Liquid delivery cap devices, systems and methods

Abstract

To provide devices, systems and methods related to cap devices of a liquid delivery device, e.g., cap devices configured to detect a plunger of the liquid delivery device.SOLUTION: A cap device of a liquid delivery system is provided. In some embodiments, an example cap device includes: a body 110 defining a cavity configured to receive at least a portion of a liquid delivery device; a first sensor 140 configured to output a first sensor signal indicative of a plunger 205 of the liquid delivery device; and a processor configured to detect a plunger of the liquid delivery device based on a variation in the sensor signal of the first sensor.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 2

Description

CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

[0001] This application claims priority to U.S. Application No. 62 / 648,046, filed March 26, 2018. The disclosure of the prior application is considered part of the disclosure of this application and is incorporated herein in its entirety. [Technical field]

[0002] The present disclosure relates to devices, systems, and methods relating to a capping device for a liquid delivery device, for example a capping device configured to detect a plunger of the liquid delivery device. [Background technology]

[0003] Liquid delivery systems are commonly used to deliver measured amounts of medication to patients. For example, pen syringe delivery devices are used to deliver measured amounts of medication. The device includes a delivery end that is capped for storage between uses and a plunger that is movable within a reservoir to dispense a measured dose. The cap device can protect the delivery end from damage during storage and can be used to display information to the user, such as the time since the cap was last removed or information about the contents of the delivery device upon previous use of the delivery device. Summary of the Invention

[0004] Some embodiments described herein include capping devices, systems, and methods configured to detect a state of a liquid delivery device and output dosage information based on the detected state. For example, a liquid delivery system may include a liquid delivery device having a reservoir and a movable plunger for pushing liquid from the reservoir, and a capping device configured to cover at least a delivery end of the liquid delivery device. The capping device includes one or more sensors configured to detect a state of the liquid delivery device, such as a position of the plunger. The position of the plunger can be utilized to determine an amount of liquid in the reservoir, dosage information (e.g., a previously delivered dosage), and / or other information related to the liquid delivery device and its operation.

[0005] Some exemplary capping devices optionally include a body and a sensor carriage movably disposed within the body. The sensor carriage may include one or more sensors that output a sensor signal. The sensor signal may vary based on a characteristic of the liquid delivery sensor encountered by the one or more sensors, such as the liquid in the plunger or reservoir. In some embodiments, the sensor carriage may be movable between a first position and a second position without user manipulation, or may be movable without further user manipulation by placing the capping device on the liquid delivery device.

[0006] Some exemplary capping devices may facilitate accurate and repeatable detection of the plunger position of a liquid delivery device and thereby detection of a previously delivered dosage or remaining volume in a reservoir. Alternatively / additionally, some embodiments facilitate accurate and repeatable measurements by reducing manual manipulation during detection. For example, the sensor carriage may be moved between a first position and a second position with the liquid delivery device in a fixed position relative to the body of the capping device and without additional manual manipulation by a user beyond engaging the liquid delivery device with the capping device.

[0007] In some embodiments, the sensor carriage can be pushed into the cavity of the cap device by engaging the liquid delivery device with the cap device. The sensor carriage can be optionally movable with the liquid delivery device until the cap device is retained on the liquid delivery device, after which the sensor carriage can be released. One or more sensors of the sensor carriage can be configured to scan the liquid delivery device while the sensor carriage moves from a first position to a second position. The cap device can then be reset by disengaging or removing the liquid delivery device from the cap device and thereafter be able to engage the liquid delivery device. Thus, in some exemplary embodiments, the cap device can be configured to repeatedly and reliably scan the liquid delivery device to detect its plunger and / or evaluate the characteristics of the liquid delivery device and its use.

[0008] In some optional embodiments, the capping device includes one or more sensors configured to output a sensor signal indicative of a characteristic of the liquid delivery device, and one or more position sensors configured to output a sensor signal related to the position. For example, the capping device may include first and second optical sensors configured to output a sensor signal indicative of a plunger of the liquid delivery device, and a linear potentiometer configured to output a sensor signal that can be used to determine a corresponding position of the plunger. In various exemplary embodiments, the capping device may optionally include one or more of a color sensor, an infrared sensor, an image sensor, and / or one or more of a rotary encoder, a linear encoder, a membrane potentiometer, a magnet potentiometer, and the like.

[0009] Certain embodiments described herein include a cap device for a liquid delivery system including a body defining a cavity configured to accommodate at least a portion of the liquid delivery device, and a sensor carriage movable within the cavity and including a first sensor, The sensor carriage can be movable between a first position and a second position relative to the cavity while the liquid delivery device is in a fixed position relative to the cavity.

[0010] In some implementations, the system may optionally include one or more of the following features: The cavity may be defined by a front wall and one or more side walls of the body, and the body may define an opening to the cavity. The sensor carriage in the first position may be disposed near the front wall. The sensor carriage in the second position may be disposed near the opening. The device may further comprise a spring biased to move the sensor carriage from the first position to the second position. The first sensor may be configured to output a sensor signal indicative of a physical characteristic of the liquid delivery device. The first sensor may be configured to output a sensor signal indicative of a plunger of the liquid delivery device while the sensor carriage moves between the first position and the second position. The sensor carriage may include a first transmissive sensor. The sensor carriage may include a first reflective sensor. The sensor carriage may include an optical sensor having a first optical emitter aligned with a first optical receiver. The first sensor may include an optical path between the first optical emitter and the first optical receiver, the optical path may be perpendicular to a longitudinal axis of the cavity of the cap device. The optical path may not intersect with a central longitudinal axis of the cavity of the cap device. The sensor carriage may include a second optical sensor having a second optical emitter aligned with the second optical receiver. The first optical emitter may not be aligned with the second optical receiver, and the second optical emitter may not be aligned with the first optical receiver. The device may further include a position sensor. The device may further include a processor configured to detect the plunger of the liquid delivery device based on a variation in the sensor signal of the first sensor and determine a corresponding position based on the sensor signal output by the position sensor. The position sensor may include a linear potentiometer, the linear potentiometer may include a resistive element and a wiper movable along the resistive element. The wiper may be disposed on the sensor carriage. An output of the linear potentiometer may indicate a position of the sensor carriage. The position sensor may include a linear encoder, which may include a codestrip and an encoder movable along the codestrip.The position sensor may include a rotary encoder, which may include a code wheel and an encoder.

[0011] Certain embodiments described herein include a liquid delivery system including a liquid delivery device including a reservoir, a liquid in the reservoir, and a plunger movable within the reservoir to dispense the liquid from the reservoir, a cap device including a body defining a cavity configured to accommodate at least a portion of the liquid delivery device, a sensor carriage movable within the cavity, and including one or more sensors configured to output a sensor signal indicative of a physical characteristic of the liquid delivery, and a position sensor. The sensor carriage can be movable between a first position and a second position relative to the cavity with the liquid delivery device in a fixed position relative to the cavity.

[0012] In some implementations, the system may optionally include one or more of the following features: The capping device may include a processor configured to detect the plunger of the liquid delivery device based on a variation in the sensor signal of the first sensor and determine a corresponding position based on the sensor signal of the position sensor. The processor may be disposed within the capping device. The one or more sensors disposed on the sensor carriage may include a first and a second optical sensor, the first optical sensor having a first optical emitter aligned with the first optical receiver, and the second optical sensor having an optical emitter aligned with the second optical receiver. The first optical sensor may include an optical path between the first optical emitter and the first optical receiver, the optical path may be perpendicular to a central longitudinal axis of the cavity of the capping device. The first optical path may not intersect with the central longitudinal axis of the cavity of the capping device.

[0013] Certain embodiments described herein include a method of evaluating a condition of a liquid delivery device that includes housing at least a portion of a liquid delivery device within a cavity of a cap device, releasing a sensor carriage including one or more sensors to move the sensor carriage from a first position to a second position while the liquid delivery device remains in a fixed position within the cavity, and evaluating an output of the one or more sensors indicative of a presence of a characteristic of the liquid delivery device.

[0014] In some implementations, the method may optionally include one or more of the following features. The method may further include evaluating, by a processor in the capping device, an output of the position sensor to evaluate a position of a feature of the liquid delivery device. The feature of the liquid delivery device may be a plunger. The one or more sensors may include first and second optical sensors, and the position sensor may include a linear potentiometer including a resistive element and a wiper. The wiper may be disposed on the sensor carriage.

[0015] Certain embodiments described herein include a liquid delivery system cap device comprising a body defining a cavity configured to accommodate a liquid delivery device and means for moving one or more plunger sensors with the cavity.

[0016] In some implementations, the system may optionally include one or more of the following features: The cap device may further include means for detecting a position of the one or more plunger sensors.

[0017] Certain embodiments described herein include a cap device for a liquid delivery system, the cap device comprising: a body defining a cavity configured to accommodate at least a portion of the liquid delivery device; a first sensor configured to output a first sensor signal indicative of a plunger of the liquid delivery device; a second sensor configured to output a second sensor signal indicative of a position; and a processor configured to detect the plunger of the liquid delivery device based on a variation in the sensor signal of the first sensor and determine a corresponding position based on the sensor signal output by the second sensor. The second sensor may include a linear encoder including a code strip and an encoder.

[0018] In some implementations, the system may optionally include one or more of the following features: The linear encoder may be a reflective linear encoder. The linear encoder may be a transmissive linear encoder. The encoder may be disposed on a sensor carriage movable between a first position and a second position within the cavity. The first sensor may be fixed relative to the body. The first sensor may be disposed on the sensor carriage and movable between the first position and the second position. The cap device may include a first spring biased to move the sensor carriage between the first position and the second position. The sensor carriage may include a second spring frictionally engaging the body while the sensor carriage moves between the first position and the second position. When the sensor carriage is movable between the first position and the second position, the encoder may be spaced apart from the code strip.

[0019] Certain embodiments described herein include a capping device for a liquid delivery system, the capping device comprising: a body defining a cavity configured to accommodate at least a portion of the liquid delivery device; a first sensor configured to output a first sensor signal indicative of a plunger of the liquid delivery device; a second sensor configured to output a second sensor signal indicative of a position; and a processor configured to detect the plunger of the liquid delivery device based on a variation in the sensor signal of the first sensor and determine a corresponding position based on the sensor signal output by the second sensor. The second sensor may include a rotary encoder including a code wheel and an encoder.

[0020] In some implementations, the system may optionally include one or more of the following features: The capping device may include a track and a carriage movable between a first position and a second position along the track, and the carriage may be configured to accommodate a delivery end of the liquid delivery device. The track may include a helical slot, and the track may be rotatable by movement of the carriage between the first position and the second position along the helical slot. Rotation of the track may rotate the code wheel. The capping device may include a gear train, and rotation of the track may be transmitted to the code wheel via the gear train. The carriage may not include a sensor or sensor component. The first sensor may be fixedly positioned relative to a body of the capping device. The first sensor may be positioned on a carriage movable between the first position and the second position.

[0021] Certain embodiments described herein include a method of evaluating a condition of a liquid delivery device that includes receiving at least a portion of the liquid delivery device within a cavity of a capping device. A first sensor generates a first sensor signal indicative of a characteristic of the liquid delivery device. A second sensor generates a second sensor signal output indicative of a position relative to the first sensor signal output. The first sensor signal output and the sensor signal output are evaluated to determine a position of the characteristic of the liquid delivery device.

[0022] In some implementations, the system may optionally include one or more of the following features: The second sensor may include a linear encoder including a code strip and an encoder, and generating the second sensor signal output includes moving the encoder along the code strip. The second sensor may include a rotary encoder including a code wheel and an encoder, and generating the second sensor signal output includes relative rotation between the code wheel and the encoder. The feature may be a plunger of the liquid delivery device. The method may further include displaying an output related to a position of the plunger. The output may be an amount of a previous dose delivered from the liquid delivery device.

[0023] Certain embodiments described herein include a capping device for a liquid delivery system, the capping device including a body defining a cavity configured to accommodate at least a portion of the liquid delivery device, a sensor carriage movable within the cavity and including a first sensor, and a motor configured to move the sensor carriage, the sensor carriage being movable between a first position and a second position relative to the cavity while the liquid delivery device is in a fixed position relative to the cavity.

[0024] In some implementations, the device may optionally include one or more of the following features: The electric motor may be configured to drive the sensor carriage along a portion of the liquid delivery device. The cavity may be defined by a front wall and one or more side walls of the body, and the body may define an opening to the cavity. The first sensor may be configured to output a sensor signal indicative of a physical characteristic of the liquid delivery device. The first sensor may be configured to output a sensor signal indicative of a plunger of the liquid delivery device while the sensor carriage moves between the first position and the second position. The device may further include a sleeve configured to accommodate at least a portion of the liquid delivery device. The sensor carriage may be configured to move along an exterior of the sleeve. The first sensor may include an optical path between a first optical emitter and a first optical receiver, the optical path may be perpendicular to a longitudinal axis of the cavity of the cap device. The optical path may pass through a material thickness of the sleeve. The sensor carriage may include a second optical sensor having a second optical emitter aligned with the second optical receiver. The first optical emitter may be misaligned with the second optical receiver, and the second optical emitter may be misaligned with the first optical receiver. The device may include a position sensor. The device may include a processor configured to detect a plunger of the liquid delivery device based on a variation in a sensor signal of the first sensor and determine a corresponding position based on the sensor signal output by the position sensor. The position sensor may include a linear encoder, and the linear encoder may include a code strip and an encoder movable along the code strip.

[0025] Certain embodiments described herein include a liquid delivery system comprising a liquid delivery device including a reservoir, a liquid in the reservoir, and a plunger movable within the reservoir to dispense the liquid from the reservoir. The system further comprises a body defining a cavity configured to accommodate at least a portion of the liquid delivery device, a sensor carriage movable within the cavity, the sensor carriage including one or more sensors configured to output a sensor signal indicative of a physical characteristic, a motor configured to move the sensor carriage, and a capping device including a position sensor. The sensor carriage is movable between a first position and a second position relative to the cavity while the liquid delivery device is in a fixed position relative to the cavity.

[0026] In some implementations, the system may optionally include one or more of the following features: The system may include a processor configured to detect a plunger of the liquid delivery device based on a variation in a sensor signal of a first sensor and determine a corresponding position based on a sensor signal output by a position sensor. The processor may be disposed in the cap device. The one or more sensors disposed on the sensor carriage include a first and a second optical sensor, the first optical sensor having a first optical emitter aligned with the first optical receiver, and the second optical sensor having an optical emitter aligned with the second optical receiver.

[0027] Certain embodiments described herein include a method of evaluating a condition of a liquid delivery device that includes housing at least a portion of a liquid delivery device within a cavity of a cap device, actuating a sensor carriage including one or more sensors to move the liquid delivery device from a first position to a second position while the liquid delivery device remains in a fixed position within the cavity, and evaluating an output of the one or more sensors indicative of a presence of a characteristic of the liquid delivery device.

[0028] In some implementations, the system can optionally include one or more of the following features: Driving the sensor carriage can include driving the sensor carriage by an electric motor. The method can include evaluating, by a processor in the capping apparatus, an output of the position sensor to evaluate a position of a feature of the liquid delivery device. The feature of the liquid delivery device can be a plunger.

[0029] Certain embodiments described herein include a liquid delivery system cap device comprising a body defining a cavity configured to accommodate a liquid delivery device and means for moving one or more plunger sensors with the cavity.

[0030] In some implementations, the system may optionally include one or more of the following features: The means for moving may include an electric motor.

[0031] Certain embodiments described herein include a capping device for a liquid delivery system that includes a movable sensor means and a motor configured to move the movable sensor means.

[0032] The devices, systems, and techniques described herein may provide one or more of the following advantages. First, some embodiments described herein include a cap device that can facilitate accurate and repeatable measurements associated with a liquid delivery device. For example, a sensor carriage carrying a sensor component (and / or movable under constraints or without manual user manipulation) can facilitate the achievement of a constant movement speed and / or acceleration that facilitates the achievement of a constant and predictable sensor signal. User influence on the movement of the sensor carriage can be reduced, and manufacturing design tolerances that may cause wobble or other inadvertent movement of the sensor carriage during operation of the sensor carriage can be reduced.

[0033] Second, some embodiments described herein may facilitate accurate and repeatable measurements associated with the liquid delivery device by using a combination of sensor types. In some embodiments, the cap device includes one or more optical sensors along with position sensors, such as, for example, linear potentiometers, optical encoders, rotary encoders, magnetic potentiometers, membrane potentiometers, load cells, etc. Such a combination of sensor types facilitates accurate assessment of the relative positions of various features of the liquid delivery device and / or changes in the positions of various features during subsequent scanning of the liquid delivery device.

[0034] Third, the cap device may include a relatively small number of sensors, which may facilitate efficient and cost-effective manufacturing and assembly processes. In some embodiments, the cap device includes one or two liquid delivery device sensors, such as one or two optical sensors (e.g., plunger sensors), and a position sensor, such as a linear potentiometer, an optical encoder, a rotary encoder, a magnetic potentiometer, a membrane potentiometer, etc. Thus, such a configuration includes a relatively small number of sensors, reducing the number of assembly and / or calibration steps that may be appropriate when assembling many sensors to the cap device instead of such a configuration.

[0035] Fourth, various embodiments described herein may include a capping device that is compatible with various types of liquid delivery devices. For example, the capping device may facilitate accurate and repeatable measurements when used with different types of liquid delivery devices that differ from one another in shape, size, and features that interact differently with the sensor and other features of the capping device. One or more optical sensors of the sensor carriage may be oriented to obtain a predetermined line of sight that facilitates reliable plunger detection for various different types of liquid delivery devices. For example, the optical sensors may be positioned such that at least one optical sensor is positioned to detect the plunger even if another optical sensor is obstructed by a feature of the liquid delivery device in a particular case.

[0036] Fifth, some of the cap devices described herein improve the usability of the liquid delivery system by automating some of the actions associated with measuring and managing dosage. For example, the cap device may provide an output that informs the user of the previously delivered dose of liquid, the time since the last dose, the number of doses remaining, the amount of liquid remaining, and the expected remaining life of the liquid delivery device.

[0037] Sixth, in some optional embodiments, the capping device described herein can improve the ease of use of the liquid delivery system by facilitating semi-automatic or automatic operation. For example, little or no manual operation may be required other than engaging the capping device with the liquid delivery device. In some optional embodiments including a movable sensor carriage, the sensor carriage can be placed in a first position by engaging the capping device with the liquid delivery device, and the sensor carriage can be automatically released to move from the first position to a second position upon an operation of scanning the liquid supply device.

[0038] Seventh, some embodiments described herein facilitate the realization of a durable capping device that can operate for extended periods of time and / or can be used with many liquid delivery devices. For example, a single capping device can be reusable with many disposable liquid delivery devices. Sensors of the capping device, such as one or more plunger sensors, and position sensors, such as one or more optical sensors, load sensors, linear potentiometers, optical encoders, rotary encoders, magnetic potentiometers, membrane potentiometers, etc., can provide a consistent and / or predictable output over the operational life of the capping device.

[0039] Eighth, some embodiments described herein provide controlled sensor movement that may provide reliable and repeatable detection. For example, a motorized drive system may drive the sensor carriage substantially independent of manual input or movement. In some embodiments, the motorized drive system may drive the sensor carriage at various speeds, in multiple directions, etc., to improve detection. Alternatively / additionally, the movement of the sensor carriage may be delayed a predetermined time after engagement between the capping device and the liquid delivery device to facilitate measurement during little or no movement or external force in the system.

[0040] The details of one or more embodiments are set forth in the accompanying drawings and the description below. Other features and advantages will become apparent from the description and drawings, and from the claims. [Brief description of the drawings]

[0041] [Figure 1] FIG. 1 is an exploded perspective view of an exemplary liquid delivery system including a capping device. [Diagram 2] FIG. 2 is a cross-sectional view of the exemplary liquid delivery system of FIG. [Diagram 3] FIG. 3 is a partial cross-sectional view of the example liquid delivery system of FIG. 1 showing a sensor carriage including one or more sensor components. [Figure 4] 4 is a perspective view of a sensor carriage of the exemplary fluid delivery system of FIG. [Figure 5A] 5A is an end view of a capping device of the exemplary liquid delivery system shown in FIG. [Figure 5B] 5B is a perspective view of the liquid delivery system of FIG. 1. FIG. [Figure 5C] FIG. 5C is a partial cross-sectional view of the exemplary liquid delivery system of FIG. 1 illustrating the movement of the sensor carriage as the liquid delivery device is received in the cavity of the cap device. [Figure 6A]FIG. 6A illustrates the sensor carriage of the example fluid delivery system of FIG. 1 in a first position, an intermediate position, and a second position. [Figure 6B] FIG. 6B illustrates the sensor carriage of the example fluid delivery system of FIG. 1 in a first position, an intermediate position, and a second position. [Figure 6C] FIG. 6C illustrates the sensor carriage of the example fluid delivery system of FIG. 1 in a first position, an intermediate position, and a second position. [Figure 7A] FIG. 7A is a cross-sectional view of the example fluid delivery system of FIG. 1 showing the engagement features of the sensor carriage in an extended position. [Figure 7B] FIG. 7B is a cross-sectional view of the example fluid delivery system of FIG. 1 showing the engagement features of the sensor carriage in a retracted position. [Figure 8] FIG. 8 is a partial cross-sectional view of the exemplary liquid delivery system of FIG. 1, including the rotation feature of the capping device. [Figure 9A] FIG. 9A is a partial perspective view of an exemplary fluid delivery device. [Figure 9B] FIG. 9B is a cross-sectional view of the exemplary fluid delivery device of FIG. 9A. [Figure 10A] FIG. 10A illustrates an exemplary sensor carriage including arms in an extended or engaged state. [Figure 10B] FIG. 10B illustrates an exemplary sensor carriage including the arms in an extended or engaged state. [Figure 10C] FIG. 10C illustrates an exemplary sensor carriage including the arms in a retracted or released state. [Figure 10D] FIG. 10D illustrates an exemplary sensor carriage including the arms in a retracted or released state. [Figure 11A] FIG. 11A shows an example of a sensor carriage in multiple positions within a cap device. [Figure 11B] FIG. 11B shows an example of a sensor carriage in multiple positions within a cap device. [Figure 11C] FIG. 11C shows an example of a sensor carriage in multiple positions within a cap device. [Figure 11D] FIG. 11D shows an example of a sensor carriage in multiple positions within a cap device. [Figure 11E] FIG. 11E shows an example of a sensor carriage in multiple positions within a cap device. [Figure 11F] FIG. 11F shows an example of a sensor carriage in multiple positions within a cap device. [Figure 12] FIG. 12 is a cross-sectional view of an exemplary fluid delivery device including a linear encoder. [Figure 13] FIG. 13 is a cross-sectional view of an exemplary fluid delivery device including a rotary encoder. [Figure 14] FIG. 14 is a flow chart of an exemplary method for assessing the condition of a fluid delivery device. [Figure 15] FIG. 15 is an exploded perspective view of an exemplary fluid delivery system including a motorized capping device. [Figure 16] 16 is a partial cross-sectional view of the exemplary fluid delivery system of FIG. [Figure 17A] 17A is a partial cross-sectional view of the exemplary fluid delivery system of FIG. [Figure 17B] 17B is a partial cross-sectional view of the exemplary fluid delivery system of FIG. [Figure 18] FIG. 18 is a flow chart of an exemplary method for assessing the condition of a fluid delivery device. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS

[0042] 1 and 2 show an exemplary liquid delivery system 10 that can be used to store and deliver liquid and output dosage information to a user. The liquid delivery system 10 includes a capping device 100 and a liquid delivery device 200. The liquid delivery device 200 includes a reservoir 201, a delivery end 202, and a plunger 205 that can be operated to deliver a dosage liquid in the reservoir 201 through the delivery end 202. The capping device 100 is positionable on the delivery end 202 of the liquid delivery device 200 for storage between uses of the liquid delivery device 200. In an exemplary embodiment, the capping device 100 includes one or more sensors configured to detect a state of the liquid delivery device 200 (such as a position of its plunger) and one or more output devices (such as a display, a communication system, etc.) configured to output information related to the state of the liquid delivery device 200.

[0043] The liquid delivery device 200 may be configured to deliver a measured dosage of liquid to a subject for the treatment of a disease. For example, the liquid delivery device 200 may be a pen syringe for delivering a liquid, such as insulin, to manage diabetes. In an exemplary embodiment, the delivery end 202 of the liquid delivery device 200 includes a septum 203 and a needle 204. A desired dosage may be measured by manipulation of the dial 206 (e.g., by manually rotating the dial 206) and delivered by advancing the plunger 205. Advancement of the plunger 205 via the rod 214 forces a measured dosage of liquid from the reservoir 201 through the delivery end 202 and into the subject. In an exemplary embodiment, advancing the plunger 205 a particular distance causes a corresponding amount of liquid to be dispensed from the liquid delivery device 200.

[0044] The cap device 100 includes a body 110 that defines a cavity 111 configured to accommodate at least a portion of the liquid delivery device 200, such as the delivery end 202 and / or at least a portion of the reservoir 201. The cap device 100 is positionable over the delivery end 202, such that the liquid delivery device 200 may be stored (e.g., between uses). The cap device 100 may protect the delivery end 202 from damage or external environmental contaminants and may accommodate the injection needle 204. The liquid delivery device 200 may be removed from the cavity 111 of the cap device 100 before each use and then engaged with the cap device 100 after a dose has been delivered. Thus, the cap device 100 may be removed and replaced for the liquid delivery device 200 over multiple uses. After the contents of a particular liquid delivery device 200 have all been used, the liquid delivery device 200 may be discarded and the cap device 100 may be used for a new liquid delivery device. In some exemplary embodiments, the liquid delivery device 200 is disposable once its usable contents have been used, and the cap device 100 may be reusable for multiple liquid delivery devices 200. In other exemplary embodiments, the cap device 100 may be associated with a particular liquid delivery device 200, and both the cap device 100 and the liquid delivery device 200 may be discarded once the entire contents of the reservoir 201 have been used.

[0045] The capping device 100 may include one or more sensors configured to detect a condition of the liquid delivery device 200. In an exemplary embodiment, the capping device 100 includes a sensor that outputs a sensor signal that may be evaluated to detect the plunger 205, the position of the plunger 205, a change in the position of the plunger 205 during a sequence of engagement with the capping device 100 (e.g., a change in position after a volume is delivered), and / or other conditions of the liquid delivery device 200. The position of the plunger 205 and / or the change in the position of the plunger 205 may be used to monitor the dosage delivered by the liquid delivery device 200, the total amount of liquid remaining in the reservoir 201, the number of dosages remaining in the reservoir 201, the time remaining until the reservoir 201 is empty, and / or other information related to the liquid delivery device 200.

[0046] The cap apparatus 100 may include various components that facilitate computing, displaying, storing, and / or communicating sensor signals that may be output by one or more sensors. In an exemplary embodiment, the cap apparatus 100 includes a display 121, a user input 122, a communication device 123, a memory 124, a processor 125, a speaker 126, and a circuit board 127. One or more components may be in electrical communication with one or more other components via the circuit board 127, and the processor 125 may be configured with logic for controlling the operation of one or more of the display 121, the user input 122, the communication device 123, the memory 124, and the speaker 126, and for processing sensor signals received from one or more sensors of the cap apparatus 100.

[0047] The display 121 provides a user with visual output related to the status of the cap device 100 and / or the liquid delivery device 200. The display 121 may be, for example, an LED or LCD display. In some embodiments, the display 121 may provide a visual indication of the amount of dosage delivered by the liquid delivery device 200, the total amount of liquid remaining in the reservoir 201, the number of dosages remaining in the reservoir 201, the time remaining until the reservoir 201 is empty, the time of the last dosage (e.g., the time the cap device 100 was replaced for the liquid delivery device 200), the time since the last dosage (e.g., the time since the cap device 100 was replaced for the liquid delivery device 200), and / or other information related to the liquid delivery device 200.

[0048] Alternatively / in addition, the cap device 100 may include audio and / or vibration alerts regarding the status of the cap device 100 and / or the liquid delivery device 200. The processor 125 may control the audio output of the speaker 126 to output an audible alert or control the vibrator 128 to output a vibration alert, which may be perceived as indicating the amount of dosage delivered by the liquid delivery device 200, the total amount of liquid remaining in the reservoir 201, the number of dosages remaining in the reservoir 201, the time remaining until the reservoir 201 is empty, the time of the last dosage (e.g., the time when the cap device 100 was replaced for the liquid delivery device 200), the time elapsed since the last dosage (e.g., the time elapsed since the cap device 100 was replaced for the liquid delivery device 200), and / or other information regarding the liquid delivery device 200. Alternatively / in addition, the vibrator 128 may deliver a vibration to the liquid delivery device 200. The vibrator 128 may be activated to facilitate mixing of the contents of the liquid delivery device 200 and / or to inhibit the formation or accumulation of sediments (e.g., on the tip face of the plunger and / or on the surface of the reservoir 201).

[0049] The capping device 100 optionally includes one or more user inputs 122 that facilitate user interaction with the capping device 100. In an exemplary embodiment, the user input 122 includes first and second buttons that may be operated to control the capping device 100. For example, the user input 122 may be operated by a user to activate the capping device 100 and / or to select information displayed by the display 121. Alternatively / additionally, the user input 122 may be operated to reset the settings and / or memory 124 of the capping device 100, such as when the capping device 100 engages a new liquid delivery device 200. In some exemplary embodiments, the capping device 100 does not include a user input 122, such as a button. A capping device 100 that does not include a button or other user input may facilitate the perception of a fully automated capping device 100 and / or improve user usability.

[0050] The cap device 100 can communicate with one or more other components of the liquid delivery system to transmit and / or receive information related to the status of the cap device 100 and / or the liquid delivery device 200. For example, the cap device 100 includes a communication device 123 configured to communicate with one or more components remote from the cap device 100. The communication device 123 can include a wireless communication printed circuit assembly configured for wireless communication, such as via short-wavelength UHF radio frequency, RF communication, WI-FI, BLUETOOTH, ZIGBEE. Alternatively / additionally, the communication device 123 can include a port for wired communication with another electronic device. In various exemplary embodiments, the communication device 123 is configured for bidirectional communication, such as bidirectional communication with a mobile device having software configured to transmit and receive communications with the cap device 100. Alternatively, the cap device 100 can be configured for one-way communication, such as dedicated to uploading information to a mobile device or dedicated to receiving information from a mobile device.

[0051] The communication device 123 may be configured to communicate with an electronic device configured with diabetes management software. For example, the communication device 123 may transmit information related to the liquid delivery device 200 that may be further processed by the electronic device. In this manner, the cap device 100 may facilitate evaluation of information collected by its sensors by a remote user or health care provider, provide alerts related to the liquid delivery system 200 by the electronic device (e.g., scheduled time for injection, liquid delivery device nearly empty, etc.), and / or facilitate further processing and analysis of information collected by the cap device 100.

[0052] The cap device 100 includes a power source 170. In an exemplary embodiment, the power source 170 includes one or more batteries, such as alkaline batteries, nickel-cadmium batteries, lithium-ion batteries, etc. The power source 170 is associated with a microswitch configured to switch the cap device between a non-operating or low power state and an operating or operational state in which sensors of the cap device 100 are activated, and / or a sensor signal from one or more sensors of the cap device 100, such as one or more position sensors, may provide an alert to the processor 125 to switch the cap device to the operating or operational state.

[0053] 1, the body 110 of the cap device 100 defines a cavity 111 configured to accommodate at least a portion of the liquid delivery device 200. The body 110 may be configured to accommodate various components of the cap device 100, such as a display 121, a user input 122, a communication device 123, a memory 124, a processor 125, a speaker 126, and a circuit board 127. In various exemplary embodiments, the body 110 is a molded body, such as molded plastic. The body 110 may include multiple body portions that are assembled to form the body 110, such as a first body portion 110a and a second body portion 110b that may be coupled to define the cavity 111 and / or other space that accommodates the cap device 100. The body 110, including the first and second body portions 110a, 110b, may facilitate efficient manufacturing of the body 110 and / or efficient assembly with other components of the cap device 100. In other illustrative embodiments, the portions of body 110 that define cavity 111 may be integrally formed as a single component (e.g., eliminating the need to join multiple components to define cavity 111).

[0054] The body 110 includes a front wall 112, a side wall 113, and an opening 114 to a cavity 111. The cavity 111 is at least partially defined by the front wall 112 and the side wall 113. The front wall 112 includes a feature configured to receive the delivery end 202 of the liquid delivery device 200 and / or the injection needle 204, such as a receptacle 112a including a plug 112b ( FIG. 2 ), which at least partially surrounds the injection needle 204. Alternatively / additionally, the front wall 112 may include one or more retention features that engage the liquid delivery device 200 and limit relative movement between the liquid delivery device 200 and the body 110 of the cap device 100.

[0055] In some optional embodiments, the capping device 100 includes a sensor carriage 140 that is movable within the body 110 (e.g., movable within the cavity 111). The sensor carriage 140 is configured to move along at least a portion of the liquid delivery device 200 within the cavity 111, which is sized to accommodate the dimensions of the liquid delivery device 200 and the path of the sensor carriage 140. The sensor carriage 140 facilitates detection of a characteristic of the liquid delivery device 200 by carrying one or more sensors along the liquid delivery device between a first position and a second position. In an exemplary embodiment, the sensor carriage 140 is movable between a first position and a second position relative to the cavity, with the liquid delivery device 200 remaining in a fixed position relative to the cavity (e.g., the sensor carriage 140 is movable with the liquid delivery device 200 fixedly engaged with the capping device 100).

[0056] The cap device 100 may include a track 150. The sensor carriage 140 may move along the track 150, which may include one or more features that guide and / or limit the movement of the sensor carriage 140. In an exemplary embodiment, the track 150 includes one or more slots 151 that interact with corresponding features of the sensor carriage 140. The slots 151 define a path along which the sensor carriage 140 moves, such as along a longitudinal direction between a first position proximate the front wall 112 and a second position proximate the opening 114. In some embodiments, the slots 151 may include keyed end regions 152 that allow movement of the sensor carriage 140 or a component of the sensor carriage 140 in one or more additional directions, such as rotation of the sensor carriage 140 or a component of the sensor carriage 140 about a central longitudinal axis (A) of the cavity 111 (e.g., without the sensor carried by the carriage 140 rotating in that case).

[0057] In some embodiments, the track 150 further includes one or more features configured to interact with features of the liquid delivery device 200. For example, an inner surface 153 of the track 150 may include features to orient and / or retain the liquid delivery device 200 within the cap device 100. The track 150 may at least partially surround a reservoir 201 of the liquid delivery device, and the sensor carriage 140 may be movable between the track 150 and a sidewall 113 that defines the cavity 111 of the cap device 110. Thus, in an exemplary embodiment, the track 150 is disposed between the liquid delivery device 200 and the sensor carriage 140 during operation of the sensor carriage 140.

[0058] In some embodiments, the track 150 may be integrally formed with the body 110 of the cap device 100. For example, the track 150 may be integrally formed with the body 110 such that it is a single component. Alternatively, the track 150 may be formed as a separate component from the other components of the body 110 and then assembled to the other components of the body 110. A separately formed track 150 may be easier to manufacture (e.g., may optionally have tighter manufacturing tolerances and / or may include features that are difficult to form within the cavity 111 of the body 110).

[0059] The sensor carriage 140 may be movable along a longitudinal axis of the cap device 100 (e.g., a longitudinal axis extending through the center of the front wall 112 and the opening 114) and / or may be rotatable about the longitudinal axis at a particular position (e.g., a component of the sensor carriage 140 may be rotatable). When the cap device 100 engages with the liquid delivery device 200, the sensor carriage 140 may move along at least a portion of the liquid delivery device 200, such as between the delivery end 202 and a position beyond the plunger 205. In an exemplary embodiment, the cap device 100 includes a spring 160 configured to move the sensor carriage 140 from a first position to a second position. For example, the spring 160 may be manually compressed when the sensor carriage 140 is moved to a first position adjacent the front wall 112 of the body 111. When the liquid delivery device 200 is inserted into the cavity 111, the sensor carriage 140 may be moved to a first position (e.g., the liquid delivery device 200 may push the sensor carriage to the first position), after which the sensor carriage 140 may be released and moved (e.g., independently of the liquid delivery device 200) to a second position near the opening 114 of the body 111. In various exemplary embodiments, the spring 160 is a coil spring. Alternatively / additionally, the spring 160 may be an elastic band, wire, elastic component, or other component configured to bias the sensor carriage 140 toward a particular position.

[0060] In various exemplary embodiments, the liquid delivery device 200 remains in a fixed position relative to the cavity 111 and body 110 of the cap device 100 while the sensor carriage 140 moves along the liquid delivery device 200. The liquid delivery device 200 may be restricted from twisting or rotating about the longitudinal axis A of the cavity 111 and / or restricted from longitudinal movement along the longitudinal axis A. Limited or no relative movement between the liquid delivery device 200 and the body 110 allows the sensor of the sensor carriage 140 to accurately and repeatably detect the plunger 205 and also provides a predictable line of sight to the sensor of the sensor carriage 140.

[0061] In some exemplary embodiments, the sensor carriage 140 includes one or more sensor components configured to detect a state of the liquid delivery device 200 (e.g., as the sensor carriage moves between the first and second positions). The sensor carriage 140 may include plunger detection sensors, such as reflective or transmissive optical sensors, and / or position sensor components, such as load sensors, linear potentiometers, linear encoders, rotary encoders, magnetic potentiometers, membrane potentiometers, etc. The components are configured to detect information that can be used to evaluate the state of the liquid delivery device 200, for example.

[0062] 2, a cross-sectional view of the liquid delivery system 10 is shown, including the cap device 100 held in the liquid delivery device 200. The delivery end 202 of the liquid delivery device 200 and at least a portion of the reservoir 201 are disposed within the cavity 111 of the cap device 110. The front wall 112 includes an engagement feature configured to align and / or engage the delivery end 202. For example, the front wall 112 includes a tapered or chamfered wall portion 112c that can orient the delivery end 202 to a central position within the cavity 111. Alternatively / additionally, the engagement feature 112c interacts with a corresponding surface of the delivery end 202 to frictionally hold the delivery end 202. For example, the wall portion 112c may include one or more ribs, detents, or the like to hold the liquid delivery device 200 in a fixed position within the cavity 111.

[0063] The body 110 may include one or more features to orient and align the liquid delivery device 200 relative to the body 110 (e.g., when the liquid delivery device 200 is inserted into the cavity 111). For example, the inner surface 153 and / or sidewall 113 of the track 150 may include a tapered portion 153a near the opening 114 such that the tip of the track 150 is wider than the interior of the track 150. The tapered portion 153a may facilitate manual insertion of the liquid delivery device 200 into the cavity 111 by orienting the liquid delivery device 200 to a central position within the body 110. In some embodiments, the tapered portion 153a may guide the central longitudinal axis B of the liquid delivery device 200 to coincide with the central longitudinal axis A of the cavity 111. Alternatively / additionally, the track 150 and / or sidewall 113 may include one or more rotational alignment features 153b (FIG. 11). This directs the liquid delivery device 200 to one or more predetermined angular orientations. In this manner, features of the liquid delivery device 200 can be directed to predetermined angular positions relative to the cap device 100 and its sensors (such as sensors disposed on the sensor carriage 140).

[0064] 3 and 4, an exemplary sensor carriage 140 movable within the body 110 of the capping device 100 is shown. FIG. 3 is a cross-sectional view of the sensor carriage 140 within the capping device 100. FIG. 4 is a perspective view of the sensor carriage 140. The sensor carriage 140 includes one or more sensor components configured to detect a state of the liquid delivery device 200, such as a position of a plunger within the liquid delivery device 200. For example, the sensor carriage 140 includes a sensor 142 that outputs a sensor signal representative of a characteristic of the liquid delivery device 200. The output signal from the sensor 142 may vary depending on a physical characteristic of the liquid delivery device 200 that the sensor 142 encounters. Thus, the output signal may vary at different positions along the length of the liquid delivery device 200. For example, upon movement of the sensor carriage 140 relative to the liquid delivery device 200, changes in the output signal of the sensor 142 may be evaluated to determine the leading end of the reservoir 201 (e.g., the dispensing end 202), the leading end of the plunger 205, the trailing end of the plunger 205, and / or other attributes of the liquid delivery device 200. The detected position changes between successive doses, such as the change in the position of the plunger 205 before and after a dose is delivered, may be used to evaluate the amount of dosage delivered by the liquid delivery device 200, the total amount of liquid remaining in the reservoir 201, the number of doses remaining in the reservoir 201, the time remaining until the reservoir 201 is empty, the time of the last dose (e.g., the time when the capping device 100 was replaced relative to the liquid delivery device 200), the time since the last dose (e.g., the time since the capping device 100 was replaced relative to the liquid delivery device 200), and / or other information regarding the liquid delivery device 200. Alternatively / additionally, the relative positions of one or more of these detected characteristics, or the distance between one or more of these detected characteristics, may be used to evaluate dosing information associated with the fluid delivery device 200.

[0065] In an exemplary embodiment, the sensor 142 includes an emitter 142a and a receiver 142b, such as optical emitter 142a and optical emitter 142b. The optical emitter 142a emits radiant energy that can be detected by the optical receiver 142b, and in some embodiments, may include an LED or a laser diode. The sensor 142 may output a sensor signal related to the amount of radiant energy received by the optical receiver 142b (e.g., the amount of radiant energy received from the optical emitter 142a). Thus, the sensor signal may depend on the characteristics of the liquid delivery device 200 present in the optical path 142c between the optical emitter 142a and the optical receiver 142b. That is, the amount of radiant energy received by the optical receiver may be relatively low when a plunger or other solid structure is present in the optical path 142c, and relatively high when, for example, only the transparent wall of the reservoir and its liquid contents are present in the optical path 142c.

[0066] The emitter 142a and the receiver 142b can be aligned with each other such that the optical path 142c between the emitter 142a and the receiver 142b extends perpendicular (e.g., substantially perpendicular, within 10° of perfectly perpendicular) to the central longitudinal axis A of the cavity 111. In some embodiments, the emitter 142a is configured to generate a narrow beam with limited spread outside the optical path 142c. This is achieved by the emitter 142a emitting a narrow beam and / or by a collimating structure configured to focus the output of the emitter 142a along the optical path 142c, or the like. In various exemplary embodiments, the radiant energy emitted by the emitter 142a can be in visible and / or invisible wavelengths.

[0067] In some exemplary embodiments, the sensor 142 may be a reflective sensor that detects reflected light. The reflective sensor 142 may detect a color transition indicative of the plunger 205, such as a transition from a relatively high transparency and / or light color of the liquid and / or reservoir 201 to a relatively low transparency and / or dark color (e.g., red, orange, black, etc.) of the plunger 205.

[0068] The sensor carriage 140 may include multiple sensors, such as first and second optical sensors 142, 143 (FIG. 4). The first optical sensor 142 includes a first emitter 142a and a first receiver 142b, and the second optical sensor 143 includes a second emitter 143a and a second receiver 143b. The first emitter 142a may be aligned with the first receiver 142b, and the second emitter 143a may be aligned with the second receiver 143b (e.g., the first receiver 142b receives radiant energy primarily or exclusively from the first emitter 142a, and the second receiver 143b receives radiant energy primarily or exclusively from the second emitter 143a). For example, the first emitter 142a and the second receiver 143b, and the second emitter 143a and the first receiver 142b are not aligned and do not define an optical path perpendicular to the longitudinal axis of the cavity 111. In an exemplary embodiment, the first and second emitters 142a, 142b, and the first and second receivers 143a, 143b are spaced 90° apart from each other along the circumference of the sensor carriage 140. Thus, the first sensor 142 and the second sensor 143 may define first and second optical paths 142c, 143c that are oriented perpendicular to each other. In some embodiments, the first optical path 142c and / or the second optical path 143c do not intersect with the central longitudinal axis (A) of the cavity 111 or the central longitudinal axis (B) of the liquid delivery device 200. The first and / or second optical paths 142c, 143c that do not intersect the central axis may facilitate detection of the rear surface 205b of the plunger 205 by avoiding obstruction by the rod 214.

[0069] In various exemplary embodiments, the relative positions of the sensors 142 and 143 may be selected to facilitate achieving a proper line of sight (e.g., through the liquid delivery device 200) by at least one of the sensors 142 or 143. The relative positions of the sensors 142, 143 may be selected based on features of the liquid delivery device 200, such as the location of ribs, indicia, and other obstructions that may affect reliable detection of features of the liquid delivery device 200, such as the plunger 205 or the delivery end 202. In some exemplary embodiments, the first and second optical paths 142c, 143c may form an angle of 15° to 90°, 30° to 75°, or about 60°. Alternatively / additionally, the first and second sensors 142, 143 may be spaced apart longitudinally along the sensor carriage 140.

[0070] The paths of the sensors 142, 143 may be angled with respect to the cavity 111 and the central longitudinal axis (A), (B) of the liquid delivery device 200. The angled sensor paths may facilitate detection of the plunger at a position within the opaque region of the liquid delivery device 200, such as during initial use of the liquid delivery device 200 while the reservoir 201 remains full or nearly full. For example, the angled sensor paths may enable detection of the plunger without the sensor carriage 140 itself moving to the longitudinal position of the plunger 205. Thus, the sensor 142 may detect a characteristic of the liquid delivery device 200 over a distance greater than the length the sensor carriage 140 moves along the liquid delivery device 200 between the first and second positions. The sensor 142 may be configured to detect a magnitude of radiant energy reflected off the tip surface 205a of the plunger 205. In various exemplary embodiments, the plunger 205 may be detected by the angled sensor paths 142d, 143d until, for example, about 10 to 60 doses, 20 to 40 doses, or about 30 doses have been dispensed from the fluid delivery device 200.

[0071] In some embodiments where there are multiple optical sensors 142, 143, a different wavelength may be emitted by each emitter 142a, 143a, and the receivers 142b, 143b may be wavelength specific as well, for example by including bandpass filters. Alternatively / additionally, each sensor may emit and detect pulses of radiant energy at different periods within a period (e.g., using time division multiplexing). In some embodiments, the sampling rate may be greater than 100 Hz, greater than 1000 Hz, or even higher.

[0072] Alternatively / in addition to the sensors 142, 143, the sensor carriage 140 may include a position sensor 145 configured to output a sensor signal indicative of a position or distance. In an exemplary embodiment, the cap device 100 includes a position sensor 145 that outputs a sensor signal indicative of a position of the sensor carriage and / or a distance the sensor carriage has moved between a first position and a second position (e.g., as the sensor carriage 140 moves along the liquid delivery device 200 or between subsequent doses by the liquid delivery device 200). In an exemplary embodiment, the position sensor 145 includes a linear potentiometer. A resistive element 145a is disposed along at least a portion of the length of the cavity 111, such as the sidewall 113 or the track 150 of the body 110. A wiper 145b is disposed on the sensor carriage 140. The wiper 145b may be biased toward the resistive element 145a by a resilient element 145c, such as a spring arm or a spring (FIG. 3). This encourages continued contact between the resistive element 145a and the wiper 145b. In some embodiments, the resilient element 145c provides a relatively weak bias so that the wiper 145b remains in contact with the resistive element 145a even as frictional resistance or wear of the resistive element 145a decreases.

[0073] The sensor 145 may output a sensor signal (e.g., a voltage) that varies depending on the position of the wiper 145b along the resistive element 145a (e.g., the position of the sensor carriage 140 along the cavity 111). For example, a particular voltage may be associated with a particular position along the resistive element 145a, and the voltage may be constant and repeatable each time the wiper 145b moves along the resistive element 145a. The sensor 145 may have a unique signature of the voltage output for each position of the wiper 145b and may be calibrated to achieve highly accurate and repeatable measurements. In some exemplary embodiments, the resolution of the sensor 145 may be 1 μm to 30 μm, 2 μm to 15 μm, 3 μm to 10 μm, or about 6 μm, and the resolution of the liquid delivery device 200 may be about 130 μm. Thus, the resolution of the sensor 145 of the capping device 100 may be between about 10 to 20 times the resolution of the liquid delivery device 200. Such resolution of the sensor 145 facilitates very accurate determination of the position of the plunger 205. For example, the sensor error is one tenth of the variation in dose delivery by the fluid delivery device 200.

[0074] In some embodiments, the accuracy and repeatability of the sensor 145 may be further enhanced by accounting for variations that may occur due to changes in ambient temperature. For example, the capping device 100 may include a temperature sensor 129 (FIG. 1). The temperature sensor 129 detects temperature and outputs a temperature signal to the processor 125. The processor 125 may account for changes in temperature when evaluating the sensor signal received from the sensor 145 based on a predetermined relationship between temperature and the sensor signal from the sensors 142, 143, 145, etc.

[0075] Alternatively / in addition to a linear potentiometer, position sensor 145 may include one or more other types of sensors that provide an indication of position that can be correlated to a sensor signal output by sensor 142. For example, position sensor 145 may include, for example, a linear encoder, a rotary encoder, a magnetic potentiometer, a membrane potentiometer, a load cell, etc.

[0076] In an exemplary embodiment, the processor 125 is configured to evaluate a sensor signal from the sensors 142 and / or 143, such as a variation in the sensor signal indicative of the plunger, and determine a corresponding position based on the sensor signal from the sensor 145. In some embodiments, the corresponding position may be stored and compared to the corresponding position of the plunger 205 during subsequent measurements. The change in position may then be evaluated (e.g., by evaluating the distance traveled by the plunger 205) to determine the previously delivered dosage. In some exemplary embodiments, only the change in the position of the plunger 205 is evaluated, and not the position of the plunger 205 relative to other components of the liquid delivery device 200 and / or cap device 100.

[0077] Alternatively / additionally, the position of the plunger 205 relative to features of the fluid delivery device 200 and / or cap device may be evaluated. For example, the processor may be configured to detect sensor signals output from sensors 142, 143 indicative of a front end of the reservoir 201 and determine a corresponding position based on an output signal from sensor 145. The relative positions of such features may be evaluated to determine the distance between the front end of the reservoir 201 and the plunger 205, which may facilitate calculation of a total amount of fluid remaining in the reservoir 201, the number of doses remaining in the reservoir 201, the time remaining until the reservoir 201 is empty, and / or other information related to the fluid delivery device 200.

[0078] The sensor carriage 140 may be electrically connected to the processor 125 to facilitate electrical communication of the sensor signals. In some embodiments, a flexible electrical connector 147 provides at least a partial electrical connection between the sensor carriage 140 and the circuit board 127 supporting the processor 125. The flexible electrical connector may include conductive electrical structures on a thin, flexible substrate. For example, the flexible electrical connector may include one or more layers of PEEK, polyester, or polyamide with printed or laminated electrical structures. Thus, the flexible electrical connector may have a thin profile to facilitate bending with a small radius of curvature. While the sensor carriage 140 moves along the track 150, the flexible electrical connector may bend and flex while maintaining electrical connection with the circuit board 127 and / or the processor 125.

[0079] Alternatively / additionally, track 150 may include one or more electrical conductors that provide electrical communication between sensor carriage 140 and circuit board 127 while sensor carriage 140 moves along track 150. For example, sensor carriage 140 may have fixed electrical contacts that are biased into sliding engagement with corresponding conductive surfaces of track 150.

[0080] In some embodiments, the sensor carriage 140 is not in continuous electrical connection with the circuit board 127 and / or the processor 125. For example, the sensor carriage 140 may operate to detect a state of the liquid delivery device 200 while not in electrical communication with the circuit board 127 and / or the processor 125. The sensor carriage 140 may include a power source capable of providing power to one or more sensors carried by the sensor carriage 140, and a sensor carriage memory for storing sensor signal information. The sensor carriage 130 may store sensor information collected as it moves between the first and second positions, and may be in electrical communication with the circuit board 127 and / or the processor 125 when stopped at the first and / or second positions to upload the collected information to the memory 124.

[0081] 3 and 4, the sensor carriage 140 includes engagement features configured to interact with the track 150 and / or the liquid delivery device 200. In some optional embodiments, the arm 146 of the sensor carriage 140 may guide the sensor carriage 140 along the slot 151. With the arm 146 extending at least partially into the slot 151, the movement of the sensor carriage 146 is restricted within a path defined by the slot 151, preventing rotation of the sensor carriage 140. The slot 151 may include a generally straight portion parallel to the central longitudinal axis A of the cavity 111. Alternatively / additionally, the slot 151 may include a curved or helical portion that causes the sensor carriage 140 and / or the track 150 to rotate relative to each other and / or other components of the cap device 140 as the sensor carriage 140 moves along the cavity 111.

[0082] 5A, 5B, and 5C, the sensor carriage 140 includes one or more engagement features configured to interact with the liquid delivery device 200. For example, the sensor carriage 140 includes an arm 146 that can move the sensor carriage 140 when pushed by the liquid delivery device 200. When the liquid delivery device 100 is inserted into the cavity 111, the interference between the arm 146 and the liquid delivery device 200 causes the sensor carriage 140 to move together with the liquid delivery device 200 toward the front wall 112 of the body 110. The arm 146 is then disengaged (e.g., by retracting, releasing, rotating, etc.) from the liquid delivery device 200 to release the sensor carriage 140. Thus, the sensor carriage 140 moves back toward the opening 114 of the cavity 111 while the liquid delivery device 200 remains in a fixed position relative to the cavity 111 of the cap device 100. In some embodiments, the spring 160 can be compressed when the liquid delivery device 200 is fully inserted into the cavity 110 and can return the sensor carriage 140 toward the opening 114 when the arm 146 is released from engagement with the liquid delivery device 200.

[0083] 5A, in an exemplary embodiment, the sensor carriage includes four arms 146 spaced radially around the circumference of the sensor carriage 140. The arms 146 are movable between an extended position (e.g., extending inwardly from an inner wall of the sensor carriage 140) in which the arms 146 extend into a lumen 148 defined by the sensor carriage 140, and a retracted position. For example, the track 150 has a major axis (D) between opposing inner surfaces 153 and a minor axis (d) between opposing arms 146 in the extended position. The major axis (D) may be slightly larger than an outer diameter of the liquid delivery device 200 so that the sensor carriage 140 can move along the liquid delivery device 200. The minor axis (d) may be slightly smaller than an outer diameter of the liquid delivery device 200. This allows the sensor carriage 140 to be pushed by the liquid delivery device 200 via the extended arms 146. When the arms 146 are in the retracted position, the diameter (d) between the opposing arms 146 may be greater than the major diameter (D), allowing the sensor carriage 140 to move along the fluid delivery device 200 without interfering with the arms 146.

[0084] 5B and 5C, the capping device 100 can be engaged with the liquid delivery device 200 by inserting the delivery end 202 into the cavity 111 through the opening 114 of the body 110. When the liquid delivery device 200 is inserted through the opening 114, the delivery end 202 encounters an engagement feature of the sensor carriage 140, such as the arm 146 in an extended position. As shown in FIG. 5C, relative movement between the capping device 100 and the liquid delivery device 200 (e.g., the capping device 100 and the liquid delivery device 200 coming together) causes the liquid delivery device 200 to push the sensor carriage 140 into the cavity 111. For example, the liquid delivery device 200 pushes the sensor carriage 140 along the track 150 from the position of the opening 114 to the position of the front wall 112, compressing the spring 160.

[0085] The body 110 and the liquid delivery device 200 may include one or more features that align the liquid delivery device 200 toward the body 110. In an exemplary embodiment, at least a portion of the liquid delivery device 200 includes a non-circular and / or asymmetric cross-section that is accommodated within the cavity 111 in a certain number of orientations. The liquid delivery device 200 includes a non-circular body portion 207 having a generally square or rectangular cross-section such that the liquid delivery device 200 is positionable within the cavity 111 in one of four orientations. In other exemplary embodiments, the non-circular body portion 207 may have a triangular, pentagonal, polygonal, or other shape. Alternatively / additionally, the liquid delivery device 200 may include one or more protrusions or recesses that interact with corresponding recesses or protrusions on the cap device 100 to determine a predetermined angular orientation between the liquid delivery device 200 and the cap device 100 when engaged. The cross-sectional shape, protrusions, and / or indentations may facilitate achieving a predetermined angular orientation upon engagement and maintain the predetermined angular orientation while the cap device 100 is engaged with the liquid delivery device 200. The location and relative angular orientation of the sensors 142, 143 within the cap device 100 may be selected to facilitate achieving a predetermined path between the sensor emitter and receiver based on the predetermined angular orientation of the liquid delivery device 200 (e.g., inhibiting obstruction by ribs, indicia, or other features of the liquid delivery device 200).

[0086] The track 150 and / or sidewall 113 of the capping device 100 may include one or more rotational alignment features 153b that guide the liquid delivery device 200 toward a predetermined angular orientation. For example, the features of the liquid delivery device 200 may be guided to a predetermined angular position relative to the capping device 100 and its sensor. The alignment features 153b may interact with the body portion 207 to guide the liquid delivery device 200 toward a predetermined angular orientation after the delivery tip 202 is inserted into the cavity 111.

[0087] 6A, 6B, 6C, the movable sensor carriage 140 is illustrated as being in a first position (FIG. 6A), an intermediate position (FIG. 6B), and a second position (FIG. 6C), respectively. The sensor carriage 140 is movable between the first, intermediate, and second positions while the liquid delivery device 200 remains fixed relative to the body 110 and the cavity 111. The movement of the sensor carriage 140 between the first and second positions facilitates detection of a characteristic of the liquid delivery device 200 at multiple positions of the liquid delivery device 200. The sensor 142 may generate an output signal continuously or at a relatively high frequency (e.g., 0.1 to 100 kHz, 5 to 50 kHz, or about 30 kHz) while the sensor carriage 140 moves between the first and second positions. In some embodiments, the operation of the sensor 142 as the sensor carriage 140 moves between the first and second positions may be expressed as performing a scan of a portion of the liquid delivery device 200. The output signal of sensor 142 (e.g., alone or in conjunction with one or more sensors, such as sensor 145) can then be evaluated to determine the position of plunger 205 within reservoir 201, changes in the position of plunger 205 within reservoir 201, and / or other conditions of liquid delivery device 200.

[0088] In the first position shown in FIG. 6A, the sensor carriage 140 is positioned near the front wall 112 of the body 110. The sensor carriage 140 may be positioned in the first position by inserting the liquid delivery device 200 into the cavity 111. In an exemplary embodiment, when the sensor carriage 140 is in the first position, the spring 160 is in a compressed state. The movement of the sensor carriage 140 from the first position may be initiated by the release of the sensor carriage 140 and / or the spring 160. For example, one or more engagement features of the sensor carriage 140, such as the arm 146, may interact with the liquid delivery device 200. Upon reaching the first position, the engagement features may be moved or released such that the fixed positional relationship maintained by the sensor carriage 140 and the liquid delivery device 200 is released. Upon reaching the first position, the sensor carriage 140 may be released without additional manual manipulation. In other exemplary embodiments, sensor carriage 140 may be held in the first position until released by manual action (eg, by manual movement or release of arm 146).

[0089] The sensor carriage 140 is movable from a first position toward a second position by a spring 160. The spring 160 is biased toward an uncompressed or decompressed state in which the sensor carriage 140 is disposed in a second position adjacent the opening 114 of the cavity 111. The spring 160 may be characterized by a spring constant that provides a force sufficient to overcome frictional resistance between the resistive element 145a and the wiper 145b, and between the sensor carriage 140, the track 150, and / or other components of the capping device 100. This allows the sensor carriage 140 to move smoothly and in a controlled manner (e.g., with a predictable speed and acceleration) between the first and second positions. For example, the minimum force of the spring 160 (e.g., when extended by the sensor carriage 140 in the second position) may be greater than 1 N, greater than 1.5 N, or about 2 N. The force of the spring 160 is sufficiently low to facilitate a firm retention of the capping device 100 on the liquid delivery device 200. For example, the maximum force of the spring 160 (e.g., compressed by the sensor carriage 140 in the first position) can be less than about 5 N, less than about 4.5 N, or no more than about 4 N. Alternatively / additionally, the cap apparatus 110 can include a damper configured to provide smooth and consistent movement of the sensor carriage 140. For example, the sensor carriage 140 can include a rotational damper that interacts with a corresponding feature (e.g., a rack) on a component of the cap apparatus 140.

[0090] The sensor 142 of the sensor carriage 140 may output a sensor signal as the sensor carriage 140 moves between a first position and a second position along the liquid delivery device 200. In the first position shown in FIG. 6A, the optical path 142c between the emitter 142a and the receiver 142b intersects with the delivery end 202 of the liquid delivery device 200. The sensor signal may be evaluated (e.g., by the processor 125) to detect the presence of the front end of the reservoir 201, such as a position immediately after the tapered wall 204a. For example, the magnitude of the radiant energy received by the receiver 142b may increase or rise between the position where the optical path 142c passes through the tapered wall 204a and the position where the optical path 142c passes through the wall 204b oriented substantially parallel to the longitudinal axis of the reservoir 201. Thus, in some embodiments, a particular magnitude of the sensor signal, or an increase in the magnitude of the sensor signal, may indicate the front end of the reservoir 201.

[0091] 6B shows the sensor carriage 140 in an intermediate position between the first and second positions. The optical path 142c between the emitter 142a and the receiver 142b passes through the intermediate position of the reservoir 201. The walls 204b of the reservoir 201, and the liquid within the reservoir 201, may provide a relatively low opacity to the transmission of radiant energy between the emitter 142a and the receiver 142b such that the sensor signal is relatively high at the intermediate position.

[0092] 6C shows the sensor carriage 140 in a second position near the opening 114 of the cavity 111. The sensor carriage 140 reaches the second position by moving past the tip face 205a of the plunger 205 such that the optical path 142c intersects with the plunger 205. The presence of the tip face 205a can be detected by a change in the sensor signal where the optical path 142c meets the tip face 205a. For example, the magnitude of the radiant energy received by the receiver 142b can be decreased or reduced due to the presence of the plunger 205 in the optical path 142c.

[0093] The sensor 142 may continue to detect characteristics of the liquid delivery device 200 after moving past the leading surface 205a of the plunger 205. For example, the trailing surface 205b may be detected based on a change in the sensor output at the location where the trailing surface 205b crosses the optical path 142c. For example, the amount of radiant energy received by the receiver 142b may increase or rise due to the absence of the plunger 205 crossing the optical path 142c. The length of the plunger 205 between the leading surface 205a and the trailing surface 205b is fixed, and therefore, either the leading surface 205a or the trailing surface 205b may be used to assess the position of the plunger 205. By detecting both the leading surface and the trailing surface 205a, 205b of the plunger 205, the assessment of the plunger 205 may be more accurately performed. For example, the position of the plunger 205 can be precisely determined even when the leading and trailing faces 205a, 205b are obstructed by other features of the fluid delivery device 200, such as ribs, indicia, etc.

[0094] The position of the plunger 205 or a change in the position of the plunger 205 may be evaluated in conjunction with the sensor signal output by the position sensor 145. In an exemplary embodiment, the sensor signal generated by the position sensor 145 predictably changes as the sensor carriage 140 moves between the first and second positions. For example, the sensor signal of the position sensor 145 at a particular location may be associated with a sensor signal from the sensor 142 at a particular location. A change in the position of the plunger 205 before and after a dosage is delivered may be detected, and the delivered dosage may be calculated based on the change in position. Alternatively / additionally, the distance between the positions associated with the various output signals from the sensor 142 (e.g., the distance between the tip of the reservoir 201 and the tip surface 205a of the plunger 205) may be evaluated, and the remaining volume in the reservoir 201 may be calculated based on the distance.

[0095] 7A and 7B, the engagement features of the sensor carriage 140 are shown in an extended or engaged state (FIG. 7A) and a retracted or disengaged state (7B). In an exemplary embodiment, the sensor carriage 140 includes a rotatable ring 147 associated with the arm 146. The ring 147 may be rotatable to move the arm 146 between the extended and retracted states. For example, the arm 146 and the ring 147 may include corresponding features that interact when the ring 147 is rotated relative to other components of the sensor carriage 140. In some exemplary embodiments, the arm 146 and the ring 147 include corresponding teeth 146a, 147a that interact similarly to a rack and pinion. Rotating the ring 147 in a first direction moves the arm 146 from the extended state to the retracted state, and rotating the ring 147 in a second direction moves the arm 146 from the retracted state to the extended state. In this manner, the arm 146 is movable between an engaged state that is more likely to interfere with the liquid delivery device 200 (e.g., when the liquid delivery device 200 is inserted into the cavity 111) and a retracted state that avoids interference with the liquid delivery device 200 (e.g., which allows the sensor carriage 140 to move along a portion of the liquid delivery device 200 during a plunger detection operation).

[0096] The cap device 100 may include features that move the arm 146 between an extended position and a retracted position when the sensor carriage 140 reaches the first and second positions, respectively. For example, in some embodiments, the arm 146 is configured to move between the extended position and the retracted position without additional manual manipulation after insertion of the liquid delivery device 200 into the cavity 111. The body 110 may include a recess 115 having an inclined or sloped surface. The ring 147 includes a protrusion 147b that is engageable with the sloped surface of the recess 115. When the protrusion 147b encounters the sloped surface (e.g., due to the force of inserting the liquid delivery device 200 into the cavity 111), the ring 147 is caused to rotate in a first direction relative to the rest of the sensor carriage 140. This causes the arm 146 to move to the retracted position shown in FIG. 7B. Movement of the arm 146 to the retracted position (e.g., when the cap device 100 is engaged with the liquid delivery device 200 and the sensor carriage 140 is in a first position proximate the front wall 112) may release the sensor carriage 140 such that the spring 160 moves the sensor carriage 140 along the liquid delivery device 200 from the first position to the second position. Alternatively / additionally, interactions with springs, spring arms, etc. may also contribute in part to the rotation and / or movement occurring.

[0097] The slot 151 of the track 150 may include a wide end region 152 (FIG. 3), which facilitates or encourages movement of the arm 146 between the extended and retracted positions. For example, the wide end region may provide additional clearance for rotation of the arm 146. Alternatively / additionally, the wide end region 152 may include a sloped surface or other feature engageable with the sensor carriage 140 to move the arm 146 between the engaged and retracted states. The slot 151 may be configured to prevent or limit rotation or release of the arm 146 while the sensor carriage 140 moves between the first and second positions.

[0098] In some exemplary embodiments, the body 110 may include one or more features that rotate the ring 147 in a second direction relative to other portions of the sensor carriage 140 when the sensor carriage 140 reaches a second position proximate the opening 114 (e.g., the second position is reached with a motion caused by the spring 160). Referring now to FIG. 8, the cap device 100 may include a spring 117 that interacts with the ring 147 when the sensor carriage 140 is in the second position, the spring 117 being biased to rotate the ring 147 in the second direction, thereby returning the arm 146 to the extended state. The presence of the liquid delivery device 200 in the cavity 111 prevents the arm 146 from moving to the extended position. Thus, the ring 147 may be forced to rotate by the spring 117 only when the liquid delivery device 200 is removed.

[0099] In exemplary embodiments, the rotation of the ring 147 and / or the movement of an engagement feature such as the arm 146 between the extended and retracted positions can occur without manual manipulation after insertion and removal of the liquid delivery device 200. For example, insertion of the liquid delivery device 200 moves the sensor carriage 140 to a first position and then releases it to scan the liquid delivery device 200 as it moves from the first position to a second position. Upon removal of the liquid delivery device 200 from the cavity 111, the arm 146 returns to the extended position, which again allows the cap device 100 to accept the liquid delivery device 200. Thus, in various exemplary embodiments, the cap device 100 is configured to repeatedly and reliably scan the liquid delivery device 200. This determines the position of the plunger 205 and evaluates the subsequent plunger positions to determine various characteristics of the liquid delivery device 200 and its use.

[0100] 9A and 9B, partial perspective and cross-sectional views of an exemplary liquid delivery device 200 are shown. The liquid delivery device 200 includes various features that may affect the sensor signal of a sensor, such as the sensor 142. For example, the liquid delivery device 200 may include regions 208 having a relatively high opacity, ribs 209, indicia 210, and / or other features that may provide a relatively low transmittance of the radiant energy utilized by the sensor 142, as well as regions 212 having a relatively low opacity. These features may be obstructions and / or may result in a sensor signal similar to that generated upon encounter with the plunger 205, or other signals that cannot be used for accurate measurement. Similarly, the plunger 205 may include a ridge or protrusion 211 on its leading surface.

[0101] In various exemplary embodiments, these features can be avoided and / or taken into account by a predetermined angular orientation of the capping device 100 and the liquid delivery device 200. As shown in FIG. 9B, the liquid delivery device 200 includes paths (C), (D) through the region 212 having a relatively low opacity. Alternatively / additionally, the paths (C), (D) avoid crossing one or more of the region 208, the rib 209, and / or the indicia 210 having a higher opacity. In exemplary embodiments, the capping device 100 can be configured to orient the liquid delivery device 200 such that a sensor path of at least one sensor, such as the optical path 142c of the sensor 142, is aligned similarly to paths (C) or (D) to avoid crossing the features. For example, a sensor carriage 140 having two sensors 142, 143 offset from one another (e.g., the configuration shown in FIG. 4) facilitates alignment of at least one sensor path through the region 212. The sensor signals output by the sensors 142, 143 can be processed to reliably distinguish the plunger 205 from one or more other features of the liquid delivery device 200. Alternatively / additionally, the sensor signals output by the sensors 142, 143 can be processed to take into account the presence of the ridge or protrusion 211 (e.g., by evaluating a series of sensor signals from each of the sensors 142, 143). Thus, reliable and repeatable detection of the plunger 205 can be achieved by taking into account one or more other features of the liquid delivery device 200 and / or by maintaining the liquid delivery device 200 in a fixed longitudinal and angular position relative to the cap device 100 during operation.

[0102] 10 and 11, an exemplary liquid delivery system 50 usable for storing and delivering liquid is shown. The liquid delivery system 50 includes a capping device 700 and a liquid delivery device 900. The liquid delivery device 900 includes a reservoir 901, a delivery end 902, and a plunger 905 that can be operated to deliver a dose of liquid in the reservoir 901 through the delivery end 902. The capping device 700 is positionable on the delivery end 902 of the liquid delivery device 900 for storage between uses of the liquid delivery device 900. In exemplary embodiments, the capping device 700 includes one or more sensors configured to detect a state of the state of the liquid delivery device 900 (such as a position of its plunger) and one or more output devices (such as a display, a communication system, etc.) that can be configured to output information related to the state of the liquid delivery device 900. In some exemplary embodiments, the liquid delivery system 50 includes features and characteristics similar to those of the liquid delivery system 10 described above with reference to FIGS. 1 through 9.

[0103] The capping device 700 may include one or more sensors configured to detect a condition of the liquid delivery device 900. In an exemplary embodiment, the capping device 700 includes a sensor that outputs a sensor signal that may be evaluated to detect a plunger, a position of the plunger, a change in the position of the plunger between successive engagements with the capping device 700 (e.g., a change in position after a volume is delivered), and / or other conditions of the liquid delivery device 900. The position of the plunger and / or the change in the position of the plunger may be used to monitor the dosage delivered by the liquid delivery device 900, the total amount of liquid remaining in the reservoir 902, the number of dosages remaining in the reservoir 902, the time remaining until the reservoir 902 is empty, and / or other information related to the liquid delivery device 900.

[0104] In some embodiments, the cap device 700 includes a sensor carriage 740 that is movable within the body 710 (e.g., movable within the cavity 711 between a wall of the body 710 and a lumen 748 in which the liquid delivery device is disposed). The sensor carriage 740 is configured to move along at least a portion of the liquid delivery device 900 within the cavity 711, which is sized to accommodate the dimensions of the liquid delivery device 900 and the path of the sensor carriage 740. The sensor carriage 740 facilitates detection of a characteristic of the liquid delivery device 900 by carrying one or more sensors along the liquid delivery device between a first position and a second position. The sensor carriage 740 is movable between a first position and a second position relative to the cavity 711 while the liquid delivery device 900 remains in a fixed position relative to the cavity 711 (e.g., the sensor carriage 740 is movable while the liquid delivery device 900 is fixedly engaged with the cap device 700).

[0105] In an exemplary embodiment, the cap device 700 includes a spring 760 configured to move the sensor carriage 740 from a first position to a second position. For example, the spring 760 may be manually compressed, such as by inserting the liquid delivery device 900 into the cavity 711, to move the sensor carriage 740 to a first position proximate the front wall 712 of the body 710, and upon release may be biased to return the sensor carriage to a second position proximate the opening 714 of the body 710.

[0106] The sensor carriage 740 includes one or more sensor components configured to detect a state of the liquid delivery device 900 as the sensor carriage moves between the first position and the second position. In various exemplary embodiments, the sensor carriage 740 includes a plunger sensor component configured to detect information usable to evaluate a state of the liquid delivery device 900. Alternatively, the sensor carriage 740 may include only a position sensor component (e.g., does not include a plunger sensor). In some embodiments, the one or more optical sensors 744 may be fixedly disposed on the body 710 of the cap device 700.

[0107] 10A to 10D, the sensor carriage 740 includes one or more engagement features configured to interact with the liquid delivery device 900. For example, the sensor carriage 740 includes an arm 746 that can move the sensor carriage 740 when pushed by the liquid delivery device 900. When the liquid delivery device 900 is inserted into the cavity 711, the interference between the arm 746 and the liquid delivery device 900 causes the sensor carriage 740 to move together with the liquid delivery device 900 toward the front wall 712 of the body 710. The arm 746 is then disengaged from the liquid delivery device 900 to release the sensor carriage 740. Thus, the sensor carriage 740 moves back toward the opening 714 of the cavity 711 while the liquid delivery device 900 remains in a fixed position relative to the cavity 711 of the cap device 700. For example, the arm 746 may be a flexible arm that may be movable between an engaged state and a disengaged state by interaction with the sensor carriage 740 and / or one or more other components of the cap 700. In some embodiments, the spring 760 may be compressed when the liquid delivery device 900 is fully inserted into the cavity 711 (e.g., the lumen 748) and may return the sensor carriage 740 toward the opening 714 when the arm 746 is released from engagement with the liquid delivery device 900.

[0108] In an exemplary embodiment, the sensor carriage 740 includes two arms 746 spaced apart around the circumference of the sensor carriage 740. The arms 746 are movable between an extended position (e.g., extending inwardly from an inner wall of the sensor carriage 740) in which the arms 746 extend into a lumen 748 defined by the sensor carriage 740, and a retracted position. The arms 746 may be movable relative to one or more components of the sensor carriage 740, such as a sensor carriage ring 749a that includes a cam surface 749b. In a first relative position (FIGS. 10A, 10B), the arms 746 are maintained in a bent or engaged state by the cam surface 749b. The arms 746 extend into the lumen 748 and are positioned to interfere with a liquid delivery device inserted into the cap device 700. In the second relative position (FIGS. 10C, 10D), the arm 746 is not in contact with the cam surface 749b and is in a non-flexed or non-engaged state (e.g., the arm 746 is not forced into an engaged position by the cam surface 749b). The arm 746 is positioned to allow the sensor carriage 740 to move relative to the lumen 748 and / or a fluid delivery device 900 disposed within the lumen 748 without interference that would impede the movement.

[0109] The relative movement between the arm 746 and the cam surface 749b may result from an interaction between the sensor carriage 740 and one or more features of the cap device 700. For example, the body 710 may include one or more ribs 718 that prevent further longitudinal movement of the sensor carriage ring 749a during insertion of the liquid delivery device 900. The arm 746 may continue to move to disengage from contact with the surface 749b. As a result, the arm may bend to a retracted or disengaged state (FIGS. 10C, 10D). When the sensor carriage 740 is returned to a position proximate the opening 714 (e.g., by the spring 760), the rib 719 may prevent further longitudinal movement of the sensor carriage ring 749a while the spring 760 continues to push against the arm 746. Thus, the arm 746 may be forced into contact with the cam surface 749b and moved to an extended or engaged state.

[0110] 11A-F, the cap device 700 can be engaged with the liquid delivery device 900 by inserting the delivery end 902 into the cavity 711 through the opening 714 of the body 710. When the liquid delivery device 900 is inserted through the opening 714 (FIG. 11A), the delivery end 902 encounters an engagement feature of the sensor carriage 740, such as an arm 746 in an extended position. Relative movement between the cap device 700 and the liquid delivery device 900 (e.g., the cap device 700 and the liquid delivery device 900 coming together) causes the liquid delivery device 900 to push the sensor carriage 740 into the cavity 711 (FIG. 11B). When the sensor carriage 740 reaches a position proximate the front wall 712 of the body 710, for example, the longitudinal movement of the sensor carriage ring 749a is stopped by the rib 718, and the arm 746 may move relative to the sensor carriage ring 749a (e.g., due to a force from the insertion of the liquid delivery device 900). Such relative movement releases the arm 746 from contact with the cam surface 749b and moves to a disengaged state (FIG. 11C). As the arm 746 moves to a disengaged state, the arm 746 and the sensor carriage 740 move out of interference with the liquid delivery device 900. Thus, the sensor carriage may be moved by the spring 760 (e.g., toward the opening 714) (FIG. 11D). When the sensor carriage 740 reaches a position proximate the opening 714 in the body 710, for example, the longitudinal movement of the sensor carriage ring 749a may be stopped by the rib 719 and the arm 746 may move relative to the sensor carriage ring 749a (e.g., by force from the spring 760) (FIG. 11E). Such relative movement causes the arm 746 to contact the cam surface 749b and move into a flexed or engaged state (FIG. 11F). Once the sensor carriage 740 is positioned near the opening 714 and the arm 746 is in the engaged state, the fluid delivery device 900 may be re-stowed and the process may be repeated.

[0111] Referring to FIG. 12, an exemplary liquid delivery system 20 that can be used to store and deliver liquid is shown. The liquid delivery system 20 includes a capping device 300 and a liquid delivery device 400. The liquid delivery device 400 includes a reservoir 401, a delivery end 402, and a plunger 405 that can be operated to deliver a dosage of the liquid in the reservoir 401 through the delivery end 402. The capping device 300 is positionable on the delivery end 402 of the liquid delivery device 400 for storage between uses of the liquid delivery device 400. In an exemplary embodiment, the capping device 300 includes one or more sensors including a linear encoder. The capping device includes one or more sensors configured to detect a state of the liquid delivery device 400 (such as a position of its plunger) and one or more output devices (such as a display, a communication system, etc.) configured to output information related to the state of the liquid delivery device 400. In some exemplary embodiments, the liquid delivery system 20 includes features and characteristics similar to those of the liquid delivery system 10 described above with reference to FIGS. 1-11.

[0112] The liquid delivery device 400 may be configured to deliver a measured dosage of liquid to a subject for the treatment of a disease. For example, the liquid delivery device 400 may be a pen syringe for delivering a liquid, such as insulin, to manage diabetes. In an exemplary embodiment, the delivery end 402 of the liquid delivery device 400 includes a septum 403 and a needle 404. A desired dosage may be measured by manipulating the dial 406 (e.g., by manually rotating the dial 406) and manipulating the liquid delivery device 400 to advance the plunger. Advancement of the plunger 405 via the rod 414 forces a measured dosage of liquid from the reservoir 401 through the delivery end 402 and into the subject. In an exemplary embodiment, advancing the plunger 405 a particular distance causes a corresponding amount of liquid to be dispensed from the liquid delivery device 400.

[0113] The capping device 300 may include one or more sensors configured to detect a condition of the liquid delivery device 400. In an exemplary embodiment, the capping device 300 includes a sensor that outputs a sensor signal that may be evaluated to detect a plunger, a position of the plunger, a change in the position of the plunger between successive engagements with the capping device 300 (e.g., a change in position after a volume is delivered), and / or other conditions of the liquid delivery device 400. The position of the plunger and / or the change in the position of the plunger may be used to monitor the dosage delivered by the liquid delivery device 400, the total amount of liquid remaining in the reservoir 402, the number of dosages remaining in the reservoir 402, the time remaining until the reservoir 402 is empty, and / or other information related to the liquid delivery device 400.

[0114] The capping device 300 optionally includes one or more user inputs 322 that facilitate user interaction with the capping device 100. In an exemplary embodiment, the user input 322 includes first and second buttons that can be operated to control the capping device 300. For example, the user input 322 can be operated by a user to activate the capping device 300 and / or to select information displayed by the display 321. Alternatively / additionally, the user input 322 can be operated to reset settings and / or memory of the capping device 300, such as when the capping device 300 is engaged with a new liquid delivery device 400. In some exemplary embodiments, the capping device 300 does not include a manually operable user input. A capping device 300 that does not include buttons or other user inputs can improve operability and promote the perception of a fully automated capping device 300.

[0115] The cap device 300 can communicate with one or more other components of the liquid delivery system to transmit and / or receive information related to the status of the cap device 100 and / or the liquid delivery device 400. For example, the cap device 300 includes a communication device 323 configured to communicate with one or more components remote from the cap device 300. The communication device 323 can include a wireless communication printed circuit assembly configured for wireless communication, such as via short-wavelength UHF radio frequency, RF communication, WI-FI, BLUETOOTH, ZIGBEE. Alternatively / additionally, the communication device 323 can include a port for wired communication with another electronic device. In various exemplary embodiments, the communication device 323 is configured for bidirectional communication, such as bidirectional communication with a mobile device having software configured to transmit and receive communications with the cap device 300. Alternatively, the cap device 300 can be configured for one-way communication, such as dedicated to uploading information to a mobile device or dedicated to receiving information from a mobile device.

[0116] The communication device 323 may be configured to communicate with an electronic device configured with diabetes management software. For example, the communication device 323 may transmit information related to the liquid delivery device 400 that may be further processed by the electronic device. In this manner, the cap device 300 may facilitate remote evaluation of information collected by its sensors by a user or health care provider at a remote location, provide alerts related to the liquid delivery system 400 by the electronic device (e.g., scheduled time for injection, liquid delivery device nearly empty, etc.), and / or facilitate further processing and analysis of information collected by the cap device 300.

[0117] In some optional embodiments, the capping device 300 optionally includes a sensor carriage 340 that is movable within the body 310 (e.g., movable within the cavity 311). The sensor carriage 340 is configured to move along at least a portion of the liquid delivery device 400 within the cavity 311, which is sized to accommodate the dimensions of the liquid delivery device 400 and the path of the sensor carriage 340. The sensor carriage 340 facilitates detection of a characteristic of the liquid delivery device 400 by carrying one or more sensors along the liquid delivery device between a first position and a second position. The sensor carriage 340 is optionally movable between a first position and a second position relative to the cavity 311, with the liquid delivery device 400 remaining in a fixed position relative to the cavity 311 (e.g., the sensor carriage 340 is movable with the liquid delivery device 400 fixedly engaged with the capping device 300).

[0118] The cap device 300 may include a track 350. The sensor carriage 340 may move along the track 350, which may include one or more features to guide and / or limit the movement of the sensor carriage 340. In an exemplary embodiment, the cap device 300 includes a spring 360 configured to move the sensor carriage 340 from a first position to a second position. For example, the spring 360 may be manually compressed, such as by inserting the liquid delivery device 400 into the cavity 311, to move the sensor carriage 340 to a first position proximate the front wall 312 of the body 310, and upon release may be biased to return the sensor carriage to a second position proximate the opening 314 of the body 310.

[0119] The sensor carriage 340 includes one or more sensor components configured to detect a state of the liquid delivery device 400 as the sensor carriage moves between the first and second positions. In various exemplary embodiments, the sensor carriage 340 includes plunger sensor components (optical sensors and position sensors such as linear encoders) configured to detect information usable to evaluate a state of the liquid delivery device 400. Alternatively, the sensor carriage 340 may include only position sensor components (e.g., no plunger sensor). In some embodiments, the one or more optical sensors 344 may be fixedly disposed on the body 310 of the cap device 300.

[0120] In some embodiments, the sensor carriage 340 has a sensor 342 (e.g., a plunger sensor) including an emitter 342a and a receiver 342b, such as optical emitter 342a and optical emitter 342b. The optical emitter 342a emits radiant energy that can be detected by the optical receiver 342b, and in some embodiments, may include an LED or laser diode. The optical receiver 342b may output a signal related to the radiant energy received from the optical emitter 342a. This may depend on the portion of the liquid delivery device 400 that is present in the path 342c between the optical emitter 342a and the optical receiver 342b. Thus, the amount of radiant energy received by the optical receiver may be relatively low when the path 342c intersects with the plunger or other solid structure and relatively high when the path 342c intersects with the transparent wall of the reservoir and its liquid contents.

[0121] Alternatively / in addition to the sensor 342, the sensor carriage 340 may include a position sensor 345 configured to output a sensor signal indicative of a position or distance. In an exemplary embodiment, the cap device 300 includes a position sensor 345 that outputs a sensor signal indicative of a position of the sensor carriage 340 and / or a distance the sensor carriage 340 has moved between a first position and a second position (e.g., as the sensor carriage 340 moves along the liquid delivery device 400 or between subsequent dispenses by the liquid delivery device 400). In an exemplary embodiment, the position sensor 345 includes a linear encoder, such as a reflective linear encoder or a transmissive linear encoder. The encoder code strip 345a is disposed along at least a portion of the length of the cavity 311, such as on the sidewall 313 or track 350 of the body 310. The encoder 345b, such as an optical encoder, is disposed on the sensor carriage 340. In some exemplary embodiments, the encoder 345b may be disposed in close proximity to but not in contact with the code strip 345a.

[0122] The linear encoder 345 may output a sensor signal (e.g., a count) that varies depending on the position of the encoder 345b along the code strip 345a (e.g., the position of the sensor carriage 340 along the cavity 311). In various exemplary embodiments, the code strip 345a includes an optical pattern, such as a series of alternating dark and white lines. The linear encoder 345 may output a sensor signal indicative of the position of the encoder 345b along the code strip 345a. For example, a particular count may be associated with a particular position along the code strip 345a, and the count may be constant and repeatable for each movement of the encoder 345b along the code strip 345a.

[0123] The resolution of the encoder can be increased to a resolution finer than the thickness of the alternating lines of the code strip 345a by detecting the transitions at the leading edge of each line and / or by velocity-based interpolation techniques. In various exemplary embodiments, the linear encoder 345 can provide highly accurate and reliable measurements with a resolution of less than 25 μm, less than 15 μm, less than 10 μm, about 5 μm to 10 μm, or about 7.5 μm. The resolution of the liquid delivery device 400 can be about 130 μm. Thus, the resolution of the sensor 345 of the capping device 300 can be between about 10 to 20 times the resolution of the liquid delivery device 400. Such a resolution of the sensor 345 facilitates very accurate determination of the position of the plunger 405. For example, the error due to the sensor is one tenth of the variation in dose delivery by the liquid delivery device 400. In various exemplary embodiments, the high resolution can be achieved with little or no calibration of the sensor 345 during assembly of the capping device 300.

[0124] In an exemplary embodiment, the capping device 300 has a processor configured to evaluate a sensor signal from the sensors 342 and / or 344, such as a variation in the sensor signal indicative of the plunger, and determine a corresponding position based on the sensor signal from the sensor 345. In some embodiments, the corresponding position may be stored and compared to the corresponding position of the plunger during subsequent measurements. The change in position may then be evaluated (e.g., by evaluating the distance traveled by the plunger) to determine the previously delivered dosage. In some exemplary embodiments, only the change in the position of the plunger is evaluated, and not the position of the plunger relative to other components of the liquid delivery device 400 and / or the capping device 300.

[0125] Alternatively / additionally, the position of the plunger relative to features of the liquid delivery device 400 and / or cap device 300 may be evaluated. For example, the processor may be configured to detect a sensor signal output from one or more sensors 342 and / or 344 indicative of a front end of the reservoir 403 and determine a corresponding position based on an output signal from the sensor 345. The relative positions of such features may be evaluated to determine the distance between the front end of the reservoir 403 and the plunger 405, which may facilitate calculation of the total amount of liquid remaining in the reservoir 401, the number of doses remaining in the reservoir 401, the time remaining until the reservoir 401 is empty, and / or other information related to the liquid delivery device 400.

[0126] The encoder 345b is spaced apart from the code strip 345a and does not contact it during operation of the sensor 345. Thus, the encoder 345b does not create frictional resistance due to contact with the code strip 345a and does not experience frictional wear. The encoder 345b can move repeatedly along the code strip 345a without wearing or otherwise affecting the code strip 345a. In some exemplary embodiments, an optional spring 348 can be included, which can provide a controlled resistance to the movement of the sensor carriage 340 propelled by the spring 360. For example, controlled movement of the sensor carriage 340 can be facilitated without causing frictional engagement or wear on the components of the sensors 342, 344, or 345.

[0127] Alternatively / in addition to the sensor 342, a sensor 344 fixedly disposed on the body 310 of the cap device 300 can be used to detect the plunger and / or other features of the liquid delivery device 400. The sensor 344 can output a sensor signal when the liquid delivery device 400 is inserted into the cavity 311 and engages with the cap device 300. The spring 360 can facilitate controlled manual insertion of the liquid delivery device 400 into the cavity 311 of the cap device 300 (e.g., into the lumen that receives the liquid delivery device 400).

[0128] 13, an exemplary liquid delivery system 30 including a rotary encoder position sensor is shown. The liquid delivery system 30 includes a capping device 500 positionable on the delivery end of a liquid delivery device for storing the liquid delivery device between uses. In an exemplary embodiment, the capping device 500 includes one or more sensors configured to detect a state of the state of the liquid delivery device (such as the position of its plunger) and one or more output devices (such as a display, a communication system, etc.) configured to output information related to the state of the liquid delivery device. In some exemplary embodiments, the liquid delivery system 30 includes features similar to those of the liquid delivery systems 10 and 20 described above with reference to FIGS. 1-12.

[0129] The capping device 500 may include one or more sensors configured to detect a condition of the liquid delivery device. In an exemplary embodiment, the capping device 500 includes a sensor that outputs a sensor signal that may be evaluated to detect a plunger, a position of the plunger, a change in the position of the plunger between successive engagements with the capping device 500 (e.g., a change in position after a volume is delivered), and / or other conditions of the liquid delivery device. The position of the plunger and / or the change in the position of the plunger may be used to monitor the amount of dosage delivered by the liquid delivery device, the total amount of liquid remaining, the number of dosages remaining, the time remaining until the liquid delivery device is empty, and / or other information related to the liquid delivery device.

[0130] The capping device 500 optionally includes one or more user inputs 522 that facilitate user interaction with the capping device 500. In exemplary embodiments, the user inputs 522 include first and second buttons that can be operated to control the capping device 500. For example, the user inputs 522 can be operated by a user to activate the capping device 500 and / or to select information displayed by the display 521. Alternatively / additionally, the user inputs 522 can be operated to reset settings and / or memory of the capping device 500, such as when the capping device 500 is engaged with a new liquid delivery device. In some exemplary embodiments, the capping device 500 does not include a manually operable user input. A capping device 500 that does not include buttons or other user inputs can improve operability and promote the perception of a fully automated capping device 500.

[0131] The cap device 500 can communicate with one or more other components of the liquid delivery system to transmit and / or receive information related to the status of the cap device 500 and / or the liquid delivery device. For example, the cap device 500 includes a communication device 523 configured to communicate with one or more components remote from the cap device 500. The communication device 523 can include a wireless communication printed circuit assembly configured for wireless communication, such as via short-wavelength UHF radio frequency, RF communication, WI-FI, BLUETOOTH, ZIGBEE. Alternatively / additionally, the communication device 523 can include a port for wired communication with another electronic device. In various exemplary embodiments, the communication device 523 is configured for bidirectional communication, such as bidirectional communication with a mobile device having software configured to transmit and receive communications with the cap device 500. Alternatively, the cap device 500 can be configured for one-way communication, such as dedicated to uploading information to a mobile device or dedicated to receiving information from a mobile device.

[0132] The communication device 523 may be configured to communicate with an electronic device configured with diabetes management software. For example, the communication device 523 may transmit information related to the liquid delivery device that may be further processed by the electronic device. In this manner, the cap device 500 may facilitate remote evaluation of information collected by its sensors by a user or health care provider at a remote location, provide alerts related to the liquid delivery system by the electronic device (e.g., scheduled time for injection, liquid delivery device nearly empty, etc.), and / or facilitate further processing and analysis of information collected by the cap device 500.

[0133] In some embodiments, the capping device 500 optionally includes a carriage 540 configured to accommodate at least a portion of the liquid delivery device. For example, the carriage 540 may be configured to accommodate a delivery end of the liquid delivery device and / or to move with the liquid delivery device when the liquid delivery device engages the capping device 500. The capping device includes a track 550 along which the carriage 540 is movable (e.g., to guide and / or regulate the carriage 540 as it moves within the cavity 511).

[0134] In an exemplary embodiment, the capping device 500 includes a spring 560 configured to move the carriage 540 from the first position to the second position. For example, the spring 560 can be manually compressed, e.g., by inserting the liquid delivery device 500 into the cavity 511, when the carriage 540 is moved toward the front wall 512 of the cavity 511. The spring 560 can be biased to return the carriage 540 to the second position in the opening 514 of the body 510 when released (e.g., when the liquid delivery device is removed from engagement with the capping device 500). In an exemplary embodiment, the spring 560 is mounted about the spring hat 586.

[0135] The capping device 500 includes one or more sensor components configured to detect a state of the liquid delivery device when the liquid delivery device engages the capping device 500. In an exemplary embodiment, the capping device 500 includes a plunger sensor and / or a rotary encoder configured to detect information that can be used to evaluate the state of the liquid delivery device. For example, the capping device 500 includes one or more sensors 544 fixedly disposed at the opening 514 of the cavity 511. The sensor 544 may include an emitter 542a and a receiver 542b, such as an optical emitter 542a and an optical emitter 542b. The optical emitter 542a emits radiant energy that can be detected by the optical receiver 542b, and in some embodiments, may include an LED or a laser diode. The optical receiver 542b may output a signal related to the radiant energy received from the optical emitter 542a. This may depend on the portion of the liquid delivery device present in the path 542c between the optical emitter 542a and the optical receiver 542b. That is, the amount of radiant energy received by the optical receiver may be relatively low when a plunger or other solid structure is present in path 542c and relatively high when, for example, a transparent wall of a reservoir and its liquid contents are present in path 542c.

[0136] Alternatively / in addition to the sensor 544, the capping device 500 may include a position sensor component configured to output a sensor signal indicative of a position or distance. In an exemplary embodiment, the capping device 500 includes a rotary encoder 570 that outputs a sensor signal indicative of the position of the carriage 540 and / or the distance the carriage 540 has moved between a first position and a second position (e.g., as the carriage 540 is pushed along within the cavity 511 while the capping device 500 and the liquid delivery device are engaged).

[0137] The capping device 500 includes a track 550 having a helical slot 551. An end of the track 550 is retained between a track ring 585 and a helical track base 584 such that the track 550 is rotatable relative to the carriage 540, the body 510, and / or other components of the capping device 500. Movement of the carriage 540 along the cavity 511 causes rotation of the track 550 (e.g., rotation relative to the carriage 540, the body 510, and / or other components of the capping device 500).

[0138] In an exemplary embodiment, the position sensor 545 includes an encoder code wheel 545a and an encoder 545b, such as an optical encoder. The encoder 545b may be located in close proximity to the code wheel 545a without contacting the code wheel 545a. The rotation of the track 550 is sent to the code wheel 545a and / or the encoder 545b. The corresponding rotation is detected by the encoder 545b. The rotary encoder 545 may generate a sensor signal (e.g., a count) that varies depending on the relative rotation of the code wheels 545a and the encoder 545b. In an exemplary embodiment, the code wheel 545a includes an optical pattern, such as a series of alternating dark and white lines. The rotary encoder 545 may output a sensor signal indicative of the rotation detected by the encoder 545b. For example, a particular count may be associated with a particular rotation of the code wheel 545a, i.e., a particular rotation of the track 550, and the count may be constant and repeatable for each movement of the carriage 540 along the track 550.

[0139] The encoder resolution can be increased to a resolution finer than the thickness of the alternating lines of the code wheel 545a by detection of the transitions at the leading edges of each line and / or velocity-based interpolation. In various exemplary embodiments, the linear encoder 345 can provide highly accurate and reliable measurements with a resolution of less than 25 μm, less than 15 μm, less than 10 μm, about 5 μm to 10 μm, or about 7.5 μm.

[0140] The resolution of the rotary encoder 345 can be further improved by a gear train 581 between the track 550 and the code wheel 345a. For example, the gear train can include gears 581a, 581b, 581c, 581d, 581e, which provide a gear ratio of 2 to 100, 4 to 50, 8 to 25, or about 16. The gears 581a, 581c, 581e can be rotatable on a main shaft 582 supported by bearings 583, for example, and the gears 581b, 581d can be rotatable on a gear post 589. Thus, in some embodiments, each rotation of the track 150 can cause the code wheel 545a to rotate multiple times.

[0141] In some embodiments, the encoder 545b can be non-contacting with the code wheel 545a such that the encoder 545b is spaced apart from the code wheel 545a during operation of the rotary encoder 545. Thus, the encoder 545b does not create frictional resistance through contact with the code wheel 545a and does not cause frictional wear of the code wheel 545a due to the contact of the encoder 545b. The encoder 345b can repeatedly sense the code wheel 345a without wearing down or otherwise affecting the code wheel 345a.

[0142] The various exemplary capping devices described herein facilitate an effective and reproducible technique for assessing the condition of a liquid delivery device. Referring to FIG. 14, a flow chart of an exemplary method 800 for assessing the condition of a liquid delivery device is shown. The method 800 includes an operation 802 of housing at least a portion of the liquid delivery device within a cavity of the capping device. In various exemplary embodiments, the liquid delivery device may have similar features and characteristics to the liquid delivery devices 200, 400, 600 described herein and may be a pen injector device for dispensing a dose of insulin.

[0143] Operation 802 may include aligning the liquid delivery device with a cavity of the cap device, such as by aligning a central longitudinal axis of the liquid delivery device with a central longitudinal axis of the cavity of the cap device. Alternatively / additionally, operation 802 may include aligning the liquid delivery device with one or more distinct alignment positions with the cap device. For example, the liquid delivery device and / or the cap device may have asymmetric features and / or a non-circular shape that facilitates accommodating the liquid delivery device at one or more distinct positions selected based on the position of one or more sensors in the cap device. Operation 802, including aligning the liquid delivery device with the cap device in a particular orientation, facilitates a desired interaction between one or more sensors of the cap device and the liquid delivery device by inhibiting interference or obstruction by ribs, indicia, opaque areas, and / or other features.

[0144] In an exemplary embodiment, the operation 802 of housing the liquid delivery device within the cavity of the capping device may include fixedly engaging the capping device with the liquid delivery device. For example, after the operation 802, relative motion between the liquid delivery device and the capping device may be restricted such that the liquid delivery device cannot rotate within the cavity and / or such that the liquid delivery device cannot move longitudinally within the cavity.

[0145] The method 800 may include an operation 804 of releasing a sensor carriage including one or more sensors. When the sensor carriage is released, the sensor carriage can move from a first position to a second position while the liquid delivery device remains at a fixed position within the cavity. For example, the sensor carriage can move from a first position proximate a front wall defining a portion of the cavity to a second position proximate an opening of the cavity. The one or more sensors disposed on the sensor carriage operate while the sensor carriage moves between the first position and the second position to output a sensor signal indicative of one or more characteristics of the liquid delivery device.

[0146] In some exemplary embodiments, the operation 804 of releasing the sensor carriage can be initiated without additional manual manipulation. For example, if the liquid delivery device is engaged with the cap device, the sensor carriage can be released without manual manipulation. One or more engagement features of the sensor carriage that interact with the liquid delivery device can be moved or released such that the sensor carriage and the liquid delivery device are not restricted to a fixed position relative to one another.

[0147] Method 800 may further include operation 806 of evaluating an output of one or more sensors indicative of a presence of a characteristic of the liquid delivery device. For example, the capping device may include a processor configured to evaluate a sensor signal from one or more sensors, such as a variation in the sensor signal indicative of a plunger, and determine a corresponding position. In some embodiments, operation 806 may include storing the corresponding position and comparing the corresponding position during a subsequent capping event. Evaluating the sensor signal may include evaluating a change in position (e.g., by evaluating a distance traveled by the plunger 205), determining a value of a previous delivered dose, a remaining amount in the liquid delivery device, or other characteristic of the liquid delivery device.

[0148] In some embodiments, the method 800 may include an operation 808 of displaying an output related to the position of the plunger. For example, the operation 808 may include displaying a last delivered dose. Alternatively / additionally, the operation 808 may include displaying dosing information related to a total amount of liquid remaining in the reservoir of the liquid delivery device, a number of doses remaining in the reservoir of the liquid delivery device, a time remaining until the reservoir of the liquid delivery device is empty, a time of a last dose (e.g., a time of the operation 802 of placing the liquid delivery device in the cavity), a time elapsed since a last dose (e.g., a time elapsed since the operation 802 of placing the liquid delivery device in the cavity), and / or other information related to the liquid delivery device.

[0149] 15-17 show an exemplary liquid delivery system 1010 including a powered capping device 1100 and a liquid delivery device 1200. The liquid delivery system 1010 can be used to store and deliver liquid and output dosage information to a user, and in some exemplary embodiments, the liquid delivery system 1010 includes one or more features similar to the features of liquid delivery systems 10, 20, and 30 described above with reference to FIGS.

[0150] The liquid delivery device 1200 includes a reservoir 1201, a delivery end 1202, and a plunger 1205 that can be manipulated to deliver a dose of liquid in the reservoir 1201 through the delivery end 1202. The capping device 1100 is positionable over the delivery end 1202 of the liquid delivery device 1200 for storage between uses of the liquid delivery device 1200. In an exemplary embodiment, the capping device 1100 includes one or more sensors configured to detect a state of the state of the liquid delivery device 1200 (such as a position of its plunger) and one or more output devices (such as a display, a communication system, etc.) configured to output information related to the state of the liquid delivery device 1200.

[0151] The liquid delivery device 1200 may be configured to deliver a measured dose of liquid to a subject for the treatment of a disease. For example, the liquid delivery device 1200 may be a pen syringe for delivering a liquid, such as insulin, to manage diabetes. In an exemplary embodiment, the delivery end 1202 of the liquid delivery device 1200 includes a septum 1203 and a needle 1204. A desired dosage may be measured by manipulation of the dial 1206 (e.g., by manually rotating the dial 1206) and delivered by advancing the plunger 1205. Advancement of the plunger 1205 via the rod 1214 forces a measured dosage of liquid from the reservoir 1201 through the delivery end 1202 and into the subject. In an exemplary embodiment, advancing the plunger 1205 a particular distance causes a corresponding amount of liquid to be dispensed from the liquid delivery device 1200.

[0152] The cap device 1100 includes a body 1110 that defines a cavity 1111 configured to accommodate at least a portion of the liquid delivery device 1200, such as the delivery end 1202 and / or at least a portion of the reservoir 1201. The cap device 1100 is positionable over the delivery end 1202, such that the liquid delivery device 1200 may be stored (e.g., between periods of use). The cap device 1100 may protect the delivery end 1202 from damage or external environmental contaminants and may accommodate the injection needle 1204. The liquid delivery device 1200 may be removed from the cavity 1111 of the cap device 1100 prior to each use and then engaged with the cap device 1100 after a dose has been delivered. Thus, the cap device 1100 may be removed from and replaced on the liquid delivery device 1200 over multiple uses. After the contents of a particular liquid delivery device 1200 have been used, the liquid delivery device 1200 may be discarded and the cap device 1100 may be used for a new liquid delivery device. In some exemplary embodiments, the liquid delivery device 1200 may be discarded once its usable contents have been used and the cap device 1100 may be reusable for multiple liquid delivery devices 1200. In other exemplary embodiments, the cap device 1100 may be associated with a particular liquid delivery device 1200 and both the cap device 1100 and the liquid delivery device 1200 may be discarded once the contents of the reservoir 1201 have been used.

[0153] The capping device 1100 may include one or more sensors configured to detect a condition of the liquid delivery device 1200. In an exemplary embodiment, the capping device 1100 includes a sensor that outputs a sensor signal that may be evaluated to detect the plunger 1205, the position of the plunger 1205, a change in the position of the plunger 1205 during a sequence of engagement with the capping device 1100 (e.g., a change in position after a volume delivery), and / or other conditions of the liquid delivery device 1200. The position of the plunger 1205 and / or the change in the position of the plunger 1205 may be used to monitor the dosage delivered by the liquid delivery device 1200, the total amount of liquid remaining in the reservoir 1201, the number of dosages remaining in the reservoir 1201, the time remaining until the reservoir 1201 is empty, and / or other information related to the liquid delivery device 1200.

[0154] The cap apparatus 1100 may include various components that facilitate calculation, display, storage, and / or communication of sensor signals that may be output by one or more sensors. In an exemplary embodiment, the cap apparatus 1100 includes a display 1121, a user input 1122, a communication device 1123, a memory 1124, a processor 1125, a speaker 1126, and a circuit board 1127. The one or more components may be in electrical communication with one or more other components via the circuit board 1127, and the processor 1125 may be configured with logic to control the operation of one or more of the display 1121, the user input 1122, the communication device 1123, the memory 1124, and the speaker 1126, and to process sensor signals received from one or more sensors of the cap apparatus 1100.

[0155] The display 1121 provides a user with visual output related to the status of the capping device 1100 and / or the liquid delivery device 1200. The display 1121 may be, for example, an LED, LCD, e-ink, or e-paper display. In some embodiments, the display 1121 may provide a visual indication of the amount of dosage delivered by the liquid delivery device 1200, the total amount of liquid remaining in the reservoir 1201, the number of dosages remaining in the reservoir 1201, the time remaining until the reservoir 1201 is empty, the time of the last dosage (e.g., the time the capping device 1100 was replaced for the liquid delivery device 1200), the time since the last dosage (e.g., the time since the capping device 1100 was replaced for the liquid delivery device 1200), and / or other information related to the liquid delivery device 1200.

[0156] Alternatively / in addition, the cap device 1100 may include audio and / or vibration alerts regarding the status of the cap device 1100 and / or the liquid delivery device 1200. The processor 1125 may control the audio output of the speaker 1126 to output an audible alert or control the vibrator 1128 to output a vibration alert, which may be perceived as indicating the amount of dosage delivered by the liquid delivery device 1200, the total amount of liquid remaining in the reservoir 1201, the number of dosages remaining in the reservoir 1201, the time remaining until the reservoir 1201 is empty, the time of the last dosage (e.g., the time when the cap device 1100 was replaced for the liquid delivery device 1200), the time elapsed since the last dosage (e.g., the time elapsed since the cap device 1100 was replaced for the liquid delivery device 1200), and / or other information regarding the liquid delivery device 1200. Alternatively / in addition, the vibrator 1128 may deliver a vibration to the liquid delivery device 1200. The vibrator 1128 may be activated to facilitate mixing of the contents of the liquid delivery device 1200 and / or to inhibit the formation or accumulation of precipitates (e.g., on the tip surface of the plunger and / or on the surface of the reservoir 1201).

[0157] The capping device 1100 optionally includes one or more user inputs 1122 that facilitate user interaction with the capping device 1100. In an exemplary embodiment, the user input 1122 includes first and second buttons that may be operated to control the capping device 1100. For example, the user input 1122 may be operated by a user to activate the capping device 1100 and / or to select information displayed by the display 1121. Alternatively / additionally, the user input 1122 may be operated to reset settings and / or memory 1124 of the capping device 1100, such as when the capping device 1100 is engaged with a new liquid delivery device 1200. In some exemplary embodiments, the capping device 1100 does not include a user input 1122, such as a button. A capping device 1100 that does not include a button or other user input may facilitate the perception of a fully automated capping device 1100 and / or improve user usability.

[0158] The cap device 1100 can communicate with one or more other components of the liquid delivery system to transmit and / or receive information related to the status of the cap device 1100 and / or the liquid delivery device 1200. For example, the cap device 1100 includes a communication device 1123 configured to communicate with one or more components remote from the cap device 1100. The communication device 1123 can include a wireless communication printed circuit assembly configured for wireless communication, such as via short-wavelength UHF radio frequency, RF communication, WI-FI, BLUETOOTH, ZIGBEE. Alternatively / additionally, the communication device 1123 can include a port for wired communication with another electronic device. In various exemplary embodiments, the communication device 1123 is configured for bidirectional communication, such as bidirectional communication with a mobile device having software configured to transmit and receive communications with the cap device 1100. Alternatively, the cap device 1100 can be configured for one-way communication, such as dedicated to uploading information to a mobile device or dedicated to receiving information from a mobile device.

[0159] The communication device 1123 may be configured to communicate with an electronic device configured with diabetes management software. For example, the communication device 1123 may transmit information related to the liquid delivery device 1200 that may be further processed by the electronic device. In this manner, the cap device 1100 may facilitate evaluation of information collected by its sensors by a remote user or healthcare provider, provide alerts related to the liquid delivery system 1010 by the electronic device (e.g., scheduled time for injection, liquid delivery device nearly empty, etc.), and / or facilitate further processing and analysis of information collected by the cap device 1100.

[0160] The cap device 1100 includes a power source 1170. In an exemplary embodiment, the power source 1170 includes one or more batteries, such as alkaline batteries, nickel cadmium batteries, lithium ion batteries, lithium polymer batteries, and the like. In one embodiment, the power source 1170 may include a rechargeable 3.7V lithium polymer battery, which powers the motor of the motorized drive mechanism, the communication device 1123, and / or one or more other components of the cap device 1100. Such a power source 1170 may provide an extended period between recharges, such as more than five days of normal use, more than seven days of normal use, or more. The power source 1170 may be associated with a microswitch configured to switch the cap device from a non-activated or low power state to an activated or operational state, in which a sensor of the cap device 1100 is activated. Alternatively / additionally, a sensor signal from one or more sensors of the cap device 1100, such as one or more position sensors, may provide an alert to the processor 1125 to switch the cap device to an activated or operational state.

[0161] 15 and 16, the body 1110 of the cap device 1100 defines a cavity 1111 configured to accommodate at least a portion of the liquid delivery device 1200 (e.g., in the lumen of the cavity 1111). For example, the body 1110 may include a front wall 1112, a side wall 1113, and an opening 1114. The body 1110 may be configured to accommodate various components of the cap device 1100, such as a display 1121, a user input 1122, a communication device 1123, a memory 1124, a processor 1125, a speaker 1126, and a circuit board 1127. In various exemplary embodiments, the body 1110 is a molded body, such as molded plastic. The body 1110 may include multiple body sections assembled to form the body 1110. That is, a first body portion 1110a and a second body portion 1110b, etc., that may be coupled to define a cavity 1111 and / or other space that receives the cap device 1100. The body 1110, including the first and second body portions 1110a, 1110b, may facilitate efficient manufacture of the body 1110 and / or efficient assembly with other components of the cap device 1100. In other illustrative embodiments, the portions of the body 1110 that define the cavity 1111 may be integrally formed as a single component (e.g., eliminating the need to couple multiple components together to define the cavity 1111).

[0162] In an exemplary embodiment, the cap device 1100 includes a sleeve 1118 configured to accommodate at least a portion of the liquid delivery device 1200 (e.g., the body 1110 includes the sleeve 1118). The sleeve 1118 may include a side wall 1118a and a front wall 1118b configured to accommodate the delivery end 1202 and / or the needle 1204 of the liquid delivery device 1200. The sleeve at least partially encloses the needle 1204 (e.g., proximate a front surface of the cap device 1100) and the reservoir 1201 between the needle 1204 and the opening 1114. Alternatively / additionally, the sleeve 1118 may include one or more retention features that engage the liquid delivery device 1200 and limit relative movement between the liquid delivery device 1200 and the body 1110 of the cap device 1100.

[0163] The motorized capping device 1100 includes a sensor carriage 1140 that is movable within the body 1110 (e.g., movable within the cavity 1111 between the sidewall 1113 and the sleeve 1118). The sensor carriage 1140 is configured to move along at least a portion of the liquid delivery device 200 within the cavity 111, which is sized to accommodate the dimensions of the liquid delivery device 1200 and the path of the sensor carriage 1140. The sensor carriage 1140 facilitates detection of a characteristic of the liquid delivery device 1200 by carrying one or more sensors along the liquid delivery device. In an exemplary embodiment, the sensor carriage 1140 is movable between a first position and a second position relative to the sleeve 1118 / cavity 1111 while the liquid delivery device 1200 remains in a fixed position relative to the cavity 1111 (e.g., the sensor carriage 1140 is movable while the liquid delivery device 1200 is fixedly engaged with the capping device 1100).

[0164] The sensor carriage 1140 may move along the sleeve 1118, which may include one or more features that guide and / or limit the movement of the sensor carriage 1140. In an exemplary embodiment, the sensor carriage 1140 defines an opening having a shape that corresponds to the shape of the sleeve 1118 (e.g., the sensor carriage 1140 defines a circular opening of a similar size to the circular cross-section of the sleeve 1118). Alternatively / additionally, the sleeve 1118 may include one or more ribs or other features that interact with corresponding features of the sensor carriage 1140 and define a path along which the sensor carriage 1140 moves (e.g., longitudinally between a first position relatively close to the front wall 1112 and a second position relatively close to the opening 1114). In some embodiments, the sensor carriage 1140 is disposed entirely outside the sleeve 1118 (e.g., no portion of the sensor carriage 1140 extends into the sleeve 1118). Thus, the sleeve 1118 can protect the sensor carriage 1140 from the external environment and / or the contents of the fluid delivery device 1200.

[0165] In some embodiments, the sleeve 1118 further includes one or more features configured to interact with features of the liquid delivery device 1200. For example, the inner surface 1118c of the sleeve 1118 may include features to orient and / or retain the liquid delivery device 1200 within the cap device 1100. The sleeve 1118 may at least partially surround the reservoir 1201 of the liquid delivery device 1200, and the sensor carriage 1140 may be movable between the sleeve 1118 and a sidewall 1113 that defines the cavity 1111 of the cap device 1100. Thus, in an exemplary embodiment, the sleeve 1118 is disposed between the liquid delivery device 1200 and the sensor carriage 1140 during operation of the sensor carriage 1140. The sleeve 1118 may be at least partially constructed of, for example, an optically transparent material or other material that enables operation of a sensor associated with the sensor carriage 1140.

[0166] In some embodiments, the sleeve 1118 may be integrally formed with the body 1110 of the cap device 1100. For example, the sleeve 1118 may be integrally formed with the body 1110 such that it is a single component. Alternatively, the sleeve 1118 may be formed as a separate component from other components of the body 1110 and then assembled to the other components of the body 1110. For example, the sleeve 1118 may be hermetically joined to other components of the body 1110 near the opening 1114 and / or at other locations on the body 1110. A separately formed sleeve 1118 may be easier to manufacture (e.g., may optionally have tighter manufacturing tolerances and / or may include features that are difficult to form within the cavity 1111 of the body 1110).

[0167] The sleeve 1118 can protect electronic and other components within the body 1110 from liquids, debris, and environmental contaminants. In an exemplary embodiment, the sleeve 1118 is sealed with other components of the body 1110 and / or does not define an opening to the cavity 1111. Thus, the cavity 1111 can define a sealed, enclosed cavity. A sensor carriage 1140 driven by (e.g., driven exclusively by) the motorized drive system 1160 can facilitate achieving a sleeve 1118 that does not include an opening. Such a structure can provide a robust liquid delivery system 1010 in which mechanical and electronic components are protected.

[0168] The cap device 1100 includes a motorized drive system 1160 configured to drive the sensor carriage 1140 along a longitudinal axis of the cap device 1100 (e.g., along a longitudinal axis extending centrally through the front wall 1112 and the opening 1114). For example, the motorized drive system 1160 may include a motor 1161 and a lead screw 1162 connected directly or indirectly to a drive shaft of the motor 1161. Operation of the motor 1161 may rotate the lead screw 1162 to move the sensor carriage. Rotating the motor 1161 in a first direction moves the sensor carriage 1140 toward the opening 1114 of the cavity 1111, and rotating the motor 1161 in a second direction moves the sensor carriage 1140 toward the front wall 1112 of the body 1110. Thus, in an exemplary embodiment, the motorized drive system 1160 may drive the sensor carriage 1140 between any number of discrete points along the lead screw 1162.

[0169] In various exemplary embodiments, the liquid delivery device 1200 remains in a fixed position relative to the cavity 1111 and body 1110 of the cap device 1100 while the sensor carriage 1140 moves along the liquid delivery device 1200. The liquid delivery device 1200 may be restricted from twisting or rotating about the longitudinal axis A of the cavity 1111 and / or restricted from longitudinal movement along the longitudinal axis A. Limited or no relative movement between the liquid delivery device 1200 and the body 1110 allows the sensor of the sensor carriage 1140 to accurately and repeatably detect the plunger 1205 and also provides a predictable line of sight to the sensor of the sensor carriage 1140.

[0170] In some exemplary embodiments, the sensor carriage 1140 includes one or more sensor components (e.g., similar to the sensor carriage 140 in some embodiments) configured to detect a state of the liquid delivery device 1200. The sensor carriage 1140 may include plunger detection sensors, such as reflective or transmissive optical sensors, and / or position sensor components, such as load sensors, linear potentiometers, linear encoders, rotary encoders, magnetic potentiometers, membrane potentiometers, etc. Such components are configured to detect information that can be used to assess the state of the liquid delivery device 1200, for example.

[0171] The sensor carriage 1140 includes one or more sensor components configured to detect a state of the liquid delivery device 1200, such as a position of a plunger within the liquid delivery device 1200. For example, the sensor carriage 1140 includes a sensor 1142 that outputs a sensor signal representative of a characteristic of the liquid delivery device 1200. The output signal from the sensor 1142 may change depending on a physical characteristic of the liquid delivery device 1200 that the sensor 1142 encounters. Thus, the output signal may change at different positions along the length of the liquid delivery device 1200. For example, upon movement of the sensor carriage 1140 relative to the liquid delivery device 1200, changes in the output signal of the sensor 1142 may be evaluated to determine a front end (e.g., the supply end 1202) of the reservoir 1201, a front end of the plunger 1205, a rear end of the plunger 1205, and / or other attributes of the liquid delivery device 1200. The detected position changes between successive doses, such as the change in the position of the plunger 1205 before and after a dose is delivered, may be used to evaluate the amount of dosage delivered by the liquid delivery device 1200, the total amount of liquid remaining in the reservoir 1201, the number of doses remaining in the reservoir 1201, the time remaining until the reservoir 1201 is empty, the time of the last dose (e.g., the time when the cap device 1100 was replaced for the liquid delivery device 1200), the time elapsed since the last dose (e.g., the time elapsed since the cap device 1100 was replaced for the liquid delivery device 1200), and / or other information related to the liquid delivery device 1200. Alternatively / in addition, the relative positions of one or more of these detected characteristics, or the distance between one or more of these detected characteristics, may be used to evaluate dosing information related to the liquid delivery device 1200.

[0172] In an exemplary embodiment, the sensor 1142 includes an emitter 1142a and a receiver 1142b, such as, for example, an optical emitter 1142a and an optical receiver 1142b (which may, for example, in some embodiments, have one or more features of the sensor 142 described herein) (FIG. 16). The emitter 1142a and the receiver 1142b can be aligned with each other such that an optical path 1142c between the emitter 1142a and the receiver 1142b extends perpendicular (e.g., substantially perpendicular, within 10° of completely perpendicular) to the central longitudinal axis A of the cavity 111. The optical path 1142c passes at least partially through the sleeve 1118 between the emitter 1142a and the receiver 1142b. In some embodiments, the emitter 1142a is configured to generate a narrow beam with limited spread outside the optical path 1142c. This is accomplished by the emitter 1142a emitting a narrow beam and / or by a collimating structure configured to focus the output of the emitter 1142a along a path, etc. In various exemplary embodiments, the radiant energy emitted by the emitter 1142a can be in visible and / or invisible wavelengths.

[0173] In some exemplary embodiments, the sensor 1142 may be a reflective sensor that detects reflected light. The reflective sensor 1142 may detect a color transition indicative of the plunger 1205, such as a transition from a relatively high transparency and / or light color of the liquid and / or reservoir 1201 to a relatively low transparency and / or dark color (e.g., red, orange, black, etc.) of the plunger 1205.

[0174] The sensor carriage 1140 may include multiple sensors, such as, for example, first and second optical sensors 1142, 1143, each including an emitter and a receiver. In various exemplary embodiments, the relative positions of the first and second sensors may be selected to facilitate achieving a proper line of sight (e.g., through the fluid delivery device 1200) by at least one of the first and second sensors.

[0175] Alternatively / in addition to the sensor 1142, the sensor carriage 1140 may include a position sensor 1145 configured to output a sensor signal indicative of a position or distance. In an exemplary embodiment, the cap device 1100 includes a position sensor 1145 that outputs a sensor signal indicative of a position of the sensor carriage and / or a distance the sensor carriage has moved between a first position and a second position (e.g., as the sensor carriage 1140 moves along the liquid delivery device 1200 or between subsequent doses by the liquid delivery device 1200). In an exemplary embodiment, the position sensor 1145 includes a linear potentiometer. The resistive element is disposed along at least a portion of the length of the cavity 1111, such as on the sidewall 1113 or sleeve 1118 of the body 1110. The wiper is disposed on the sensor carriage 1140.

[0176] The position sensor 1145 may output a sensor signal (e.g., a voltage) that varies depending on the position of the wiper along the resistive element (e.g., the position of the sensor carriage 1140 along the cavity 1111). For example, a particular voltage may be associated with a particular position along the resistive element, and the voltage may be constant and repeatable each time the wiper moves along the resistive element. The position sensor 1145 may have a unique signature of the voltage output for each position of the wiper and may be calibrated to provide very accurate and repeatable measurements.

[0177] Alternatively / in addition to a linear potentiometer, the position sensor 1145 may include one or more other types of sensors that provide an indication of position that can be correlated to a sensor signal output by the sensor 1142. For example, the position sensor 1145 may include, for example, a linear encoder, a rotary encoder, a magnetic potentiometer, a membrane potentiometer, a load cell, etc.

[0178] In an exemplary embodiment, the processor 1125 is configured to evaluate a sensor signal from the sensors 1142 and / or 1143, such as a variation in the sensor signal indicative of the plunger, and determine a corresponding position based on the sensor signal from the sensor 1145. In some embodiments, the corresponding position may be stored and compared to the corresponding position of the plunger 1205 during subsequent measurements. The change in position may then be evaluated (e.g., by evaluating the distance traveled by the plunger 1205) to determine the previously delivered dosage. In some exemplary embodiments, only the change in the position of the plunger 1205 is evaluated, and not the position of the plunger 1205 relative to other components of the liquid delivery device 1200 and / or cap device 1100.

[0179] Alternatively / additionally, the position of the plunger 1205 relative to features of the liquid delivery device 1200 and / or cap device may be evaluated. For example, the processor may be configured to detect sensor signals output from sensors 1142, 1143 indicative of a front end of the reservoir 1201 and determine a corresponding position based on an output signal from sensor 1145. The relative positions of such features may be evaluated to determine the distance between the front end of the reservoir 1201 and the plunger 1205, which may facilitate calculation of a total amount of liquid remaining in the reservoir 1201, the number of doses remaining in the reservoir 1201, the time remaining until the reservoir 1201 is empty, and / or other information related to the liquid delivery device 1200.

[0180] The sensor carriage 1140 may be electrically connected to the processor 1125 to facilitate electrical communication of the sensor signals. In some embodiments, a flexible electrical connector 1147 provides at least a partial electrical connection between the sensor carriage 1140 and the circuit board 1127 supporting the processor 1125. The flexible electrical connector may include conductive electrical structures on a thin, flexible substrate. For example, the flexible electrical connector may include one or more layers of PEEK, polyester, or polyamide with printed or laminated electrical structures. Thus, the flexible electrical connector may have a thin profile to facilitate bending with a small radius of curvature. The flexible electrical connector may bend and curve while maintaining electrical connection with the circuit board 1127 and / or the processor 1125 during movement of the sensor carriage 1140.

[0181] In some embodiments, the sensor carriage 1140 may be electrically connected to the circuit board 1127 via one or more components of the motorized drive system 1160, such as a lead screw 1162. Alternatively / additionally, the sleeve 1118 may include one or more electrical conductors that provide electrical communication between the sensor carriage 1140 and the circuit board 1127 while the sensor carriage 1140 moves along the track 1150. For example, the sensor carriage 1140 may have fixed electrical contacts that are biased into sliding engagement with corresponding conductive surfaces of the sleeve 1118.

[0182] In some embodiments, the sensor carriage 1140 is not in continuous electrical connection with the circuit board 1127 and / or the processor 1125. For example, the sensor carriage 1140 may operate to detect a state of the liquid delivery device 1200 while not in electrical communication with the circuit board 1127 and / or the processor 1125. The sensor carriage 1140 may include a power source capable of providing power to one or more sensors carried by the sensor carriage 1140, and a sensor carriage memory for storing sensor signal information. The sensor carriage 1140 may store sensor information collected as it moves between a first position and a second position, and may be in electrical communication with the circuit board 1127 and / or the processor 1125 when stopped at a particular position to upload the collected information to the memory 124. For example, after each operation or series of operations of the sensor carriage 1140, the sensor carriage 1140 may be driven by the motorized drive system 1160 to a position where the sensor carriage 1140 is in electrical communication with the circuit board 1127 and / or the processor 1125 so that collected information can be transmitted.

[0183] 17A and 17B, partial cross-sectional views of the liquid delivery system 1010 are shown, namely, the liquid delivery device 1200 being inserted into the cap device 1100 (FIG. 17A) and the cap device 1100 being held on the liquid delivery device 1200 (FIG. 17B). The delivery end 1202 of the liquid delivery device 1200 and at least a portion of the reservoir 1201 may be disposed within the cavity 1111 of the cap device 1100. The sensor carriage 1140 may be driven along a portion of the liquid delivery device 1200 while the liquid delivery device 1200 is fixed relative to the body 1110 and the cavity 1111. Movement of the sensor carriage 1140 between a first position and a second position facilitates detection of a characteristic of the liquid delivery device 1200 at multiple locations on the liquid delivery device 1200. In some embodiments, the operation of the sensor 1142 as the sensor carriage 1140 moves between the first and second positions can be described as scanning a portion of the fluid delivery device 1200. The output signal of the sensor 1142 (e.g., alone or in conjunction with one or more sensors, such as sensor 1145) can then be evaluated to determine the position of the plunger 1205 within the reservoir 1201, a change in the position of the plunger 1205 within the reservoir 1201, and / or other conditions of the fluid delivery device 1200.

[0184] The motor 1161 is directly or indirectly coupled to the lead screw 1162. In some embodiments, the motorized drive system 1160 includes a gear train 1163 between the motor 1161 and the lead screw 1162. The gear train 1163 may be a planetary gear train, a compound gear train, or the like, configured to provide sufficient torque to the lead screw 1162 to drive the sensor carriage 1140. The gear train 1163 may facilitate realizing a motor 1161 that is small or relatively low-powered, and a motorized drive system 1160 that is compact, while providing sufficient power to drive the sensor carriage 1140. In various exemplary embodiments, the motor 1161, the lead screw 1162, and / or the gear train 1163 may be coaxially disposed. Alternatively / additionally, the motor 1161 and the lead screw 1162 may be offset or angled relative to one another (e.g., rotate about longitudinal axes that are offset from one another, or are perpendicular or otherwise angled to one another). The gear train 1163 may facilitate positioning of the motor 1161 and lead screw 1162 within the body 1110 (eg, the drive shaft of the motor 1161 does not have to be aligned with the lead screw 1162).

[0185] The motorized drive system 1160 can drive the sensor carriage 1140 along at least a portion of the liquid delivery device 1200. In various exemplary embodiments, the motorized drive system 1160 can drive the sensor carriage 1140 over a selected travel distance (e.g., forward or backward direction between a first position and a second position) or any series of travel distances (e.g., forward and / or backward between a first, second and more positions). Thus, the movement of the sensor carriage 1140 may be independent of manual manipulation and / or engagement between the capping device 1100 and the liquid delivery device 1200. In some embodiments, the sensor carriage 1140 can be driven multiple times (e.g., moving back and forth) along the length of the liquid delivery device while the liquid delivery device 1200 is in a fixed position relative to the capping device 1100. Thus, the sensor carriage 1140 driven by the motorized drive system 1160 may promote consistent and reliable detection and / or facilitate multiple measurements after a single capping event (e.g., multiple measurements without releasing and re-engaging the liquid delivery device 1200 with the capping device 1100).

[0186] The operation of the motorized drive system 1160 and the movement of the sensor carriage 1140 may be controlled according to a selected (e.g., pre-programmed) sequence or to achieve various performance advantages. In various exemplary embodiments, the motorized drive system 1160 may drive the sensor carriage 1140 between a first position and a second position each time the liquid delivery device 1200 engages with the cap device 1100. The first and second positions may be selected to reduce the travel distance of the sensor carriage 1140 required to detect a characteristic of the liquid delivery device 1200. For example, the sensor carriage 1140 may start at a first position that is the position of the sensor carriage 1140 when the liquid delivery device 1200 engages with the cap device 1100, and the second position may be the position where the plunger 1205 or other characteristic is detected. Thus, the sensor carriage 1140 may be incrementally advanced along the length of the lead screw 1162 a distance corresponding to the distance the plunger 1205 was moved during the previous dose.

[0187] In some embodiments, the sensor carriage 1140 starts from an initial position near the front wall 1112 of the body 1110 after a new liquid delivery device 1200 is engaged with the cap device 1100. After an initial dosing event (e.g., the liquid delivery device 1200 is removed, used to dispense a dosage, and re-engaged with the cap device 1100), the sensor carriage 1140 is driven by the motorized drive system 1160 in a first direction toward the opening 1114 until it encounters the plunger 1205 of the liquid delivery device 1200. Then, operation of the motorized drive system 1160 and movement of the sensor carriage 1140 are stopped, and the sensor carriage 1140 remains in the position where the plunger 1205 was detected. After a subsequent dispensing event, the sensor carriage 1140 is driven by the motorized drive system 1160 in a first direction toward the opening 1114 until the plunger 1205 of the liquid delivery device 1200 is encountered, and operation of the motorized drive system 1160 and movement of the sensor carriage 1140 are again stopped. The intermittent operation of the motorized drive system 1160, and corresponding movement of the sensor carriage 1140, is repeated until the liquid delivery device 1200 is depleted or a new liquid delivery device is engaged with the cap device 1100.

[0188] By advancing only between an initial position (e.g., a position prior to the plunger 1205) and a second position (e.g., a next position of the plunger 1205 after a dosing event), the total distance traveled by the sensor carriage 1140 may be reduced. The sensor carriage 1140 may detect the position of the plunger 1205 at multiple locations while moving only in one direction. Alternatively / additionally, such a configuration may promote efficient operation and extend battery life by reducing the total distance traveled and power consumed by driving the sensor carriage 1140. In some exemplary embodiments, reducing the distance traveled by the sensor carriage 1140 may also promote reduced scanning time (e.g., reduced periods of time a user must wait to receive information based on the scan) and reduce noise generated during operation of the motorized drive system 1160.

[0189] In some exemplary embodiments, the sensor carriage 1140 can repeatedly begin movement from a common starting point each time the liquid delivery device 1200 engages with the cap device 1100. For example, the sensor carriage 1140 can begin movement from a position near the delivery end 1202 of the liquid delivery device 1200 and move in a first direction toward the opening 1114. After a dispensing event, the motorized drive system 1160 can return the sensor carriage in a second direction toward the front wall 1112 to an initial position. This process can continue for a series of dispensing events. The travel distance of each successive movement from the first or initial position to a second position (e.g., where the plunger 1205 is detected) can become progressively shorter as the plunger 1205 advances within the liquid delivery device 1200 during each dispensing event.

[0190] The speed of the sensor carriage 1140 can be selected to achieve one or more performance advantages. In an exemplary embodiment, the speed of the sensor carriage 1140 can be selected based on one or more parameters including the resolution of the sensor 1142 and / or one or more sensors of the capping apparatus 1100, the duration for performing a scan, power consumption, noise generation, etc. In various exemplary embodiments, the speed of the sensor carriage 1140 when driven by the motorized drive system 1160 can be sufficient to drive the sensor carriage 1140 along the entire length of the liquid delivery apparatus 1200 in the capping apparatus 1100 in 0.25 to 8 seconds, 0.5 to 4 seconds, or 1 to 2 seconds. Such a sensor carriage speed can facilitate achieving a selected scan resolution while reducing, for example, power consumption and scan duration.

[0191] The motorized drive system 1160 may be configured to vary the speed of the sensor carriage 1140. In some embodiments, the speed of the sensor carriage 1140 may vary depending on whether the sensor carriage 1140 is operating to detect a characteristic of the liquid delivery device 1200. The motorized drive system 1160 may drive the sensor carriage 1140 at a first speed during operation of the sensor 1142 to detect a characteristic of the liquid delivery device 1200, and may drive the sensor carriage 1140 at a second speed when moving the sensor carriage 1140 to a fixed position while the sensor 1142 is not operating to detect a characteristic of the liquid delivery device 1200.

[0192] Alternatively / additionally, the motorized drive system 1160 may be configured to drive the sensor carriage 1140 at two or more speeds based on the position of the sensor carriage 1140, the expected position of the sensor carriage 1140 relative to the plunger 1205 or other features of the liquid delivery device 1200 or cap device 1100, and sensor signals output from the sensor 1142, the position sensor 1145, or other sensors of the cap device 1100. In an exemplary embodiment, the motorized drive system 1160 may drive the sensor carriage 1140 at a first average speed over the length where the plunger 1205 is expected not to be present (e.g., based on previous plunger position, dosage information, etc.) and at a second average speed over the length where the plunger 1205 is expected to be present. The first average speed may be relatively high and the second average speed may be relatively low. In some embodiments, the motorized drive system 1160 may gradually vary the speed of the sensor carriage 1140, such as by gradually decreasing the speed between an initial position (e.g., where the plunger 1205 is unlikely to be) and a second position (e.g., where the plunger 1205 is present). Such adjustments in the speed of the sensor carriage 1140 may facilitate achieving a selected scanning resolution, reliability, and / or accuracy in detecting the position of the plunger 1205, while, for example, reducing scan duration, power consumption noise generation, etc.

[0193] The motorized drive system 1160 may be configured to facilitate improved reliability and repeatability in detecting the plunger 1205 or another characteristic of the liquid delivery system 1000. In an exemplary embodiment, the motorized drive system 1160 facilitates multiple measurements at a single location or a series of locations with the liquid delivery device 1200 fixedly engaged with the cap device 1100. In an exemplary embodiment, the motorized drive system 1160 may drive the sensor carriage 1140 in one or more back and forth motions proximate the location of interest to obtain multiple measurements. The measurements may then be averaged or otherwise processed (e.g., by the processor 1125) to provide a reliable and repeatable output.

[0194] Alternatively / additionally, the motorized drive system 1160 can drive the sensor carriage 1140 in one or more back and forth movements proximate the location of interest based on a confidence value associated with the sensor signal. For example, one or more sensor signals can be evaluated (e.g., in real-time) to determine a confidence value indicating a degree of confidence that the sensor signal accurately corresponds to the plunger 1205 or another characteristic of the liquid delivery system 1010. If the confidence value falls below a predetermined threshold, the motorized drive system 1160 can drive the sensor carriage 1140 along a portion of the liquid delivery device 1200 to obtain additional measurements. In some embodiments, the cap apparatus 1100 can output an alert of a potential error to a user based on the confidence value and / or a request input from the user.

[0195] The motorized drive system 1160 may be actuated in response to the engagement between the capping device 1100 and the liquid delivery device 100. For example, the capping device 1100 may include a sensor 1180 positioned to detect the presence of the liquid delivery device 1200 in the sleeve 1118. The sensor 1180 may be a contact switch, an optical sensor, or the like. When the liquid delivery device 1200 is engaged with the capping device 1100, the sensor 1180 may emit a signal indicative of the presence of the liquid delivery device 1200. The motorized drive system 1160 may be actuated to drive the sensor carriage 1140 after the sensor 1180 emits a signal indicative of the liquid delivery device 1200 being engaged with the capping device 1100. In some exemplary embodiments, the motorized drive system 1160 may be actuated to drive the sensor carriage 1140 in response to the signal emitted by the sensor 1180. For example, the motorized drive system 1160 may be actuated to drive the sensor carriage 1140 for a predetermined time (e.g., 1 second, 2 seconds, 5 seconds, etc.) after the sensor 1180 issues a signal indicating the presence of the liquid delivery device 1200. The predetermined period of time may ensure that the liquid delivery device 1200 is fully engaged and in a fixed position relative to the cap device 1100 and / or the contents of the reservoir 1204 are stable before driving the sensor carriage 1140 to detect the plunger 1205 or other features of the liquid delivery system 1010.

[0196] Alternatively / additionally, operation of the motorized drive system 1160 may depend on signals output by one or more additional sensors of the cap device 1100. For example, the cap device 1100 may include an accelerometer that outputs a signal related to movement of the cap device 1100. Operation of the motorized drive system 1160 may commence one, two or more seconds after the accelerometer outputs a signal indicating that the cap device is stationary or not moving significantly. Reliability and repeatability of the motorized drive system 1160, the sensor carriage 1140, and the sensors carried by the sensor carriage 1140 may be facilitated by operation when the cap device 1100 is stationary or not moving significantly.

[0197] The various exemplary capping devices described herein may facilitate the implementation of an effective and repeatable technique for assessing the condition of a liquid delivery device with little or no reliance on manual, user-initiated movement of components of the capping device. Referring to FIG. 18, a flow chart of an exemplary method 1800 for assessing the condition of a liquid delivery device is shown. The method 1800 includes an operation 1802 of housing at least a portion of the liquid delivery device within a cavity of the capping device. In various exemplary embodiments, the liquid delivery device may have similar features and characteristics as the liquid delivery devices 200, 400, 600, 1200 described herein and may be a pen injector device for dispensing a dose of insulin.

[0198] The operation 1802 may include aligning the liquid delivery device with a cavity of the cap device, such as by aligning a central longitudinal axis of the liquid delivery device with a central longitudinal axis of the cavity of the cap device. Alternatively / additionally, the operation 1802 may include aligning the liquid delivery device with one or more distinct alignment positions with the cap device. For example, the liquid delivery device and / or the cap device may have asymmetric features and / or a non-circular shape that facilitates accommodating the liquid delivery device at one or more distinct positions selected based on the position of one or more sensors in the cap device. The operation 1802, which includes aligning the liquid delivery device with the cap device in a particular orientation, facilitates a desired interaction between the one or more sensors of the cap device and the liquid delivery device by inhibiting interference or obstruction by ribs, indicia, opaque areas, and / or other features.

[0199] In this exemplary embodiment, the operation 1802 of receiving the liquid delivery device within the cavity of the capping device may include fixedly engaging the capping device with the liquid delivery device. For example, after the operation 1802, relative movement between the liquid delivery device and the capping device may be restricted such that the liquid delivery device cannot rotate within the cavity and / or the liquid delivery device cannot move longitudinally within the cavity.

[0200] The method 1800 may include an operation 1804 of driving a sensor carriage including one or more sensors. The operation 1804 may include driving the sensor carriage with a motorized drive system including an electric motor. For example, the motorized drive system can drive the sensor carriage from a first position to a second position. One or more sensors disposed on the sensor carriage operate during movement of the sensor carriage between the first position and the second position to output a sensor signal indicative of one or more characteristics of the liquid delivery device.

[0201] In some exemplary embodiments, the operation of driving the sensor carriage 1804 may be initiated without additional manual operations, for example, the capping device may detect engagement with the liquid delivery device, such as by a sensor, and initiate operation of the motorized drive system after detecting the liquid delivery device.

[0202] This operation 1804 may optionally include driving the sensor carriage in multiple directions. For example, the motorized drive system may drive the sensor carriage in one or more back and forth motions, such as to take multiple measurements at a particular location or across multiple locations. The sensor carriage may be driven (including back and forth) by the motorized drive system, for example, while the liquid delivery device is fixed relative to the cap device and / or without additional manual intervention.

[0203] The method 1800 may further include an operation 1806 of evaluating an output of one or more sensors indicative of a presence of a characteristic of the liquid delivery device. For example, the capping device may include a processor configured to evaluate a sensor signal from one or more sensors, such as a variation in the sensor signal indicative of a plunger, and determine a corresponding position. In some embodiments, the operation 1806 may include storing the corresponding position and comparing the corresponding position during a subsequent capping event. Evaluating the sensor signal may include evaluating a change in position (e.g., by evaluating a distance traveled by the plunger 205), determining a numerical value of a previous delivered dose, a remaining amount in the liquid delivery device, or other characteristic of the liquid delivery device.

[0204] In some embodiments, the method 1800 may include an operation 1808 of outputting information related to the position of the plunger. The information may be output by the cap device and / or transmitted to one or more remote devices. For example, the operation 1808 may include displaying a previously delivered dose. Alternatively / additionally, the operation 1808 may include displaying dosing information related to a total amount of liquid remaining in the reservoir of the liquid delivery device, a number of doses remaining in the reservoir of the liquid delivery device, a remaining time until the reservoir of the liquid delivery device is empty, a time of a previous dose (e.g., a time of the operation 1802 of receiving the liquid delivery device in the cavity), a time elapsed since a previous dose (e.g., a time elapsed since the operation 1802 of receiving the liquid delivery device in the cavity), and / or other information related to the liquid delivery device.

[0205] Although the present specification contains many specific implementation details, these should not be construed as limitations on the scope of the disclosed technology or what may be claimed, but rather as descriptions of features that may be specific to certain embodiments of the disclosed technology. Certain features described herein in the context of separate embodiments may also be implemented in combination, some or all, in a single embodiment. Conversely, various features described in the context of a single embodiment may also be implemented separately in multiple embodiments or in any suitable subcombination. Furthermore, although features may be described herein as acting in a particular combination and / or may initially be claimed as such, one or more features from the claimed combination may, in some cases, be separated from the combination. And the claimed combination may relate to a subcombination or variation of the subcombination. Similarly, although operations may be described in a particular order, this should not be understood as requiring such operations to be performed in a particular order or sequence, or to perform all of the operations, to achieve a desired result. Certain embodiments of the subject matter have been described. Other embodiments are within the scope of the following claims. [Explanation of symbols]

[0206] 10 Liquid Delivery Systems 100 Cap device 110 Main unit 111 Cavity 112 Front wall 113 Side wall 114 Opening 140 Sensors 150 Tracks 151 Slots 152 Keyed End Area 160 Spring 121 Display 122 User Input 123 Communication Devices 124 Memory 125 processors 126 Speakers 127 Circuit Board 128 Vibrator 200 Liquid Delivery Device 201 Reservoir 202 Delivery end 203 Bulkhead 204 Syringe needle 205 Plunger 206 Dial

Claims

1. 1. A capping device for a fluid delivery system, comprising: The capping device comprises: a body defining a cavity configured to accommodate at least a portion of a liquid delivery device; a sensor carriage movable within the cavity and including a first sensor; and a motor configured to move the sensor carriage; The capping device, wherein the sensor carriage is movable between a first position and a second position while the liquid delivery device is in a fixed position relative to the cavity.

2. The capping device of claim 1 , wherein the motor is configured to drive the sensor carriage along a portion of the fluid delivery device.

3. The capping device of claim 1 , wherein the cavity is defined by a front wall and one or more side walls of the body, the body defining an opening to the cavity.

4. The capping device of claim 1 , wherein the first sensor is configured to output a sensor signal indicative of a physical characteristic of the liquid delivery device.

5. The capping device of claim 1 , wherein the first sensor is configured to output a sensor signal indicative of a plunger of the liquid delivery device while the sensor carriage moves between the first position and the second position.

6. The capping device of claim 1 , further comprising a sleeve configured to receive at least a portion of the fluid delivery device.

7. The capping apparatus of claim 6 , wherein the sensor carriage is configured to move along an exterior of the sleeve.

8. The capping apparatus of claim 7 , wherein the first sensor includes an optical path between a first optical emitter and the first optical receiver.

9. The capping device of claim 8 , wherein the optical path is perpendicular to a longitudinal axis of the cavity of the capping device.

10. The capping device of claim 8 , wherein the optical path passes through a material thickness of the sleeve.

11. The capping apparatus of claim 8 , wherein the sensor carriage includes a second optical sensor having a second optical emitter aligned with the second optical receiver.

12. 12. The capping apparatus of claim 11, wherein the first optical emitter is misaligned with the second optical receiver and the second optical emitter is misaligned with the first optical receiver.

13. The capping apparatus of claim 11 further comprising a position sensor.

14. The capping device of claim 13, further comprising a processor configured to detect the plunger of the liquid delivery device based on a variation in the sensor signal of the first sensor and determine a corresponding position based on a sensor signal output by the position sensor.

15. The position sensor includes a linear encoder, the linear encoder being coupled to a codestrip.

14. The capping device of claim 13, further comprising an encoder movable along the code strip.

16. 1. A liquid delivery device comprising: a liquid delivery device including a reservoir, a liquid in the reservoir, and a plunger movable within the reservoir to dispense liquid from the reservoir; A capping device, comprising: a capping device comprising: a body defining a cavity configured to accommodate at least a portion of a liquid delivery device; a sensor carriage movable within the cavity and including one or more sensors configured to output a sensor signal indicative of a physical characteristic of the liquid delivery device; a motor configured to move the sensor carriage; and a position sensor; The fluid delivery system, wherein the sensor carriage is movable between a first position and a second position relative to the cavity while the fluid delivery device is in a fixed position relative to the cavity.

17. 17. The liquid delivery system of claim 16, further comprising a processor configured to detect a plunger of the liquid delivery device based on a variation in the sensor signal and determine a corresponding position based on a sensor signal of the position sensor.

18. The liquid delivery system of claim 17 , wherein the processor is disposed within the capping device.

19. 20. The liquid delivery system of claim 18, wherein the one or more sensors disposed on the sensor carriage include first and second optical sensors, the first optical sensor having a first optical emitter aligned with a first optical receiver, and the second optical sensor having an optical emitter aligned with a second optical receiver.

20. 1. A method for assessing a condition of a fluid delivery device, comprising: accommodating at least a portion of a liquid delivery device within a cavity of a cap device; driving a sensor carriage including one or more sensors from a first position to a second position while the fluid delivery device remains in a fixed position within the cavity; and evaluating an output of the one or more sensors indicative of a presence of a characteristic of the fluid delivery device.

21. The method of claim 20 , wherein driving the sensor carriage includes driving the sensor carriage with an electric motor.

22. 21. The method of claim 20, further comprising evaluating, by a processor in the capping device, an output of a position sensor to evaluate a position of the feature of the liquid delivery device.

23. The method of claim 22 , wherein the feature of the liquid delivery device is a plunger.

24. 1. A capping device for a fluid delivery system, comprising: a body defining a cavity configured to accommodate a fluid delivery device; and means for moving one or more plunger sensors with the cavity of the body.

25. 25. The capping apparatus of claim 24, wherein the means for moving comprises an electric motor.

26. 1. A capping device for a fluid delivery system, comprising: A capping apparatus comprising: a movable sensor means; and a motor configured to move the movable sensor means.

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