Administration device for administering liquid

Abstract

To provide an administration device which is usable safely and easily, and / or ensures correct and / or accurate administration of a fluid or medicine to be administered.SOLUTION: An administration device 1 for intravitreal administration of a fluid comprises a prefilled syringe 2 and an actuation mechanism for actuating the syringe. The administration device preferably comprises a priming device 10, in particular in addition to the actuating mechanism. Preferably, the priming device is prevented from advancing beyond a defined end position. The syringe is preferably movable within a housing 8 of the administration device and / or can be arranged completely inside the housing.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 1

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present invention relates in particular to an administration device for intravitreal administration of fluids as described in the preamble of claim 1 or claim 16, and to the use of the administration device.

[0002] The present invention is particularly suitable for intravitreal injection of drugs, i.e., directly injecting drugs into the eye, specifically into the vitreous humor. However, the administration device of the present invention can also be used in other contexts, specifically for the administration or injection of fluids or drugs. The present invention is particularly advantageous in the medical field for directly administering or injecting drugs or other fluids into the human or animal body or a part thereof.

Background Art

[0003] WO 2014 / 005728 relates to a small-volume syringe suitable for ophthalmic injection. This syringe is pre-filled with a drug and includes a body, a stopper, and a plunger. The plunger includes a plunger contact surface arranged to contact the stopper, and the stopper can be forced towards the outlet of the syringe body using the plunger.

[0004] WO 00 / 69488 relates to an injector device including a housing and a syringe with a needle movable relative to the housing. This injector device includes a piercing configuration operable to move the needle from a rear position to a front position, a return configuration for moving the needle in a rearward direction, and an injection configuration for discharging the contents of the syringe through the needle. Further, the injection device includes a control button arranged on the housing, and this control button triggers the piercing configuration and the injection configuration step by step. The button is arranged to have at least a movement component perpendicular to the axis of the needle. This injection device is not suitable for intravitreal injection.

[0005] U.S. Patent Application Publication No. 2006 / 0069350 relates to a medical syringe injector pen having a housing for receiving a syringe. The pen includes a drive mechanism and an actuating member for releasing the drive mechanism to operate the device and deliver fluid from the syringe to the user. After delivering the fluid, the syringe is retracted to return into the housing. The injector pen is not suitable for intravitreal injection.

[0006] U.S. Patent Application Publication No. 2010 / 0241102 relates to an intravitreal injection device including an injection assembly adapted to receive a syringe. The injection assembly is adapted to automatically and continuously transfer the syringe into a patient's eye first and then dispense an injectable substance from the syringe in response to user input. This injection device does not have a priming device.

[0007] U.K. Patent Application Publication No. 2541445 relates to an injection device. This injection device includes a pre-filled syringe having a stopper for releasing a drug. The housing includes the syringe, a plunger for driving the stopper, and a priming mechanism having an operating member movable relative to the housing. The priming mechanism is arranged to move the syringe towards the plunger when the operating member moves so that the stopper contacts the plunger. Rotation of the operating member causes the shuttle to be displaced axially and push against the shoulder of the syringe barrel. Priming is driven by removing a cap from the injector. This injection device is not suitable for intravitreal injection.

Prior Art Documents

Patent Documents

[0008]

Patent Document 1

Patent Document 2

Patent Document 3

[0009] An object of the present invention is to provide an administration device that can be used safely, is easy to use, and / or guarantees correct and / or accurate dosing of a fluid or drug to be administered, particularly in the case of intravitreal administration. [Summary of the Invention] [Problems to be Solved by the Invention]

[0010] The above object is solved by the administration device according to claim 1 or claim 16, or by the use according to claim 53. Advantageous further developments are the subject of the dependent claims.

[0011] The administration device according to the present invention includes a syringe and an operating mechanism for operating the syringe. The syringe is preferably a pre-filled syringe, i.e., a syringe containing a fluid or drug to be supplied from the syringe and / or administered to a patient. The syringe includes a syringe body and a piston disposed within the body, and the piston is movable within the syringe body.

[0012] According to one aspect of the present invention, the administration device includes a housing, and the operating mechanism is configured to move the syringe or the syringe body relative to the housing. This is beneficial for facilitating the use and handling of the administration device.

[0013] According to yet another aspect that can be implemented independently, the administration device includes a housing, and the syringe and / or the injection needle attached thereto can be disposed entirely within the housing or configured such that the syringe and / or the injection needle do not protrude from the housing, particularly. This helps with the safe handling of the administration device.

[0014] According to yet another aspect that can be implemented independently, the dosing device includes a priming device in addition to the actuating mechanism. In particular, the priming device is separated from and / or functionally decoupled from the actuating mechanism. In this way, priming can be performed without the possibility of accidental actuation of the syringe that could result in an unintended supply of fluid. In this way, easy and safe handling of the dosing device can be achieved.

[0015] According to yet another aspect that can be implemented independently, the dosing device includes a priming device configured to act on the piston of the syringe and a blocking device for preventing the priming device from moving the piston beyond the priming position and / or to the end of the syringe. Thereby, correct and accurate and / or defined priming is ensured, which aids in the easy and safe handling of the dosing device. In particular, the blocking device is configured to prevent the priming device from advancing beyond a defined end position.

[0016] The syringe preferably includes an injection needle or is connectable to an injection needle, in particular by means of a luer connection.

[0017] The actuating mechanism is preferably configured to move the syringe, in particular the syringe body, to the dosing position relative to the housing. In particular, the syringe or its piston does not actuate while the syringe is being moved to the dosing position. This aids in the safe and easy handling of the dosing device.

[0018] Furthermore, the actuating mechanism is preferably configured to actuate the syringe after moving the syringe, in particular the syringe body, to the dosing position. The step of first moving the syringe or the syringe body to the dosing position and then actuating the syringe is preferably performed in a single common movement of the actuating mechanism. Specifically, the syringe is actuated by moving a piston disposed within the body of the syringe. This aids in the safe and easy handling of the dosing device.

[0019] Furthermore, after actuating the syringe, the actuating mechanism is preferably configured to fully and particularly automatically place the syringe and / or the injection needle inside the housing. In other words, the syringe and / or the injection needle are preferably automatically retracted into the housing or covered by the housing after actuating the syringe, particularly after administration or supply of the fluid. In this way, safe and easy handling of the administration device is achieved.

[0020] The actuating mechanism preferably includes a return means, specifically a spring, for moving the syringe and the housing or its parts relative to each other. This helps with safe and easy handling of the administration device.

[0021] According to a preferred embodiment, the actuating mechanism includes a pushing element for actuating or moving the piston of the syringe, and the pushing element preferably includes a coupling device for coupling to the syringe body, specifically such that the position of the syringe or the syringe body relative to the pushing element is fixed by the coupling at the administration position. This helps with safe and easy handling of the administration device.

[0022] In a preferred embodiment, the actuating mechanism preferably includes a button-shaped actuating element. The actuating element is preferably configured to be actuated manually and / or directly by the user of the administration device, specifically independently of the actuation of the priming device. The actuating element is preferably configured to act in a transverse direction, specifically a vertical direction, with respect to the longitudinal extension of the syringe and / or the movement direction of the priming device. This helps with safe and easy handling of the administration device.

[0023] The actuating mechanism preferably includes a transmission or gear for moving the syringe. The transmission is preferably driven by the button-shaped actuating element. This helps with safe and easy handling of the administration device.

[0024] The actuating element is preferably arranged laterally to the housing and / or at or near an axial end of the dosing device including the dosing opening and / or near an axial end of the dosing device opposite to the axial end including the priming device or its actuating part. In this way, the dosing device is preferably designed to be actuated with one hand and / or can be actuated with the index finger of the user while holding the dosing device, in particular like a pen.

[0025] According to a preferred embodiment, the syringe and / or the injection needle can be retracted into the housing, specifically by means of a transmission, preferably automatically. The retraction of the syringe and / or the injection needle is preferably carried out, in particular automatically, after the administration or supply of the fluid. This facilitates the safe and easy handling of the dosing device.

[0026] According to another preferred embodiment, the housing comprises or consists of two housing parts which are movable relative to each other and / or relative to the syringe. This facilitates the safe and easy handling of the dosing device.

[0027] The return means or spring described above is preferably arranged within the housing and / or between the two housing parts. The spring is preferably configured to separate the housing parts. In this way, it is possible to achieve an automatic separation of the housing parts, for example, to cover the syringe and / or the injection needle with one of the housing parts or specifically to retract the syringe into the housing after the administration or supply of the fluid. This facilitates the safe and easy handling of the dosing device.

[0028] According to yet another preferred embodiment, during the actuation of the piston of the syringe, the first of the two housing parts moves relative to the second of the two housing parts and the syringe body, and the syringe body and the first housing part are configured not to move relative to each other. Specifically, the pushing element for moving the piston is rigidly connected to the first housing part or forms part or a portion of the first housing part. This helps with the safe and easy handling of the dosing device.

[0029] The term "priming" in the context of the present invention preferably means the preparation of the dosing device before administering the fluid contained in the dosing device or syringe, a small part of the fluid contained in the syringe is supplied, air bubbles potentially contained in the fluid are removed, and the volume contained in the syringe after priming corresponds to the desired dose to be administered to the patient. Generally, the volume of the fluid contained in the (pre-filled) syringe is slightly larger than the volume of the dose to be administered, so that the air contained in the syringe can be removed by priming without affecting the dose to be administered. However, the use of the term "priming" does not mean that the syringe is actually filled with fluid. In other words, "priming" specifically means moving the piston of the syringe to a defined position, also referred to hereinafter as the "priming position". Specifically, the priming device can be actuated or moved even if the syringe is empty (i.e., not filled with liquid or drug). Therefore, all other operations performed during or for priming, such as the movement of the priming device or the movement of the piston of the syringe, can be performed with an empty syringe, i.e., a syringe that is not pre-filled.

[0030] The term "administration position" in the sense of the present invention preferably means the position of the syringe and / or the injection needle attached thereto, which can supply or administer the fluid contained in the syringe to the patient without performing any further steps other than operating the syringe for supplying the fluid. Specifically, the administration position is the position of the syringe body when administering the fluid contained in the syringe to the patient. However, the administration position is defined with respect to other parts of the administration device, particularly the housing or its parts. Therefore, the administration position does not refer to the patient.

[0031] The terms "administer" and "supply" in the sense of the present invention, and related terms preferably mean supplying fluid from the administration device or syringe, particularly through an injection needle attached to the syringe. The administration device according to the present invention is preferably used to directly administer a drug to the patient's body, for example, by using an injection needle and / or by directly injecting the drug into the eye, specifically the vitreous body. However, these terms also refer to supplying fluid without the presence of the patient. Specifically, the term "administer" can also be used to supply fluid without the presence of the patient.

[0032] The term "actuate the syringe" in the sense of the present invention and related terms preferably mean the movement of the piston relative to the syringe body, specifically the movement in the direction towards the outlet of the syringe where the fluid can be supplied. Therefore, the term "actuate the syringe" can also be replaced with the term "actuate the piston".

[0033] The term "moving the syringe" in the context of the present invention preferably means a preferably linear movement of the syringe body, specifically relative to other parts of the dosing device, such as the housing. Specifically, merely actuating or moving the piston relative to the syringe body without moving the syringe body itself is not understood as moving the syringe in the context of the present invention. Thus, specifically, the term "moving the syringe" can also be replaced by the term "moving the piston". Further, the term "syringe" can also be replaced by the term "syringe body" if it is readily apparent from the context that the term "syringe" specifically refers to the syringe body, as is the case with the term "moving the syringe".

[0034] The above-described aspects and features of the present invention, and aspects and features of the present invention that become apparent from the claims and the following description, can in principle be implemented not only independently of each other, but also in any combination or order.

[0035] Further aspects, advantages, features, and characteristics of the present invention will become apparent from the claims and the following description of the preferred embodiments with reference to the drawings.

Brief Description of the Drawings

[0036]

Figure 1

Figure 2

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Figure 8

Figure 9

Figure 10

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Figure 12

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Figure 15

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0037] In the figures, these figures are only schematic and may not be to scale, but the same or similar parts and components are denoted by the same reference numerals, and corresponding or equivalent characteristics and advantages can be achieved even if they are not repeatedly described.

[0038] The figures show different embodiments of the administration device according to the present invention, and the specifically shown embodiments have several common features. Therefore, the features described in relation to one embodiment can preferably also be implemented in another embodiment. Therefore, for the sake of brevity, the repetition of the description of features common to more than one embodiment is avoided. Furthermore, different embodiments can, in particular, be combined with each other.

[0039] Hereinafter, first, the present invention will be described with reference to FIGS. 1 to 6, which show a first preferred embodiment of the present invention in several depictions. Thereafter, further embodiments will be described.

[0040] FIG. 1 shows the administration device 1 according to the first embodiment in a perspective view.

[0041] The administration device 1 is specifically an intravitreal administration device and / or is configured to administer and / or inject a fluid F, specifically a drug, into the vitreous body, that is, to directly administer and / or inject the fluid F into the patient's eye E, specifically into its vitreous body.

[0042] All parts of the administration device 1 described hereinafter are preferably sterilized and / or sterilizable. Specifically, the administration device and / or its parts are configured to be sterilized by an autoclave.

[0043] The administration device 1 includes a syringe 2. The administration device 1 or the syringe 2 is configured to supply the fluid F, specifically to directly administer the fluid F to the body of a patient (not shown) or a part thereof, specifically to the eye E, particularly preferably to the vitreous body. This results in a safe and easy handling of the administration device.

[0044] The syringe 2 is preferably pre - attached to the administration device 1 and / or permanently attached to it and / or is integral with the administration device 1. However, a solution where the user can insert the syringe 2 into the administration device 1 can also be considered.

[0045] The administration device 1 and / or the syringe 2 are disposable articles and / or are preferably configured for single use.

[0046] The syringe 2 comprises or consists of a syringe body 3 and a piston 4.

[0047] The syringe body 3 is at least essentially cylindrical and / or elongated and is preferably designed in the form of a barrel. Specifically, the syringe 2 or the syringe body 3 is arranged at least essentially parallel to, specifically coaxially and / or symmetrically with respect to, the longitudinal extension or axis L of the administration device 1 and / or the syringe 2.

[0048] Terms such as "axial direction", "coaxial", "radial direction" etc. are preferably related to the axis L, unless otherwise explicitly indicated.

[0049] The piston 4 is arranged within the body 3 and preferably fits tightly and / or sealingly within the body 3 such that fluid F cannot pass between the piston 4 and the body 3.

[0050] The piston 4 is movable within the syringe body 3, specifically linearly and / or along the axis L.

[0051] The syringe body 3 preferably includes a collar 3A at the axial end opposite the outlet 7. In particular, the collar 3A surrounds the cylindrical portion of the syringe body 3, specifically in an annular manner, and / or projects radially from the syringe body 3.

[0052] According to a preferred embodiment, the syringe 2 is pre-filled with or contains the fluid F. The fluid F is specifically a drug or medicament to be administered to a patient, for example, a VEGF-antagonist, bevacizumab, ranibizumab, aflibercept, and / or pegaptanib. However, other drugs or medicaments are also possible.

[0053] Furthermore, the syringe 2 is configured to be filled or refilled by the user of the dosing device 1 and / or it is also possible that the syringe 2 is not pre-filled. Alternatively or additionally, the syringe 2 can also be removed from and / or replaced in the housing 8.

[0054] Also, the syringe 2 can include an injection needle 5, for example a staked needle and / or a needle that is not removable from the syringe 2. However, it is also possible that the syringe 2 is configured to be simply connected to the injection needle 5 and / or that the injection needle 5 can be removed from the syringe 2, in particular by means of a luer connection or system that is widely used in the medical field, specifically a luer lock or luer slip.

[0055] The syringe 2 includes or defines a chamber 6 for the fluid F. The chamber 6 is preferably formed or delimited by the body 3 and the piston 4. The chamber 6 has a variable volume. By moving the piston 4 relative to the syringe body 3, the volume of the chamber 6 can be changed, in particular decreased.

[0056] Furthermore, the syringe 2 or the syringe body 3 includes an outlet 7 for supplying the fluid F. This outlet 7 is preferably arranged at the axial end of the syringe 2.

[0057] The piston 4 is preferably movable only towards the outlet 7 and / or not movable away from the outlet 7.

[0058] The injection needle 5 is preferably arranged at the outlet 7 or connectable to the outlet 7.

[0059] By moving the piston 4 towards the outlet 7, the fluid F can be supplied from the syringe 2 such that the volume of the chamber 6 decreases and the fluid F contained in the chamber 6 is discharged through the outlet 7.

[0060] The administration device 1 preferably includes a housing 8. The syringe 2 is preferably arranged inside the housing 8. The housing 8 preferably surrounds or seals at least the main part of the syringe 2 or the syringe body 3. The syringe 2 is preferably arranged completely inside the housing 8 so that no part of the syringe 2 protrudes from the housing 8. In particular, this also applies when the injection needle 5 is attached to the syringe 2 or forms part of the syringe 2.

[0061] The housing 8 can be at least partially transparent so that a visual inspection inside the administration device 1, in particular of the syringe 2, is possible.

[0062] The housing 8 preferably protects the syringe 2, the syringe body 3, and / or the needle 5 from external influences.

[0063] The administration device 1 preferably includes a particularly rigid cover or shield 27 for the injection needle 5. Specifically, the shield 27 is configured to protect the injection needle 5 from damage and / or to ensure the sterility of the injection needle 5.

[0064] The shield 27 is preferably removable from the injection needle 5, the administration device 1, the housing 8, and / or the syringe 2.

[0065] The housing 8 preferably includes an administration opening 15 for the syringe 2 and / or the injection needle 5 at the axial end of the administration device 1.

[0066] The syringe 2 or the syringe body 3 is preferably movable inside the housing 8 and / or relative to the housing 8. Specifically, the syringe 2 or the syringe body 3 is movable, in particular, between a retracted or stationary position as shown in FIGS. 3 and 4 and an administration position as shown in FIG. 5. The retracted or stationary position is specifically the position where the syringe 2 is arranged when the administration device 1 is not in use or not operating.

[0067] The administration position is specifically a position where the fluid F can be supplied for administration of the fluid F to the patient. At the administration position, it is preferable that the outlet 7 and / or the injection needle 5 protrude from the housing 8. At the administration position, it is preferable that the injection needle 5 and / or the syringe 2, specifically the outlet 7, extend through the administration opening 15.

[0068] The administration device 1 includes an actuating mechanism 9 for actuating the syringe 2, specifically for moving the piston 4 relative to the syringe body 3, particularly preferably towards the outlet 7.

[0069] Preferably, the administration device 1 includes a priming device 10 configured for priming, specifically in addition to and / or separately from the actuating mechanism 9. The term "priming" is defined above.

[0070] The priming device 10 is preferably separated and / or functionally disconnected from the actuating mechanism 9. Thus, in particular, priming by the priming device 10 can be performed without actuating the syringe 2 by the actuating mechanism 9.

[0071] The priming device 10 is preferably configured and / or arranged to actuate the piston 4 and / or to move the piston 4 relative to the syringe body 3. Specifically, the priming device 10 is configured to move or push the piston 4 towards the outlet 7 of the syringe 2.

[0072] The priming device 10 is preferably configured to move the piston 4 to a defined end position, also hereinafter referred to as the "priming position". Specifically, the piston 4 cannot be moved beyond the priming position by the priming device 10.

[0073] The term "priming position" preferably means the position to which the piston 4 is moved for priming. When the piston 4 is in the priming position, the chamber 6 preferably has (exactly) a desired or predetermined volume and / or contains a volume corresponding exactly to the amount of fluid F, in particular one dose of the fluid F to be administered to the patient.

[0074] In the priming position, the piston 4 is preferably spaced apart from the axial end of the syringe 2 including the outlet 7.

[0075] The administration device 1 and / or the priming device 10 are preferably configured such that the actuation of the administration device 1, specifically the supply of the drug, and / or the movement of the piston 4 beyond the priming position is only possible after priming and / or is prevented before and / or during priming. For example, the priming device 10 can be configured to (mechanically) block the actuation of the administration device 1 before it is moved to the priming position.

[0076] The syringe body 3 preferably opens at the axial end 14 of the syringe 2 or the syringe body 3 opposite the outlet 7. Specifically, the priming device 10 extends into the syringe body 3 through the axial end 14 or its opening.

[0077] The priming device 10 is preferably movable relative to the housing 8 and / or relative to the syringe 2, specifically along and / or parallel to the axis L.

[0078] The priming device 10 can be configured for its own actuation. In other words, the priming device 10 can be actuated only once. The priming device 10 is preferably configured to be locked when the piston 4 is moved to the priming position by the priming device 10, specifically by engagement with the housing 8 or its components. Preferably, the priming device 10 cannot be moved again after priming.

[0079] Locking the priming device 10 either by priming or after priming preferably serves to indicate to the user of the dosing device 1 that priming has already been carried out, that the dosing device 1 is ready for use, specifically that the drug is ready for administration to the patient, and / or that the dosing device 1 has already been used.

[0080] Alternatively or additionally, the priming device 10 and / or the dosing device 1 can include a cap (not shown) for covering the priming device 10. Specifically, the cap can be removed from the housing 8 or the dosing device 1. The cap preferably covers the priming device 10 such that accidental actuation of the priming device 10 is prevented by the cap.

[0081] The priming device 10 is preferably physically isolated from the piston 4. Thus, preferably, the priming device 10 cannot move the piston 4 away from the outlet 7. Thereby, for example, when the priming device 10 is (accidentally) moved away from the piston 4 and / or the outlet 7, the piston 4 is prevented from moving away from the outlet 7. Thus, while the fluid F is being administered or injected into the patient's body, air is prevented from being drawn into the syringe 2 and / or the piston 4 is prevented from moving away from the outlet 7. In this way, by accidentally moving the priming device 10 in the wrong direction, harm to the patient is avoided.

[0082] The priming device 10 is preferably partially disposed within the housing 8 and / or the syringe body 3 and / or extends within the syringe 2 or the syringe body 3.

[0083] The priming device 10 preferably includes an actuating part 11 arranged externally to the housing 8, enabling the user to actuate the actuating part 11. The actuating part 11 is preferably arranged at the axial end of the dosing device 1, specifically on the side opposite the dosing opening 15.

[0084] The dosing device 1 preferably includes a blocking device 12 for blocking or stopping the priming device 10 and / or for preventing the priming device 10 from moving beyond a defined end position. Accordingly, the blocking device 12 preferably defines an end position for the priming device 10. The blocking device 12 is preferably arranged on the inner wall 16 of the housing 8 and / or is integrally formed with the inner wall 16. The blocking device 12 preferably forms a stop for the priming device 10. Specifically, the blocking device 12 projects from the inner wall 16 of the housing 8 and / or forms or is formed on the height of the inner wall 16.

[0085] The priming device 10 is preferably elongated and / or rod-shaped. At the end of the priming device 10 including the actuating part 11, the priming device 10 preferably has an enlarged cross-section and / or diameter that is specifically perpendicular to the longitudinal extension and / or axis L of the priming device 10 such that the priming device 10 or the actuating part 11 is configured and / or arranged to contact the blocking device 12. The contact area 13 preferably extends transversely, specifically at least essentially perpendicular, to the axis L and / or longitudinal extension of the priming device 10.

[0086] Specifically, the priming device 10 is movable (linearly) within the housing 8 and / or the dosing device 1 and / or towards the syringe 2, specifically the piston 4, preferably until the contact area 13 contacts the blocking device 12, thereby blocking further movement of the priming device 10.

[0087] In FIG. 3, the priming device 10 is shown in the non-operating position. In FIG. 4, the priming device 10 is moved from the non-operating position of FIG. 3 to the operating position or a defined end position by moving the priming device 10 towards the outlet 7 and / or the dosing opening 15. This is indicated by the arrow in FIG. 4.

[0088] Accordingly, preferably, the piston 4 cannot be moved beyond a pre-determined priming position by the priming device 10. Specifically, by moving the piston 4 towards the outlet 7 by the priming device 10, the volume of the chamber 6 cannot be (at least essentially) reduced to zero. Specifically, the operation of the syringe 2 is performed by the operation of a part that is operated for priming, that is, a part different from the priming device 10. Accordingly, during priming, the volume of the chamber cannot be reduced less than intended. As a result, during or by priming, a part of the dose of the fluid F or the drug to be administered to the patient is prevented from being removed from the chamber 6.

[0089] The syringe 2, the piston 4, the housing 8, the blocking device 12, the priming device 10, and / or the contact area 13 are preferably dimensioned and / or arranged such that the piston 4 moves to the priming position when the priming device 10 is moved towards the piston 4 until the contact area 13 contacts the blocking device 12.

[0090] The actuating mechanism 9 is preferably configured to move the syringe 2 or the syringe body 3 relative to the housing 8.

[0091] Priming by the priming device 10 is preferably performed or executed before moving and / or operating the syringe 2.

[0092] The actuating mechanism 9 specifically includes several parts that act or cooperate with each other to operate the syringe 2 and / or to move the syringe 2 relative to the housing 8.

[0093] The actuating mechanism 9 is preferably configured to move the syringe 2 to the administration position relative to the housing 8. This movement to the administration position can specifically be carried out without operating the syringe 2, i.e., without moving the piston 4 relative to the syringe body 3 while moving the syringe 2 by the actuating mechanism 9. This is particularly shown in FIGS. 4 and 5.

[0094] Furthermore, the actuating mechanism 9 is preferably configured to operate the syringe 2 or to move the piston 4 relative to the syringe body 3, preferably towards the outlet 7, specifically after moving the syringe 2 to the administration position. This is particularly shown in FIG. 6. The arrow in FIG. 5 indicates the movement of the syringe 2 from the stationary position shown in FIG. 4 to the administration position shown in FIG. 5.

[0095] Furthermore, the actuating mechanism 9 is preferably configured to arrange the syringe 2 and / or the injection needle 5 at least essentially completely inside the housing 8, specifically after operating the syringe 2, for example by retracting the syringe 2 into the housing 8. Preferably, the arrangement of the syringe 2 and / or the injection needle 5 inside the housing 8 can be carried out automatically or is carried out automatically. This is particularly shown in FIG. 7. The arrow in FIG. 6 indicates the movement of the syringe 2 from the administration position shown in FIG. 6 to the stationary position or the retracted position shown in FIG. 7.

[0096] Accordingly, in a particularly preferred embodiment, the actuating mechanism 9 first moves the syringe 2 to the administration position and then actuates the syringe 2 by moving the piston 4 towards the outlet 7 to supply the fluid F contained in the chamber 6 of the syringe 2. Subsequently, for example, by retracting the syringe 2 into the housing 8, the syringe 2 is completely (again) arranged inside the housing 8 so that the syringe 2 and / or the injection needle 5 do not protrude from the housing 8. Preferably, these steps are carried out later and / or automatically by a single actuation of the dosing device 1 or the actuating mechanism 9, as will be described in more detail below. As a result, safe and easy handling of the dosing device 1 can be achieved.

[0097] The actuating mechanism 9 preferably includes a return means 17. The return means 17 is preferably configured and / or arranged to bias or press the syringe 2, specifically the syringe body 3, to the retracted position or the rest position.

[0098] The return means 17 is preferably a spring, particularly preferably a coil spring and / or a compression spring.

[0099] Specifically, in addition to and / or independently of the priming device 10, the actuating mechanism 9 preferably includes a pushing element 18 configured to actuate the piston 4. Specifically, the pushing element 18 can be moved further towards the syringe 2 and / or the outlet 7 than the priming device 10. The pushing element 18 is specifically configured to move or push the piston 4 to the axial end of the syringe 2 including the outlet 7 so that all of the desired dose of fluid F, specifically the fluid contained in the chamber 6, can be supplied through the outlet 7 by actuating, pushing, or moving the piston 4 using the pushing element 18. Preferably, the pushing element 18 is separate from or physically isolated from the piston 4 and / or is not rigidly connected to the piston 4.

[0100] The pressing element 18 is rod-shaped and / or elongated and / or preferably extends along and / or parallel to the axis L. Preferably, the pressing element 18 is partially arranged within the syringe body 3 and / or extends into the syringe body 3. Particularly preferably, the pressing element 18 is arranged in proximity to the priming device 10 and / or extends at least essentially parallel to the priming device 10. The pressing element 18 is preferably arranged entirely within the housing 8. The pressing element 18 is preferably configured to move independently of the priming device 10.

[0101] Preferably, the pressing element 18 includes a coupling device 19 for coupling the pressing element 18 to the syringe body 3.

[0102] Preferably, the pressing element 18 or the coupling device 19 can be coupled to the syringe 2, specifically the syringe body 3, at two different coupling positions.

[0103] At the first coupling position, the pressing element 18 is preferably coupled to the syringe body 3 such that the position of the syringe body 3 relative to the pressing element 18 is at least temporarily fixed, specifically such that when the pressing element 18 is moved towards the dosing opening 15, the syringe 2 moves out of the rest position and / or towards the dosing position. At the first coupling position, the pressing element 18 is preferably movable relative to the priming device 10.

[0104] Preferably, the pressing element 18 can be coupled to the syringe body 3 at the second coupling position, specifically automatically and / or following the coupling at the first coupling position. Preferably, the coupling at the first coupling position is released and / or the pressing element 18 is moved relative to the syringe body 3 after the coupling at the first position and / or before the coupling at the second coupling position. The coupling at the second coupling position is particularly preferably only performed after the pressing element 18 has moved the piston 4 towards the outlet 7. Accordingly, the coupling at the second coupling position is preferably only performed after the fluid F has been supplied from the syringe 2.

[0105] In other words, the coupling at the first position is preferably performed at the rest position of the syringe 2 and / or during the movement of the syringe 2 from the rest position to the administration position. The coupling at the second coupling position is preferably performed only when the syringe 2 has moved to or after moving to the administration position and / or during the movement of the syringe 2 back from the administration position to the rest position or the retracted position.

[0106] The first coupling is shown in FIGS. 3, 4, and 5. The second coupling is shown in FIGS. 6 and 7.

[0107] The coupling device 19 preferably comprises or is formed by one or several flaps or arms 19A, 19B.

[0108] The pushing element 18 preferably includes a first arm 19A which is preferably arranged laterally to the pushing element 18. Specifically, the first arm 19A is transverse or inclined from the pushing element 18 and / or projects transversely to the axis L and / or the pushing element 18 or is inclined from the pushing element 18. The arm 19A is preferably constructed integrally with the pushing element 18.

[0109] The coupling at the first coupling position is preferably performed by the first arm 19A. The diameter and / or cross-section of the pushing element 18 is preferably enlarged by the first arm 19A. The diameter and / or cross-section of the pushing element 18 provided with the first arm 19A is preferably larger than the inner diameter or cross-section of the syringe body 3 such that the arm 19A contacts the axial end 14 of the syringe body 3.

[0110] The syringe body 3, the pushing element 18 and the arm 19A are preferably arranged such that the arm 19A contacts the axial end 14 of the syringe 2 or the syringe body 3 when the syringe 2 is in the rest position and / or when the actuating element 20 of the administration device 1 is not actuated. This is shown in particular in FIGS. 3 and 4.

[0111] When the pressing element 18 is moved towards the administration opening 15, the syringe body 3 is preferably moved together with the pressing element 18 due to its connection with the first arm 19A at the axial end 14. Thus, the pressing element 18 is preferably not moved relative to the syringe body 3 and / or the piston 4, and the syringe 2 is not actuated by being moved to the administration position.

[0112] The administration device 1 preferably includes a stop 26 for the syringe 2. Specifically, the stop 26 is configured to stop the syringe 2 at the administration position and / or to define the administration position. Specifically, the stop 26 is configured to contact the collar 3A of the syringe 2.

[0113] The stop 26 is preferably arranged inside the housing 8. The stop 26 is preferably formed integrally with the housing 8 or its parts 8A, 8B, specifically its inner wall.

[0114] When the syringe 2 reaches the administration position, the pressing element 18 can preferably be further advanced towards the administration opening 15. Specifically, the piston 4 is actuated and specifically moved towards the outlet 7.

[0115] The coupling device 19 or the first arm 19A is preferably flexible. Specifically, the first arm 19A is configured to deform and / or pivot towards the pressing element 18, thereby reducing the diameter and / or cross-section of the pressing element 18 and releasing the connection between the arm 19A and the syringe body 3, enabling the pressing element 18 to be further advanced into the syringe body 3 to move or actuate the piston 4.

[0116] The first arm 19A is preferably deformed by further pushing the pushing element 18 towards the outlet 7 and / or further actuating or depressing the actuating element 20 when the syringe 2 has (already) reached the administration position and / or when further movement towards the administration opening 15 of the syringe 2 or the syringe body 3 is blocked by the stop 26.

[0117] The coupling device 19 is preferably configured to couple in a second coupling position only when the piston 4 has been moved towards the outlet 7 by the pushing element 18 or afterwards. The coupling device 19 preferably includes a second arm 19B for coupling in the second position. The second arm 19B is preferably arranged on the rod 23.

[0118] The rod 23 is preferably rigidly connected to the pushing element 18, specifically by the connection part 24. The connection part 24 is preferably arranged between the pushing element 18 and the rod 23. The pushing element 18, the rod 23 and the connection part 24 preferably form a U-shape, specifically, the pushing element 18 and the rod 23 are parallel to each other. The rod 23 is preferably arranged completely inside the housing 8 and / or outside the syringe 2 or the syringe body 3.

[0119] The second arm 19B is preferably flexible. Specifically, it is configured to be deformed and / or swiveled towards the rod 23, so that as a result, the rod 23 and / or the second arm 19B can pass through the collar 3A.

[0120] The second arm 19B is preferably configured to engage with the collar 3A of the syringe 3, specifically on the side of the collar 3A facing the outlet 7. The second arm 19B is preferably elastic. The second arm 19B is arranged on the rod 23 such that when the pushing element 18 pushes the piston 4 towards the outlet 7, the second arm 19B allows the collar 3A to pass through, and / or when the piston 4 has moved far enough towards the outlet 7, the second arm 19B engages with the collar 3A, specifically the side facing the outlet 7.

[0121] When the pushing element 18 and / or the rod 23 are moved away from the administration opening 15, specifically after administering the fluid F, the syringe 2 or the syringe body 3 is preferably moved together with the pushing element 18 and / or the rod 23 for coupling at the second coupling position, specifically for the engagement of the second arm 19B and the collar 3A.

[0122] The above description has mainly been made with reference to the first embodiment shown in FIGS. 1 to 7, but these descriptions and the described features are also applicable to yet another embodiment shown in FIGS. 8 to 13 and are not limited to the first embodiment.

[0123] Hereinafter, before describing yet another embodiment, some special features of the first embodiment will be described with particular reference to FIGS. 1 to 7.

[0124] The administration device 1 and / or the actuating mechanism 9 preferably includes an actuating element 20 configured to actuate the administration device 1, specifically the syringe 2 and / or the actuating mechanism 9.

[0125] The actuating element 20 is preferably configured or formed in a button-like and / or plunger-like shape.

[0126] The actuating element 20 is preferably arranged laterally in the dosing device 1, specifically, the area or surface of the actuating element configured to actuate faces radially with respect to the axis L. The actuating element 20 preferably extends through an opening or recess 21 of the housing 8, and the recess 21 is preferably arranged laterally in the housing 8. The actuating element 20 preferably protrudes from the housing 8.

[0127] The actuating element 20 is preferably arranged at or near the axial end of the dosing device 1 that includes or forms the dosing opening 15. The actuating element 20 is preferably arranged at or near the axial end of the dosing device 1 on the side opposite to the (axial) end that includes the priming device 10 and / or its actuating part 11. The actuating element 20 is preferably arranged closer to the end that includes the dosing opening 15 than to the end that includes the priming device 10.

[0128] The actuating element 20 preferably extends transversely, specifically at least essentially perpendicular, to the axis L and / or the moving direction of the pushing element 18 and / or the moving direction of the priming device 10.

[0129] The actuating element 20 is preferably movable transversely, specifically perpendicularly, to the axis L and / or the moving direction of the pushing element 18 and / or the moving direction of the priming device 10.

[0130] The actuating element 20 is preferably configured to be actuated manually and / or directly by a user of the dosing device 1, specifically by the index finger of the user.

[0131] As shown in Fig. 2, the administration device 1 and / or the actuating element 20 are preferably arranged and / or configured such that they can be actuated with one hand, specifically, such that the administration device 1 can be held like a pen and / or held between the thumb and index finger and / or middle finger of the user of the administration device 1, specifically, such that the actuating element 20 can be actuated, specifically depressed, with the index finger while holding the administration device 1. Preferably, specifically, while and / or after puncturing the patient's body, specifically the eye, with the needle 5, the user does not need to re-grip the administration device 1 and / or the actuating element 20 to actuate them. This makes the use of the administration device 1 easier and safer. Preferably, wobbling or slight shaking of the administration device 1 during use is thus prevented.

[0132] The administration device 1 is preferably constructed such that the actuation of the administration device 1 and / or the administration of the fluid F is performed in a manner different from pushing an actuating device such as a piston or plunger of a syringe arranged at the axial end of the administration device 1 or the syringe 2. Preferably, the administration device 1 does not include a device for actuating the syringe 2 arranged at and / or configured to act at the axial end of the administration device 1 opposite to the axial end including the outlet 7 and / or the administration opening 15.

[0133] The actuating element 20 is preferably biased and / or pressed into the non-actuated position, specifically by the return means 17. This is shown in particular in Figs. 3 to 7.

[0134] The spring or return means 17 is preferably arranged outside the housing 8 and / or between the housing 8 and the actuating element 20, specifically in a transverse or perpendicular direction with respect to the axis L and / or the moving direction of the priming device 10 and / or the moving direction of the pressing element 18.

[0135] The return means 17 is preferably configured to be compressed when the actuating element 20 is actuated.

[0136] The pressing element 18 is preferably movable or operable by the operation of the actuating element 20, specifically by depressing the actuating element 20, that is, by moving the actuating element 20 towards the housing 8 and / or in a direction perpendicular to the axis L.

[0137] The actuating element 2 is preferably provided in addition to and / or separately from the priming device 10. The actuating element 20 is mechanically and / or functionally separated from the priming device 10. Specifically, it is preferred that the actuating element 20 and the priming 10 can operate independently and / or move independently of each other.

[0138] The operation or depression of the actuating element 20 can be configured to be blocked by the priming device 10, specifically, as long as priming is not being performed or the priming device 10 has not been advanced to the priming position.

[0139] The actuating mechanism 9 preferably includes a gear or transmission 22. The transmission 22 is preferably configured to transmit or convert the operation or movement of the actuating element 20 to the pressing element 18 or its movement. Specifically, the transmission 22 is configured to convert the movement of the actuating element 20 into a movement of the pressing element 18 in a direction transverse to, specifically at least essentially perpendicular to, the movement direction of the actuating element 20.

[0140] Furthermore, the transmission 22 preferably includes or forms a gear train. The gear ratio, specifically the ratio between the movement distance of the actuating element 20 and the movement distance of the pressing element 18 and / or the rod 23, is preferably greater than 1:3, specifically greater than 1:5, and / or less than 1:20, specifically less than 1:10.

[0141] The transmission 22 preferably includes a gear wheel 22A. Particularly preferably, the gear wheel 22A is a double gear wheel, i.e., a gear wheel including two different annular gears or toothed rims 22B, 22C. The two annular gears or toothed rims 22B, 22C preferably have different diameters. Specifically, the diameter of the first rim 22B, hereinafter shown as the inner rim 22B, is smaller than the diameter of the second toothed rim 22C, hereinafter shown as the outer rim 22C.

[0142] The actuating element 20 preferably includes one or more toothed racks or rods. Specifically, the gear wheel 22A and the actuating element 20 cooperate to form one or more rack and pinions.

[0143] The actuating element 20 preferably includes or forms one of the aforementioned toothed rods. Specifically, the actuating element 20 and the inner toothed rim 22B of the gear wheel 22A cooperate to form a first rack and pinion.

[0144] The rod 23 preferably includes or forms the second of the aforementioned toothed rods. Specifically, the rod 23 and the outer toothed rim 22C of the gear wheel 22A cooperate to form a second rack and pinion.

[0145] In this way, a relatively small movement distance of the actuating element 20 is converted into a much larger movement distance of the pressing element 18. This is advantageous for the easy handling of the dosing device 1.

[0146] Moving the syringe 2 to the administration position and / or actuating the syringe 2, specifically supplying the fluid F, can preferably be performed by a single and / or continuous actuation of the actuating element 20, specifically by pushing down the actuating element 20 (towards the housing 8 and / or in a direction transverse to the axis L). The syringe 2 is preferably automatically retracted into the housing 8 or moved (returned) to a retracted position or a stationary position, specifically after administration of the fluid F and / or after actuation of the actuating element 20.

[0147] In the context of the present invention, "retracting" the syringe 2 into the housing 8 preferably means the movement of the syringe 2 or the syringe body 3 relative to the housing 8 or its parts 8A, 8B such that the syringe 2 is disposed inside the housing 8 when the retraction is complete. Specifically, the syringe 2 and / or the injection needle 5 do not protrude from the housing 8 in the retracted position. In one embodiment, the retraction of the syringe 2 can be effected by moving the syringe 2 relative to the housing 8. However, in another embodiment, it is also possible that the housing parts 8A, 8B are moved relative to each other and / or at least one of the housing parts 8A, 8B is moved relative to the syringe 2 or the syringe body 3 such that this relative movement causes the syringe 2 to be surrounded and / or covered by the housing 8.

[0148] Specifically, the term "retracting the syringe 2" means moving the syringe 2 from the administration position to a retracted position or a stationary position.

[0149] The return means 17 is preferably configured to (automatically) place the syringe 2 in the housing 8 and / or to retract the syringe 2 into the housing 8. The return means 17 is preferably configured to (automatically) move the syringe 2 from the administration position to the retracted position or the rest position. Specifically, the return means 17 is configured to move the syringe 2 by returning the actuating element 20 to the starting position in which it was placed / was before the actuating element 20 is actuated or depressed. The movement of the actuating element 20 is preferably transmitted by the actuating mechanism 9, specifically the transmission 22, the pressing element 18, the coupling device 19 and / or the rod 23 to the movement of the syringe 2 to the retracted position or the rest position.

[0150] In the following, the administration device 1 according to the second embodiment, particularly shown in FIGS. 7 to 12, will be described. As described above, the second embodiment shares a plurality of features with the first embodiment. Therefore, in the following, the differences of the second embodiment will mainly be described in comparison with the first embodiment. Therefore, unless otherwise indicated, the above description related to the first embodiment preferably also applies to the second embodiment.

[0151] According to the second embodiment, the administration device 1 or the housing 8 preferably comprises two housing parts 8A and 8B, which will hereinafter be distinguished by the terms "first housing part 8A" and "second housing part 8B".

[0152] The housing parts 8A, 8B are preferably arranged coaxially with respect to each other and / or with respect to the axis L.

[0153] The housing parts 8A, 8B are preferably movable relative to each other, specifically linearly and / or along the axis L. The housing parts 8A, 8B are preferably movable relative to each other in a nested manner.

[0154] Preferably, the second housing part 8B extends at least partially into the first housing part 8A, and / or the first housing part 8A at least partially surrounds the second housing part 8B, or vice versa.

[0155] The administration device 1, specifically the housing 8, particularly preferably the second housing part 8B, preferably comprises or forms a cover or shield 27 for the injection needle 5, and the housing part 8B preferably surrounds the injection needle 5 at least radially. However, the shield 27 can also be a removable part from the housing 8 or the first housing part 8A.

[0156] Specifically, when the injection needle 5 is connectable and / or removable to / from the administration device 1 and / or the syringe 2, for example by a luer connection, the shield 27 preferably comprises one or more openings or recesses 27A.

[0157] The recess / recesses 27A are preferably arranged laterally to the shield 27. Preferably, two recesses 27A are provided, and specifically, the recesses 27A are preferably arranged on opposite sides of the shield 27 in the radial direction.

[0158] The interior of the injection needle 5 and / or the shield is preferably accessible by the recess / recesses 27A. The recesses 27A are preferably configured to enable and / or facilitate the connection of the injection needle 5 to the syringe 2 and / or the removal or separation of the injection needle 5 from the syringe 2, specifically by a luer connection. Furthermore, the recess / recesses 27A enable the inspection of the injection needle 5.

[0159] The administration device 1 preferably comprises an alignment device 25 for aligning the administration device 1 with the patient's eye E.

[0160] The second housing part 8B preferably forms or comprises the alignment device 25.

[0161] The alignment device 25 is preferably arranged at the axial end of the housing 8 or the housing part 8B including the administration opening 15.

[0162] The alignment device 25 preferably includes or forms an alignment region 25A. The alignment device 25 and / or the alignment region 25A are preferably configured to be in direct contact with the patient's eye E. The alignment region 25A preferably extends in a transverse direction with respect to the longitudinal extension of the second housing part 8B and / or the axis L. The alignment region 25A is preferably arranged at the axial end of the alignment device 25.

[0163] The alignment region 25A is preferably at least substantially flat, planar, and / or laminated.

[0164] Specifically, the alignment device 25 and / or the alignment region 25A are curved and / or include a (slight) curvature and / or at least an essentially spherical shape, and thus are particularly adapted to the shape of the eye E.

[0165] The alignment device 25 is preferably elongated tubular, sleeve-shaped, and / or at least essentially cylindrical. Specifically, the alignment device 25 at least partially surrounds the needle 5.

[0166] The actuating mechanism 9 of the administration device 1 according to the second embodiment is in principle very similar to and / or partially identical to the actuating mechanism 9 of the administration device 1 according to the first embodiment. Specifically, the above description regarding the actuation of the syringe 2 by the priming device 10 and the pressing element 18, specifically the steps of first moving the syringe 2 to the actuating position, then actuating the syringe 2, and subsequently either placing the syringe 2 back into the housing 8 or retracting the syringe 2 also apply to the second embodiment.

[0167] In contrast to the first embodiment, the administration device 1 according to the second embodiment preferably does not include a button-shaped actuating element.

[0168] The dosing device 1 and / or the syringe 2 according to the second embodiment is preferably configured to be actuated by moving the housing parts 8A, 8B relative to each other, specifically by linear movement.

[0169] Furthermore, in the second embodiment, the spring or return means 17 is arranged inside the housing 8 and / or between the first housing part 8A and the second housing part 8B. The return means 17 is preferably arranged coaxially with the longitudinal extension and / or axis L of the housing 8 or the housing parts 8A, 8B.

[0170] The return means 17 is preferably configured or arranged to push the first and second housing parts 8A, 8B apart and / or to push them into the rest position.

[0171] The pushing element 18 of the second embodiment is preferably formed integrally with the housing 8, specifically the first housing part 8A, and / or is not movable relative to the first housing part 8A.

[0172] The housing 8, preferably specifically the first housing part 8A, forms part of the actuating mechanism 9 by specifically including or forming the pushing element 18.

[0173] The pushing element 18 and / or the priming device 10 is preferably arranged coaxially with the return means 17 and / or extends within or through the return means 17. Specifically, the return means 17 surrounds the pushing element 18 and / or the priming device 10.

[0174] The actuating mechanism 9 according to the second embodiment preferably does not include a transmission 22.

[0175] The syringe 2 is preferably configured to move and / or operate to the administration position by the first housing part 8A moving linearly relative to the second housing part 8B. By this movement, the return means 17 is preferably compressed.

[0176] The stop part 26 is preferably arranged on the second housing part 8B, specifically on its inner wall.

[0177] As described above in connection with the first embodiment, the pushing element 18 can be or is preferably coupled to the syringe 2 by the coupling device 19, specifically its arms 19A, 19B. The arrangement of the syringe 2 relative to the first housing part 8A and / or the pushing element 18 is preferably fixed by the coupling until at least the syringe 2 reaches the administration position.

[0178] In other words, the syringe 2 is preferably configured to move from the rest position to the administration position relative to the second housing part 8B when the first housing part 8A is moved relative to the second housing part 8B, specifically towards the administration opening 15.

[0179] When the syringe 2 reaches the administration position, preferably, the syringe 2 can be actuated and / or the fluid F can be administered by further moving the first housing part 8A relative to the second housing part 8B. By this further movement, the coupling between the coupling device 19 or the arm 19A and the syringe body 3 is preferably released, and the pushing element 18 is further moved towards the piston 4, whereby the piston 4 or the syringe 2 is actuated.

[0180] When the piston 4 is actuated, specifically when the piston 4 is moved towards the outlet 7, the first housing part 8A is preferably moved relative to the syringe 2 and / or the second housing part 8B, specifically such that the syringe 2 and / or the second housing part 8B move into or towards the first housing part 8A. This can be seen in particular by comparing FIGS. 11 and 12.

[0181] Thereafter, the syringe 2, specifically the injection needle 5, can preferably, specifically automatically, be completely arranged inside the housing 8 and / or retracted into the housing 8.

[0182] The coupling device 19 according to the second embodiment preferably preferably comprises only one or exactly one coupling arm 19A. The coupling arm 19A can be coupled to the syringe body 3 at two different coupling positions.

[0183] The syringe body 3 preferably includes a recess 28 or the like configured to couple with the arm 19A at the second coupling position. In a preferred embodiment, when the piston 4 is pushed towards the outlet 7 by the pushing element 18, the arm 19A engages with the recess 28 of the syringe body 3, thereby being configured to couple with the syringe body 3 at the second coupling position. Specifically, since the arm 19A is elastic, it automatically engages with the recess 28 when it reaches that position.

[0184] Specifically, the coupling of the arm 19A at the second coupling position enables the syringe 2 to be retracted into the housing 8.

[0185] The solution using the coupling device 19 comprising only one arm 19A configured to engage with the syringe body 3 at two different positions can preferably also be implemented in the first embodiment of the dosing device.

[0186] The return means 17 is preferably configured to (automatically) place the syringe 2 inside the housing 8 or to retract the syringe 2 into the housing 8. In particular, the administration device 1 is configured to retract the syringe 2 by moving the second housing part 8B relative to the first housing part 8A, specifically by separating the housing parts 8A, 8B by means of a (compressed) spring or the return means 17. Specifically, the second housing part 8B is pushed out of the first housing part 8A, thereby causing the second housing part 8B to cover the syringe 2 and / or the injection needle 5. In particular, the second housing part 8B is moved relative to the syringe 2 and / or, when the syringe 2 is retracted, the syringe 2 is not moved relative to the first housing part 8A.

[0187] The administration device 1 is specifically configured to perform the method described below.

[0188] A method for using or operating the administration device 1 and / or for supplying or administering the fluid F from / using the administration device 1 and / or for directly administering or injecting a medicament to a patient, specifically to the body of the patient or a part thereof, preferably includes one or more of the following steps.

[0189] First, the shield 27 is preferably removed from the administration device 1.

[0190] The priming device 10 is preferably advanced to a defined end position, specifically by pushing the priming device 10 towards the administration opening 15, whereby the priming device is preferably moved parallel to the axis L. By moving the priming device, the piston 4 is preferably moved or pushed into the priming position.

[0191] Priming by means of the priming device 10 can also be performed before removing the shield 27.

[0192] The administration device 1 is preferably arranged at a desired position relative to the body of the patient to whom the drug or fluid F is to be administered, for example, above or on the vein into which the drug is to be injected, or on the eye E into which the drug is to be injected.

[0193] Furthermore, it is possible to anesthetize the patient's eye E before arranging the administration device 1 relative to the eye E.

[0194] The arrangement of the administration device 1 can be assisted or facilitated by the alignment device 25.

[0195] The administration device 1 is preferably actuated after priming or after activating the priming device 10. According to a preferred embodiment, the administration device 1 is not operable before priming and / or is only operable after priming or after activating the priming device.

[0196] The actuation of the administration device 1 is preferably performed by activating the actuation device 20 and / or by moving the housing parts 8A, 8B relative to each other.

[0197] The fluid F or drug contained in the administration device 1 or the syringe 2 is preferably administered to the patient. This is preferably done by actuating the administration device 1, for example, by activating or depressing the actuating element 20 and / or by moving the housing parts 8A, 8B relative to each other. Preferably, the syringe 2 is first moved to the administration position and then actuated so that the fluid F is released from the syringe 2 and / or administered to the patient.

[0198] After the fluid F has been administered, the injection needle 5 is preferably retracted into the administration device 1, specifically into the housing 8. This is preferably done automatically by releasing the actuating element 20 and / or the housing parts 8A, 8B and retracting the syringe 2. Specifically, the force used to actuate the actuating element 20 and / or to move the housing parts 8A, 8B relative to one another is reduced or removed, for example, by releasing the finger used to push down the actuating element 20.

[0199] In the following, particularly preferred embodiments of the invention will be described. The preferred embodiments are shown in FIGS. 14 and 15.

[0200] The third embodiment of the administration device 1 is similar to the first embodiment. Therefore, in the following, only the differences with respect to the first embodiment will be described, and the above description, in particular the description related to the first embodiment, is preferably also applicable to the third embodiment.

[0201] The administration device 1 according to the third embodiment preferably includes a locking device 10A for preventing (unintentional) priming, specifically for preventing movement of the priming device 10 towards the syringe 2. The locking device 10A is preferably configured to (mechanically) lock the priming device 10. The locking device 10A preferably forms a stop for the priming device 10.

[0202] The locking device 10A is preferably arranged or arrangeable between the priming device 10, specifically the actuating part 11, and the housing 8 and / or its parts.

[0203] The locking device 10A is preferably configured to at least partially surround the priming device 10. Specifically, the locking device 10A has a U-shape.

[0204] The locking device 10A is preferably removable from the priming device 10 and / or the dosing device 1, specifically in a transverse direction with respect to the axis L, specifically in a vertical direction.

[0205] The dosing device 1 according to the first embodiment can also include the locking device 10A.

[0206] In the third embodiment, the position of the syringe 2 in the housing 8, specifically the syringe body 3, is preferably fixed, and / or the syringe 2, specifically the syringe body 3, is not movable relative to the housing 8.

[0207] The pushing element 18 is preferably formed by a plate-shaped and / or flat element configured to act on the piston 4. Alternatively or additionally, the pushing element 18 or a part thereof can be configured to at least partially surround or grip a radially extending plate arranged at the axial end of the piston 4, specifically the piston 4. This is shown in particular in FIG. 15.

[0208] The dosing device 1 according to the third embodiment is preferably configured such that only the piston 4 of the syringe 2 is moved by actuating the actuating element 20 and / or such that the body 3 of the syringe 3 is not moved or cannot be moved by actuating the actuating element 20. The gear ratio of the transmission 22 is preferably at least essentially 1:1. The gear wheel 22A preferably includes only one or exactly one toothed rim.

[0209] The pushing element 18 is preferably directly connected to the rod 23 and / or extends in a transverse direction with respect to the rod 23, specifically perpendicularly.

[0210] As described above, the administration device 1 according to the third embodiment can include a return means 17 (not shown in FIGS. 14 and 15) for returning the actuating element 20 to the inoperative position after actuation. However, preferably, the actuating element 20 and / or the return means 17 are not coupled to the syringe 2 or the syringe body 3 and / or are not configured to move the syringe 2 relative to the housing 8. Accordingly, the return means 17 is preferably configured only for returning the actuating element 20 to the inoperative position after actuation.

[0211] The administration device 1 according to the third embodiment preferably includes a needle shield 27 as described above in connection with the second embodiment.

[0212] The individual aspects and features of the present invention can be implemented not only independently of each other, but also in any desired combination and / or order.

Description of Reference Numerals

[0213] 1: Administration device 2: Syringe 3: Syringe body 3A: Color 4: Piston 5: Injection needle 6: Chamber 7: Outlet 8: Housing 8A: First housing component 8B: Second housing component 9: Actuating mechanism 10: Priming device 10A: Locking device 11: Actuating part 12: Blocking device 13: Contact area 14: Axial end 15: Administration opening 16: Inner wall 17: Return means 18: Pushing element 19: Coupling device 19A: First arm 19B: Second arm 20: Actuating element 21: Recess 22: Transmission 22A: Gear wheel 22B: Inner rim 22C: Outer rim 23: Rod 24: Connection part 25: Alignment device 25A: Alignment area 26: Stop part 27: Shield 27A: Recess (shield) 28: Recess E: Eye F: Fluid L: Axis

Claims

1. An administration device (1) for administering a fluid (F), in particular an intravitreal administration device (1), comprising a syringe (2) and an actuating mechanism (9) for actuating the syringe (2), wherein the administration device (1) comprises a priming device (10) configured to act on the piston (4) of the syringe (2) and a blocking device (12) for preventing the priming device (10) from moving the piston (4) to the end of the syringe (2), and / or wherein the administration device (1) comprises a priming device (10) in addition to the actuating mechanism (9).

2. The administration device according to claim 1, wherein the priming device (10) is configured and / or arranged to actuate the piston (4) and / or to move the piston (4) relative to the syringe body (3).

3. The administration device according to claim 1 or 2, wherein the priming device (10) is configured to move or push the piston (4) towards the outlet (7) of the syringe (2).

4. The administration device according to any one of claims 1 to 3, wherein the priming device (10) is physically isolated from the piston (4).

5. The administration device according to any one of claims 1 to 4, wherein the priming device (10) comprises an actuating part (11) arranged outside the housing (8).

6. The administration device according to any one of claims 1 to 5, wherein the priming device (10) is elongated and / or rod-shaped.

7. The administration device according to any one of claims 1 to 6, wherein the blocking device (12) defines the end position of the priming device (10).

8. The administration device according to any one of claims 1 to 7, wherein the blocking device (12) forms a stop for the priming device (10).

9. The administration device according to any one of claims 1 to 8, wherein the blocking device (12) projects from the inner wall (16) of the housing (8) and / or forms a height on or above the inner wall (16).

10. The administration device according to any one of claims 1 to 9, wherein the priming device (10) is separated from and / or functionally disconnected from the actuating mechanism (9).

11. The administration device according to any one of claims 1 to 10, wherein the actuating mechanism (9) includes a pushing element (18) configured to actuate the piston (4).

12. The administration device according to claim 11, wherein the administration device (1) includes the pushing element (18) in addition to the priming device (10).

13. The administration device according to claim 11 or 12, wherein the pushing element (18) is configured to actuate the piston (4) independently of the priming device (10).

14. The administration device according to any one of claims 11 to 13, wherein the pushing element (18) is arranged in proximity to the priming device (10).

15. The administration device according to any one of claims 11 to 14, wherein the pushing element (18) extends at least essentially parallel to the priming device (10).

16. Preferably, an administration device (1) for administering a fluid (F), configured as described in any one of claims 1 to 15, and including a housing (8), a syringe (2), and an actuating mechanism (9) for actuating the syringe (2), wherein the syringe (2) and / or an injection needle (5) attached thereto can be arranged completely inside the housing (8) or can be arranged, and / or wherein the actuating mechanism (9) is configured to move the syringe (2) relative to the housing (8).

17. The administration device according to claim 16, wherein the actuating mechanism (9) is configured to move the syringe (2) to an administration position relative to the housing (8).

18. The administration device according to claim 16 or 17, wherein the actuating mechanism (9) is configured to move the syringe (2) without actuating the syringe (2).

19. The dosing device according to any one of claims 16 to 18, characterized in that the actuating mechanism (9) is configured to actuate the syringe (2) by moving the piston (4) of the syringe (2) after moving the syringe (2) to the dosing position.

20. The dosing device according to any one of claims 16 to 19, characterized in that the actuating mechanism (9) is configured to arrange the syringe (2) and / or the injection needle (5) completely inside the housing (8) after actuating the syringe (2).

21. The dosing device according to any one of claims 16 to 19, characterized in that the actuating mechanism (9) is configured to automatically arrange the syringe (2) and / or the injection needle (5) completely inside the housing (8) after actuating the syringe (2).

22. The dosing device according to any one of claims 16 to 21, characterized in that the actuating mechanism (9) includes a spring for moving the syringe (2) and the housing (8) or its parts (8A, 8B) relative to each other.

23. The dosing device according to claim 22, characterized in that the spring is arranged inside the housing (8).

24. The dosing device according to any one of claims 16 to 23, characterized in that the actuating mechanism (9) includes a pressing element (18) for actuating the piston (4) of the syringe (2), and the pressing element (18) includes a coupling device (19) for coupling to the body (3) of the syringe (2).

25. The dosing device according to any one of claims 16 to 24, characterized in that the syringe (2) is retractable inside the housing (8) after dosing or after being arranged in the dosing position.

26. The dosing device according to claim 25, characterized in that the syringe (2) is automatically retractable.

27. The dosing device according to any one of claims 16 to 26, characterized in that the housing (8) includes two housing parts (8A, 8B) movable relative to each other and / or relative to the syringe (2).

28. The dosing device according to claims 22 and 27, characterized in that the spring is arranged between the two housing parts (8A, 8B).

29. The administration device according to claim 28, wherein the spring is configured to separate the housing parts (8A, 8B).

30. The administration device (1) according to any one of claims 27 to 29, wherein during the actuation of the piston (4) of the syringe (2), a first one of the housing parts (8A, 8B) moves relative to a second one of the syringe body (3) and the housing parts (8A, 8B), while the syringe body (3) and the first housing part (8A) are configured not to move relative to each other.

31. The administration device according to any one of claims 27 to 30, wherein the pushing element (18) for moving the piston (4) is rigidly connected to the first housing part (8A).

32. The administration device according to any one of claims 1 to 31, wherein the administration device (1) is configured for intravitreal administration of the fluid (F).

33. The administration device according to any one of claims 1 to 32, wherein the syringe (2) is a pre-filled syringe.

34. The administration device according to any one of claims 1 to 33, wherein the syringe (2) comprises an injection needle (5) or is connectable to an injection needle (5), in particular by means of a Luer connection.

35. The administration device according to any one of claims 1 to 34, wherein the actuation mechanism (9) is configured to actuate the syringe (2) by moving the piston (4) of the syringe (2).

36. The administration device according to any one of claims 1 to 35, wherein the actuation mechanism (9) comprises an actuation element (20).

37. The administration device according to claim 36, wherein the actuation element (20) is button-shaped.

38. The administration device according to claim 36 or 37, wherein the actuation element (20) is configured for manual actuation independently of the priming device (10).

39. The administration device according to any one of claims 36 to 38, wherein the actuation element (20) is configured to act in a transverse direction, in particular a perpendicular direction, with respect to the longitudinal extension of the syringe (2).

40. The dosing device according to any one of claims 36 to 39, characterized in that the actuating element (20) is configured to act in a direction transverse to, in particular perpendicular to, the direction of movement of the priming device (10).

41. The dosing device according to any one of claims 36 to 40, characterized in that the actuating element (20) is arranged in the transverse direction of the housing (8).

42. The dosing device according to any one of claims 36 to 41, characterized in that the actuating element (20) is arranged at or near an axial end of the dosing device (1) including the dosing opening (15).

43. The dosing device according to any one of claims 36 to 42, characterized in that the actuating element (20) is arranged near an axial end of the dosing device (1) opposite to the axial end including the priming device (10) or its actuating part (11).

44. The dosing device according to any one of claims 1 to 43, characterized in that the actuating mechanism (9) includes a transmission (22) for moving the syringe (2).

45. The dosing device according to claims 25 and 44, characterized in that the syringe (2) is retractable by the transmission (22).

46. The dosing device according to claim 43 or 44, characterized in that the transmission (22) is driven by the actuating element (20).

47. The dosing device according to any one of claims 1 to 46, characterized in that the dosing device (1) includes an alignment device (25) configured to align the dosing device (1) with the eye (E) of a patient.

48. The dosing device according to claim 47, characterized in that the alignment device (25) includes an alignment area (25A) configured to be in direct contact with the eye (E) of a patient.

49. The dosing device according to claim 47 or 48, characterized in that the alignment area (25A) is at least substantially layered.

50. The dosing device according to any one of claims 47 to 49, characterized in that the alignment area (25A) is curved.

51. The alignment device (25) according to any one of claims 47 to 50, characterized in that it includes or forms an alignment region (25A) extending in a transverse direction with respect to the longitudinal extension of the housing (8) or its parts (8A, 8B) and / or the axis (L) of the administration device (8). [

52. ] The administration device according to any one of claims 47 to 51, characterized in that the housing (8) or its parts (8A, 8B) includes or forms the alignment device (25). [

53. ] Use of the administration device (1) according to any one of claims 1 to 52 for injecting or implanting a fluid (F), in particular a drug, directly into the eye (E) intravitreally.

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