lock extension 632 from groove 698 on base 658. Vial lock extension 632 is held in the locked position by a spring and is opened by activating vial lock motor 636 to rotate cam 634 against the spring pushing vial lock extension 632. Base 658 can include a plurality of angled grooves to ratchet base 658 into device 600. The ratchet can inhibit base 658 from moving out of device 600 and allow base 658 to move into device 600.

[0135] Vial lock 630 can alternatively include a ring gear lock that surrounds vial 500. The alternative design can increase system reliability and / or reduce production costs. A motor turns the ring gear lock, thereby disengaging the vial lock when vial holder / base 658 is in place. Once vial 500 is not present, the ring gear lock returns to the locked position. Base 658 can then be pushed back to lock it in place. The locking clip moves by spring action of the plastic to lock the base.

[0136] The position of dose lock 620 and vial lock 630 is detected by measuring an increase in current when the respective cam 624, 634 is turned by the respective motor 626, 636 to a stop (similar to that described with respect to device 400 illustrated in FIG. 4). ​

[0137] Device 600 further includes a sensor (e.g., limit switch or optical sensor) to detect the presence of vial 500.

[0138] The entire assembly can have no exposed screws, and the cover 618 is clipped onto base 616. The mechanical and electrical parts can be assembled and tested for functionality on base 616 before the cover 618 is clipped in place.

[0139] Device 600 includes a mini USB port for charging. Alternatively, device 600 can include a coil or inductive charging and / or an alternative charging port, such as USB C, a proprietary charging port, or a charging port as understood by one of skill in the relevant art in light of the teachings of this disclosure.

[0140] ​ ​A system diagram illustrating an example system including a digital platform 700, a user device 800, and a dispensing device 900. The digital platform 700 and the user device 800 can each include the computing device 200 illustrated herein, alternatives thereof, and / or variations thereof, as appreciated and understood by a person of ordinary skill in the relevant art(s) in light of the teachings of the present disclosure. The dispensing device 900 can include any of the dispensing devices 100, 400, 600 illustrated herein, alternatives thereof, and / or variations thereof, as appreciated and understood by a person of ordinary skill in the relevant art(s) in light of the teachings of the present disclosure.

[0141] An authorized user 702 (e.g., a physician) can receive information related to prescription adherence, nozzle position, vial type, patient information, device information, prescription information, dose information, and dispensing device tampering via the digital platform 700. This information can be provided as an output 904 of the dispensing device 900. The authorized user 702 can input commands related to nozzle lock / unlock, vial lock / unlock, and / or biometric load / purge via the digital platform 700. The digital platform can communicate with the dispensing device 900 via an application on the user device 800.

[0142] The dispensing device 900 can authenticate a user (e.g., a patient) via the user device 800 and / or a biometric scanner 908. The user device 800 can further receive information related to dosing schedules, reminders, and prescription adherence from the dispensing device 900.

[0143] The dispensing device 900 can include a motor 926 and a cam 924 positioned to engage a nozzle lock mechanism 922. The motor 926, the cam 924, and the nozzle lock mechanism 922 can have structures and / or functions for locking a nozzle position to prevent dosing (similar to the structures of the dispensing devices 100, 400, 600 described herein), variations thereof, or alternatives thereof, as appreciated and understood by a person of ordinary skill in the relevant art(s) in light of the teachings of the present disclosure.

[0144] The dispensing device 900 can include a motor 936 and a cam 934 positioned to engage a vial lock mechanism 932. The motor 936, the cam 934, and the vial lock mechanism 932 can have structures and / or functions for securing a vial within the dispensing device (similar to the structures of the dispensing devices 100, 400, 600 described herein), variations thereof, or alternatives thereof, as appreciated and understood by a person of ordinary skill in the relevant art(s) in light of the teachings of the present disclosure.

[0145] The dispensing device 900 can house a vial, such as the vial 500, variations thereof, or alternatives thereof, as appreciated and understood by a person of ordinary skill in the relevant art(s) in light of the teachings of the present disclosure.

[0146] The dispensing device 900 can include a nozzle 960, variations thereof, and alternatives thereto, which can be depressed to dispense a medicament and provide features thereon for locking and / or dose detection as described elsewhere herein, as understood by one of skill in the relevant art in light of the teachings of the present disclosure.

[0147] The dispensing device 900 can include an optical sensor 944, variations thereof, and alternatives thereto, for detecting partial depression of the nozzle 960, detecting presence of a vial 500, detecting entry into the dispensing device 900, and / or other functions of optical sensors as described elsewhere herein, as understood by one of skill in the relevant art in light of the teachings of the present disclosure.

[0148] The dispensing device 900 can include gesture sensors 901 (e.g., micro-motion sensors) to detect user-specific movement patterns to detect when different users are handling the device 900.

[0149] While the application has been illustrated and described in reference to certain exemplary embodiments thereof, it will be understood that various changes can be made in detail, without departing from the spirit and scope of the application, and that the application is not to be limited to that which is set forth in the specification. Further, while the exemplary embodiments have been described with reference to a certain number of elements, it will be understood that fewer or more elements can be utilized in practice.

Claims

1. An apparatus for dispensing a drug, comprising: A housing, comprising a chamber and an opening communicating with the chamber; The nozzle includes a passageway through it and a housing interface. The housing interface is sized to be positioned within the opening and configured to slidably engage the housing, such that when the housing interface is slidably engaged with the housing, the nozzle can translate from a fully extended position to a fully depressed position. Wherein, when the housing interface is positioned within the opening and slidably engaged with the housing, the passage is positioned to communicate with the chamber; The first lock can move from the open position to the closed position. Wherein, when the housing interface is slidably engaged with the housing and the first lock is in the closed position, the first lock prevents the housing interface of the nozzle from being further pressed into the housing through the opening of the housing, and Wherein, when the housing interface is slidably engaged with the housing and the first lock is in the open position, the first lock does not prevent the housing interface from being further pressed into the housing through the opening in the housing; A sensor configured to provide a sensor signal indicating a partial depressurization position of the nozzle between the fully extended position and the fully depressurized position; and A circuit configured to move the first lock from the open position to the closed position in response to the sensor signal.

2. The apparatus for dispensing medicine according to claim 1, wherein, When the housing interface is slidably engaged with the housing, the first lock, the sensor, and the circuit are completely contained within the housing and the nozzle.

3. The apparatus for dispensing medicine according to claim 1, wherein, The sensor includes an optical sensor.

4. The apparatus for dispensing medicine according to claim 1, wherein, The housing interface includes visual features thereon that, when the housing interface is slidably engaged with the housing and moved relative to the sensor, cause the sensor to provide a sensor signal indicating the position of the portion being pressed down.

5. The apparatus for dispensing medicine according to claim 1, wherein, One or more sensors, including the aforementioned sensor, are configured to provide sensor signals indicating a plurality of partial compression positions, each of which is located between the fully extended position and the fully compressed position.

6. The apparatus for dispensing medicine according to claim 1, in, The housing interface includes a first angled groove thereon, and The first lock includes a first angled extension, which is positioned within an angled groove when the first lock is in the closed position and the housing interface is slidably engaged with the housing. The first angled groove and the first angled extension are shaped such that when the first lock is in the closed position and the housing interface is slidably engaged with the housing, the first angled extension presses against the first angled groove to prevent the housing interface from being further pressed into the housing, and the first angled extension is able to slide against the first angled groove to allow the nozzle to move toward the fully extended position.

7. The apparatus for dispensing medicine according to claim 6, in, The housing interface includes a plurality of angled grooves, including the first angled groove, each of the plurality of angled grooves being individually aligned perpendicular to the longitudinal axis of the housing and aligned with each other parallel to the longitudinal axis. The plurality of angled grooves and the first angled extension are shaped such that when the first lock is in the closed position and the housing interface is slidably engaged with the housing, the first angled extension can slide against each of the plurality of angled grooves to allow the nozzle to move toward the fully extended position. Each of the plurality of angled grooves and the angled extension is shaped such that when the first lock is in the closed position, the housing interface is slidably engaged with the housing, and the first angled extension is located in one of the angled grooves, pressing against the corresponding angled groove to suppress the depressurization of the housing interface.

8. The apparatus for dispensing medicine according to claim 1, in, The housing includes a base, and The first lock includes: An extension, which is slidably translatable relative to the base, moves the first lock between the open position and the closed position. A cam, rotatable to allow the extension to translate slidably, such that the rotation of the cam is limited by the engagement of the cam with the base. A motor that can rotate to move the cam and communicate with the circuit.

9. The apparatus for dispensing a drug according to claim 1, wherein, The nozzle and the housing can be separated from each other without damaging the device.

10. The apparatus for dispensing a drug according to claim 9, further comprising: The second lock can move between the open and closed positions. Specifically, when the housing interface is positioned within the opening and the second lock is in the closed position, the second lock prevents the nozzle from extending beyond the fully extended position, and When the housing interface is positioned within the opening and the second lock is in the open position, the second lock does not prevent the nozzle from extending beyond the fully extended position.

11. The apparatus for dispensing a drug according to claim 10, wherein, When the housing interface is positioned within the opening and the second lock is in the closed position, the housing interface cannot detach from the housing without damaging the device.

12. The apparatus for dispensing a drug according to claim 10, wherein, When the housing interface is slidably engaged with the housing and the first lock is in the closed position, the second lock is prevented from moving from the closed position to the open position.

13. The apparatus for dispensing a drug according to claim 1, further comprising: Base components; as well as The second lock can move from the open position to the closed position. The housing includes an opening communicating with the chamber and a second opening communicating with the chamber. The base component is sized to be positioned within and cover the opening. Specifically, when the base component is positioned within the opening and the second lock is in the closed position, the base component is secured in place by the second lock, and When the base component is positioned within the opening and the second lock is in the open position, the base component can move to expose the opening.

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