Syringe barrel, injector subassembly, and injection system for injecting a fluid into a patient

Abstract

A syringe barrel includes a barrel body having a passageway extending along a longitudinal axis between a tip opening and a loading opening. The passageway is configured to allow a plunger to advance along the longitudinal axis through the passageway to drive a liquid through the tip opening. The barrel body includes a base portion configured to operatively engage an injection system. The base portion has a body surface shaped to form a light propagation space alongside the body surface. The light propagation space extends to reflective ramps of the body surface. The reflective ramps have predetermined dimensions and positions to reflect a light signal radially away from the barrel body.

Description

[0001] This application is a divisional application of the invention patent application with the application date of May 24, 2018, the international application number PCT / US2018 / 034405, the national application number 201880049344.8, and the invention name “Syringe barrel, injection subassembly, and injection system for injecting fluid into a patient’s body”.

[0002] Related applications

[0003] This application claims priority to U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 62 / 510,290 (Docket No. 66677-P1), entitled “Integrated Reflection Injection System,” filed on May 24, 2017, which is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety.

[0004] This application also claims priority to U.S. Patent Application Nos. _______ (Docket No. 66677-US1), _______ (Docket No. 66677-US2), and _______ (Docket No. 66677-US3), filed on the same day as this application, each of which is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety. Technical Field

[0005]

[0014] Embodiments of the present disclosure generally relate to an infusion system for infusing fluid into a patient during a medical procedure, and components of the infusion system. Background Art

[0006] A variety of different medical procedures involve the controlled delivery of a specific fluid to a patient. Examples include saline, drug delivery, and contrast media. Contrast media are injected into a patient for diagnostic and therapeutic imaging procedures, such as computed tomography (CT). Contrast media are typically delivered at a predetermined rate or schedule and at relatively high pressure.

[0007] Power injection systems are often used during such procedures. U.S. Patent No. 6,652,489 discloses a front-loading power injection system, a syringe, a syringe interface, a syringe adapter, and a syringe plunger. These injection systems can be programmed to deliver fluids at a predetermined rate or schedule, and can provide fluids at a specified pressure.

[0008] However, such injection systems may have one or more problems. For example, when a syringe is inserted into a port of the injection system and operably engaged with the injection system, at least one known injection system is automatically activated. The injection system uses a light detector to confirm the presence of the syringe, and optionally other information about the syringe. Light is directed through the wall of the syringe and refracted by grooves along the outer surface of the wall. The refraction produces a light signal that is read by the light detector. The light signal confirms the presence of the syringe in the port and can provide additional information about the syringe (e.g., the fluid contained in the syringe). However, this known system may produce some errors or misreadings.

[0009] When the sensor is triggered by the syringe, light is directed through the wall. A flexible ring is positioned within the housing at the interface of the port. A portion of the syringe is inserted through the flexible ring. When the syringe is inserted to secure it to the injection reader, a flange projecting radially outward from the syringe engages the flexible ring, thereby moving it. As the flexible ring moves, it triggers a Hall effect sensor within the interface. In response to this triggering, the injection system is ready for operation, and the piston engages the plunger.

[0010] Yet in this known system, each time when syringe is loaded, syringe needs to engage with flexible ring, thereby causes wear and tear and needs to replace flexible ring frequently.Moreover, when syringe is loaded, injection system automatically prepares itself, and this may not be desirable in some cases.

[0011] In addition to the above, a significant amount of pressure is applied to the fluid within the syringe, which can cause leakage. This exposes the side of the injection system that supports the syringe to the liquid. This liquid could damage the injection reader or pose a health hazard to anyone who comes into contact with it. Summary of the Invention

[0012] According to one or more embodiments, a syringe barrel is provided. The syringe barrel includes a barrel having a passage extending along a longitudinal axis between a tip opening and a loading opening. The passage is configured to allow a plunger to advance through the passage along the longitudinal axis so as to drive a liquid through the tip opening. The barrel includes a base portion configured to operably engage an injection system. The base portion has a body surface that is shaped to form a light propagation space beside the body surface. The light propagation space is defined by reflective bevels on the body surface. These reflective bevels have predetermined sizes and positions to reflect light signals radially away from the barrel.

[0013] In some aspects, the light propagation space may include a light propagation recess defined between side surfaces.

[0014] In some aspects, the base portion can have a loading edge that can define the loading opening. The loading edge can have a reduced thickness along the light propagation recess. The light propagation recess can extend from the loading edge to the reflective bevels.

[0015] In some aspects, the body surface can be an exterior surface.

[0016] In some aspects, the base portion can include a base wall that can include the bulk surface and a loading edge that can define the loading opening. The base portion can be incapable of transmitting a significant amount of electromagnetic radiation having a detectable wavelength from the loading edge through the base wall to the reflective ramps. Optionally, the base portion can be incapable of transmitting a significant amount of electromagnetic radiation having a detectable wavelength from the loading edge through the base wall to the reflective ramps due to at least one of the following reasons: (a) the base portion is constructed of a light-opaque material; (b) the bulk surface of the base portion is coated with a light-opaque material; or (c) the base portion includes a discontinuity therein that scatters electromagnetic radiation.

[0017] In some aspects, the light propagation space can be defined by at least a first table surface and a second table surface of the body surface.

[0018] In some aspects, the light propagation space can be a first light propagation space, and the reflective slopes can be first reflective slopes. The cylinder can be configured to form a second light propagation space, which can be defined between the end of the base portion and the second reflective slopes. The second reflective slopes can have predetermined dimensions and positions to reflect the light signal radially away from the cylinder. The first light propagation space and the second light propagation space can be located on opposite sides of the cylinder or on opposite sides of a wall of the cylinder.

[0019] In some aspects, the barrel can include a main part. The main part and the base part can be discrete parts that can be attached to each other to form the barrel. Alternatively, the syringe barrel can include one of the main part or the base part, one of which can have an edge channel that can extend circumferentially around the longitudinal axis and can be open in a certain direction along the longitudinal axis. The edge channel can be defined between the inner wall and the outer wall. The other of the main part or the base part can have an edge track that can extend circumferentially around the longitudinal axis. The edge track can be configured to be received in the edge channel and can be threadedly engaged with the edge channel so that the edge track can be fastened between the inner wall and the outer wall that define the edge channel.

[0020] According to one or more embodiments, a component is provided. The component includes a syringe barrel having a passage extending along a longitudinal axis between a tip opening and a loading opening. The passage is configured to allow a plunger to advance through the passage along the longitudinal axis so as to drive a liquid through the tip opening. The syringe barrel includes a base portion configured to operably engage an injection system. The base portion has a body surface configured to form a light propagation space beside the base portion. A light source is configured to generate light. The light source is positioned to guide light through the light propagation space beside the body surface. The base portion includes reflective bevels. These reflective bevels have predetermined sizes and positions to reflect light signals radially away from the syringe barrel. The light is electromagnetic radiation and can have a specified wavelength or a specified wavelength range.

[0021] In some aspects, the light propagation space may include a light propagation recess that may be defined between side surfaces, and the side surfaces may partially oppose each other and define the light propagation space therebetween.

[0022] In some aspects, the base portion can have a loading edge that can define the loading opening.The loading edge can have a reduced thickness along the light propagating recess.

[0023] In some aspects, the light propagation space can be defined by at least a first table and a second table of the body surface.The base portion can include a base wall that can have the body surface and a loading edge that can define the loading opening.

[0024] In some aspects, the base portion can be incapable of transmitting an appreciable amount of electromagnetic radiation having a detectable wavelength from the loading edge through the base wall to the reflective ramps. For example, the base portion can be incapable of transmitting an appreciable amount of electromagnetic radiation having the detectable wavelength from the loading edge through the base wall to the reflective ramps due to at least one of the following reasons: (a) the base portion is constructed of a light-impermeable material; (b) a bulk surface of the base portion is coated with a light-impermeable material; or (c) the base portion includes a discontinuity therein that scatters electromagnetic radiation.

[0025] In some aspects, the light propagation space can be a first light propagation space, and the reflective slopes can be first reflective slopes. The syringe barrel can be configured to form a second light propagation space, which can extend to second reflective slopes. The second reflective slopes can have predetermined dimensions and positions to reflect the light signal radially away from the syringe barrel.

[0026] In some aspects, the syringe barrel can also include a main portion. The main portion and the base portion can be separate components that can be attached to each other to form the syringe barrel.

[0027] According to one or more embodiments, an injection system is provided. The injection system includes an injector head configured to control the delivery of a specified fluid to a patient. The injector head includes a syringe interface along an active side of the injector head. The syringe interface has a receiving cavity configured to receive a syringe barrel. The injector head also includes an internal sensor. The magnetic switch has an external magnet on the outside of the injector head. The external magnet is operable to change the magnetic field experienced by the internal sensor to activate the internal sensor.

[0028] In some aspects, the injector head further comprises an internal movable magnet that can be operable to move relative to the internal sensor when the syringe barrel is inserted into the receiving cavity. The magnetic field experienced by the internal sensor can vary as the corresponding magnetic fields generated by the movable magnet and the external magnet vary.

[0029] In some aspects, each of the magnetic switch and the movable magnet can be capable of independently activating the internal sensor.

[0030] In some aspects, the corresponding magnetic field of the magnetic switch can reduce the effect of the corresponding magnetic field of the movable magnet on the internal sensor. Optionally, the internal sensor can be within three centimeters of the receiving cavity and can be within three centimeters of the exterior of the injector head. The external magnet can include an electromagnet that can be configured to selectively generate the corresponding magnetic field.

[0031] In some aspects, the electromagnet can be located beside the active side of the injector head. The external magnet can include a permanent magnet. The permanent magnet can be configured to move between different positions, thereby moving the corresponding magnetic field of the permanent magnet. The permanent magnet can be operable to move beside the active side of the injector head.

[0032] In some aspects, the injection system can include a side cover that can cover at least a portion of the active side. Optionally, the side cover can include a track slidably coupled to the permanent magnet. The permanent magnet can slide along the track between the different positions. When the permanent magnet moves along the track, the permanent magnet can move relative to the internal sensor. The side cover can include at least one of a shield or a fascia.

[0033] According to one or more embodiments, an injection subassembly is provided. The injection subassembly includes a support structure configured to couple to an injector head for controlling the delivery of a prescribed fluid to a patient. An external magnet is coupled to the support structure on the exterior of the injector head. The external magnet is operable to alter a magnetic field experienced by an internal sensor to activate the internal sensor.

[0034] In some aspects, the external magnet can include an electromagnet that can be configured to selectively generate a corresponding magnetic field.

[0035] In some aspects, the external magnet can include a permanent magnet that can be configured to move between different positions, thereby moving the corresponding magnetic field of the permanent magnet.The permanent magnet can be operable to move alongside the active side of the injector head.

[0036] In some aspects, the injection subassembly may further include a side cover that may include or form the support structure. The side cover may have a syringe opening and may be configured to mount to the active side of the injector head.

[0037] According to one or more embodiments, a method is provided. The method includes providing an injector head configured to control the delivery of a specified fluid to a patient. The injector head includes a syringe interface along an active side of the injector head. The syringe interface has a receiving cavity configured to receive a syringe barrel. The injector head also includes an internal sensor. An actuating magnetic switch has an external magnet external to the injector head. In response to being actuated, the magnetic switch generates a corresponding magnetic field to change the magnetic field experienced by the internal sensor.

[0038] In some aspects, the injector head can further include an internal movable magnet that can be operable to move relative to the internal sensor when the syringe barrel is inserted into the receiving cavity. The magnetic field experienced by the internal sensor can vary as the corresponding magnetic fields generated by the movable magnet and the external magnet vary.

[0039] In some aspects, each of the magnetic switch and the movable magnet can be capable of independently activating the internal sensor.

[0040] According to one or more embodiments, an injection system is provided. The injection system includes an injector head configured to control the delivery of a specified fluid to a patient. The injector head includes a syringe interface along an active side of the injector head. The syringe interface has a receiving cavity configured to receive a syringe barrel. A side cover has a syringe opening therethrough. The side cover is sized and shaped to cover at least a portion of the active side of the injector head so that the receiving cavity and the syringe opening are aligned with each other to form a port for receiving the syringe barrel.

[0041] In some aspects, the injector head can be part of an existing system that can operate without the side cover. For example, the existing system is already used to deliver liquids. The existing system can operate without the side cover.

[0042] In some aspects, the side cover can be removably mounted to the injector head.

[0043] In some aspects, the side cover can include a bendable rib having a radially inward surface that can define a portion of the port. Alternatively, the bendable rib can include a radially outward surface that defines a tactile opening. The bendable rib can move when engaged with the syringe barrel so that the size or shape of the tactile opening can change when the bendable rib moves. Alternatively, the side cover can include a shield and a cover plate that can include the tactile opening.

[0044] In some aspects, the shield can be sized and shaped to cover the tactile opening. For example, the shield can cover at least 90% of the outer surface of the cover plate. Alternatively, the side cover can include a cover plate that covers at least a portion of the active side and a shield that covers at least a portion of the cover plate.

[0045] In some aspects, the cover plate may include an auxiliary opening and the syringe opening. The shield may cover the auxiliary opening but not the syringe opening. The cover plate and the cover may be stacked side by side and may be fixed to each other.

[0046] Optionally, the injection system may further comprise a strap. The cover plate and the cover may be fixed to each other by the strap. Optionally, the side cover may cover at least 90% of the outer surface of the active side.

[0047] In some aspects, the injection system can further include an external magnet that can be coupled to the side cover. The external magnet can be at least one of: (a) a permanent magnet operable to move relative to the injector head or (b) an electromagnet.

[0048] Optionally, the side cover may include a cover plate that covers at least a portion of the active side and a shield that covers at least a portion of the cover plate. At least one of the cover plate and the shield may have a corresponding slot that can receive the external magnet. The external magnet may be movable within the corresponding slot.

[0049] According to one or more embodiments, an injection system is provided. The injection system includes a syringe barrel having a passage extending along a longitudinal axis between the end opening and the loading opening of the syringe barrel. The injector head is configured to control the delivery of a specified fluid to a patient. The injector head includes a syringe interface along the active side of the injector head. The syringe interface has a receiving cavity configured to receive a syringe barrel. A side cover has a syringe opening passing therethrough. The size and shape of the side cover are designed to cover at least a portion of the active side of the injector head so that the receiving cavity and the syringe opening are aligned with each other to form a port for receiving the syringe barrel. The syringe barrel is configured to rotate through an operating turn between a starting position and a loading position. The syringe barrel is releasable when in the starting position. The side cover has a radially inward surface that defines a portion of the syringe opening. The radially inward surface and the syringe barrel are shaped relative to each other so that the radially inward surface and the syringe barrel can slidably engage with each other during the operating turn. The radially inward surface and the syringe barrel are shaped relative to each other such that a torque for rotating the syringe barrel from the starting position and from the loading position is less than a torque for rotating the syringe barrel between the starting position and the loading position.

[0050] In some aspects, the side cover can include a bendable or compressible physical feature, which can include a radially inward surface.

[0051] In some aspects, the side cover can be removable.

[0052] In some aspects, the side cover can include a lip that can extend around a majority of the circumference of the side cover.

[0053] According to one or more embodiments, a method is provided. The method includes providing an injector head configured to control delivery of a specified fluid to a patient. The injector head includes a syringe interface along an active side of the injector head. The syringe interface has a receiving cavity. The method includes inserting a syringe barrel into the receiving cavity of the syringe interface and operatively engaging the injector head and the syringe barrel. The method also includes operatively engaging the injector head.

[0054] In some aspects, operatively engaging the injector head and the syringe barrel comprises rotating the syringe between a starting position and a loading position through approximately one operating revolution. The torque used to rotate the syringe barrel from the starting position and from the loading position can be less than the torque used to rotate the syringe barrel between the starting position and the loading position.

[0055] In at least one embodiment, the syringe barrel includes a barrel having a passage extending along the longitudinal axis between the end opening and the loading opening. The passage is configured to allow the plunger to advance through the passage so as to drive the liquid through the end opening. The barrel also includes a main part and a base part, which are discrete components and are configured to be rotatably coupled to each other. One of the main part or the base part has an edge channel that extends circumferentially around the longitudinal axis and opens in a certain direction along the longitudinal axis. The edge channel is defined between the inner wall and the outer wall. The other of the main part or the base part has an edge track that extends circumferentially around the longitudinal axis. The edge track is configured to be received in the edge channel and threadedly engaged with the edge channel so that the edge track is fixed between the inner wall and the outer wall defining the edge channel.

[0056] In some aspects, the rim track has an inwardly facing surface, and the inner wall has an outwardly facing surface. The inwardly facing surface and the outwardly facing surface taper in a direction toward the longitudinal axis. Optionally, an inner ring structure is coupled to the inner wall. Optionally, the inner ring structure protrudes from a top of the inner wall.

[0057] In some aspects, the inner ring structure is coupled to the inner wall and extends circumferentially about the longitudinal axis and projects radially inward from the inner wall.

[0058] In some aspects, the main portion and the base portion have corresponding protrusions that engage each other when the main portion and the base portion reach a fully engaged condition. The protrusions provide a positive stop that indicates that the main portion and the base portion are in a fully engaged condition.

[0059] In some aspects, the base portion has a body surface shaped to form a light propagation space adjacent to the body surface. The light propagation space is defined between an end of the base portion and a reflective slope on the body surface. The reflective slopes have predetermined dimensions and positions to reflect light signals radially away from the cylinder.

[0060] According to one or more embodiments, an injection subassembly is provided that includes a side cover having a syringe opening. The side cover is configured to be mounted to an active side of an injector head for controlling the delivery of a prescribed fluid to a patient. The injection subassembly also includes an external magnet coupled to the side cover on the exterior of the injector head. The external magnet is operable to alter a magnetic field experienced by an internal sensor within the injector head to activate the internal sensor. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0061] Figure 1is a side view of an injection system formed in accordance with one embodiment, the injection system including a known injector head and a cover plate.

[0062] Figure 2 yes Figure 1 A top perspective view of an injection system having a syringe barrel received in a port of the injection system.

[0063] Figure 3 is a side view of a known injector subassembly including a syringe interface and a syringe.

[0064] Figure 4 yes Figure 3 A perspective view of a syringe of a known injector subassembly ready to be placed in a syringe interface.

[0065] Figure 5 yes Figure 3 Rear perspective view of a syringe interface with the flexible ring disconnected from the connector housing of the syringe interface.

[0066] Figure 6 yes Figure 3 Rear perspective view of a syringe interface with a flexible ring mounted within the connector housing.

[0067] Figure 7 is a perspective view of a syringe barrel formed according to an embodiment, which can be used with Figure 1 The invention is used in conjunction with a known injection system of the present invention and includes a body and a syringe base.

[0068] Figure 8 yes Figure 7 An enlarged side perspective view of a portion of a syringe barrel prior to assembly.

[0069] Figure 9 is a side view of the syringe barrel after assembly and in a fully engaged condition.

[0070] Figure 10 is a cross-sectional side view of the syringe barrel after assembly and in a fully engaged condition, illustrating the locking features of the syringe barrel.

[0071] Figure 11 is a side perspective view of a portion of a syringe barrel formed in accordance with one embodiment.

[0072] Figure 12 yes Figure 11 A cross-sectional side view of a syringe barrel prior to assembly showing some features in greater detail.

[0073] Figure 13 yes Figure 11A cross-sectional side view of the syringe barrel after assembly and in a fully engaged condition.

[0074] Figure 14 is a cross-sectional view of a portion of a known syringe illustrating the refraction of light from the syringe.

[0075] Figure 15A is a cross-sectional view of a portion of a syringe barrel formed in accordance with one embodiment illustrating light reflected from an outer surface of the syringe barrel.

[0076] Figure 15B is a cross-sectional view of a portion of a syringe barrel formed in accordance with an embodiment illustrating reflection of light from the interior of the syringe barrel.

[0077] Figure 16 is an end view of a portion of an injection system according to an embodiment when the syringe barrel is in a releasable position.

[0078] Figure 17 When the syringe barrel is in the loaded position Figure 16 End view of a portion of the injection system.

[0079] Figure 18 is a schematic diagram of a mechanism for providing tactile indication to a user.

[0080] Figure 19 is an exploded view of an injection subassembly formed in accordance with one embodiment.

[0081] Figure 20 yes Figure 19 Front perspective view of the injection subassembly.

[0082] Figure 21 yes Figure 19 Rear perspective view of the injection subassembly.

[0083] Figure 22 yes Figure 19 A magnified view of the underside of the injection subassembly.

[0084] Figure 23 is a schematic diagram of a magnetic switch and illustrates the magnetic influence of an internal magnet and an external permanent magnet on the internal sensor of the injector head.

[0085] Figure 24 is a schematic diagram of a magnetic switch and illustrates the magnetic influence of an internal magnet and an external electromagnet on an internal sensor in the injector head.

[0086] Before describing the embodiments of the present disclosure in detail, it should be understood that the application of the present disclosure is not limited to the details of the construction and arrangement of the components set forth in the following description or shown in the accompanying drawings. The present disclosure can have other embodiments and can be practiced or implemented in a variety of different ways. Moreover, it should be understood that the words and terms used in this article are for descriptive purposes and should not be considered as restrictive. The use of "including" and "comprising" and their variations is intended to cover the items listed thereafter and their equivalents and additional items and their equivalents. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0087] The embodiments set forth herein may include injection systems, cover plates for such systems, system barrels, and methods of manufacture and use thereof. These embodiments may be used when injecting specified fluids such as contrast agents or saline into a patient before and / or during a medical procedure (e.g., a CT scan). These embodiments may include a syringe barrel (e.g., a 200ml syringe barrel) having a base portion and a main portion that are manufactured separately and then assembled together. In certain embodiments, the base portion includes a surface with a certain refractive index that is configured to reflect light signals propagating from a light source. The base portion may include an opaque material. Unlike existing known systems that rely on refraction, the syringe barrel is configured to activate a light sensor circuit in the injector head by reflection.

[0088] The cover plate can be a multi-purpose cover plate. In the illustrated embodiment, the cover plate is configured to (a) protect the injector head from leaking fluid; (b) support a mechanism (e.g., a switch) for activating or starting the injector head; and (c) provide a tactile indication to the user that the syringe barrel has moved to a loaded position or to a start / releasable position. In other embodiments, the cover plate can be configured for any one of (a), (b), or (c), or any two of (a), (b), or (c).

[0089] Compared to known systems of the prior art, embodiments can reduce wear on components and can be less prone to overflow and / or leakage. For example, the cover plate and syringe barrel described herein can reduce the frequency for replacing the flexible ring and / or reduce the likelihood that liquid will leak from the syringe barrel and overflow on the injector head. The syringe barrel can also enhance the user experience by being more consistently identified / read. The cover plate can enhance the user experience by providing a tactile indication that the syringe barrel has been loaded onto the injector head or that the syringe barrel can be released from the injector head.

[0090] Figure 1 1 is a side view of an injection system 100 including an injector head 102 and a cover plate 104 , which in some embodiments may also be referred to as a side cover. Figure 2 1 is an enlarged view of an injection system 100 having a cover plate 104 coupled to an injector head 102. The injection system 100 is a flow control system that regulates the operation of a piston (not shown) to control the flow rate of a liquid delivered by the injection system 100. The injection system 100 is configured to support one or more syringe barrels 125 and to inject a designated fluid into a patient (e.g., a human or animal) through the syringe barrels 125. For example, the injector head 102 may include linear reciprocating pistons, each of which is in contact with a plunger 128 ( Figure 2 ) join.

[0091] In some embodiments, the injector head 102 can be a known injector head. In certain embodiments, the infusion system 100 is configured to infuse intravenous contrast media and saline into a patient for diagnostic studies in computed tomography (CT) applications. However, it should be understood that the infusion system 100 can be used in other medical procedures.

[0092] In some embodiments, the cover plate 104 can be removably coupled to the injector head 102 such that the cover plate 104 can be attached and detached from the injector head 102 without damaging the injector head 102 or the cover plate 104. The cover plate 104 can cover the active side 110 ( Figure 1 ). In the illustrated embodiment, the cover plate 104 is sized and shaped to cover the entire active side 110 and includes a peripheral lip 124 extending around at least a majority of the perimeter of the cover plate 104. The peripheral lip 124 is designed to reduce the likelihood that leaking liquid will directly contact the injector head 102. Alternatively, the cover plate 104 can be configured to cover an area greater than more than one side of the injector head 102 or to cover an area less than the entire active side 110.

[0093] The injector head 102 includes a user interface 106 having an array of user-activated control elements 108, which may include physical elements (e.g., switches, buttons, knobs) and / or virtual elements (e.g., buttons that appear on a touch screen). The user-activated control elements 108 may enable a user to, for example, selectively control the flow rate of a fluid, selectively control the temperature of a delivered fluid, or purge air from the injection system or syringe barrel. Although not shown, the injection system 100 may be part of a larger system that includes a computing system, a display, and a base or stand for holding the injection system 100.

[0094] The active side 110 is configured to receive the cover plate 104. In the illustrated embodiment, the injection system 100 includes ports 112, 114. Each port 112, 114 is configured to receive one of the syringe barrels 125. The syringe barrels 125 are configured to be front loaded, such that the base portion of the syringe barrel 125 is inserted through the corresponding port. Each port 112, 114 includes an opening 116 through the cover plate 104 and a receiving cavity 117 of the injector head 102.

[0095] As described herein, the cover plate 104 can include a magnetic switch 120 positioned adjacent to a sensor 122 (e.g., a Hall effect sensor) of the injector head 102 such that the magnetic switch 120 can activate the sensor 122. The magnetic switch 120 can include a permanent magnet 121. In other embodiments, the magnetic switch 120 can include an electromagnet. In the illustrated embodiment, the magnetic switch and the permanent magnet 121 are positioned external to the injector head 102. For example, the permanent magnet 121 can be in close proximity to the injector head 102 such that the permanent magnet 121 engages the injector head or has only a nominal gap (e.g., less than 5 mm) therebetween.

[0096] The permanent magnet 121 is operable to change the magnetic field experienced by the internal sensor to activate the internal sensor. In the embodiment shown, the permanent magnet 121 is in the shape of a bobbin or barbell and forms a snap fit with the cover plate 104. The sensor 122 is Figure 1 120 is identified by a dotted line. The sensor 122 is triggered in response to the magnetic switch 120 being activated (e.g., moved by a user). More specifically, the permanent magnet 121 and the corresponding magnetic field of the permanent magnet 121 can move relative to the sensor 122. The injector head 102 can perform one or more operations in response to the sensor 122 being triggered. For example, the injector head 102 can identify / read the syringe barrel 125 and / or move the piston (not shown) to prepare to inject a specified fluid into the patient. In response to the sensor 122 being triggered, the injector head 102 can automatically retract or automatically advance the piston in the passage of the syringe barrel.

[0097] Figures 3 to 6A known injector subassembly 200 is shown that includes a known syringe interface 202 and a known syringe 204. As described herein, the syringe 204 can be replaced by a syringe barrel 125. The syringe interface 202 can be considered to be part of the injector head 102 and is configured to couple the syringe 204 to the injector head 102. The syringe interface 202 provides a mechanism by which a syringe (or syringe barrel) can be quickly positioned relative to the injector head 102. The rear surface 206 of the syringe interface 202 is attached to the front surface 208 of the injector head 102. The front surface 220 of the syringe interface 202 is adapted to receive the rear end 222 of the syringe 204.

[0098] The syringe interface 202 includes a connector housing 224 and a flexible ring 226 disposed within the connector housing 224 near the front surface 220. The syringe 204 includes a cylindrical body 230 having a tapered conical portion 232 at a front end 234. The conical portion 232 is integrally connected to a discharge end 236. The discharge end 236 is provided with a Luer lock 238 that can be connected to a tube (also not shown) that is ultimately connected to a patient (also not shown).

[0099] The ridge 244 is integrally formed on the syringe 204 toward the rear end 222 of the syringe 204. In the illustrated embodiment, the ridge 244 is continuously formed around the periphery of the syringe 204. The ridge 244 includes two portions, an inclined section 246 and a shoulder section 248 that is substantially perpendicular to the outer surface of the cylindrical body 230. Two or more extending protrusions 250 are provided forward of the shoulder 248, between the shoulder 248 and the flange 242. The protrusions 250 are configured to engage the flexible ring 226 to release the connection of the syringe 204 to the syringe interface 202. As described herein, the syringe barrel 125 ( Figure 2 ) and other syringe barrels do not include a protrusion that engages a flexible ring and are not designed to engage a flexible ring.

[0100] The front plate 254 has an aperture 258 therethrough. A lip 260 extends around the periphery of the aperture 258. When the syringe 204 engages the syringe interface 202, the flange 242 and the lip 260 engage one another to minimize the possibility of any leaked contrast media entering the interior of the syringe interface 202 through the aperture 258. Alternatively, the syringe 204 can be configured not to include the flange 242. However, when the flange 242 engages the front surface 220 of the front plate 254, the flange can also function as an additional mechanical stop to ensure proper axial positioning of the syringe 204 relative to the injector head 102.

[0101] The flexible ring 226 can be made of acetal copolymer or any other suitable material. The flexible ring 226 can include a straight or flat portion 262 on either side that is integrally connected to two curved portions 264. As shown, the flexible ring 226 includes a 258 extending therethrough. On the front side of the flexible ring 226, one or more chamfered surfaces 282 can be provided to facilitate insertion of the rear end 222 and ridge 244 of the syringe 204 through the one or more chamfered surfaces.

[0102] The rear surface 296 of the front plate 254 includes a recessed portion or depression 298 having a shape similar to the flexible ring 226. Two notches 299 are formed in the rear surface 296 of the front plate 254. The notches 299 accommodate the extensions 268 of the flexible ring 226. The recessed portions 298 are shaped larger than the flexible ring 226, and when the flexible ring 226 is in a relaxed state, the distance between the notches 299 is greater than the distance between the extensions 268. The notches 299 help prevent the flexible ring 226 from rotating within the housing 224 while allowing the flexible ring 226 to expand to its extended state.

[0103] To connect the syringe 204 to the syringe interface 202, the rear end 222 of the syringe 204 is inserted into the connector housing 224 through the hole 258 in the front plate 254. The flexible ring 226 is retained or secured within a recess 298 formed in the rear surface 296 of the front plate 254 such that the extension 268 is seated in the notch 299. When the angled surface 246 of the ridge 244 of the syringe 204 engages the chamfer 282 on the flexible ring 226, the ridge 244 forces the flexible ring 226 from its relaxed state into its extended (or tensioned) state.

[0104] After the ridge 244 passes over the rear edge of the flexible ring 226 and the radially outwardly extending protrusion 250 rotates out of contact with the flexible ring 226, the elastic properties of the flexible ring 226 cause the flexible ring 226 to return to its relaxed state. When the flexible ring 226 can return to its relaxed state, the shoulder 248 of the ridge 244 engages the rear edge of the flexible ring 226. Thus, the syringe 204 is held in place by the flexible ring 226 and cannot be axially removed from the syringe interface 202. When the flexible ring 226 returns to its relaxed state, an audible signal and / or other signal as described above can be provided to indicate to the operator that the syringe 204 has been installed on the injector. The audible signal and / or other signal can be generated, for example, mechanically or electronically.

[0105] The flexible ring 226 has a magnet 227 or other element attached to it on at least one generally flat portion 262 (generally corresponding to the long axis or major axis of the flexible ring 226) that cooperates with a proximity sensor 259 (e.g., a Hall effect sensor) to determine whether the flexible ring 226 has returned to its relaxed state, for example, after the syringe 204 has been inserted. In this regard, when the flexible ring 226 is in its relaxed state, the magnet 227 is adjacent to the proximity sensor 259, such that the proximity sensor 259 detects a portion of the magnetic field of the magnet 227 (e.g., one pole of the magnetic field). Based on the position of the magnetic field relative to the proximity sensor 259, or more specifically, based on the strength of the magnetic field experienced by the proximity sensor 259, the circuit can be in one of two different states. The first state can be associated with the presence of a syringe, while the second state can be associated with the absence of a syringe.

[0106] When the flexible ring 226 is in its extended state, the magnet 227 is moved away from the proximity sensor 259. For example, the magnet 227 can be pulled to approximately 0.050" to 0.250" away from the proximity sensor 259, thereby reducing the strength of the magnetic field. This can cause the sensor's circuitry to indicate that a syringe is present. For example, the output voltage can increase when a syringe is present.

[0107] The proximity sensor 259 is operably connected to the injector head 102 to prevent operation of the injector head 102 if the flexible ring is in its extended state, indicating that the syringe 204 is not properly or fully connected to the interface or syringe interface 202. The proximity sensor 259 can also trigger an audible and / or other indication that the syringe 204 has been properly connected to the syringe interface 202 or that the syringe 204 has been disengaged from the syringe interface 202.

[0108] After the syringe 204 is properly connected to the syringe interface 202, removing the syringe from the syringe interface 202 requires rotating the syringe 204 approximately 1 / 4 turn or approximately 90 degrees. Generally, the protrusion 250 extends radially outward at least to the same extent as the ridge or flange 244. When the syringe 204 is rotated about its axis to the locked position, the protrusion 250 abuts the flexible ring 226 and forces the flexible ring 226 into its extended position. In this position, the syringe 204 can be moved axially forward relative to the syringe interface 202, causing the ridge 244 to advance in front of the flexible ring 226 and the syringe 204 to be released from the connection with the syringe interface 202.

[0109] Once the syringe 204 is fully seated rearwardly within the syringe interface 202, the operator must ensure that the syringe 204 is rotated about its axis so that the projection 250 moves out of contact with the flexible ring 226 and the flexible ring 226 is allowed to return to its relaxed state.

[0110] In some embodiments, when a syringe is inserted, it operably engages a toothed circular nylon ring to rotate. As the ring rotates in one direction, tracks on the ring expand the elongated flexible ring and move the permanent magnet further away from the Hall-effect sensor. By rotating the ring to a specific position, the distance between the magnet and the Hall-effect sensor can be repeatedly selected, thereby repeatedly varying the effect of the magnetic field on the sensor.

[0111] As described below, embodiments may optionally avoid fully engaging the flexible ring and thus may not activate the Hall effect sensor. However, embodiments may use a secondary mechanism for activating the sensor (eg, a magnetic switch).

[0112] Figure 7 3 is a perspective view of a syringe barrel 300 formed according to an embodiment. Figure 2 ) can be similar or identical to the syringe barrel 300. The syringe barrel 300 is configured to be operably coupled to an injection system such as the injection system 100. The syringe barrel 300 can be a multi-piece component. For example, the syringe barrel 300 includes a main portion 304 and a base portion 306 attached to each other to form a barrel 302, which defines a passageway 308. Optionally, the syringe barrel 300 also includes a plunger 310 disposed within the passageway 308.

[0113] The barrel 302 extends between a tip opening 312 and a loading opening 314. The passageway 308 extends along a longitudinal axis 316 between the tip opening 312 and the loading opening 314. The passageway 308 is configured to allow a plunger 310 to be advanced therethrough to force liquid through the tip opening 312.

[0114] The base portion 306 and the main portion 304 are rotatably coupled to each other at a seam 318. For example, the base portion 306 and the main portion 304 can form an interference fit and / or threaded engagement with each other at the seam 318. In some embodiments, the plunger 310 overlaps the seam 318 at a starting position (e.g., before injection). The base portion has a loading edge 320 that defines the loading opening 314. As described herein, the base portion 306 includes an identification area 322 along a body surface 324 of the base portion 306. As shown, the body surface 324 is an outer surface radially facing away from the longitudinal axis 316. The identification area 322 is configured to identify the presence of a syringe barrel, and optionally information about the syringe barrel.

[0115] The base portion 306 also has a body surface 325 ( Figure 8). As an alternative or in addition to the body surface 324 having the logo area 322, the body surface 325 can have a logo area. In this way, (these) logo areas can be located along the inner surface of the barrel, the outer surface of the barrel, or both.

[0116] The main portion 304 has an outer surface 330. In the illustrated embodiment, the body surface 324 and the outer surface 330 combine to form an outer surface 331 of the barrel 302. The main portion 304 can be at least partially translucent, allowing a user to determine the level of liquid within the passageway 308 or the axial position of the plunger 310 within the passageway 308. The base portion 306 can comprise a different material, such as a material that is less transparent to light than the material forming the main portion 304. Optionally, the main portion 304 can include a leading flange 332 that projects radially away from the body surface 324. The leading flange 332 extends completely around the longitudinal axis 316. Alternatively, the leading flange 332 can extend only partially around the longitudinal axis 316. The leading flange 332 can have multiple distinct sections, each section projecting radially away from the outer surface 330 at a common axial position but at a different radial position.

[0117] The main portion 304 may also include retaining shoulders 336, 338. In the illustrated embodiment, the retaining shoulders 336, 338 project from the outer surface 330 in opposite directions away from each other and the longitudinal axis 316. The retaining shoulders 336, 338 are spaced apart from the leading flange 332 by an axial distance 341. Figure 7 In the embodiment, the main portion 304 includes a pair of retaining shoulders. In other embodiments, the main portion 304 can have more than two retaining shoulders or only one retaining shoulder. As described herein, the retaining shoulders can engage the cover plate 104 ( Figure 1 ) to provide tactile indication to the user.

[0118] Figure 8 306 is an enlarged cross-sectional view of the main portion 304 and the base portion 306 before the base portion 306 and the main portion 304 are threadedly engaged with each other. The main portion 304 and the base portion 306 are separate components that are rotatably coupled to each other. In other words, the main portion 304 and the base portion 306 are separate components that are combined to form a unitary structure, namely the barrel 302. The seam 318 ( Figure 7 ) can fully prevent fluid leakage during operation.

[0119] As shown, base portion 306 includes a rim channel 340 that extends circumferentially about longitudinal axis 316 and opens in direction 398 along longitudinal axis 316. Rim channel 340 is defined between inner wall 342 and outer wall 344. Main portion 304 has a rim track 36 that extends circumferentially about longitudinal axis 316. Rim track 346 extends longitudinally along longitudinal axis 316 in a direction 398 opposite to direction 399. Rim track 346 is sized and shaped to be received within rim channel 340 when main portion 304 and base portion 306 are rotatably coupled. When engaged, rim track 346 is retained between inner wall 342 and outer wall 344 that define rim channel 340.

[0120] Rim rail 346 includes a rim 348, a shoulder surface 350, and a runner 352 defined between shoulder surface 350 and rim 348. Runner 352 is configured to receive threads 354 of base portion 306. Also shown, rim rail 346 has an inward-facing surface 356, and inner wall 342 has an outward-facing surface 358. Inward-facing surface 356 and outward-facing surface 358 taper in a similar manner relative to longitudinal axis 316. More specifically, as inward-facing surface 356 and outward-facing surface 358 extend from loading opening 314 to end head opening 312 in direction 398, inward-facing surface 356 and outward-facing surface 358 extend partially toward end head opening 312. Due to the tapered inward-facing surface 356 and outward-facing surface 358, base portion 306 is more easily received by main portion 304 during engagement. More specifically, the tapered inwardly facing surface 356 and outwardly facing surface 358 allow for more misalignment during engagement.

[0121] Also shown, base portion 306 includes an inner ring structure 360 ​​coupled to inner wall 342 and extending circumferentially about longitudinal axis 316. Inner ring structure 360 ​​protrudes radially inward from inner wall 342 toward longitudinal axis 316. Inner ring structure 360 ​​protrudes radially inward from the top of inner wall 342 (or the distal end of inner wall 342). Inner ring structure 360 ​​can enhance the structural integrity of inner wall 342, thereby making inner wall 342 more resistant to pressure variations within passageway 308. The tapered inwardly facing surface 356 and outwardly facing surface 358 can also make barrel 302 more resistant to pressure variations, making it less likely that liquid will leak through seam 318.

[0122] Although the above description refers to a base portion 306 having an edge channel 340 and a main portion 304 having an edge rail 346 , it should be understood that in other embodiments, the base portion may include an edge rail and the main portion may include an edge channel.

[0123] The logo area 322 of the base portion 306 includes a light propagation space 362. In the illustrated embodiment, the light propagation space 362 is a void or recess formed by the body surface 324 of the base portion 306. Dashed line 370 represents an envelope that conforms to the shape of the base portion 306. Dashed line 370 indicates where the material of the base portion 306 would be located if it were for the light propagation space 362.

[0124] In some embodiments, the light propagation space 362 is located along an arcuate segment of the base portion 306. For such embodiments, the light propagation space does not extend completely around the base portion 306. The arcuate segment may, for example, correspond to less than one-third of the body surface 324 within a cross-section of the base portion 306 taken perpendicular to the longitudinal axis. In the illustrated embodiment, the arcuate segment corresponds to less than one-quarter of the body surface 324 within the cross-section of the base portion 306 or less than one-fifth of the body surface 324 within the cross-section of the base portion 306.

[0125] The light propagation space 362 begins at the loading edge 320 and extends to the reflective bevels 364, 366 of the body surface 324. The reflective bevels 364, 366 protrude away from the longitudinal axis 316 at a certain non-orthogonal angle and define the ends of the light propagation space 362. The angle can be about 45 °, but other angles can be used. The reflective bevels 364, 366 have predetermined sizes and positions relative to each other so as to reflect a predetermined set of light signals radially away from the barrel 302. The predetermined set of light signals can constitute a code for confirming the presence of the syringe barrel 300 in the receiving cavity (not shown) of the injector head (not shown). The code can also provide information related to the syringe barrel 300 or the contents of the syringe barrel 300, such as the liquid in the syringe barrel, the volume of the liquid, the supplier of the liquid, or the date the liquid was provided to the syringe barrel.

[0126] Also shown, the base portion 306 includes a notch 345 that opens at the loading edge 320. The notch 345 can provide a reference feature by which the syringe barrel 300 can be oriented. More specifically, the notch 345 can engage a corresponding feature of the injector head so that the syringe barrel 300 has the correct orientation relative to the injector head.

[0127] Figure 9306 is a side view of a part of syringe barrel 300 after main part 304 and base part 306 have been threadedly engaged and are in a fully engaged position. In certain embodiments, at least one of main part 304 or base part 306 includes a protrusion that is configured to be received in a recess of another part. For example, in the embodiment shown, main part 304 includes a protrusion 372 (e.g., a tooth) that protrudes in the direction 399 away from shoulder surface 350. Base part 306 includes a recess 374 that is sized and shaped to receive protrusion 372. Protrusion 372 and recess 374 are positioned so that when protrusion 372 is received in recess 374, syringe barrel 300 reaches a fully engaged position. When main part 304 and base part 306 are threadedly engaged, as protrusion 372 approaches recess 374, protrusion 372 can engage the top surface 351 of outer wall 344. When the protrusion 372 engages the top surface 351 of the outer wall 344, the friction generated can be felt by a user who is threadingly engaging the main portion 304 and the base portion 306. This apparent increase in friction may be followed immediately by a decrease in friction as the protrusion 372 enters the recess 374. Furthermore, the protrusion 372 and the recess 374 may be shaped to prevent further rotation.

[0128] Also shown, the main portion 304 includes a shoulder 335 that projects radially away from the outer surface 330. The shoulder 335 is configured to be positioned behind the flexible ring of the injector head. The shoulder 335 can prevent the syringe barrel 300 from being accidentally removed from the receiving chamber during operation. As shown, the shoulder 335 only partially extends around the circumference of the outer surface 330. Although only one shoulder 335 is shown, embodiments can include more than one shoulder 335. For example, an embodiment can include two shoulders 335 positioned 180 degrees apart from each other.

[0129] In such Figure 9 366 is in a predetermined position.

[0130] In some embodiments, the syringe barrel 300 may include at least two identification areas 322 or two light propagation spaces 362, 363 along the body surface 324 ( Figure 8 ). The light propagation spaces 362, 363 can be on opposite sides of the barrel. For example, the two light propagation spaces 362, 363 can be 180° apart. In some embodiments, when the syringe barrel 300 is inserted into the receiving cavity, the shoulder 335, the light propagation spaces 362, 363, and the retaining shoulders 336, 338 allow the syringe barrel to be oriented in only two possible rotational orientations. As described below, the cover plate can be configured to accommodate the syringe barrel in only two possible orientations that are 180° apart.

[0131] In the embodiment shown, the light propagation space 362 is formed by the body surface 324, which is the outer surface facing away from the longitudinal axis 316 in the radial direction. As an alternative or supplement to the body surface 324, the body surface 325 can be formed to define a light propagation space (not shown), which can be similar to one or more light propagation spaces described herein. For example, the body surface 325 can include angled surfaces that reflect and / or refract the light signal away from the barrel. For example, in such an embodiment, the base portion can have an opening therethrough that allows the reflected light signal to propagate from the inside of the base portion to the outside of the base portion. Alternatively, the light signal can be incident on the inner surface and refracted through the base portion and reach the outside of the base portion. Therefore, the syringe barrel 300 can have one or more surfaces along the outside of the barrel 302, one or more surfaces along the inside of the barrel 302, or multiple surfaces along both the outside and the inside that are configured to reflect and / or refract the light signal away from the barrel 302. In such an embodiment, the optical signal may propagate along the cylinder 302 in free space until incident on a surface of the cylinder 302 .

[0132] Figure 10 306 is a cross-sectional view of a portion of the syringe barrel 300 when the main portion 304 and the base portion 306 are in a fully engaged condition. As shown, the seam 318 is defined by the shoulder surface 350 and the top surface 351 of the outer wall 344. The inwardly facing surface 356 and the outwardly facing surface 358 engage each other along an angled interface 376. Optionally, an inner ring structure 360 ​​can provide a seating area 375 for the plunger 310. The inner ring structure 360 ​​also increases the rigidity of the inner wall 342, making it elastic so that the inner wall 342 bends when a sharp pressure change occurs in the passage 308. Due to the angled interface 376, the seam 318, and the inner ring structure 360, the multi-piece syringe barrel 300 can resist leakage.

[0133] Figure 114 is a bottom perspective view of a portion of a syringe barrel 400. The syringe barrel 400 may be similar to the syringe barrel 300 ( Figure 7 ), and includes a main portion 404 and a base portion 406. As shown, the main portion 404 and the base portion 406 are joined to each other along a seam 418. The main portion 404 includes a finger 444, and the base portion 406 includes a slot 445.

[0134] Figure 11 4. Also shown in FIG. 4, a light propagation space 461 is defined between opposing side surfaces 472 and 474. For embodiments in which the light propagation space is a void in the body surface of the syringe barrel, the light propagation space may be referred to as a light propagation recess. Similar to light propagation space 362, light propagation space 461 extends from loading edge 420 to reflective ramps 465 and 466.

[0135] Figure 12 and Figure 13 4. The main portion 404 and the base portion 406 are respectively cross-sectional views of the syringe barrel 400 before and after the main portion 404 and the base portion 406 are connected. In the embodiment shown, the main portion 404 and the base portion 406 can be snap-fit, so that the two parts can be aligned along the longitudinal axis (not shown) and pressed toward each other under the action of axial force. The inner wall 462 of the main portion 404 and the outer wall 462 of the base portion 404 each have a ridge 484 and a channel 486 defined by the ridge 484. When an axial force is applied, the inner wall 462 and the outer wall 464 can be bent, thereby allowing the ridges of the inner wall 462 and the outer wall 464 to pass over each other and snap into place in the corresponding channel. In the embodiment shown, the main portion 404 and the base portion 406 can only snap-fit ​​when the finger 444 is aligned with the slot 445.

[0136] In other embodiments, the main portion 404 and the base portion 406 can be rotatably coupled. The fingers 444 can be flexible fingers that can bend radially inward toward the longitudinal axis. When the main portion 404 and the base portion 406 are rotatably coupled, the fingers 444 can bend inward. When the fingers pass over the slots 445, the fingers 444 can flex into the slots 445, thereby preventing further rotation of the main portion 404 and the base portion 406.

[0137] Figure 14is a schematic diagram of a marking area 500 used by a known system. In the known system, a light source generates light 501 that propagates through a wall 504 of a syringe 502. For example, a laser or LED light source can provide light 501 that is transmitted through an edge surface 505 of the wall 504. Light 501 can propagate through the wall 504 and interact with discontinuities in the material of the wall 504, thereby causing refraction, in which the light exits the syringe 502 in a predetermined manner and is directed away from the syringe 502. More specifically, the wall 504 can include an open side groove or channel 508 having surfaces at a predetermined angle, such that the light can interact with the wall 504 and generate an optical signal 510 that propagates away from the syringe 502.

[0138] Figure 15A A syringe confirmation assembly 520 is shown that can be used by one or more embodiments described herein. For example, the syringe confirmation assembly 520 can include an identification area 522 of a syringe barrel 516, a light source 524, a light detector 526, and a controller 525. The identification area 522 is a shaped portion of the syringe barrel 516 that has a base wall 518 with a base portion 542. In some embodiments, the syringe confirmation assembly 520 includes the syringe barrel 516 and the light source 524 and / or the light detector 526. The base wall 518 has an outer body surface 527 that is shaped to provide a light propagation space 528. The light propagation space 528 can be aligned with the light propagation space 362 ( Figure 8 ) and 461( Figure 11 ) are similar or identical.

[0139] Light propagation space 528 terminates at reflective ramps 530 and 532. As shown, light source 524 generates light 534, which propagates within light propagation space 528 alongside base wall 518. Light 534 is reflected in a predetermined manner by reflective ramps 530 and 532. More specifically, the size, shape, and position of reflective ramps 530 and 532 are designed to direct light signal 540 radially away from base wall 518 and toward a predetermined location.

[0140] The light propagation space 528 may include at least a first mesa 580 and a second mesa 582 of the outer body surface 527. The first mesa 580 is closer to the longitudinal axis 590 than the second mesa 582. In other words, the second mesa 582 has a greater height along the outer body surface 527. As shown in FIG15 , the length of the first mesa 580 along the longitudinal axis 590 is greater than the length of the second mesa 582. Also shown is that the base portion 542 has a loading edge 544 defining a loading opening. The loading edge 544 has a reduced thickness.

[0141] Light source 524 can be configured to generate electromagnetic radiation having a specified wavelength or a specified wavelength range. For example, electromagnetic radiation can be light radiation within the visible spectrum (e.g., 390 nanometers (nm) to 700 nm). Electromagnetic radiation can also be light radiation within the generally invisible spectrum, such as ultraviolet (10 nm to 400 nm) and infrared (700 nm to 1550 nm or greater). It should be understood that there are various light sources, detectors, and materials, and that light sources, detectors, and materials can be configured to reflect and detect light signals.

[0142] The light detector 526 is positioned at a predetermined location and detects the light signal 540. The light detector 526 is communicatively coupled to the controller 525 which reads the light signal 540. For example, the controller 525 may access a lookup table having a library of identifiable light signals. The controller 525 may identify the detected light signal with the light signals stored in the lookup table to determine information about the syringe. Figure 14 Unlike the light detection system of FIG526 , light can propagate beside the base wall 518 without being transmitted through the base wall 518. The light can then be reflected by the base wall 518 toward the light detector 526.

[0143] Alternatively, the base portion may not allow a significant amount of electromagnetic radiation having a detectable wavelength to propagate from the loading edge 544 through the base wall 518 to the reflective ramps 530, 532. For example, at least one of the following may be present: (a) the base portion is formed from a light-impermeable material; (b) the outer surface of the base portion is coated with a light-impermeable material; or (c) the base portion includes a discontinuity therein that scatters electromagnetic radiation. In other words, the discontinuity scatters electromagnetic radiation, such that the electromagnetic radiation may not be reflected and adequately detected. As used herein, the term "light-impermeable material" refers to a material through which electromagnetic radiation cannot propagate, thereby allowing the electromagnetic radiation to be reflected and detected.

[0144] In some embodiments, the base wall 518 is made of a different material than the material used for the rest of the syringe barrel. For example, the main portion 304 ( Figure 7 ) and the main part 404 ( Figure 11 ) may include a material different from the material of the base portion 304, 404. The material used for the base portion 304, 404 may be more suitable for reflecting light. For example, the material used for the base wall 518 or the base portion may be polyethylene terephthalate (PET). Other methods of providing the base wall may include pad printing, hot stamping, insert molding, or three-dimensional printing. In certain embodiments, the outer surface of the base wall 518 may be stamped or pressed from a light-proof material or coated with a light-proof material. The light-proof material may include reflective foil.

[0145] Figure 15BShown is a syringe confirmation assembly 560 that can be used by one or more embodiments described herein. The syringe confirmation assembly 560 includes an identification area 561, a light source 562, a light detector 563, and a controller 564. The identification area 561 is a shaped portion of the syringe barrel having a base wall 565. The base wall 565 has an inner body surface 566 that is shaped to provide a light propagation space 567. The light propagation space 567 can be similar to the other light propagation spaces described herein. The light propagation space 567 terminates at reflective bevels 568 and 569. The base wall 565 also includes corresponding openings therethrough, which are partially defined by the corresponding reflective bevels 568, 569.

[0146] As shown, light source 562 generates light 570 that propagates alongside base wall 565 within light propagation space 567. Light 570 is reflected in a predetermined manner by reflective slopes 568 and 569. More specifically, the size, shape, and position of reflective slopes 568 and 569 are designed so as to direct light signal 571 radially away from base wall 565 and toward a predetermined location.

[0147] Alternatively, the base portion may not allow appreciable amounts of electromagnetic radiation having a detectable wavelength to propagate from the loading edge 572 through the base wall 565 to the reflective ramps 568, 569. For example, at least one of the following may be present: (a) the base portion is formed of a light-impermeable material; (b) the interior surface of the base portion is coated with a light-impermeable material; or (c) the base portion includes a discontinuity therein that scatters electromagnetic radiation.

[0148] Figure 16 and Figure 17 is an end view of the injection system 600 with the cover plate 604. The injection system 600 and the cover plate 604 may be similar to Figure 1 The injection system 100 and the cover plate 104. Figure 16 and Figure 17 As shown in FIG, the cover plate 604 is positioned on the active side 610 of the injector head 602. A peripheral lip 624 extends along the periphery of the cover plate 604. The cover plate 604 is positioned so that the syringe opening 616 is aligned with the corresponding cavity 617 of the injector head 602. When aligned, the syringe opening 616 and the receiving cavity 617 form corresponding ports 612, 614 that are configured to receive a syringe barrel 625 therethrough. Figure 16 In FIG, the syringe barrel 625 is engaged with the port 612 and is in an unlocked position, which may also be referred to as a starting position or a releasable position. Figure 17 In the locked position, the syringe barrel 625 is in the locked position. In the locked position, the syringe barrel 625 is operably engaged to the injector head 602 so that the injector head 602 controls the syringe barrel 625.

[0149] like Figure 17 , the cover plate 604 has a plurality of radially inward surfaces 671, 672 that define a portion of the syringe opening 616. As described herein, the radially inward surfaces and the syringe barrel 625 can be shaped relative to each other so that the radially inward surfaces and the syringe barrel 625 slidably engage each other during a certain operating circle through which the syringe barrel 625 is rotated by a user to operatively engage the syringe barrel 625 and the injector head 602. In the illustrated embodiment, the radially inward surfaces 671, 672 provide a non-circular shape to the syringe opening. For example, the syringe opening 616 can be oval or have two circular protrusions.

[0150] In particular, the radially inward surface and the syringe barrel 625 can be shaped relative to each other such that the torque required to rotate the syringe barrel 625 from the starting position is less than the torque required to rotate the syringe barrel 625 at a point midway between the starting position and the loaded position. Alternatively or in addition to the foregoing, the radially inward surface and the syringe barrel 625 can be shaped relative to each other such that the torque required to rotate the syringe barrel 625 from the loaded position is less than the torque required to rotate the syringe barrel 625 at a point midway between the starting position and the loaded position.

[0151] In the illustrated embodiment, each pair of radially inward surfaces 671, 672 and the syringe barrel 625 are configured such that the torque used to rotate the syringe barrel 625 from the starting position or from the loaded position is less than the torque used to rotate the syringe barrel at a point midway between the starting position and the loaded position. In other words, a user applying force to rotate the syringe barrel 625 from the starting position to the loaded position or vice versa will notice that the force applied is less at the beginning or end of the operating circle than at halfway through the operating circle. Thus, a tactile indication is provided to the user that the operating circle is successful in engaging the syringe barrel 625 with the injector head 602, and a tactile indication is also provided that the operating circle has ended because the force applied to rotate the syringe barrel 625 decreases just before stopping.

[0152] Figure 17 6, 638. Each retaining shoulder 636, 638 has an outer edge 639 having a radius of curvature that approximates the radius of curvature of the syringe barrel 625. Thus, the outer edge 639 extends parallel to the outer surface of the syringe barrel 625 as it extends about the longitudinal axis 699 of the syringe barrel 625.

[0153] Go to Figure 18, radially inward surface 671 is indicated by a solid line. The dashed line represents the path that outer edge 639 of the retaining shoulder will take during an operating circle. As shown, the radially inward surface is positioned inward from the dashed line. Thus, during operating circles, outer edge 639 engages radially inward surface 671. However, when outer edge 639 is in the loaded or releasable position, the engagement is not significant. In the illustrated embodiment, the engagement (or friction) is greatest at the midpoint. When outer edge 639 engages radially inward surface 671, radially inward surface 671 may be partially bent. The friction generated between outer edge 639 and radially inward surface 671 can pull or hinder the operating circle. More specifically, friction requires more force or torque to rotate the syringe barrel. Thus, friction is minimized when outer edge 639 is near the releasable or loaded position, and is maximized when outer edge 639 is at the midpoint. The change in force applied to rotate the syringe barrel is configured to be noticeable to the user.

[0154] Return to Figure 17 In the illustrated embodiment, radially inward surfaces 671 and 672 are the surfaces of bendable ribs 660 and 662, respectively. More specifically, cover plate 604 includes a cover body 651 that includes a syringe opening 616, tactile openings 652 and 654, and a switch opening (or slot) 656. Tactile openings 652 and 654 and switch opening 656 can be referred to as auxiliary openings. Tactile opening 652 is a slot extending parallel to the periphery of the corresponding syringe opening 616 but spaced therefrom, such that a strip of material exists between tactile opening 652 and the corresponding syringe opening 616. This strip of material is bendable rib 660. Similarly, tactile opening 654 is a slot extending parallel to the periphery of the corresponding syringe opening 616 but spaced therefrom, such that a strip of material exists between tactile opening 654 and the corresponding syringe opening 616. This strip of material is bendable rib 662.

[0155] The bendable ribs 660, 662 may also have radially outward surfaces that define corresponding tactile openings 652, 654. The bendable ribs 660, 662 may move when engaged with the syringe barrel such that the size or shape of the tactile openings changes. In some embodiments, the injection system may include a shield, such as shield 708 ( Figure 19 ), the size and shape of the shield are designed to cover the tactile openings 652, 654. In some embodiments, the shield 708 can also be called a side cover.

[0156] Each pair of bendable ribs 660, 662 can work together to provide a tactile indication to a user performing an operation on the syringe barrel 625. In other embodiments, only a single bendable rib can be used. In the illustrated embodiment, the radially inward surface is located along the bendable rib of the cover plate. However, in other embodiments, the radially inward surface can exist along other physical features that can be bent or compressed.

[0157] Figure 17 6. It is also shown that the magnetic switch 620 each includes a channel 680 and a permanent magnet 682 extending beside the syringe opening 616. In other embodiments, the magnetic switch 620 may include an electromagnet. In the illustrated embodiment, the magnetic switch 620 and the permanent magnet 682 are positioned outside the injector head. For example, the permanent magnet 682 (or electromagnet) can be adjacent to the injector head so that the permanent magnet 682 engages with the injector head or has only a nominal gap (e.g., less than 5 mm) between them. The permanent magnet 682 can be snap-fitted from the bottom side of the cover 604. The permanent magnet 682 is allowed to slide along or through the channel 680 and along the active side 610. The permanent magnet 682 can be configured to move between different positions. For example, the permanent magnet 682 can be moved to a first position to trigger the sensor. The permanent magnet 682 can be moved to a second position to trigger the sensor.

[0158] As mentioned above about Figures 3 to 6 As described, the active side 610 can be adjacent to the sensor of the injector head 602. For example, a straight line less than or equal to five (5) centimeters (cm) can extend from a point on the active side 610 to the internal sensor. In some embodiments, the straight line is less than three (3) cm or less than two (2) cm. The permanent magnet 682 generates a magnetic field. When the magnetic field moves with the permanent magnet and passes by the sensor in the injector head 602, it is moved in a manner similar to the proximity sensor 259 ( Figure 5 ) in a manner that triggers the sensor. In the known system, when the flexible ring 226 is engaged by the known syringe, the magnet 227 ( Figure 5 ) relative to the proximity sensor 259 ( Figure 5 )move.

[0159] However, in embodiments of the present application, the magnetic switch 620 may be activated independently of the rotation of the syringe barrel 625. For example, when the syringe barrel 625 is operatively engaged with or by the injector head 602, the syringe barrel 625 may not engage the flexible ring 226 ( Figure 3 ) or does not move it. Therefore, the internal magnet does not move, and the magnetic field of the internal magnet does not move and does not trigger the internal sensor, such as sensor 229 ( Figure 5 ).

[0160] Nevertheless, the external magnets described herein are capable of independently triggering the internal sensor. When the internal sensor is triggered by the magnetic switch 620, the injector head 602 can respond. For example, the injector head 602 can illuminate the reflective bevel to generate a light signal and confirm the presence of the syringe barrel 625 or identify the syringe barrel 625. The injector head 602 can also prepare the piston to engage the plunger in the passageway by advancing the piston through the passageway. In addition, in some embodiments, the syringe barrel 625 can be partially retracted so that the leading flange ( Figure 17 ) engaging lip 260 (not shown) Figure 4 ).

[0161] It should be noted that some embodiments may also be capable of operating with syringe barrels described herein (such as syringe barrels 300, 625, 702, etc.), in addition to other known syringe barrels (e.g., syringe 204, etc.). Thus, the injector head may be capable of operably engaging syringe barrels having different designs, one design engaging the flexible ring and another design not engaging the flexible ring.

[0162] Figures 19 to 21 An injection subassembly 700 is shown formed in accordance with one embodiment. Figure 19 7 is an exploded view of an injection subassembly 700 formed according to an embodiment. As shown, the injection subassembly 700 includes a syringe barrel 702, a plunger assembly 704, and a cover plate 706. The syringe barrel 702 can be similar or identical to other syringe barrels described herein. The cover plate 706 can also be similar or identical to other cover plates described herein.

[0163] The injection subassembly 700 also includes a shield 708 and a strap or belt 710. The shield 708 is configured to cover the cover plate 706. For example, the shield 708 can cover the tactile opening and the switch opening to prevent leaked liquid from entering. The shield 708 can be removably coupled so that, for example, the shield 708 can be cleaned separately and then reinstalled to the cover plate 706.

[0164] Shield 708, strip 710 and cover plate 706 are combined to form side cover 725, and this side cover is configured to cover at least a portion of the active side of injector head.In the embodiment shown, side cover 725 is an assembly comprising three discrete elements.In other embodiments, side cover can only comprise two elements (for example, shield and cover plate or strip and shield or cover plate one). Side cover can comprise more than three elements.In some other embodiments, side cover only comprises shield 708 or only comprises cover plate 706 or similar element.For example, cover plate 604 can be referred to as side cover. Shield 708, cover plate 706 and side cover 725 can also be referred to as the supporting structure of magnetic switch 738.Therefore, when narrating in the claims, term " side cover " comprises the cover identical or similar to cover plate or shield.

[0165] Although the illustrated embodiment shows an injection subassembly 700 including a syringe barrel 702, a plunger assembly 704, a shield 708, a strap 710, and a cover plate 706, other embodiments may include fewer or more components than those shown. For example, in some embodiments, the injection subassembly 700 may include only the cover plate 706 and the shield 708.

[0166] Each plunger assembly 704 is configured to engage the distal end of a piston (not shown). As shown, the plunger assembly 704 includes a plunger cap 711, an internal member 712, and piston connectors 713, 714. The plunger cap 711, the internal member 712, and the piston connectors 713, 714 can be stacked together and inserted through the loading opening 720 of the corresponding syringe barrel 702.

[0167] Figure 20 is a front perspective view of the injection subassembly 700, and Figure 21 is a rear perspective view of the injection subassembly 700. As shown, the shield 708 and optional strap 710 can be configured to cover substantially the entire cover plate 706, except for the syringe opening 730 (also shown in FIG. Figure 19 Shield 708 includes a shield opening 732 aligned with syringe opening 730 ( Figure 20 ).

[0168] The cover plate 706 has a contour body configured to extend over and cover the injector head. The cover plate 706 forms a bowl-shaped or basin-shaped structure 734 that receives a portion of the injector head. The shield 708 has a bowl-shaped or basin-shaped structure with similar dimensions that receives the cover plate 706. In some embodiments, the cover plate 706 and the shield 708 include grip extensions 707 and 709, respectively. The grip extension 707 is positioned along the periphery of the cover plate 706. The grip extension 707 is positioned to form a plurality of gaps 736, and the grip extensions 709 of the shield 708 are positioned at these gaps. In this way, when coupled to the injector head, the grip extensions can be evenly distributed around the injector head. In an alternative embodiment, the shield 708 is not directly coupled to the injector head. For example, the shield can be directly coupled to the cover plate 706.

[0169] When the injection subassembly 700 is fully constructed and the syringe barrel 702 is operably loaded, the retaining shoulder of the syringe barrel 702 is coplanar with the flexible rib of the cover plate 706. In some embodiments, the shroud 708 covers the flexible rib so that when the syringe barrel is rotated, the retaining shoulder moves between the injector head and the shroud 708. In other embodiments, the flexible rib may be covered by the shroud 708.

[0170] Figure 22 is an enlarged view of the bottom side of the injection subassembly 700. The injection subassembly 700 also includes a magnetic switch 738 (also in Figure 20 ), the magnetic switch can be similar to magnetic switches 120, 620. The magnetic switch 738 includes an external magnet 740 and a movable switch body 742, which is coupled to the external magnet 740 and carries the external magnet. In the embodiment shown, the external magnet 740 is a permanent magnet. In other embodiments, the magnetic switch 738 includes an electromagnet. In the embodiment shown, the magnetic switch 738 and the external magnet 740 are positioned outside the injector head. For example, the external magnet 740 can be adjacent to the injector head so that the external magnet 740 engages the injector head or has only a nominal gap (e.g., less than 5 mm) between them. However, it is contemplated that the external magnet 740 can be positioned further away from the injector head. Other magnetic switches described herein (e.g., magnetic switches 120, 620) can operate in a manner similar to the magnetic switch 738.

[0171] The external magnet 740 is operable to alter the magnetic field experienced by the internal sensor to activate the internal sensor. In some embodiments, the movable switch body is a slider configured to slide along the cover plate 706. In other embodiments, the movable switch body can be a toggle switch, a rocker switch, or (multiple) push-button switches. The movable switch body 742 can include a first arm 744 and a second arm 746 that engage and grasp the external magnet 740. The movable switch body 742 is coupled to the body 748 of the shield 708 and is configured to slide around the shield opening 732. The magnet 740 and arms 744, 746 extend through aligned slots 750, 752 of the shield 708 and the cover plate 706, respectively. When the movable switch body 742 is moved by the user, the magnet 740 can slide through the slots 750, 752. The slots 750, 752 can combine to form a track. In the illustrated embodiment, the track is an arc-shaped track extending along the syringe opening. The slots 750, 752 can be configured (e.g., sized, shaped, and positioned) so that the external magnet 740 is above the sensor at a designated location within the track. For example, a midpoint along the track can correspond to the location of the magnet 640 above the sensor.

[0172] However, in some embodiments, the sensor may also be magnetically influenced by an internal magnet that is movable within the injector head. For example, the flexible ring 226 ( Figure 3 ) is coupled to the movable internal permanent magnet 227 ( Figure 5 ). For such embodiments, when the injector head includes an internal magnet 227 (or a similar movable internal permanent magnet), the magnetic switch is configured to take into account the magnetic field generated by the internal magnet.

[0173] In an alternative embodiment, the injection subassembly 700 does not include the shield 708 or the cover plate 706, but includes a magnetic switch 738. In such an embodiment, the support structure can hold the magnetic switch. For example, the housing of the magnetic switch can be attached to one side of the injector head, such as the active side or the other side.

[0174] Figure 23 is a schematic diagram illustrating the magnetic influence of an internal magnet 802 and an external magnet 804 on an internal sensor 806. The external magnet 804 is part of the magnetic switch 800. The internal magnet 802 and the internal sensor 806 are positioned within the injector head 801. The influence of the external magnet 804 on the internal sensor 806 can be controlled by specifying a range of relative positions of the external magnet 804. For example, the external magnet 804 can be movable along a track or slot such that the external magnet 804 will remain in the plane of the track but can have different positions within the slot. Figure 23As indicated in , the external magnet 804 can move between two different ends 812 , 814 within the track 810 .

[0175] Although the illustrated embodiment has shown that the magnetic switch is positioned along the active side from which the syringe barrel extends, other embodiments may include the magnetic switch in a different position. For example, the magnetic switch 800 or the external magnet 804 may be positioned along an outer side extending vertically relative to the horizontal active side.

[0176] The total magnetic influence on the internal sensor 806 may also be affected by the position of the internal magnet 802. As described herein, although the internal magnet 802 may be able to move relative to the internal sensor 806, at least some embodiments may avoid moving the internal magnet 802 more than a negligible amount. For example, the syringe barrel may not engage the flexible ring that holds the internal magnet 802.

[0177] The inner magnet 802 and the outer magnet 804 have respective magnetic fields 803, 805. Figure 23 , the magnetic field 805 of the external magnet 804 is aligned with the back side 809 of the internal sensor 806, and the magnetic field 803 of the internal magnet 802 is aligned with the front side 807 of the internal sensor 806. In the embodiment shown, the magnetic fields 803, 805 are caused by the south pole of the respective magnets, but in other embodiments they can be caused by the north pole of the respective magnets. In still other embodiments, the magnetic fields 803, 805 can be caused by different poles.

[0178] exist Figure 23 In FIG. 8 , internal magnet 802 and external magnet 804 are positioned so that internal sensor 806 indicates the presence of a syringe (e.g., operatively engaged to the injector head). However, without external magnet 804, the position of internal magnet 802 would cause internal sensor 806 to indicate the absence of a syringe. More specifically, the designated position of external magnet 804 has the same effect as moving internal magnet 802 away from internal sensor 806. In other words, magnetic field 805 reduces the strength of magnetic field 803, causing the circuitry of internal sensor 806 to indicate the presence of a syringe. If external magnet 804 is moved further away from rear side 809 of internal sensor 806, the total magnetic field experienced by the circuitry of internal sensor 806 will increase because the strength of magnetic field 805 is reduced. However, if external magnet 804 is moved to front side 807 of internal sensor 806, the total magnetic field experienced by the circuitry of internal sensor 806 will increase because the strength of magnetic field 805 is added to the strength of magnetic field 803. Thus, the external magnet 804 can be moved in either direction to increase the total magnetic field experienced by the circuitry of the internal sensor 806 and cause the internal sensor 806 to indicate that a syringe is not present.

[0179] Figure 24 is a schematic diagram of a magnetic switch 900 and illustrates the magnetic influence of an internal magnet 902 and an external magnet 904 on an internal sensor 906. The external magnet 904 is operable to change the magnetic field experienced by the internal sensor 906 to activate the internal sensor 906. The magnetic switch 900 and the external magnet 904 are positioned outside the injector head 901. The external magnet 904 can be in close proximity to the injector head 901 so that the external magnet 904 engages with the injector head 901 or has only a nominal gap (e.g., less than 5 mm) between them. However, it is contemplated that the external magnet can be positioned further away from the injector head 901. Other magnetic switches described herein (e.g., magnetic switches 120, 620, and 738) can be configured to operate in a similar manner to the magnetic switch 900.

[0180] The magnetic switch 900 includes an external magnet 904, a power source 917, a support structure 920, and a button 924. Figure 24 In FIG, the external magnet 904 is an electromagnet having a core 930 and a conductor 932 wrapped around the core 930. The conductor 932 is electrically coupled to a power source 917 (e.g., a battery). For example, when a user presses a button 924, the power source 917 can be activated. The button 924 is coupled to the support structure 920. Figure 24 In the embodiment shown, support structure 920 is the housing of magnetic switch 900. However, in other embodiments, support structure 920 may be a side cover, such as a shroud and / or cover as described herein. When power source 917 is activated, the electromagnet generates a corresponding magnetic field that contributes to the total magnetic field experienced by the internal sensor.

[0181] Although various spatial and directional terms such as top, bottom, lower, middle, lateral, horizontal, vertical, front, etc. may be used to describe embodiments of the present disclosure, it should be understood that such terms are used only with respect to the orientations shown in the accompanying drawings. These orientations may be reversed, rotated, or otherwise changed so that upper is lower and vice versa, horizontal becomes vertical, and so on.

[0182] Variations and modifications of the foregoing fall within the scope of the present invention. It should be understood that the invention disclosed and defined herein extends to all alternative combinations of two or more individual features mentioned or evident in the text and / or drawings. All of these different combinations constitute a variety of different alternative aspects of the present invention. The embodiments described herein explain the best mode known for practicing the present invention and will enable others skilled in the art to utilize the present invention. The claims should be interpreted to include alternative embodiments to the extent permitted by the prior art.

Claims

1. An injection system comprising: an injector head configured to control delivery of a prescribed fluid to a patient, the injector head comprising a syringe interface along an active side of the injector head, the syringe interface having a receiving cavity configured to receive a syringe barrel, the injector head also comprising an internal sensor; a magnetic switch comprising a permanent magnet on the exterior of the injector head, the permanent magnet operable to change a magnetic field experienced by the internal sensor to activate the internal sensor, wherein the permanent magnet is configured to move between different positions thereby moving a corresponding magnetic field of the permanent magnet; as well as a side cover having at least one syringe opening, wherein the side cover, except for the at least one syringe opening, covers the entire active side, the side cover including a track slidably coupled to the permanent magnet, the permanent magnet sliding along the track between the different positions, the permanent magnet moving relative to the internal sensor when the permanent magnet moves along the track.

2. The injection system of claim 1, wherein: The injector head further includes an internal movable magnet operable to move relative to the internal sensor when the syringe barrel is inserted into the receiving chamber, the magnetic field experienced by the internal sensor varying as a function of the corresponding magnetic field generated by the internal movable magnet and the corresponding magnetic field of the permanent magnet.

3. The injection system of claim 2, wherein: Each of the magnetic switch and the internal movable magnet is capable of independently activating the internal sensor.

4. The injection system of claim 2, wherein: The respective magnetic fields of the permanent magnets reduce the effect of the respective magnetic fields of the inner movable magnet on the inner sensor.

5. The injection system of claim 2, wherein: The internal sensor is within three centimeters of the receiving cavity and within three centimeters of the exterior of the injector head.

6. The injection system of claim 1, wherein: The magnetic switch further includes an electromagnet configured to selectively generate a corresponding magnetic field.

7. The injection system of claim 6, wherein: The electromagnet is located beside the active side of the injector head.

8. The injection system of claim 1, wherein: The permanent magnet is operable to move alongside the active side of the injector head.

9. The injection system of claim 1, wherein: The side cover includes at least one of a shield and a cover plate.

10. An injection system comprising: an injector head including an internal sensor and a syringe interface along an active side; a magnetic switch comprising a magnet on the exterior of the injector head; as well as a side cover having at least one syringe opening, wherein the side cover, except for the at least one syringe opening, covers the entire active side, the side cover including a track slidably coupled to the magnet, the magnet sliding between different positions along the track, the magnet moving relative to the internal sensor when the magnet moves along the track.

11. The injection system of claim 10, wherein: The injector head is configured to control delivery of a prescribed fluid to a patient, and wherein the syringe interface has a receiving cavity configured to receive a syringe barrel.

12. The injection system of claim 10, wherein: The magnetic switch is operable to alter a magnetic field experienced by the internal sensor to activate the internal sensor.

13. The injection system of claim 12, wherein: The injector head further includes an internal movable magnet operable to move relative to the internal sensor when the syringe barrel is inserted into the receiving cavity of the syringe interface, and the magnetic field experienced by the internal sensor changes as the corresponding magnetic fields generated by the internal movable magnet and the magnet outside the injector head change.

14. The injection system of claim 10, wherein: The magnet is operable to move alongside the active side of the injector head.

15. The injection system of claim 10, wherein: The magnet includes a permanent magnet.

16. The injection system of claim 10, wherein: The magnet includes an electromagnet configured to selectively generate a corresponding magnetic field.

17. The injection system of claim 10, wherein: The side cover includes at least one of a shield and a cover plate.

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