Sealable joint

Abstract

A sealable joint includes a first component, a second component, and a third component. The first component includes a stem having a bore therethrough for passage of a fluid. The second component is disposed on the first component, and the third component includes a sealing surface and one or more radially inwardly projecting members. One of the second component and the first component or a combination of the second component and the first component includes a first flange and a second flange defining an annular recess therebetween. In a sealed configuration, the second component is received by the third component to form a sealed joint in which at least a portion of the first flange is deformed against the sealing surface, the one or more radially inwardly projecting members are disposed in the annular recess between the first flange and the second flange, and an outer surface of the second flange is radially outward of at least a portion of the one or more radially inwardly projecting members. In the sealed configuration, the fluid is passable from a first side of the sealed joint through the bore to a second side of the sealed joint.

Description

[0001] This invention relates to a sealable connector, and particularly, but not limited to, a sealable connector that can be used in medical devices such as drug delivery devices. Background Technology

[0002] Some sealable fittings require the mechanical connection of two components to provide a fluid seal. Known examples of such sealable fittings include compression fittings that combine an external compression nut and an internal compression ring or collar. The internal compression ring can be compressed within the fitting to provide a fluid seal.

[0003] However, known sealable joints have certain drawbacks. Under certain conditions, some sealable joints may be prone to failure of one or both of the fluid seals or mechanical connections of two (or more) components.

[0004] The object of certain embodiments of the present invention is to provide an improved sealable joint. This sealable joint can provide improved sealing and / or mechanical retention under conditions such as creep or aging effects, vibration (sinusoidal and / or random), pressure loads, axial loads, lateral loads, and / or impact loads. Summary of the Invention

[0005] According to one aspect of the present invention, a sealable joint is provided, the sealable joint comprising a first component, a second component, and a third component;

[0006] The first component includes a rod having a hole therethrough for fluid to pass through;

[0007] The second component is disposed on the first component; and

[0008] The third component includes a sealing surface and one or more radially inwardly projecting members; and

[0009] One of the second component and the first component, or a combination of the second component and the first component, includes a first flange and a second flange, defining an annular recess therebetween;

[0010] In the sealing configuration, the second component is received by the third component (e.g., in which) to form a sealing joint, wherein at least a portion of the first flange deforms against a sealing surface, one or more radially inwardly projecting members are disposed in an annular recess between the first and second flanges, and the outer surface of the second flange is radially outward of at least a portion of the one or more radially inwardly projecting members; and

[0011] In the sealing configuration, fluid can flow from the first side of the sealing joint through a hole to the second side of the sealing joint.

[0012] In some embodiments, the second component may be fixed to the outer surface of the first component. The second component may comprise a material that is more flexible than the first component.

[0013] In the sealing configuration, at least a portion of the first flange can form a sealing interference fit with the sealing surface.

[0014] In some embodiments, one or more radially inwardly projecting members include a plurality of radially flexible fingers.

[0015] In some embodiments, the outer surface of the second flange may be narrowed relative to the longitudinal axis of the sealable joint.

[0016] In some embodiments, the second flange may include an abutment surface facing one or more radially inwardly projecting members in a sealing configuration, wherein the abutment between the abutment surface and the one or more radially inwardly projecting members may limit axial movement of the second flange relative to the third member.

[0017] In some embodiments, the first component may include a third flange, wherein the third flange is on the side of the first flange opposite to the second flange, such that the first flange is between the second flange and the third flange, and wherein the adjacency between the third flange and the third component may restrict axial movement of the first component relative to the third component.

[0018] In some embodiments, the first component and the second component form a single integral part.

[0019] According to another aspect of the invention, an autoinjector subassembly is provided, which includes a sealable connector as described above.

[0020] An autoinjector subassembly may include a propellant source, wherein a sealable connector may seal the propellant source to another component of the autoinjector subassembly. The propellant source may include a propellant housing defining a reservoir for containing propellant, and a first component is movable relative to the propellant housing to selectively provide fluid communication between an orifice and the reservoir.

[0021] The third component may form at least a part of another component of the autoinjector subassembly.

[0022] According to another aspect of the invention, a propellant source is provided, comprising: a propellant housing defining a reservoir for containing propellant; a first component including a rod having a hole therethrough; and a second component disposed on the first component, wherein one of the second component and the first component, or a combination of the second component and the first component, includes a first flange and a second flange defining an annular recess therebetween, and wherein the first component is movable relative to the propellant housing to selectively fluidly communicate the hole with the reservoir.

[0023] In some embodiments, the second component may be fixed to the outer surface of the first component. The second component may include a material that is more flexible than the first component.

[0024] In some embodiments, the outer surface of the second flange may be narrowed relative to the longitudinal axis of the propellant source.

[0025] In some embodiments, the first component may include a third flange, wherein the third flange is on the side of the first flange opposite to the second flange.

[0026] In some embodiments, the first component and the second component form a single integral part.

[0027] According to one embodiment of the present invention, a sealable connector is provided, the sealable connector comprising a protruding connector portion and a recessed connector portion;

[0028] The protruding connector portion includes a rod having a hole therethrough for fluid passage;

[0029] The recessed connector portion includes a sealing surface and one or more radially inwardly projecting members; and

[0030] The protruding connector portion includes a first flange and a second flange, with an annular recess defined between them;

[0031] In the sealing configuration, a protruding connector portion is received by a recessed connector portion (e.g., in which) to form a sealing joint, wherein at least a portion of the first flange deforms against a sealing surface, one or more radially inwardly projecting members are disposed in an annular recess between the first and second flanges, and the outer surface of the second flange is radially outward of at least a portion of the one or more radially inwardly projecting members; and

[0032] In the sealing configuration, fluid can flow from the first side of the sealing joint through a hole to the second side of the sealing joint.

[0033] In the sealing configuration, at least a portion of the first flange can form a sealing interference fit with the sealing surface.

[0034] In some embodiments, one or more radially inwardly projecting members include a plurality of radially flexible fingers.

[0035] In some embodiments, the outer surface of the second flange may be narrowed relative to the longitudinal axis of the sealable joint.

[0036] In some embodiments, the second flange may include an abutment surface facing one or more radially inwardly projecting members in a sealing configuration, wherein the abutment between the abutment surface and the one or more radially inwardly projecting members may limit axial movement of the second flange relative to the third member.

[0037] In some embodiments, the protruding connector portion may include a third flange, wherein the third flange is on the side of the first flange opposite to the second flange, and wherein the abutment between the third flange and the recessed connector portion may restrict axial movement of the first component relative to the third component.

[0038] According to another aspect of the invention, an autoinjector subassembly is provided, which includes a sealable connector as described above.

[0039] The autoinjector subassembly may include a propellant source, wherein a sealable connector may seal the propellant source to another part of the autoinjector subassembly. The propellant source may include a propellant housing defining a reservoir for containing propellant, and a protruding connector portion is movable relative to the propellant housing to selectively provide fluid communication between an orifice and the reservoir.

[0040] The recessed connector portion can form at least a portion of another component of the auto-injector sub-assembly.

[0041] According to another aspect of the invention, a propellant source is provided, the propellant source comprising: a propellant housing defining a reservoir for containing propellant; a protruding connector portion including a rod having a hole therethrough and including a first flange and a second flange defining an annular recess therebetween, wherein the protruding connector portion is movable relative to the propellant housing to selectively fluidly communicate the hole with the reservoir.

[0042] In some embodiments, the outer surface of the second flange may be narrowed relative to the longitudinal axis of the propellant source.

[0043] In some embodiments, the protruding connector portion may include a third flange, wherein the third flange is on the side of the first flange opposite to the second flange.

[0044] According to one aspect of the invention, a propellant source for containing and dispensing propellant is provided, the propellant source comprising:

[0045] A casing, defining a reservoir for containing propellant; and

[0046] A rod that extends through an opening in a housing and has a hole that extends through the rod and has an outlet, and one or more radial channels that extend from the hole through the outer surface of the rod;

[0047] The rod is axially movable relative to the housing between a first axial position and a second axial position. In the first axial position, one or more radial channels are not in fluid communication with the reservoir. In the second axial position, one or more radial channels are in fluid communication with the reservoir, allowing propellant to flow out of the reservoir, through one or more radial channels, through the orifice, and out of the outlet.

[0048] The rod includes a first rod portion and a second rod portion connected to the first portion. The second rod portion is completely disposed within the housing and has a width greater than the diameter of the opening, so as to retain a portion of the rod within the housing.

[0049] In some embodiments, the rear end of the first rod portion extends through a bore in the second rod portion and includes a radially extending flange, the width of which is greater than the diameter of the bore in the second rod portion, and prevents axial downward movement of the first rod portion relative to the second rod portion. In some embodiments, the second rod portion includes one or more axial bores through it. The one or more axial bores may reduce the low-pressure effect generated between the second rod portion and the seal of the propellant source.

[0050] According to one aspect of the present invention, a propellant source for containing and dispensing propellant is provided, comprising:

[0051] A casing, defining a reservoir for containing propellant; and

[0052] A rod that extends through an opening in a housing and has a hole that extends through the rod and has an outlet, and one or more radial channels that extend from the hole through the outer surface of the rod;

[0053] The rod is axially movable relative to the housing between a first axial position and a second axial position. In the first axial position, one or more radial channels are not in fluid communication with the reservoir, and in the second axial position, one or more radial channels are in fluid communication with the reservoir, such that propellant can flow out of the reservoir, through one or more radial channels, through the orifice, and out of the outlet.

[0054] The width of the portion of the rod fully housed within the housing is greater than the diameter of the opening, thereby retaining the rod portion within the housing, and the rod portion includes one or more axial holes passing through it. The one or more axial holes reduce the low-pressure effect generated between the second rod portion and the seal of the propellant source.

[0055] According to one aspect of the present invention, a method for manufacturing the aforementioned propellant source is provided, wherein the method includes assembling a first rod portion and a second rod portion together, and forming a radially extending flange portion of the first rod portion by mechanically deforming the first rod portion against the second rod portion. In some embodiments, the step of mechanically deforming the first rod portion may include thermally riveting the first rod portion (e.g., the rear end of the first rod portion). Attached Figure Description

[0056] Embodiments of the invention will be further described below with reference to the accompanying drawings, in which:

[0057] Figure 1 This is a cross-sectional view of a sealable joint according to an embodiment of the present invention;

[0058] Figure 2 for Figure 1 Another cross-sectional view of the sealable joint, which further shows the bending position of one or more radially inwardly projecting members;

[0059] Figure 3 for Figure 1 Another cross-sectional view of the sealable joint, which further shows the potential dimensional variations within the tolerance limits;

[0060] Figure 4 A portion of an auto-injector subassembly including a sealable connector according to an embodiment of the invention is shown;

[0061] Figure 5 The illustration shows including Figure 4 An auto-injector device with an auto-injector sub-assembly;

[0062] Figure 6A The image shows two parts of a propellant source according to an embodiment of the present invention before manufacturing is completed;

[0063] Figure 6B It shows the finished product after manufacturing. Figure 6B The two parts of the rod; and

[0064] Figure 7 This is a cross-sectional view of a sealable joint according to an alternative embodiment of the present invention. Detailed Implementation

[0065] exist Figure 1The diagram shows a cross-section of a sealable joint 10 according to an embodiment of the invention. In some embodiments, the sealable joint 10 aims to create an externally leak-proof seal that is also mechanically robust and allows fluid to flow through an orifice from one side of the leak-proof seal to the other. The sealable joint 10 includes a first member 12 having a rod. The first member 12 has an orifice 18 through which fluid passes. The sealable joint 10 extends along a longitudinal axis 100, and the orifice 18 is centered along and parallel to the longitudinal axis.

[0066] Throughout this specification, all directions referred to as axial or similar are intended to mean directions along or parallel to the longitudinal axis 100. All directions referred to as circumferential or similar are intended to mean directions along an arc of an imaginary circle centered on the longitudinal axis 100 and whose plane is perpendicular to the longitudinal axis 100. All directions referred to as radial or similar are intended to mean directions extending away from and perpendicular to the longitudinal axis 100. A point radially outward relative to another point is farther from the longitudinal axis 100 than that other point.

[0067] In the embodiment shown in the figure, the second component 14 is disposed on the first component 12. In some embodiments, the second component 14 may be attached to the first component 12, for example, by adhesive or by friction bonding. In some embodiments, the second component may be molded onto or over the first component 12. In some embodiments, the second component 14 may comprise a material that is more elastic than the material of the first component 12. In some alternative embodiments, the second component 14 may be made of the same material as the first component 12 (or at least a material with the same elasticity). In this sense, the first component 12 and the second component 14 may form a single integral part, although having different identifiable areas and / or different functional properties. This single integral part may be formed as a single part or may be formed as multiple parts subsequently fused together.

[0068] exist Figure 1In the non-limiting embodiment shown, the second component 14 includes a first flange 24, and the first component 12 includes a second flange 26. The first flange 24 and the second flange 26 are respectively radial extensions of the second component 14 and the first component 12. In some embodiments, the first flange 24 is circumferentially continuous, while the second flange 26 may be circumferentially continuous or discontinuous. In some embodiments, the first flange 24 may be an O-ring seal or a lip seal. The first flange 24 and the second flange 26 are axially spaced apart from each other such that they together define an annular recess 28 between them. In alternative embodiments, the first flange 24 and the second flange 26 of the sealable joint 10 may be formed of other components. In particular, one of the first component 12 and the second component 14 may include the first flange 24 and the second flange 26, or a combination of the first component 12 and the second component 14 may include the first flange 24 and the second flange 26.

[0069] The third component 16 is provided and includes a sealing surface 20 and one or more radially inwardly projecting members 22. In some embodiments, the one or more radially inwardly projecting members 22 may preferably extend radially inwardly toward the longitudinal axis 100 at an angle other than 90°. In embodiments where the one or more radially inwardly projecting members 22 extend radially inwardly toward the longitudinal axis 100 at an angle other than 90°, the one or more radially inwardly projecting members 22 may additionally extend in a direction parallel to direction 102. In such embodiments, the one or more radially inwardly projecting members 22 may be more resilient to upward axial loads compared to alternative arrangements. In the case where the third component 16 includes a single radially inwardly projecting member 22 (e.g. Figure 1 In the embodiment shown, the radially inwardly projecting member 22 may be a circumferentially continuous annular region. In other embodiments, more than one radially inwardly projecting member 22 may be provided, for example, in the form of a plurality of radially inwardly extending fingers. In either case, one or more radially inwardly projecting members 22 extend radially inward only within the range of an orifice between them, wherein the orifice allows the second flange 26 to pass through. In this sense, the first component 12 and the second component 14 may be considered to together form a protruding connector portion (whether or not they form a single integral component), while the third component 16 may be considered to form a recessed connector portion capable of receiving (a portion of) the protruding connector portion.

[0070] Figure 1 A first component 12, a second component 14, and a third component 16 are shown in a sealing configuration. To establish the sealing configuration, the first component 12 (of which the second component 14 is disposed on the first component 12) is axially downward relative to the third component 16. The axially downward direction is determined by… Figure 1Arrow 102 indicates this. In doing so, the second flange 26 contacts one or more radially inwardly projecting members 22 and causes them to bend or otherwise deform radially outward to allow the second flange 26 to pass. To facilitate the passage of the second flange 26, the second flange is provided with a narrowed outer surface 26a, which acts as a cam against the one or more radially inwardly projecting members 22 and causes them to bend or deform radially. Once the second flange 26 has axially passed the one or more radially inwardly projecting members 22, the one or more radially inwardly projecting members 22 may bend or deform radially inward toward their initial (or normal) radial position (i.e., their position before radial bending or other deformation). In some embodiments, the one or more radially inwardly projecting members 22 may not completely return to their initial radial position due to interference with the first member 12 or the second member 14 (and also because the material may be permanently deformed due to insertion).

[0071] Figure 1 A sealable joint 10 in a sealed configuration is shown, wherein a second flange 26 has axially passed through one or more radially inward members 22, and the one or more radially inward members 22 have returned to their initial radial position. A widened portion 27 of the first member 12 is disposed axially above the second flange 26 and has a radius similar to the radius defined by the innermost edge of the one or more radially inward protruding members 22. Figure 1 In the illustrated configuration, one or more radially inwardly projecting members 22 are adjacent to the widened portion 27, and due to their relative radii, there is no significant gap between the widened portion 27 and the one or more radially inwardly projecting members 22. This tight fit restricts relative lateral movement between the first component 12 and the third component 16. In the sealing configuration, one or more radially inwardly projecting members 22 are disposed in an annular recess 28 between the first flange 24 and the second flange 26, and the outer surface 26a of the second flange 26 is radially outside at least a portion of the one or more radially inwardly projecting members 22. As a result, the first component 12 moves axially upward relative to the third component 16 (by... Figure 1 (As indicated by arrow 104) is restricted by the adjacency of the second flange 26 and one or more radially inward members 22 (thus prohibiting further axial upward movement). Figure 1 In the particular embodiment shown, the rear (i.e., the face up in the figure) axial surface 26b (or adjacent surface) of the second flange 26 has a profile that reduces the risk of the rear axial surface 26b acting as a cam against one or more radially inwardly projecting members 22 when the first member 12 is pushed relative to the third member 16 in the upward axial direction 104.

[0072] A third flange 32 is formed on the first member 12 and is positioned axially above the first flange 24 (i.e., on the side of the first flange 24 opposite to the second flange 26). The radially outwardly extending radius of the third flange 32 is greater than the radius of the orifice defined in the third member 16 by a top shoulder 34 axially above the sealing surface 20 and one or more radially inwardly projecting members 22. The relative profiles of the third flange 32 and the top shoulder 34 minimize the cam effect when they engage with each other. Conversely, the engagement of the third flange 32 with the top shoulder 34 prevents the first member 12 from moving further axially downward relative to the third member 16 (i.e., along direction 102). Thus, once in a sealed configuration, the protruding connector portion engages with the recessed connector portion, and disengagement of the protruding connector portion from the recessed connector portion is prevented by the engagement of the second flange 26 with one or more radially inwardly projecting members 22 along direction 104 and by the engagement of the third flange 32 with the top shoulder 34 along direction 102. Thus, once in a sealed configuration, the protruding connector portion is mechanically held in place by the recessed connector portion.

[0073] In the sealing configuration, the second component 14 is disposed between the first component 12 and the third component 16, such that the first flange 24 deforms against the sealing surface 20 of the third component 22. This occurs because the first flange 24 nominally extends radially outward from the sealing surface 20. The deformed first flange 24 forms a fluid-free seal with the sealing surface 20. Thus, in addition to the mechanical retention of the protruding connector portion relative to the recessed connector portion, a sealing joint 30 is provided, differing in that it has a fluid passage hole 18, which substantially prevents fluid from flowing through the sealing joint 30 between the first side 30a and the second side 30b (in both directions). Sufficient surrounding space must be provided for the first flange 24 to deform and provide a seal against the sealing surface 20. Figure 1 In the embodiment shown, the annular recess 28 provides sufficient space for the second component 14 to deform such that the first flange 24 can deform against the sealing surface 20 and provide a leak-proof seal.

[0074] The sealing joint 10 according to embodiments of the present invention provides a robust mechanical connection and fluid seal. In some embodiments, the sealing joint 10 can be formed by a simple snap-fit ​​connection. Due to the above features, the sealing joint 10 can maintain its mechanical and sealing integrity under conditions such as vibration (sinusoidal and / or random), pressure loads, axial loads, lateral loads, and / or impact loads. Furthermore, assuming that the assembled sealing joint 10 includes interfaces that abut or interfere with each other to prevent or limit relative movement in each of the upward, downward, and radial directions, the sealing joint 10 prevents improper assembly (or at least significantly reduces the risk of improper assembly). Some embodiments provide a "tamper-proof" joint that may require specialized tools and / or methods for disassembly.

[0075] Figure 2 The sealing joint 10 is shown again, with one or more radially inwardly projecting members 22 shown in a deflected position. During assembly, as the second flange 26 pushes the one or more radially inwardly projecting members 22 radially outward to pass through, the one or more radially inwardly projecting members 22 can be radially deflected (or passed through). Figure 2 The location shown. (As indicated) Figure 2 As shown, one end of one or more radially inwardly projecting members 22 moves along an arc when deflected radially outward. Thus, one end of one or more radially inwardly projecting members 22 also moves axially downward during its radially outward movement. Therefore, in order to relax back to or toward its initial radial position, it must move axially upward in addition to radially inward movement. To allow this travel, the protruding connector portion (in...) Figures 1 to 3 The first component 12) in the specific embodiment shown must have the form and position to provide the necessary space for the desired movement of one or more radially inwardly projecting members 22. Return to Figure 1 It can be seen that when the first component 12 is in its maximum downward axial position relative to the third component 16 (as defined by the abutment between the third flange 32 and the top shoulder 34), there is a gap G between one or more radially inwardly projecting members 22 and the second flange 26. It is this gap G that needs to be sufficient to allow the swinging of one or more radially inwardly projecting members 22 (i.e., axial movement in addition to radial movement) so that once the second flange 26 passes through it, the one or more radially inwardly projecting members 22 relax back to or toward their initial radial position.

[0076] See Figure 1 and Figure 3The clearance G is determined by relative dimensions L1 and L2, where L1 is the axial distance between the top shoulder 34 and the bottom of one or more radially inwardly projecting members 22, and L2 is the axial distance between the bottom of the third flange 32 and the top of the second flange 26, and G = L2 - L1. Assuming that manufacturing tolerances mean that the actual lengths L1 and L2 in the manufactured sealing joint 10 vary relative to the expected nominal length, the clearance G will also vary in a batch of manufactured sealing joint 10 products. For example, L1 may be longer than the nominal length, and L2 may be shorter than the nominal length. Such variations are expected within manufacturing tolerances. Therefore, the nominal clearance G should be chosen such that even if L1 and L2 are at their extreme sizes due to tolerance variations, one or more radially inwardly projecting members 22 can bend radially outward and axially downward to allow the second flange 26 to pass during assembly, and thereafter bend radially inward and axially upward such that at least a portion of one or more radially inwardly projecting members 22 is radially inward of the outer surface 26a of the second flange 26.

[0077] Furthermore, an external annular space 36 is provided around one or more radially inwardly projecting members 22, which provides the necessary space for the one or more radially inwardly projecting members 22 to bend or deform radially, thereby allowing the assembly of the sealing joint 10.

[0078] Figure 4 The diagram shows a portion of an autoinjector subassembly 40 including a propellant source 42 and a cylindrical housing 60. The propellant source 42 is connected to the cylindrical housing 60 via a sealable connector 10. Specifically, a first component 12 forms a first rod portion of the propellant source 42, while a third component 16 forms a portion of the cylindrical housing 60.

[0079] The propellant source 42 may include or share the features of the valved dispenser in WO2013182856 (Consort Medical Plc), but incorporate the features described above related to the protruding connector portion of the sealable joint 10.

[0080] Figure 4The propellant source 42 includes a propellant housing 50 formed by a first propellant housing portion 50a and a second propellant housing portion 50b. The propellant housing 50 surrounds and defines an internal reservoir 46 capable of containing a propellant such as a liquefied gas. A first component 12 (first rod portion) extends into the reservoir 46 through an opening 51 in the propellant housing 50 and is slidably slidable relative to the opening. A seal 56 is provided to seal the first component 12 but allows it to slide in and out of the reservoir 46. A second rod portion 44 is connected to the first component (first rod portion) in a region contained within the propellant housing 50 (as described in more detail below). Thus, the first component 12 and the second rod portion 44 together form a rod. The second rod portion 44 is completely contained within the propellant housing 50. The second rod portion 44 flares radially outward at a flange portion 44f to prevent the first portion 12 (first rod portion) from completely leaving the propellant housing 50. Specifically, the flange 44f of the second rod portion 44 is sized to have a width greater than the diameter of the opening 51 of the propellant housing 50 through which the first component 12 extends. Assuming the first component 12 and the second rod portion 44 are connected to each other, the flange 44f restricts the downward movement of the second rod portion 44 (and the first component 12) relative to the propellant housing 50, thereby retaining the second rod portion 44 (and the first component 12) within the propellant housing 50.

[0081] The first component 12 includes a radial channel 12a extending radially from the orifice 18 through the outer surface of the first component 12. In a first axial position relative to the propellant housing 50, the radial channel 12a is positioned below the seal 56 such that the orifice 18 is not in fluid communication with the reservoir 46. The first component 12 is axially movable upward relative to the propellant housing 50 to a second axial position in which the radial channel 12a is positioned above the seal 56 and in fluid communication with the reservoir 46. Therefore, in the second axial position, the orifice 18 is in fluid communication with the reservoir 46, and propellant from the reservoir 46 can enter and pass through the orifice 18 (via the radial channel 12a) and flow from the first side 30a of the sealing joint 30 out of the outlet of the orifice 18 to the second side 30b of the sealing joint 30.

[0082] exist Figure 4 In the non-limiting embodiment shown, rib 52 is disposed within the propellant housing 50 and serves as a reaction surface and retainer for spring 48. Figure 4In a non-limiting embodiment, rib 52 is not integral with the propellant housing 50 (opposite to arrangements in some prior art such as WO2013182856A1). In some embodiments, rib 52 may not be present at all. Spring 48 acts on the second rod portion 44 to bias the first member 12 (the first rod portion) toward a first axial position. To move the first member 12 to a second axial position, the elastic force of spring 48 must be resisted and overcome. Latch 54 extends axially upward and radially inward from boss 52. Latch 54 is configured such that when the first member 12 moves axially upward relative to the propellant housing 50, it can be radially deflected outward to allow the second rod portion 44 to pass. When the second rod portion 44 is axially above the latch 54, the latch 54 can relax back to or toward its radially inward position (i.e., radially inward position of at least a portion of the second rod portion 44), thereby preventing subsequent axial downward movement of the second rod portion 44 (and the first member 12) relative to the propellant housing 50. Thus, once the second rod portion 44 has moved a sufficient amount into the propellant housing 50, the latch 54 latches the second rod portion 44 and holds the first component 12 in the second axial position. The second rod portion 44 includes one or more axial channels 44a that allow fluid to pass through the second rod portion 44 to reduce any low-pressure effect (which would increase the starting force) between the second rod portion 44 and the seal 56 as the first component 12 moves from the first axial position to the second axial position. In an alternative embodiment, the propellant source 42 may not include any latching device for holding the first component 12 in the second axial position.

[0083] Figure 6A and Figure 6B This describes the method for forming the connection between the first rod portion 12 and the second rod portion 44. Figure 6A The first rod portion 12 and the second rod portion 44 are shown during manufacturing (and before manufacturing is completed), while Figure 6B The first rod portion 12 and the second rod portion 44 are shown after manufacturing is complete. The rear end 12b of the first rod portion 12 extends through a hole 44b in the second rod portion 44 and also extends through a first recess 44c in the second rod portion 44. To securely connect the first rod portion 12 to the second rod portion 44, the rear end 12b is mechanically deformed against the second rod portion 44, thereby creating a radially extending flange portion. The width of this radially extending flange portion is greater than the diameter of the hole 44b in the second rod portion 44, and prevents the first rod portion 12 from moving axially downward relative to the second rod portion 44. Figure 6AIn the embodiment shown in Figure 6b, the rear end 12b is mechanically deformed into the recess 44c of the second rod portion 44, such that when deformed, the rear end 12b of the first rod portion 12 is substantially flush with the rear end 44e of the second rod portion 44. Suitable mechanical deformation methods include, but are not limited to, thermal riveting and ultrasonic riveting. In an alternative embodiment, the first rod portion 12 and the second rod portion 44 can be connected to each other without permanently deforming one of the portions. For example, a snap-fit ​​connector can connect the first rod portion 12 and the second rod portion 44 together.

[0084] Additionally, the first rod portion 12 has a shoulder portion 12c that extends radially outward relative to the portion of the first rod portion 12 that extends through the hole 44b. The adjacency between the shoulder portion 12c and the second rod portion 44 restricts the upward movement of the first rod portion 12 relative to the second rod portion 44. Figure 6A and Figure 6B In a non-limiting embodiment, the shoulder portion 12c is located in the second groove 44d of the second rod portion 44. Thus, the lateral movement of the first rod portion 12 relative to the second rod portion 44 is also limited by their abutment. The connection formed between the first rod portion 12 and the second rod portion 44 mechanically secures the two portions to each other. The connection may not necessarily (and does not need to) form an airtight seal between the two portions. Thus, in use, propellant can flow along the interface between the first rod portion 12 and the second rod portion 44.

[0085] The first rod portion 12 and / or the second rod portion 44 are preferably made of a robust material that is substantially impermeable to liquefied propellants (such as HFA). In some embodiments, one or both of the first rod portion 12 and the second rod portion 44 are made of glass-filled polybutylene terephthalate (PBT). Other suitable materials include materials that are substantially impermeable to propellants, such as HFA.

[0086] The cylindrical housing 60 receives propellant from the propellant source 42 through the orifice 18. Figure 4 In the illustrated embodiment, the propellant exits through orifice 18 and enters receiving chamber 62. The propellant is able to exit the propellant source in a liquid phase and boil outside the propellant source to generate vapor pressure. In an alternative embodiment, the propellant may exit the propellant source as a gas. In any embodiment, the propellant received in receiving chamber 62 causes an increase in vapor pressure within receiving chamber 62. This vapor pressure will naturally act on the sealable joint 10. The sealable joint 10 of the present invention can resist such increased pressure, thus its integrity is not compromised.

[0087] Figure 5 An autoinjector device 70 is schematically shown, which includes an outer housing 72 that houses the aforementioned autoinjector subassembly 40.

[0088] exist Figure 7 The figure shows a cross-section of a sealable joint 110 according to an alternative embodiment of the invention. The sealable joint 110 shares many features with the above-described embodiment, and corresponding, similar, or otherwise similar functional components are indicated by the same reference numerals, but with the addition of 100. The characteristics described above regarding certain features can be applied to… Figure 7 The relevant features of the embodiments (i.e., those indicated by the interchanged reference numerals).

[0089] The sealable connector 110 includes a first component 112 comprising a rod. The first component 112 has a through-hole 118 that allows fluid to pass through the first component 112.

[0090] A second component 114 is disposed on a first component 112. The second component 114 includes a first flange 124, and the first component 112 includes a second flange 126. The first flange 124 and the second flange 126 are respectively radial extensions of the second component 114 and the first component 112. In some embodiments, the first flange 124 is circumferentially continuous, while the second flange 126 may be circumferentially continuous or discontinuous. In some embodiments, the first flange 124 may be an O-ring or a gasket seal. The first flange 124 and the second flange 126 are axially spaced apart from each other such that they together define an annular recess 128 between them.

[0091] A third component 116 is provided and includes a sealing surface 120 and one or more radially inwardly projecting members 122. The one or more radially inwardly projecting members 122 extend radially inward only within a space between them that retains an opening through which a second flange 126 can pass. In this sense, the first component 112 and the second component 114 can be considered to collectively form a protruding connector portion (whether or not they form a single integral component), while the third component 116 can be considered to form a recessed connector portion capable of receiving a portion of the protruding connector portion.

[0092] A third flange 132 is formed on the first member 112 and is positioned axially above the first flange 124 (i.e., on the side of the first flange 124 opposite to the second flange 126). The radially outwardly extending radius of the third flange 132 is greater than the radius of the orifice defined in the third member 116 by a top shoulder 134, which is axially above the sealing surface 120 and one or more radially inwardly projecting members 122. The relative profiles of the third flange 132 and the top shoulder 134 minimize the cam effect when they engage with each other. Conversely, the engagement of the third flange 132 with the top shoulder 134 prevents the first member 112 from additionally moving axially downward relative to the third member 116 (i.e., along direction 102). Therefore, once in a sealed configuration, the protruding connector portion engages with the recessed connector portion, and the protruding connector portion is prevented from disengaging from the recessed connector portion by engagement of the second flange 126 with one or more radially inwardly projecting members 122 in direction 104 and by engagement of the third flange 32 with the top shoulder 34 in direction 102. Thus, once in a sealed configuration, the protruding connector portion is mechanically held by the recessed connector portion.

[0093] In the sealing configuration, the second component 114 is disposed between the third flange 132 and the third component 116, such that the first flange 124 deforms against the sealing surface 120 of the third component 122. The deformed first flange 124 forms a leak-proof seal with the sealing surface 120. Thus, a sealing joint is provided in a manner similar to the sealing joint 30 described above.

[0094] Throughout the description and claims of this specification, the words “comprising” and “containing,” and variations thereof, mean “including but not limited to,” and are not intended to (and do not) exclude other parts, additions, components, integrals, or steps. Throughout the description and claims of this specification, the singular encompasses the plural unless the context requires otherwise. In particular, where the indefinite article is used, the specification should be understood to consider both the plural and singular unless the context requires otherwise.

[0095] Features, integrals, properties, compounds, chemical portions, or groups described in connection with specific aspects, embodiments, or examples of the invention should be understood to be applicable to any other aspect, embodiment, or example described herein, unless incompatible with it. All features disclosed in this specification (including any appended claims, abstract, and drawings) and / or all steps of any method or process so disclosed may be combined in any combination, except for combinations in which at least some of such features and / or steps are mutually exclusive. The invention is not limited to the details of any of the foregoing embodiments. The invention extends to any novel one or any novel combination of features disclosed in this specification (including any appended claims, abstract, and drawings), or to any novel one or any novel combination of steps of any method or process so disclosed.

[0096] The reader’s attention is directed to all papers and documents that were submitted concurrently with or prior to this specification and that are made publicly available together with this specification, and the contents of all such papers and documents are incorporated herein by reference.

Claims

1. A sealable joint, comprising a first component, a second component, and a third component; The first component includes a rod having a hole through which fluid passes. The second component is disposed on the first component; and The third component includes a sealing surface and one or more radially inwardly projecting members; and The second component and one of the first components, or a combination of the second component and the first component, include a first flange and a second flange, and an annular recess is defined between the first flange and the second flange; In the sealing configuration, the second component is received by the third component to form a sealing joint, in which at least a portion of the first flange abuts against the sealing surface and deforms, the one or more radially inwardly projecting members are disposed in the annular recess located between the first flange and the second flange, and the outer surface of the second flange is radially outward of at least a portion of the one or more radially inwardly projecting members; and In the sealing configuration, fluid can flow from the first side of the sealing joint through the orifice to the second side of the sealing joint.

2. The sealable joint according to claim 1, wherein the second component is fixed to the outer surface of the first component.

3. The sealable joint according to claim 1 or 2, wherein the second component comprises a material that is more elastic than the first component.

4. The sealable joint according to claim 1 or 2, wherein in the sealing configuration, at least a portion of the first flange forms a sealing interference fit with the sealing surface.

5. The sealable joint according to claim 1 or 2, wherein the one or more radially inwardly projecting members comprise a plurality of radially flexible fingers.

6. The sealable joint according to claim 1 or 2, wherein the outer surface of the second flange narrows relative to the longitudinal axis of the sealable joint.

7. The sealable joint according to claim 1 or 2, wherein the second flange includes an abutment surface facing the one or more radially inwardly projecting members in the sealing configuration, wherein the abutment surface and the one or more radially inwardly projecting members restrict axial movement of the second flange relative to the third member.

8. The sealable joint according to claim 1 or 2, wherein the first component includes a third flange, wherein the third flange is on the side of the first flange opposite to the second flange such that the first flange is located between the second flange and the third flange, and wherein the adjacency between the third flange and the third component restricts axial movement of the first component relative to the third component.

9. The sealable joint according to claim 1 or 2, wherein the first component and the second component form a single integral part.

10. An auto-injector subassembly comprising a sealable connector according to any one of claims 1 to 9.

11. The autoinjector subassembly of claim 10, comprising a propellant source, wherein the sealable connector seals the propellant source to another component of the autoinjector subassembly.

12. The autoinjector subassembly of claim 11, wherein the propellant source includes a propellant housing defining a reservoir for containing propellant, and the first component is movable relative to the propellant housing to selectively make the orifice in fluid communication with the reservoir.

13. The autoinjector subassembly according to claim 11 or 12, wherein the third component forms at least a portion of another component of the autoinjector subassembly.

14. A propellant source, comprising: A propellant housing, the propellant housing defining a reservoir for containing propellant; A first component, the first component including a rod having a hole through the rod; The first component comprises a second component disposed on the first component, wherein one or a combination of the second component and the first component includes a first flange and a second flange, defining an annular recess between the first flange and the second flange, and wherein the first component is movable relative to the propellant housing to selectively make the orifice in fluid communication with the reservoir; and wherein the annular recess provides space for the second component to deform into it, thereby allowing the first flange to deform against the sealing surface of the third component to form a sealing joint.

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