Socket device for a reusable drug delivery device

Abstract

The present invention relates to a rechargeable medication storage dock device for a reusable medication delivery device. According to some embodiments, the dock device includes a housing defining a port sized to receive at least a portion of a reusable medication delivery device, a charging bay disposed on the housing configured to charge a rechargeable power source mounted on the medication delivery device, and a medication storage chamber disposed in alignment with the port configured to store a disposable cartridge. A coupling mechanism is configured to releasably couple with and extract the cartridge from the medication storage chamber when at least a portion of the medication delivery device is inserted into the medication storage chamber through the port. In some embodiments, the dock device can further include a temperature altering device configured to control an internal temperature of the medication storage chamber.

Description

TECHNICAL FIELD

[0001] The present disclosure relates to a docking device / hub device for securing a reusable drug delivery device. More particularly, the present invention relates to a docking device for recharging a reusable drug delivery device and for storing a cartridge configured for use by the reusable drug delivery device. BACKGROUND

[0002] Reusable drug delivery devices are widely used by medical professionals and self-treaters. Such devices can be configured to receive a disposable, single-use cartridge and deliver a drug stored within such cartridge to a patient through an injection. However, for such reusable drug delivery devices, the process of replacing a used cartridge with a new cartridge can be manually laborious or difficult, especially for users with low manual dexterity. In addition, users of reusable drug delivery devices often need a method to store and / or organize cartridges used by the reusable drug delivery device. Some types of cartridges can need to be stored at a storage temperature (e.g., refrigerated at 32-35 degrees Fahrenheit) to prevent spoilage and then warmed to a dosing temperature (e.g., brought to room temperature) prior to dosing. SUMMARY

[0003] According to one exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure, a docking device for recharging drug storage of a drug delivery device is provided, the docking device comprising: a housing defining a port sized to receive at least a portion of a drug delivery device; a charging dock disposed on the housing configured to charge a rechargeable power source mounted on the drug delivery device when at least a portion of the drug delivery device is positioned proximate to the charging dock; and a drug storage chamber configured to align with the port, the drug storage chamber configured to store a cartridge; wherein the drug storage chamber is configured to allow the drug delivery device to extract the cartridge from the drug storage chamber when at least a portion of the drug delivery device is inserted into the drug storage chamber through the port and then extracted from the drug storage chamber.

[0004] According to another embodiment of the present disclosure, a method of using a drug delivery device and a rechargeable drug storage socket device of the drug delivery device is provided. The socket device can have a port, a charging bay, a drug storage chamber aligned with the port, and a drug cartridge storing a drug disposed within the drug storage chamber. The method can include placing at least a portion of the drug delivery device in proximity to the charging bay to charge a rechargeable power source mounted on the drug delivery device; removing the drug delivery device from the charging bay; inserting at least a portion of the drug delivery device through the port into the drug storage chamber to couple the drug delivery device with the drug cartridge stored within the drug storage chamber; and removing the drug delivery device from the port once the drug delivery device is coupled with the drug cartridge so as to remove the drug cartridge from the drug storage chamber.

[0005] According to yet another embodiment of the present disclosure, a method of using a rechargeable drug storage socket system in conjunction with a mobile electronic device is provided. The method can include providing a socket system including: a drug delivery device having a rechargeable power source, and a socket device including: a port having a door configured to at least one of (I) move between an open position and a closed position, and (II) transition between a locked configuration and an unlocked configuration, a charging bay configured to charge the rechargeable power source of the drug delivery device when at least a portion of the drug delivery device is placed in proximity to the charging bay; a drug storage chamber; and a drug cartridge storing a drug disposed within the drug storage chamber. The method can also include establishing a communication link between the socket device and the mobile electronic device; sending an instruction from the mobile electronic device to the socket device to prepare the drug cartridge for administration, wherein the instruction causes the socket device to move the door to the open position or transition the door to the unlocked configuration to allow access to the drug cartridge; removing the drug delivery device from the charging bay; inserting the drug delivery device into the port to couple the drug delivery device with the drug cartridge; and removing the drug delivery device from the port once the drug delivery device is coupled with the drug cartridge so as to remove the drug cartridge from the drug storage chamber.

[0006] Among other advantages, one exemplary advantage of the disclosed socket device is that it provides a single, convenient, integrated socket device configured to both recharge a medication delivery device and store a cartridge for use by the medication delivery device. Another exemplary advantage of some embodiments is that the socket device can include an integrated temperature changing device that maintains a stored cartridge at a storage temperature, thereby eliminating the need for a user to provide a separate refrigeration for the cartridge. Another exemplary advantage of some embodiments is that the socket device can use the temperature changing device to heat a cartridge to a dosing temperature prior to dosing. In some embodiments, the temperature changing device can bring the cartridge to the dosing temperature more quickly than would be possible if the cartridge were allowed to warm to room temperature on its own. Another exemplary advantage of some embodiments is that the socket device maintains the security of a stored cartridge by locking the cartridge behind a closed port that can not open until the user provides an instruction from the user's mobile electronic device. Yet another exemplary advantage of some embodiments is that the socket device can serve as a sharps container for disposing of used cartridges, thereby eliminating the need for a user to provide a separate sharps container. Those of ordinary skill in the art will recognize other advantages. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF DRAWINGS

[0007] The above and other features and advantages of the present disclosure and the manner of obtaining them will become more apparent, and will be better understood, by reference to the following description, taken in conjunction with the accompanying drawings, wherein:

[0008] Figure 1 is a conceptual block diagram of an exemplary socket device for holding an exemplary medication delivery device, as well as a medication delivery device and a mobile electronic device for use with the socket device, in accordance with some embodiments.

[0009] Figure 2 is a perspective view of a first embodiment of a socket device for securing / holding a medication delivery device.

[0010] Figure 3 is an internal perspective view of the first embodiment of the socket device.

[0011] Figure 4 is a top perspective view of a first embodiment of a medication pod configured to be insertable into the socket device.

[0012] Figure 5 is a bottom perspective view of the first embodiment of the medication pod.

[0013] Figure 6 is a side view of an exemplary cartridge.

[0014] Figure 7 and Figure 8 depicts an exemplary perspective view of the first embodiment of the socket device and the medication delivery device in operation.

[0015] Figure 9 is a top view of a medicine cartridge illustrating how the medicine cartridge is rotated to move a used cartridge away and place a new cartridge for use.

[0016] Figure 10 is a perspective view of a second embodiment of a socket device for securing a medicine delivery device.

[0017] Figure 11 is a perspective view of the second embodiment of the socket device with the medicine cartridge removed.

[0018] Figure 12 is a side view of an exemplary coupling mechanism within a medicine delivery device for releasable coupling with a cartridge.

[0019] Figure 13 is a perspective view of the exemplary coupling mechanism.

[0020] Figure 14 is a flowchart illustrating an exemplary process for using a rechargeable medicine storage socket device.

[0021] Figure 15 is a flowchart illustrating an exemplary process for using a rechargeable medicine storage socket device by a mobile electronic device.

[0022] In the drawings and description, identical reference characters typically represent different instances of the same component or structure. The examples set forth herein illustrate the examples of the present application and such examples are not to be construed as limiting the scope of the present application. Rather, the claims should be accorded the broadest possible interpretation, whether or not the claims include the broadest possible language. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0023] As used herein, the terms "logic," "control logic," "application," "method," or "process" can include software and / or firmware executing on one or more programmable processors, application specific integrated circuits (ASICs), field programmable gate arrays (FPGAs), digital signal processors (DSPs), fixed / hardwired logic, or a combination thereof. Thus, depending on the embodiment, various logic can be implemented in any suitable manner and will remain consistent with the embodiments disclosed herein.

[0024] Figure 1 A block diagram depicting an exemplary socket device 100 for use with an exemplary medicine delivery device 150 in accordance with some embodiments is depicted. The socket device 100 includes a housing 101 that houses or supports the components of the socket device 100. The housing 101 defines a port 113 that is covered by a movable door 114. The door 114 can be completely removed from the housing 101 or slide or swing away to provide access to a medicine storage chamber 118.

[0025] The drug storage chamber 118 is configured to house or store a cartridge 116 that has been pre-filled with a drug. The chamber 118 is aligned with the port 113 such that the chamber 118 can be accessed through the port 113. As used herein, the term "drug" or "medicament" refers to one or more therapeutic agents, including but not limited to insulin, insulin analogs such as insulin degludec or insulin glargine, insulin derivatives, GLP-1 receptor agonists such as dulaglutide or liraglutide, glucagon, glucagon analogs, glucagon derivatives, gastric inhibitory polypeptide (GIP), GIP analogs, GIP derivatives, oxyntomodulin analogs, oxyntomodulin derivatives, therapeutic antibodies, and any therapeutic agent capable of being delivered by the above-described devices. The drug used in the device can be formulated with one or more excipients.

[0026] The cartridge 116 can be configured to be inserted or coupled to a reusable delivery device 150. Once loaded or coupled to the cartridge 116, the reusable delivery device 150 can be operated by a patient, caregiver, or medical professional, for example, by injection, spray, intravenous injection, or other mechanism, to deliver the drug within the cartridge 116 to a person. The cartridge 116 can be a single-use cartridge designed to be separated from the reusable delivery device once its drug storage is depleted; once separated, the cartridge 116 can be discarded. In some embodiments, the reusable delivery device 150 can be configured to deliver all of the drug stored within the cartridge 116 in a single dose. In other embodiments, the reusable delivery device 150 can be configured to deliver the drug stored within the cartridge 116 in multiple doses.

[0027] The drug storage chamber 118 can also include a temperature-altering device 112. The temperature-altering device can include a cooling device configured to lower the internal temperature of the drug storage chamber 118 (and thus lower the temperature of the cartridge 116 stored within the chamber 118) to preserve the drug stored within the cartridge 116 while the cartridge 116 is stored. One example of a suitable cooling device is a Peltier device, which uses electrical energy to transfer heat from one side of the device to the other. Alternatively, the temperature-altering device 112 can use a vapor-compression refrigeration process and / or use a coolant circulation to cool the interior of the drug storage chamber 118. The temperature-altering device 112 can also be configured to heat the interior of the drug storage chamber 118 when the drug within the cartridge 116 needs to be injected, for example, to raise the drug stored within the cartridge 116 to room temperature or body temperature. Exemplary heating devices include a Peltier device or an electrical heating coil or wire. In some embodiments, a single component or a single type of component (e.g., a Peltier device) can be used to both cool and heat the drug storage chamber.

[0028] The socket device 100 also includes a charging dock 102. The charging dock 102 can be coupled to a power source, such as a battery or a wall outlet (not shown). The charging dock 102 can be configured to directly or inductively recharge a rechargeable power source 158 (e.g., a battery or supercapacitor) on the drug delivery device 150 when the charging contacts 170 on the drug delivery device 150 are placed in contact with or in close proximity to the charging dock 102. As used herein, a drug delivery device can be considered to be in "proximity / adjacency" with the charging dock 102 when the distance between the charging dock 102 and the drug delivery device is small enough to allow the charging dock 102 to inductively or conductively charge the rechargeable power source on the drug delivery device. The charging dock 102 can include or be disposed in a socket configured to house all or a portion of the device 150. Alternatively or additionally, the charging dock 102 can include a visually distinguishable portion of the exterior surface of the socket device 100, and / or the charging dock 102 can include a protrusion from the exterior surface of the socket device 100 that is configured to fit into a corresponding socket on the reusable drug delivery device 150. In some embodiments, the charging dock 102 can also include an electrical cord that extends from the exterior surface of the socket device 100, and that is configured to be plugged into a corresponding port on the drug delivery device 150.

[0029] The socket device 100 also includes a controller 104 that is communicatively coupled with the user interface 106, the cartridge sensor 108, one or more additional sensors 117, and / or the communication device 110 via an internal bus 115. The controller 104 can include at least one processor that executes software and / or firmware stored in a memory (not shown) of the socket device 100. The software / firmware code contains instructions that, when executed by the processor of the controller 104, cause the controller 104 to perform the functions described herein. In some embodiments, the controller 104 can alternatively or additionally include any processing circuitry that receives and processes data signals and that outputs a result as a result in the form of one or more electrical signals. Such processing circuitry can include one or more application specific integrated circuits (ASICs), field programmable gate arrays (FPGAs), digital signal processors (DSPs), hardwired logic, or any combination thereof. The user interface 106 can include a screen, lights (e.g., light-emitting diodes), and / or a speaker for communicating information to a user of the socket device 100, such as the status of the socket device 100 and / or the reusable drug delivery device 150. The user interface 106 can also include a touch-sensitive screen, buttons, sliders, and / or dials / knobs for receiving user input from a user of the socket device 100.

[0030] The cartridge sensor 108 is a sensor that identifies or senses the presence of a cartridge 116. The cartridge sensor 108 can include a visual or optical sensor that senses the presence of a cartridge 116 or the presence of a container holding a cartridge 116, or that identifies a cartridge 116, for example, by reading a quick response code, detecting a color, and / or reading text, numbers, and / or symbols disposed on a surface of the cartridge 116 or a surface of a container holding the cartridge 116. Alternatively or additionally, the cartridge sensor 108 can include an RFID or NFC sensor that reads an RFID and / or NFC tag integrated with, coupled to, or associated with a cartridge 116 (or a container holding a cartridge 116). In some embodiments, the cartridge sensor 108 can also include a tactile sensor (e.g., a switch) that is triggered or actuated by a portion of a cartridge 116 when the cartridge 116 is placed within the drug storage chamber 118.

[0031] The one or more additional sensors 117 are optional, but in some embodiments can include sensors configured to record, sense, and / or measure the ambient temperature around the outlet device 100, the ambient humidity around the outlet device 100, the amount of light incident on the outlet device 100, and / or the temperature inside the outlet device 100. In some embodiments, the one or more sensors 117 can detect whether a power source is plugged into the outlet device 100. In embodiments in which the outlet device 100 includes a battery (not shown) that provides power and allows the outlet device 100 to operate even when no power source is plugged in, the one or more sensors 117 can detect the level of charge / amount of power remaining in the battery. In some embodiments, the one or more sensors 117 can also detect the status of the movable door 114, for example, whether the door is open, closed, locked, and / or unlocked.

[0032] The communication device 110 can be a wireless communication device that enables wireless communication between the socket device 100 and the reusable medication delivery device 150 and / or between the socket device 100 and the mobile electronic device 180. For example, the communication device 110 can establish a communication link 195 with the mobile electronic device 180. Examples of suitable wireless communication devices include chip package assemblies, circuits, and / or antennas for transmitting and / or receiving Bluetooth, WiFi, RFID, or NFC signals. Alternatively or additionally, the communication device 110 can be a wired communication device that enables wired communication with the aforementioned devices, for example, via a Universal Serial Bus (USB) connection. Alternatively or additionally, the communication device 110 can include a remote cellular communication interface that establishes a communication link with the server 170 via the network 198 and communication links 196 and 199. The server 170 can be located remotely from the socket device 100 and / or the mobile electronic device 180, for example, in another building, in another city, or even in another country or continent. The network 198 can include any cellular or data network suitable for relaying information between the socket device 100, the mobile electronic device 180, and / or the server 170, potentially via one or more intermediate nodes or switches. Examples of suitable networks 170 include cellular networks, metropolitan area networks (MANs), wide area networks (WANs), and the Internet.

[0033] The mobile electronic device 180 can include a mobile or processing device of a user, such as a smartphone, smartwatch, tablet, laptop, pager, and / or desktop computer of a user. The mobile electronic device 180 can include a processor 182 that is capable of executing programmable code via control logic 184. The mobile electronic device 180 can also include a memory 186 that can store the control logic 184. The memory 186 storing software / firmware code is any suitable computer-readable medium accessible by the at least one processor. The memory can be a single storage device or multiple storage devices, can be internal or external to the at least one processor, and can include volatile and non-volatile media. Exemplary memories include random access memory (RAM), read only memory (ROM), electrically erasable programmable ROM (EEPROM), flash memory, magnetic storage, optical disks, or any other suitable medium that is configured to store data and that is accessible by the at least one processor. The mobile electronic device 180 can also include a display 188 for displaying information to the user and / or receiving input from the user (in the case of a touch-sensitive display), and a communication device 190 for communicating with external devices (e.g., the socket device 100 via the communication link 195). In some embodiments, the communication device 190 can also include a cellular and / or data interface for establishing data communication with the server 170 via the network 198 and communication links 197 and 199.

[0034] The server 170 illustratively includes any computing device configured to receive and process data from the mobile electronic device 180 and / or the socket device 100 over the network 198. Such data received by the server 170 can include raw data based on or derived from raw data collected, measured, and / or recorded by the socket device 100 and / or the medication delivery device 150. For example, the data received by the server 170 can include raw data collected, measured, and / or recorded by the socket device 100 and / or the medication delivery device 150. Alternatively or additionally, the data received by the server 170 can include any data generated or derived by the socket device 100 and / or the mobile electronic device as a result of processing such raw data. Examples of data that can be transmitted from the socket device 100 and / or the mobile electronic device 180 to the server 180 can include, for example, the time and amount of medicament delivered by the medication delivery device 150 to a user, the amount of medication remaining within the socket device 100, the expiration date of any medication remaining within the socket device 100, a temperature excursion, a power outage, a low battery status, or other fault condition sensed by the socket device 100, an indication that the socket device 100 has run out of (or is close to running out of) its supply of medication, a request by a user for more medication to replenish the supply of medication within the socket device 100, an indication of the extent to which a user is adhering to a predetermined medication regimen based on a user’s dosage history, and the like. Such information can be transmitted directly from the socket device 100 to the server 170 via the network 198 (and all intervening communication links). Alternatively or additionally, such information can be transmitted from the socket device 100 to the server 170 via the mobile electronic device 180 and the network 198 and all intervening communication links.

[0035] The server 170 can process and / or store the information, and can optionally transmit the information to the mobile electronic device 180, the socket device 100, or Figure 1other devices not shown. The server 170 includes processing circuitry 172, memory 174, and communication devices 176. The processing circuitry 172 can include any of the possible types of processors and / or processing circuitry previously described. The processing circuitry 172 can execute software and / or firmware stored in the memory 174 of the server 170. The software / firmware code contains instructions that, when executed by the processing circuitry 172, cause the server 172 to perform the functions described herein. The memory 174 can also be configured to store information about one or more users of the outlet device 100 and / or the drug delivery device 150, such as personal information and / or medical information (e.g., drug dosage records, medical history, etc.). Information received from or transmitted to the outlet device 100 and / or the mobile electronic device 180 can also be stored in the memory 174. The memory 174 can include any of the possible types of memory previously described. The communication devices 176 allow the server 170 to communicate with the mobile electronic device 180 and / or the outlet device 100 via the network 198 and communication links 196, 197, and / or 199. Without limiting the generality of the foregoing, in some embodiments, the server 170 can include, be communicatively coupled to, or implement all or a portion of an electronic health record (EHR) system maintained by a healthcare provider (HCP) or healthcare organization or facility, such as a hospital system or doctor’s office. In such embodiments, the server 170 can be used to keep records about a user’s use of the outlet device 100 and / or the drug delivery device 150 (e.g., the time and / or amount of drug dosage), to assist the healthcare provider and / or healthcare organization in providing care for the user. In other embodiments, the server 170 can be maintained by a pharmaceutical company, a manufacturer of medical devices (e.g., the outlet device 100 and / or the drug delivery device 150), a health insurance payer, and / or a health outcomes researcher conducting a clinical trial or study.

[0036] Returning to the outlet device 100, in some embodiments, the controller 104 includes at least one processor that executes software and / or firmware stored in a memory of the outlet device 100. The software / firmware code contains instructions that, when executed by the at least one processor, cause the outlet device 100 to perform the functions described herein. The at least one processor illustratively includes control logic operable to, for example: operate the temperature-changing device 112 to cool the cartridge 116 when the cartridge 116 is held in a storage state, operate the temperature-changing device 112 to heat the cartridge 116 when the temperature-changing device 112 receives a user input indicating that the cartridge 116 is about to be used, operate the user interface to communicate information about the status of the outlet device 100 and / or the drug delivery device 150 (e.g., the battery level of the delivery device 150; the type, use, recommended dosage, and / or expiration date of the drug stored within the outlet device 100; the internal temperature of one or more drug storage chambers 118; whether the movable door 114 is open, closed, or locked; whether the outlet device 100 is properly paired with the user’s mobile electronic device or drug delivery device, etc.), and / or operate the user interface to receive user inputs (e.g., inputs indicating that the outlet device 100 is turned on or off, paired with the delivery device 150 and / or the user’s mobile electronic device, prepares one cartridge 116 for a dose of the drug, unlocks, locks, opens, or closes the movable door 114, etc.). The memory storing the software / firmware code is any suitable computer-readable medium accessible by the at least one processor, including any of the types of memory previously described with respect to the memory 186 of the mobile electronic device 180. In some embodiments, the controller 104 can include (or consist essentially of) an application-specific integrated circuit (ASIC) configured to perform the above-described functions.

[0037] The reusable medication delivery device 150 can include a housing 151 that houses or supports various components of the device 150. The device 150 includes a coupling mechanism 168 that, when operated, releasably couples with the medicament cartridge 116. The device 150 also includes a drive mechanism 154 that delivers the medication in the cartridge 116 to a patient when the cartridge 116 is coupled with the coupling mechanism 168. In one embodiment, the cartridge 116 can include a syringe having a barrel containing the medication, a needle, and a movable plunger that, when depressed, pushes the medication out of the needle. In such an embodiment, the drive mechanism 154 can include a movable drive member that, when the drive mechanism 154 is operated, pushes against the movable plunger to push the medication out of the cartridge 116. In other embodiments, the cartridge can not include a movable plunger or needle. In such embodiments, the drive mechanism 154 can include a pump to draw the medication out of the cartridge 116 and deliver the medication to the patient, for example, through a needle, jet injection, orally, and / or intravenously. The drive mechanism 154 can be coupled with a trigger button 152 that, when activated by the user, operates the drive mechanism 154.

[0038] The device 150 can also include an electronics package assembly 156, such as one or more printed circuit boards (PCBs) or electronic circuits. Although shown as a single discrete package assembly in Figure 1 some embodiments, the package assembly 156 can be dispersed in multiple locations of the medication delivery device 150. The package assembly 156 can include a controller 160, one or more device sensors 162, a communication device 164, and / or a user interface 166. The package assembly 156 can also include the aforementioned rechargeable power source 158 that is configured to provide power to some or all of the other aforementioned components of the package assembly 156. The charging base 102 can replenish the charge in the rechargeable power source 158 when the charging contacts 170 on the device 150 are in contact with or in close proximity to the charging base 102.

[0039] Device sensors 162 can include one or more sensors configured to sense, record, measure, or detect a status of reusable medication delivery device 150. For example, device sensors 162 can be configured to sense whether device 150 is powered on or off, whether device 150 has been coupled to a cartridge 116, whether device 150 is open or closed, whether device 150 is locked or unlocked for dosing, whether device 150 has been triggered for dosing, whether device 150 has begun dosing, whether device 150 has completed dosing, a dose programmed into and / or delivered by device 150, a position or movement of a movable component within device 150 (e.g., a trigger button 152, a movable drive member within a drive mechanism 154, and / or a movable plunger within a cartridge 116), a current amount of charge present within a rechargeable power source 158, a charge capacity of rechargeable power source 158, whether power source 158 is currently charging, a proximity of device 150 to outlet device 100, a proximity and / or contact between device 150 and human tissue such as a user's skin, an acceleration and / or orientation of device 150, a current external or internal temperature of device 150 or a medication within cartridge 116, a type of medication stored within cartridge 116, and / or a current geographic location of device 150. Sensors 162 can include one or more optical sensors, electrical sensors, magnetic sensors, accelerometers, mechanical switches, wireless antennas, and / or GPS sensors.

[0040] Communication device 164 can take any of the forms of communication device 110 described above. Similarly, user interface 166 can take the form of any of the devices for user interface 106 described above. Controller 160 can be configured to receive data from and / or control the operation of any of device sensors 162, communication device 164, and / or user interface 166. Controller 160 can take the form of any of the devices for controller 104 described above. In some embodiments, controller 160 can be configured to report, via communication device 164, to outlet device 100 any of the aforementioned types of data sensed by sensors 162, or any data derived from any of the aforementioned types of data. As previously described, outlet device 100 in turn can forward such data to server 170 via network 198 (and / or, optionally, via mobile electronic device 180), or can send to server 170 data derived or generated based on the aforementioned types of data sensed by sensors 162.

[0041] Figure 2 A perspective view of a first embodiment of an outlet device for securing a reusable medication delivery device is provided. Outlet device 200 and medication delivery device 250 can be configured similarly to outlet device 100 and medication delivery device 150, respectively. In this first embodiment, medication delivery device 250 takes the form of an auto-injector having a proximal end (pointing towardFigure 2 (bottom) and far end (pointing to) Figure 2 (Top of the device). To use the drug delivery device 250, the user presses the proximal end of the drug delivery device 250 against the patient's skin and then unlocks the device by rotating the locking element 252. After the device is unlocked, the user triggers the device by pressing the trigger button 254. Once triggered, the drug delivery device 250 activates the drive mechanism to deliver the injection to the patient.

[0042] In this embodiment, the socket device 200 is substantially cylindrical, having curved sidewalls 215 and a top surface 217. The top surface 217 defines a port 218 covered by a movable (or removable) door 214. Although in Figure 2 The middle door 214 is shown completely separated from the top surface 217, but in some embodiments, the door 214 may also be configured to open or close hingedly or slidably. The top surface 217 also includes a charging socket 219, which in this embodiment takes the form of a shallow socket configured to receive the proximal end of the drug delivery device 250. When the proximal end of the drug delivery device 250 is received within the shallow socket of the charging socket 219, the charging socket 219 can replenish the charge in a rechargeable power source installed within the device 250. The walls of both the port 218 and the shallow socket of the charging socket 219 can be shaped (e.g., circular, triangular, rectangular, etc.) to tightly accommodate the external shape of the proximal end of the drug delivery device 250.

[0043] The top surface 217 of the receptacle device 200 also includes a button 224 and a speaker 222. The receptacle device 200 may be configured to report the status of the receptacle device 200 and / or device 250 when a user presses the button 224. For example, the receptacle device 200 may be configured to report the charging status of device 250, the temperature of one or more medicines or cartridges stored in the receptacle device 200, the expiration date of one or more medicines or cartridges, the type of one or more medicines stored in the receptacle device 200, notification of replacement of one or more cartridges, and / or one or more detected fault conditions. The status report may be audibly transmitted via the speaker 222 or via a wireless signal sent to the user's mobile electronic device. Although this embodiment incorporates a speaker, other devices for providing indications or status reports to the user are also contemplated, including light-emitting diodes, displays, and / or tactile indicators.

[0044] In this embodiment, the curved sidewall 215 of the socket device 200 includes a hinged door 220. Figure 3A perspective view of the interior of the receptacle device 200 when the door 220 is open is provided. The interior of the receptacle device 200 can define a hollow space 219 configured to house a medication bin 226. The floor of the receptacle device 200 can include a rotating turntable 232 that rotates about a central axis 239 relative to the receptacle device. A protruding guide 230 (in this embodiment, shaped as a cross) that extends into the hollow space 219 can be disposed on top of the rotating turntable 232. As described in further detail below, the guide 230 is configured to fit into a corresponding groove on the underside of the medication bin 226.

[0045] The medication bin 226 can also be substantially cylindrical. The top surface of the medication bin 226 can be sealed by a removable sterile barrier 228 that isolates and maintains the sterility of the compartments within the medication bin 226. Figure 4 A perspective view of the top of the medication bin 226 when the sterile barrier 228 is removed is provided. Beneath the sterile barrier 228, the medication bin 226 includes any number of storage chambers (shown as four separate medication storage chambers 234a, 234b, 234c, 234d) (herein referred to collectively or individually as medication storage chambers 234) as appropriate. Each medication storage chamber can be provided with a temperature altering device 112 as described above to cool or heat the interior of the chamber. Each chamber can also be configured to house a cartridge 236a, 236b, 236c, 236d (herein referred to collectively or individually as cartridges 236) as appropriate. Each cartridge 236a, 236b, 236c, 236d can be constructed similarly to the previously described cartridge 116. In some embodiments, the medication bin 226 can further include a quick response code 238 disposed on its top surface. When scanned by a suitable optical sensor, for example on a mobile electronic device or mounted on or within the receptacle device 200, the quick response code can provide information about the type of medication stored within the medication bin 226, the expiration date of such medication, the manufacturing facility or batch that produced such medication, and / or the ideal storage or delivery parameters (e.g., ideal storage or delivery temperature) for such medication.

[0046] Figure 5A bottom perspective view of the medication cartridge 226 is provided. As can be seen, the underside of the medication cartridge 226 includes a recessed guide 240 defined therein, which in this embodiment is cruciform. When the medication cartridge 226 is positioned atop the rotating turntable 232 within the receptacle device 200, the protruding guide 230 fits into the recessed guide 240 and prevents rotational movement of the medication cartridge 226 relative to the turntable 232. When the medication cartridge 226 is so positioned, one of the medication storage chambers 234a, 234b, 234c, 234d will be aligned with the port 218. By rotating the turntable 232, the medication cartridge 226 can be rotated about its central axis 239 to position another medication storage chamber 234 in alignment with the port 218.

[0047] Figure 6 A side view of an exemplary medication cartridge 236 stored within a medication storage chamber 234 is provided. The medication cartridge 236 can include a barrel 270 having a proximal end 276 and a distal end 274. The distal end of the barrel 270 can be sealed with a movable plunger 272, while the proximal end of the barrel 270 can be covered with a hollow cannula 278 configured to penetrate the skin of a person. A medication can be stored within the barrel 270 between the movable plunger 272 and the cannula 278. When the movable plunger is pushed toward the cannula 278 by, for example, a drive mechanism within the medication delivery device 250, movement of the plunger can push the medication out of the hollow tube / cannula 278.

[0048] Figure 14 A flowchart illustrating an exemplary process 1400 for using the medication delivery device 250 and the receptacle device 200 is depicted. At step 1402, a medication delivery device (e.g., the reusable medication delivery device 250) and a rechargeable medication storage receptacle device (e.g., the receptacle device 200) are provided. As previously described, the receptacle device has a port (e.g., the port 218), a charging bay (e.g., the charging bay 219), a medication storage chamber (e.g., the chamber 234) aligned with the port, and a medication cartridge (e.g., the disposable medication cartridge 236) disposed within the medication storage chamber.

[0049] At step 1402, at least a portion of the medication delivery device is brought into contact with the charging bay to charge a rechargeable power source mounted on the medication delivery device.

[0050] At step 1404, the user can remove the medication delivery device from the charging bay, e.g., the medication delivery device 250 is removed from the charging bay 219.

[0051] At step 1408, the user can insert at least a portion of the medication delivery device through the port and into the medication storage chamber to couple the medication delivery device with a medication cartridge stored within the medication storage chamber. For example, as previously described, the user can insert the medication delivery device 250 through the port 218 and into the chamber 234 to couple the medication delivery device 250 with the disposable medication cartridge 236. Figure 7As shown, a user can insert the proximal end of the device 250 into the drug storage chamber 234a through the port 218, i.e., by pushing the device 250 down in the direction of arrow 251. The downward movement of the device 250 causes the coupling mechanism (e.g., coupling mechanism 168) within the device 250 to releasably couple with the drug cartridge 236 (e.g., drug cartridge 236a). For example, the coupling mechanism 168 can include a flexible member (e.g., a flap, a ridge, a gate valve) that flexes when pressed down by the device 250 and snaps back into place around a flange, ridge, recess, or other feature within the device 250 to releasably couple the drug cartridge 236 to the device 250. As another example, the coupling mechanism 168 can include a magnet that magnetically couples with a magnetic or metallic ring, flap, or other structural element mounted on the drug cartridge 236 to releasably couple the drug cartridge 236 to the interior of the device 250.

[0052] At step 1410, after the drug cartridge is coupled with the drug delivery device, the user can remove the drug delivery device 250 from the port 218 (e.g., by pulling in the direction of arrow 252; see Figure 8 ) to withdraw the drug cartridge 236a from the drug storage chamber 234a. The device 250 is now ready to deliver the drug within the coupled drug cartridge 236a.

[0053] At step 1412, the user can activate the device 250 by placing the device 250 in contact with the patient's body and actuating the activation button to administer the drug stored within the drug cartridge.

[0054] When the drug within the drug cartridge 236a is depleted, the user can again push the proximal end of the device 250 through the port 218 into the empty drug storage chamber 234a. The coupling mechanism 168 releases the drug cartridge 236a into the storage chamber 234a. For example, the user can slide a release sleeve to release the drug cartridge, as discussed in further detail below with respect to Figures 12-13 Alternatively or additionally, the user can press a button or activation switch on the body of the device 250 to release a snap-fit member or magnetic member holding the drug cartridge 236a. The user can then place the reusable drug delivery device 250 back on the charging dock 219 to recharge the device.

[0055] After the above operations, the user can rotate the turntable 232 in any direction relative to the socket device, as shown in the direction of arrow 253 (see Figure 9). This rotates the medication cartridge 226 about its central axis 239, which moves the spent cartridge 236a out of alignment with the port 218 and moves the next cartridge 236b into alignment with the port 218. The new cartridge 236b is now ready to be loaded into the medication delivery device 250 for another dose. In this manner, all of the cartridges 236a, 236b, 236c, 236d can be loaded, emptied, and replaced into the medication storage chambers 234a, 234b, 234c, 234d. When all four cartridges 236a, 236b, 236c, 236d are emptied, the entire medication cartridge 226 can be removed from the receptacle device 200. The entire medication cartridge 226 can then be discarded and a new medication cartridge containing new cartridges 236 inserted into the receptacle device 200. In this manner, the medication cartridge 226 can serve as both a container for new cartridges 236 and as a single-use sharps container for used cartridges 236.

[0056] Figure 10 A perspective view of a second embodiment of a receptacle device for securing a reusable medication delivery device is provided. The receptacle device 300 and the medication delivery device 350 can be constructed similarly to the receptacle device 100 and the medication delivery device 150, respectively. In this second embodiment, the medication delivery device 350 can also take the form of an auto-injector having a proximal end (pointing toward the bottom) and a distal end (pointing toward the top). The medication delivery device 350 can be triggered to deliver an injection to a patient when the proximal end is pressed against the patient’s skin. Figure 10 Figure 10 When the proximal end of the medication delivery device 350 is pressed against the patient’s skin, the medication delivery device 350 can be triggered to deliver an injection to the patient.

[0057] In this embodiment, the receptacle device 300 is a generally rectangular block having a top surface 317. The top surface 317 defines a plurality of ports (four in this embodiment, although embodiments having more or fewer ports are contemplated) 318a, 318b, 318c, 318d (hereinafter referred to collectively or individually as ports 318 as the case can be). Each port can be covered by a movable or removable door (not shown). Each port provides access to an individual medication storage chamber 334a, 334b, 334c, 334d within a removable medication cartridge 320. Similar to the receptacle 219 and the receiver of the port 218 in the receptacle device 200, each port 318a, 318b, 318c, 318d can be shaped and / or configured to snugly receive the shape of the proximal end of the medication delivery device 350. The receptacle device 300 also includes a circular lateral protrusion 321 extending from one side of the rectangular block. The top surface of the circular protrusion 321 includes a charging receptacle 319 on the top surface 317 of the receptacle device 300, which in this embodiment can have the shape of the proximal end of the device.

[0058] ​The socket device 300 also includes a removable medicament cartridge 320. Figure 11 A perspective view of the socket device 300 is shown, with the medicament cartridge 320 having been removed. As shown, the medicament cartridge 320 can also take the form of a smaller rectangular block configured to slide beneath the top surface 317 of the socket device 300. The medicament cartridge 320 defines a plurality of medicament storage chambers 334a, 334b, 334c, 334d (collectively or individually referred to herein as medicament storage chambers 334), in this embodiment four. Each storage chamber 334a, 334b, 334c, 334d can be provided with a temperature altering device as described above to cool or heat the interior of the chamber. Each chamber can also be configured to contain a cartridge 336a, 336b, 336c, 336d (collectively or individually referred to herein as cartridges 336). Each cartridge 336a, 336b, 336c, 336d can be configured similarly to the previously described cartridges 116 and / or cartridges 236. Although not shown, the container 320 can also include a quick response code similar to the quick response code 238 described above.

[0059] Figure 12 A side view of a medicament delivery device 350 having a cartridge 236 coupled by a coupling mechanism is provided. In one embodiment, the coupling mechanism includes a magnetic coupling mechanism. For example, the coupling mechanism can include a first magnet 402 attached to a distal surface of the movable plunger 272 of the cartridge 236, a second magnet 406 attached to a proximal surface of a plunger rod 404 of the reusable medicament delivery device 350, and a release sleeve 400 (further described in detail below in Figure 13 When the cartridge is coupled to the coupling mechanism, the first magnet 402 and the second magnet 406 can be disposed along a central longitudinal axis 413 of the medicament delivery device 350. When the proximal end of the reusable medicament delivery device 350 is inserted into the medicament storage chamber 234, the distal end of the cartridge 236 containing the first magnet 402 moves distally within the reusable medicament delivery device 350 until the attractive force of the first magnet 402 and the second magnet 406 is strong enough to hold the cartridge 236 in place within the reusable medicament delivery device 350. When the user begins to deliver medicament from the reusable medicament delivery device 350 after coupling with the cartridge 236, the user triggers the drive mechanism 154, which moves the plunger rod 404 and the movable plunger 272 proximally toward the cannula 278, forcing medicament out of the cannula 278.

[0060] Figure 13A detailed view of the proximal end of the plunger rod 404 within the reusable drug delivery device 350, the distal end of the cartridge 236, and the release sleeve 400 is provided. The release sleeve 400 includes a hollow cylindrical body 401 that wraps around the outer surface of the drug delivery device 350. The release sleeve 400 also includes two release tabs 411a and 411b (individually or collectively referred to as tabs 411 as the case can be) that project radially inward from the inner surface of the cylindrical body 401 into the interior volume of the body 401. The tabs 411a and 411b are received within axially extending grooves 410a and 410b (individually or collectively referred to as grooves 410 as the case can be) that are defined within the housing 101 of the reusable drug delivery device 350. To decouple the cartridge 236 from the reusable drug delivery device 350, a user can grasp the cylindrical body 401 of the release sleeve 400 and push the release sleeve 400 in the direction of arrow 412 (i.e., in the proximal direction). As the release sleeve 400 moves proximally, the tabs 411 move proximally within the grooves 410 and exert a proximal force on the distal end 274 of the cartridge 236. This proximal force overcomes the magnetic force that holds the first and second magnets 402 and 406 together, thereby releasing the cartridge 236. To help ensure stable coupling of the cartridge 236 within the drug delivery device 350 and to help ensure alignment of the magnets 402 and 406, a guide member 408 can be used to prevent excessive movement of the cartridge 236 during use of the reusable drug delivery device 350. As shown in Figure 13 FIG. 6, the guide member 408 can take the form of two arcuate tabs that are sized to fit snugly within the inner circumference of the drug delivery device 350. However, the guide member 408 can take other forms, such as a flange, an O-ring, or a plurality of fins, that are received within guide slots defined on the inner surface of the drug delivery device 350. If desired, more than one guide member 408 can be used to improve stability and reduce unwanted movement of the cartridge 236 when coupled with the reusable drug delivery device 350. The guide member 408 can form part of the cartridge 236 or the drug delivery device housing 101.

[0061] In one example, an exemplary method of using a rechargeable medication storage dock device is provided. The dock device includes a port, a charging bay, a medication storage chamber aligned within the port, and a disposable cartridge storing a medication, the cartridge disposed within the medication storage chamber. A user can recharge a rechargeable power source mounted on a reusable medication delivery device by contacting at least a portion of the reusable medication delivery device with the charging bay. When the user is ready to administer the medication, the user can remove the medication delivery device from the charging bay and insert at least a portion of the medication delivery device through the port into the medication storage chamber to couple the cartridge with the medication delivery device, and then remove the medication delivery device from the medication storage chamber and administer the medication. The dock device can include a product identification system, such as a quick response (QR) code disposed on the dock device, where the user can scan the code to receive information about the medication. Alternatively, the dock device can also include a sensor configured to scan a quick response code (e.g., cartridge sensor 108). The dock device can also issue instructions or provide indications to the user through at least one of an audio speaker disposed on the dock device, one or more visual indicators disposed on the dock device, and wireless transmission to a mobile electronic device, where the visual indicators can include any one or any combination of one or more light emitting diodes, ring light, area light, and display. A smart phone can be connected to the dock device, where the user can issue commands to instruct the dock device to turn on, turn off, lock, or unlock a door to the port, or instruct a temperature changing device to maintain an internal temperature of the storage chamber at a storage temperature, and then instruct the dock device to increase the temperature inside the storage chamber to an administration temperature.

[0062] In one embodiment, the method can further include placing a used cartridge back into the medication storage chamber from which the cartridge was removed. To do so, the user can insert the medication delivery device through the port into the medication storage chamber from which the cartridge was obtained, and separate the cartridge from the medication delivery device. In some embodiments, the dock device can be comprised of a plurality of single-use cartridges, where the medication storage chamber is one of a plurality of medication storage chambers, each configured to hold one single-use cartridge of the plurality of cartridges. In some embodiments, the plurality of medication storage chambers can be defined within a movable medication bin. In such embodiments, the method can further include moving the medication bin to align another of the plurality of storage chambers with the port after the medication delivery device has been removed and / or used one single-use cartridge.

[0063] Figure 15A flowchart describing an exemplary process 1500 for a mobile electronic device to use a rechargeable drug storage dock device is provided. The process begins at step 1502, where a dock system is provided. The dock system includes a drug delivery device (e.g., device 150, 250, 350) having a rechargeable power source and a dock device (e.g., dock device 100, 200, 300). The dock device can include a port, a charging bay, a drug storage chamber, and a cartridge. The port can have a door configured to move between an open position and a closed position, or to switch between a locked configuration and an unlocked configuration. The charging bay is configured to charge the rechargeable power source on the reusable drug delivery device (directly or inductively) when at least a portion of the drug delivery device is placed in contact with the charging bay. The drug storage chamber is designed to align with the port. The cartridge is disposed within the drug storage chamber.

[0064] At step 1504, the process 1500 establishes a communication link between the dock device and a mobile electronic device (e.g., device 180). As previously described, the mobile electronic device can be any of, but is not limited to, a smartphone, a laptop, a pager, a smartwatch, a tablet, a desktop computer, or any device that can receive a transmission and subsequently send a responsive transmission. The communication link can be wireless or wired, and can be implemented through any of, but is not limited to, the following communication protocols or technologies: Bluetooth, RFID, NFC, fiber optic communication, universal serial bus (USB) communication, a wireless network such as Wi-Fi, a cellular network, or infrared (IR).

[0065] At step 1506, once the communication link is established, the mobile electronic device can send an instruction to the dock device to prepare the drug for administration. The instruction can be issued from the mobile electronic device based on user input at the mobile electronic device and / or based on a preprogrammed drug administration schedule.

[0066] At step 1508, in response to the received instruction that the drug is ready for administration, the dock device can open or unlock the door to the port to allow access to the cartridge. The dock device can, but is not required to, issue one or more indications to the user that the drug is ready for administration. The indication can be issued through any one or any combination of one or more audible sounds produced by at least one audio speaker disposed on the dock device, one or more visual indicators, and wireless transmission to the mobile electronic device. The visual indicators can also include any one or any combination of one or more light emitting diodes, ring lights, area lights, and / or displays. The indication can be issued before or after the port is unlocked or opened at step 1508.

[0067] At step 1510, the user can remove the drug delivery device from the charging dock. Once removed from the charging dock, the user can then insert the drug delivery device into the port to couple the drug delivery device with the cartridge at step 1512. After coupling the drug delivery device and the cartridge, the user can then remove the drug delivery device to remove the cartridge from the drug storage chamber at step 1514. Once removed from the port, the user can activate the drug delivery device to administer the drug. The process 1500 can further include setting the cartridge by inserting the drug delivery device into the port and decoupling the used cartridge from the drug delivery device to store the used cartridge in the drug storage chamber. For example, the user can move the release sleeve 400 (as shown in Figures 12-13

[0068] In some embodiments, the docking device can further include a temperature altering device for controlling the internal temperature of the drug storage chamber. The temperature altering device can adjust the internal temperature of the drug storage chamber, for example, by cooling the internal temperature of the drug storage chamber to a storage temperature (e.g., 30-34 degrees Fahrenheit). In such embodiments, in response to the instruction that the drug is ready for administration (step 1506), the docking device can use the temperature altering device to raise the internal temperature of the drug storage chamber to an administration temperature (e.g., room temperature). Optionally, once the internal temperature of the storage chamber reaches the administration temperature, the docking device can use the aforementioned indication methods to issue one or more indications to notify the user that the cartridge is ready for administration, for example, using the speaker 222 or the user interface 106.

[0069] The terms "first," "second," "third," etc. are used herein, in the description of embodiments of the application and in the claims, to differentiate between similar elements and are not necessarily used in a sequential or chronological sense. It will be understood that the terms so used are interchangeable under appropriate circumstances and are not to be construed as a limitation on the scope of the embodiments of the disclosure described herein.

[0070] While this application has been described as having exemplary designs, the present application can be further modified within the spirit and scope of the disclosure. This application is therefore intended to cover any variations, uses, or modifications of the application using its general principles. Further, this application is intended to cover such departures from the present disclosure as come within known or customary practice in the art to which this application pertains.

[0071] This disclosure describes a number of aspects, including but not limited to the following aspects:

[0072] ​1. A rechargeable drug storage dock device for a drug delivery device, the dock device comprising: a housing defining a port sized to receive at least a portion of a drug delivery device; a charging receptacle disposed on the housing configured to charge a rechargeable power source mounted on the drug delivery device when at least a portion of the drug delivery device is positioned proximate the charging receptacle; and a drug storage chamber configured to align with the port, the drug storage chamber configured to store a drug cartridge; wherein the drug storage chamber is configured to allow the drug delivery device to extract the drug cartridge from the drug storage chamber when at least a portion of the drug delivery device is inserted into the drug storage chamber through the port and then extracted from the drug storage chamber.

[0073] 2. The dock device of aspect 1, wherein the drug cartridge comprises a syringe having a barrel storing a drug, a needle, and a movable plunger.

[0074] 3. The dock device of any of aspects 1-2, further comprising a drug cartridge storing a drug.

[0075] 4. The dock device of any of aspects 1-3, wherein: the drug delivery device comprises a proximal end and a distal end; and the port is configured to receive at least the proximal end of the drug delivery device.

[0076] 5. The dock device of any of aspects 1-4, further comprising a cooling device configured to lower an internal temperature of the drug storage chamber.

[0077] 6. The dock device of any of aspects 1-4, further comprising a heating device configured to raise an internal temperature of the drug storage chamber.

[0078] 7. The dock device of any of aspects 1-4, further comprising a temperature changing device configured to lower and raise an internal temperature of the drug storage chamber.

[0079] 8. The dock device of any of aspects 1-7, wherein: the drug cartridge is a first drug cartridge of a plurality of drug cartridges, the drug storage chamber is a first drug storage chamber of a plurality of drug storage chambers, the plurality of drug storage chambers being defined within a drug magazine disposed at least partially within the housing; and each drug storage chamber of the plurality of drug storage chambers is configured to store one drug cartridge of the plurality of drug cartridges.

[0080] 9. The dock device of aspect 8, wherein the drug magazine is movable so as to position only one of the plurality of drug storage chambers in alignment with the port at a time.

[0081] 10. The hub device of aspect 9, wherein the medication cartridge is configured to rotate so as to position only one of the plurality of medication storage chambers in alignment with the port at a time.

[0082] 11. The hub device of any of aspects 1-7, wherein: the port is a first port of a plurality of ports defined in the housing, each port sized to receive at least a portion of the medication delivery device; the medication cartridge is a first medication cartridge of a plurality of medication cartridges; and the medication storage chamber is a first medication storage chamber of a plurality of medication storage chambers, each medication storage chamber disposed in alignment with a separate one of the plurality of ports and each medication storage chamber configured to store one of the plurality of medication cartridges.

[0083] 12. The hub device of any of aspects 1-11, wherein the medication storage chamber is configured to store the medication cartridge after the medication cartridge is used and separated from the medication delivery device.

[0084] 13. The hub device of any of aspects 1-12, wherein the hub device further comprises: a communication device; and a controller configured to: receive, via the communication device, data recorded by a sensor mounted on the medication delivery device, and transmit, via the communication device, information based on such recorded data to a remote server.

[0085] 14. The hub device of any of claims 1-12, wherein the hub device further comprises: one or more sensors configured to record data indicative of a status of the hub device; a communication device; and a controller configured to transmit, via the communication device, data based on the recorded data to a remote server.

[0086] 15. A system for delivering and storing medication, the system comprising a rechargeable medication storage hub device and a medication delivery device according to any of aspects 1-14.

[0087] 16. The system of aspect 15, wherein the medication delivery device comprises a coupling mechanism configured to releasably couple with the medication cartridge.

[0088] 17. The system of aspect 16, wherein the coupling mechanism is a magnetic coupling mechanism.

[0089] 18. The system of aspect 17, wherein the coupling mechanism on the medication delivery device comprises a first magnet and a release sleeve, and wherein the medication cartridge comprises a second magnet configured to couple with the first magnet.

[0090] 19. The system of any of aspects 17-18, wherein the coupling mechanism is configured to allow a user to separate the cartridge from the drug delivery device by moving the release sleeve.

[0091] 20. The system of aspect 19, wherein the release sleeve comprises a hollow cylindrical body and one or more tabs extending into an interior volume of the cylindrical body, wherein when a user moves the release sleeve in a proximal direction, the one or more tabs exert a proximal force on a distal end of the cartridge to overcome the magnetic attractive force between the first magnet and the second magnet.

[0092] 21. A method for using a drug delivery device and a rechargeable drug storage dock device for the drug delivery device, the dock device having a port, a charging bay, a drug storage chamber aligned with the port, and a cartridge of a drug stored within the drug storage chamber, the method comprising: placing at least a portion of the drug delivery device in proximity to the charging bay to charge a rechargeable power source mounted on the drug delivery device; removing the drug delivery device from the charging bay; inserting at least a portion of the drug delivery device through the port into the drug storage chamber to couple the drug delivery device with the cartridge of the drug stored within the drug storage chamber; and removing the drug delivery device from the port once the drug delivery device is coupled with the cartridge to remove the cartridge from the drug storage chamber.

[0093] 22. The method of aspect 21, wherein a quick response (QR) code is disposed on the dock device, the quick response code containing information about the drug.

[0094] 23. The method of any of aspects 21-22, wherein the dock device provides an indication to a user that the cartridge is ready for use by at least one of an audio speaker disposed on the dock device, one or more visual indicators disposed on the dock device, and a wireless transmission to a mobile electronic device.

[0095] 24. The method of any of aspects 21-23, wherein the port is covered by a door, and the dock device is controlled by a smartphone such that a user can instruct the dock device to open, close, lock, or unlock the door.

[0096] 25. The method of any of aspects 21-23, wherein the dock device is controlled by a smartphone, and the dock device further comprises a temperature changing device configured to cool an interior temperature of the drug storage chamber to a storage temperature, the method further comprising instructing the dock device, by the smartphone, to raise the interior temperature of the drug storage chamber using the temperature changing device.

[0097] 26. The method of any of aspects 21-25, further comprising, after actuating the drug delivery device to administer the drug, reinserting at least a portion of the drug delivery device into the drug storage chamber through the port and releasing the cartridge coupled with the drug delivery device into the drug storage chamber for disposal.

[0098] 27. The method of any of aspects 21-26, wherein the cartridge is a first cartridge of a plurality of cartridges, the drug storage chamber is a first drug storage chamber of a plurality of drug storage chambers, the plurality of drug storage chambers are defined within a drug magazine disposed within the socket device, and each of the plurality of drug storage chambers is configured to store one of the plurality of cartridges, the method further comprising, after removing the drug delivery device coupled with the first cartridge from the port, thereby removing the first cartridge from the first drug storage chamber, moving the drug magazine to position another of the plurality of drug storage chambers in alignment with the port.

[0099] 28. A method for using a rechargeable drug storage socket system in conjunction with a mobile electronic device, comprising: providing a socket system comprising: a drug delivery device having a rechargeable power source, and a socket device comprising: a port having a door configured to at least one of (i) move between an open position and a closed position, and (ii) transition between a locked configuration and an unlocked configuration; a charging receptacle configured to charge the rechargeable power source of the drug delivery device when at least a portion of the drug delivery device is placed in proximity to the charging receptacle; a drug storage chamber; and a cartridge storing a drug disposed within the drug storage chamber, establishing a communication link between the socket device and the mobile electronic device; sending an instruction from the mobile electronic device to the socket device to prepare the cartridge for drug administration, wherein the instruction causes the socket device to move the door to the open position or transition the door to the unlocked configuration to allow access to the cartridge; removing the drug delivery device from the charging receptacle; inserting the drug delivery device into the port to couple the drug delivery device with the cartridge; and removing the drug delivery device from the port once the drug delivery device is coupled with the cartridge to remove the cartridge from the drug storage chamber.

[0100] 29. The method of aspect 28 further comprising disposing the cartridge by inserting the drug delivery device into the port, decoupling the cartridge from the drug delivery device, and placing the cartridge into the drug storage chamber.

[0101] 30. The method of any of aspects 28-29, wherein the socket device further comprises a temperature altering device configured to control an internal temperature of the medication storage chamber, the method further comprising: cooling, using the temperature altering device, the internal temperature of the medication storage chamber to a storage temperature; in response to the received instruction, raising, using the temperature altering device, the internal temperature of the medication storage chamber to a dosing temperature; and providing the indication to the user only after the internal temperature of the medication storage chamber has reached the dosing temperature.

[0102] 31. The method of any of aspects 28-30, wherein the indication can be issued by at least one of one or more audible sounds produced by at least one audio speaker disposed on the socket device, one or more visual indicators disposed on the socket device, and one or more wireless transmissions from the socket device to the mobile electronic device.

Claims

1. A rechargeable medicine storage socket device for a medicine delivery device, the socket device comprising: a housing defining a port, the port sized to receive at least a portion of a medicine delivery device; a charging receptacle disposed on the housing, the charging receptacle configured to charge a rechargeable power source mounted on the medicine delivery device when at least a portion of the medicine delivery device is positioned proximate the charging receptacle; and a medicine storage chamber configured to align with the port, the medicine storage chamber configured to store a cartridge; wherein: the medicine storage chamber is configured to allow the medicine delivery device to extract the cartridge from the medicine storage chamber when at least a portion of the medicine delivery device is inserted into the medicine storage chamber through the port and then extracted from the medicine storage chamber; the cartridge is a first cartridge of a plurality of cartridges; the medicine storage chamber is a first medicine storage chamber of a plurality of medicine storage chambers defined within a medicine bin disposed at least partially within the housing; each medicine storage chamber of the plurality of medicine storage chambers is configured to store one cartridge of a plurality of cartridges; the medicine bin is movable so as to position only one of the plurality of medicine storage chambers in alignment with the port at a time; and each medicine storage chamber is configured to receive and store the cartridge within the medicine storage chamber after the cartridge is used and separated from the medicine delivery device. the cartridge comprises a syringe having a barrel storing a medicine, a needle, and a movable plunger.

2. The socket apparatus of claim 1, wherein, 3. The socket device of any one of claims 1, further comprising the cartridge, the cartridge storing a medicine.

4. The socket device of any one of claims 1-3, wherein: the medicine delivery device comprises a proximal end and a distal end; and the port is configured to receive at least the proximal end of the medicine delivery device.

5. The socket device of any one of claims 1-3, further comprising a cooling device configured to lower an internal temperature of the medicine storage chamber.

6. The socket device of any one of claims 1-3, further comprising a heating device configured to raise an internal temperature of the medicine storage chamber.

7. The socket device of any one of claims 1-3, further comprising a temperature changing device configured to lower and raise an internal temperature of the medicine storage chamber. the medicine bin is configured to be rotatable so as to position only one of the plurality of medicine storage chambers in alignment with the port at a time.

8. The receptacle device of any one of claims 1-3, wherein, the socket device further comprising:

9. The receptacle device of any one of claims 1-3, wherein, a communication device; and a controller configured to: receive, by the communication device, data recorded by a sensor mounted on the medicine delivery device; and transmit, via the communication device, information based on the recorded data to a remote server. the socket device further comprising:

10. The receptacle device of any one of claims 1-3, wherein, one or more sensors configured to record data indicative of a status of the socket device; a communication device; and a controller configured to transmit, via the communication device, data based on the recorded data to a remote server. ​ 11. A method of using a drug delivery device and a rechargeable drug storage socket device for said drug delivery device, said socket device having a port, a charging base, a drug storage chamber aligned with said port, and a cartridge for storing a drug disposed in the drug storage chamber, said method comprising: At least a portion of the drug delivery device is positioned close to the charging base to charge a rechargeable power source mounted on the drug delivery device. Remove the drug delivery device from the charging dock; At least a portion of the drug delivery device is inserted through a port into the drug storage chamber to connect the drug delivery device to a cartridge stored in the drug storage chamber. Once the drug delivery device is connected to the cartridge, remove the drug delivery device from the port to remove the cartridge from the drug storage chamber; and After the drug delivery device is activated to administer the drug, at least a portion of the drug delivery device is reinserted into the drug storage chamber through the port, and the cartridge connected to the drug delivery device is released into the drug storage chamber for disposal. Wherein, the cartridge is the first cartridge among a plurality of cartridges, the drug storage chamber is the first drug storage chamber among a plurality of drug storage chambers defined in a drug compartment disposed within a socket device, each of the plurality of drug storage chambers is configured to store one of the plurality of cartridges, and the drug compartment is movable so that only one of the plurality of drug storage chambers is positioned to align with the port at a time.

12. The method of claim 11, wherein, The socket device is provided with a quick response code, which contains information about the drug.

13. The method of claim 11, wherein, The socket device provides the user with an indication that the cartridge is ready for use through at least one of an audio speaker disposed on the socket device, one or more visual indicators disposed on the socket device, and wireless transmission to a mobile electronic device.

14. The method of any one of claims 11-13, wherein, The port is covered by a door, and the socket device is controlled via a smartphone, allowing the user to instruct the socket device to open, close, lock, or unlock the door.

15. The method of any one of claims 11-13, wherein, The socket device is controlled by a smartphone and also includes a temperature changing device configured to cool the internal temperature of the drug storage chamber to the storage temperature. The method further includes commanding the socket device to use the temperature changing device to raise the internal temperature of the drug storage chamber via the smartphone.

16. The method of any one of claims 11-13, wherein, The method further includes: After removing the drug delivery device connected to the first cartridge from the port to remove the first cartridge from the first drug storage chamber, the drug chamber is moved to position another drug storage chamber among the plurality of drug storage chambers to align with the port.

Images