Automatic injector with safety of battery charger

Abstract

To provide an improved safety function of an automatic injector used together with a replaceable cartridge such as a disposable cartridge.SOLUTION: An automatic injector comprises a housing, a cartridge receiver, and an ejector member. The cartridge receiver is configured to receive a cartridge containing a medicament. The automatic injector further includes a blocking member coupled to the ejector member. The blocking member is configured to move between a blocking position where a connector opening is blocked and a non-blocking position where the connector opening is not blocked.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 2

Description

[Technical Field]

[0001] FIELD OF THE DISCLOSURE The present disclosure relates to auto-injectors, such as electronic auto-injectors, and systems including auto-injectors. [Background technology]

[0002] Hypodermic syringes are widely used to deliver fluids to the body. It is known to have hypodermic syringes that are adaptable for manual operation. However, auto-injectors, such as electronic auto-injectors, have been developed and are widely used to assist in the administration of fluids or medications to the body.

[0003] However, the use of electronic means creates the risk of electric current passing through the body, causing the user to receive an electric shock, especially since conventional hypodermic needles are made of metal and are therefore electrically conductive, which can cause serious, even life-threatening, injuries, especially if the device is connected to the mains power network.

[0004] Safety is a key issue, particularly in the field of medical devices such as auto-injectors. Therefore, precautions are necessary to prevent or reduce the risk of electric shock to auto-injector users. Furthermore, precautions are the subject of industry standards such as ISO 11608 and IEC 60601 for medical needle injection systems and medical electrical equipment.

[0005] US Patent Application Publication No. 2015 / 0320932 discloses a drug delivery device with a safety mechanism configured to prevent access to a port when the injection needle is in communication with a cartridge held within the body of the device, and to prevent the establishment of communication between the injection needle and the cartridge when the port is accessible.

[0006] However, in other auto-injector systems, the cartridge may be replaceable, such as disposable, and a needle may be attached to the cartridge prior to inserting the cartridge into the auto-injector. [Prior art documents] [Patent documents]

[0007] [Patent Document 1] US Patent Application Publication No. 2015 / 0320932 Summary of the Invention [Problem to be solved by the invention]

[0008] Despite known solutions, there is a need for auto-injectors with improved safety features to prevent or reduce the risk of electric shock to users of the auto-injector, particularly for auto-injectors used with replaceable cartridges, such as disposable cartridges.

[0009] It is an object of the present disclosure to provide an auto-injector, such as an electronic auto-injector, and system that overcomes at least some of the shortcomings of prior art devices. [Means for solving the problem]

[0010] Thus, there is provided an auto-injector for administering a medication, the auto-injector being connectable to a power source, such as a power outlet, a USB port, a laptop, and / or an external battery. The auto-injector comprises a housing, a cartridge receiver, and an ejector member.

[0011] The housing contains a battery and a first electrical connector, the first electrical connector being accessible through a connector opening in the housing, the first electrical connector receiving a second electrical connector of the power source.

[0012] The cartridge receiver is configured to receive a cartridge containing a medication.

[0013] The ejector member is movable along the longitudinal axis between a first ejector position and a second ejector position, and is configured to follow movement of the cartridge along the longitudinal axis when the cartridge is received in the cartridge receiver.

[0014] The automatic injector further includes a blocking member coupled to the ejector member. The blocking member is configured to move between a blocking position in which it blocks the connector opening and a non-blocking position in which it does not block the connector opening. When the ejector member is in the second ejector position, the blocking member is in the blocking position. When the ejector member is in the first ejector position, the blocking member is in the non-blocking position.

[0015] Also disclosed is a system that includes an auto-injector and a cartridge containing a medication, the cartridge configured to be received in the cartridge receiver.

[0016] An advantage of the present disclosure is that when the cartridge is received in the auto-injector, the connector opening is blocked, thereby preventing connection to an external power source, such as an electrical grid.

[0017] A further advantage of the present disclosure is that insertion of the cartridge is restricted when the auto-injector is connected to an external power source, such as an electrical grid.

[0018] Advantageously, an advantage of the present disclosure is that it provides a safety mechanism for an auto-injector that reduces the risk of serious electric shock to a user of the auto-injector.An advantage of the present disclosure is that it prevents the auto-injector from having both a needle and a connection to an external power source at the same time.

[0019] A further advantage of the present disclosure is that it provides a safety mechanism that prevents simultaneous connection to an external power source, such as a power grid via a charger, and use of the auto-injector to administer medication, regardless of the procedure selected by the user.

[0020] A further advantage of the present disclosure is that the ejector member is configured to follow the movement of the cartridge along the longitudinal axis, such that insertion of the cartridge is the determining factor in whether the connector opening is obstructed. This provides a safety feature that is particularly advantageous for auto-injectors for replaceable cartridges, such as disposable cartridges, and / or auto-injectors in which a needle is attached to the cartridge prior to insertion of the cartridge into the auto-injector.

[0021] It is contemplated that any embodiment or element described in connection with any one aspect may be used with any other aspect or embodiment, mutatis mutandis.

[0022] The housing has a connector opening. The connector opening may be a hole in the housing. The connector opening may be configured to allow passage of a second electrical connector, such as to allow access to the first electrical connector. The connector opening may be sized to accommodate the first and / or second electrical connectors.

[0023] The auto-injector includes a battery. A housing accommodates the battery. The battery of the auto-injector may be a rechargeable battery. For example, the battery may be a Li-ion battery, a NiCd battery, or a NiMH battery. The battery may be configured to be charged by connecting the first electrical connector to the second electrical connector.

[0024] The first electrical connector receives the second electrical connector. The second electrical connector electrically connects the first electrical connector to a power source. The connection between the first electrical connector and the second electrical connector can result in charging the battery, for example, by supplying power from the power source to the battery. The first electrical connector and / or the second electrical connector can be a USB-compliant connector. The first electrical connector can be a female connector. The second electrical connector can be a male connector.

[0025] The cartridge may include a cartridge chamber. The cartridge chamber may be configured to contain a medicament. The cartridge chamber may contain a medicament.

[0026] The cartridge can be made of glass and / or polymer.

[0027] The cartridge can include a cartridge outlet, for example, at a first cartridge end. The cartridge outlet can be configured to communicate with a cartridge chamber, for example, at the first cartridge end. The cartridge can be configured to eject a medicament through the cartridge outlet. The cartridge outlet can be configured to couple with a needle, such as a hypodermic needle, to effect ejection of the medicament through the needle.

[0028] The cartridge can include a first stopper movable within the cartridge chamber, e.g., toward the first cartridge end, e.g., in a first stopper direction, such that medicament can be expelled through the cartridge outlet when the first stopper is moved, e.g., toward the first stopper.

[0029] The cartridge may include a cartridge rear surface at a second cartridge end, e.g., opposite the cartridge outlet. The cartridge rear surface may include a cartridge rear end opening. The cartridge rear end opening may provide the plunger rod with access to the first stopper.

[0030] The cartridge receiver can be configured to receive a cartridge through the cartridge-receiving opening. Thus, the cartridge can be inserted into the cartridge receiver through the cartridge-receiving opening. The cartridge receiver can be configured to receive the cartridge through the cartridge-receiving opening in a cartridge-receiving direction. The cartridge-receiving direction can be along the longitudinal axis.

[0031] The auto-injector may include an ejector comprising an ejector member, The ejector may be configured to eject the cartridge from the cartridge receiver.

[0032] The ejector member can have an ejector abutment surface. The ejector abutment surface can be configured to abut a surface of the cartridge, such as a rear face of the cartridge. The rear face of the cartridge can abut against the ejector abutment surface when the cartridge is inserted into the cartridge receiver. Inserting the cartridge into the cartridge receiver can move the ejector abutment surface in the receiving direction, for example, by moving the rear face of the cartridge in the receiving direction, thereby moving the ejector abutment surface in the receiving direction, for example, to move the ejector member in the receiving direction toward the second ejector position.

[0033] When a cartridge is not received in the cartridge receiver, the ejector member can be positioned in a first ejector position, and when a cartridge is received in the cartridge receiver, the ejector member can be positioned in a second ejector position.

[0034] The automatic injector and / or the ejector of the automatic injector can include an ejector resilient member that can be configured to exert a force on the ejector member and that can be configured to bias the ejector member toward the first ejector position, e.g., in a direction opposite to the receiving direction.

[0035] The auto-injector and / or the ejector of the auto-injector may include an ejector lock, which may be configured to restrict movement of the ejector member, for example along the longitudinal axis.

[0036] The auto-injector includes a blocking member. The blocking member can be configured to close and / or obstruct the connector opening. The blocking member is configured to move between a blocking position and an unblocking position. In the blocking position, the connector opening is obstructed, preventing and / or restricting access to the first electrical connector, e.g., the second electrical connector, and in the unblocking position, the connector opening is unobstructed, allowing and / or not preventing and / or not restricting access to the first electrical connector, e.g., the second electrical connector.

[0037] The blocking member may be movable between the blocking position and the non-blocking position by translation. Alternatively, or additionally, the blocking member may be movable between the blocking position and the non-blocking position by rotation. The blocking member may be movable between the blocking position and the non-blocking position along the longitudinal axis. Alternatively, the blocking member may be movable between the blocking position and the non-blocking position perpendicular to the longitudinal axis. For example, the blocking member may be movable between the blocking position and the non-blocking position by rotation about the longitudinal axis.

[0038] The blocking member may be a door, such as a sliding door. The blocking member may completely block the connector opening, for example, in the blocking position. Alternatively, the blocking member may partially block the connector opening, for example, in the blocking position.

[0039] The blocking member can be configured to block the connector opening when the cartridge is received in the cartridge receiver. Alternatively, or additionally, the blocking member can be configured to prevent insertion of the cartridge into the cartridge receiver when the first electrical connector and the second electrical connector are connected, e.g., when an electrical connector, such as the second electrical connector, is inserted through the connector opening. For example, the blocking member can be prevented from moving to the blocking position when the first electrical connector is mated with the second electrical connector. For example, the first and / or second electrical connectors can prevent movement of the blocking member, such as by blocking a path of movement of the blocking member toward the blocking position.

[0040] Insertion of the cartridge into the cartridge receiver can cause movement of the blocking member. For example, the blocking member can be coupled to the ejector member such that movement of the ejector member is transmitted to the blocking member. Insertion of the cartridge into the cartridge receiver can cause movement of the ejector member, and movement of the ejector member can cause movement of the blocking member. Thus, insertion of the cartridge into the cartridge receiver can cause movement of the blocking member. Alternatively, or in addition, movement of the ejector member to the second ejector position can be prevented when movement of the blocking member to the blocking position is prevented, for example, when the first electrical connector is mated with the second electrical connector. This can prevent insertion of the cartridge into the cartridge receiver when the first electrical connector is mated with the second electrical connector.

[0041] The blocking member may include a first blocking coupling member. The ejector member may include a second blocking coupling member. The first blocking coupling member and the second blocking coupling member may engage to transmit movement of the ejector member to the blocking member. The first blocking coupling member may include a slot and / or a protrusion. The second blocking coupling member may include a protrusion and / or a slot. The second blocking coupling member and the first blocking coupling member may be movably connected. The second blocking coupling member and / or the first blocking coupling member may allow a certain amount of clearance so that only a portion of the ejector movement is translated into movement of the blocking member.

[0042] Movement of the ejector member from the third ejector position to the second ejector position can move the blocking member from the non-blocking position to the blocking position and / or can cause the blocking member to move from the non-blocking position to the blocking position. The third ejector position can be between the first ejector position and the second ejector position. For example, the ejector member can move from the first ejector position toward the second ejector position, such as during insertion of a cartridge into a cartridge receiver, and from the third ejector position, which is between the first ejector position and the second ejector position, the movement of the ejector member is transmitted to the blocking member, causing the blocking member to move toward the blocking position.

[0043] Alternatively, or in addition, movement of the ejector member from the fourth ejector position to the first ejector position moves the blocking member from the blocking position to the non-blocking position. The fourth ejector position may be between the first ejector position and the second ejector position. The fourth ejector position may be the third ejector position. For example, the ejector member may move from the second ejector position toward the first ejector position, such as during removal of a cartridge from a cartridge receiver, and from the fourth ejector position, which is between the first ejector position and the second ejector position, the movement of the ejector member is transmitted to the blocking member, causing the blocking member to move toward the non-blocking position.

[0044] The second blocking coupling member with slots and / or protrusions and the first blocking coupling member with protrusions and / or slots can allow for a degree of clearance to facilitate the transmission of the exemplary movements described above.

[0045] The blocking member and / or the first blocking coupling member of the blocking member can include a first blocking member stopper and a second blocking member stopper. For example, the first blocking coupling member can include a slot including the first blocking member stopper and the second blocking member stopper. The second blocking coupling member can include a protrusion arranged to capture the first blocking member stopper upon movement in one direction along the longitudinal axis and to capture the second blocking member stopper upon movement in another direction along the longitudinal axis. For example, the second blocking coupling member can capture the first blocking member stopper when the ejector member moves toward the first ejector position, such as when removing a cartridge from a cartridge receiver. The second blocking coupling member can capture the second blocking member stopper when the ejector member moves toward the second ejector position, such as when inserting a cartridge into a cartridge receiver.

[0046] Alternatively or additionally, the ejector member and / or the second blocking coupling member of the ejector member can include a first blocking member stopper and a second blocking member stopper. For example, the second blocking coupling member can include a slot including the first blocking member stopper and the second blocking member stopper. The first blocking coupling member can include a protrusion arranged to capture the first blocking member stopper upon movement in one direction along the longitudinal axis and to capture the second blocking member stopper upon movement in another direction along the longitudinal axis. For example, when the ejector member moves toward the first ejector position, such as when removing a cartridge from a cartridge receiver, the first blocking coupling member can capture the second blocking member stopper. When the ejector member moves toward the second ejector position, such as when inserting a cartridge into a cartridge receiver, the first blocking coupling member can capture the second blocking member stopper.

[0047] By providing such a non-rigid connection between the ejector member and the blocking member, the device can be made shorter, for example because a long sliding movement of the ejector member is translated into a short sliding movement of the blocking member, for example.

[0048] Alternatively, the first blocking coupling member and the second blocking coupling member may be fixedly connected, for example the ejector member and the blocking member are fixedly connected with respect to movement along the longitudinal axis.

[0049] Movement of the ejector member to the second ejector position can require movement of the blocking member to the blocking position. When movement of the blocking member to the blocking position is prevented, such as when the second electrical connector is mated with the first electrical connector, movement of the ejector member to the second ejector position is limited and / or prevented. This can prevent the cartridge receiver from receiving a cartridge when the second electrical connector is connected, such as when a charger is connected to the auto-injector to charge the battery.

[0050] The auto-injector can include a plunger rod, such as a plunger rod configured to expel a medication from the cartridge, and can be configured to advance a first stopper of the cartridge to expel the medication through the cartridge outlet.

[0051] The auto-injector can include a drive module. The drive module can be coupled to actuate a plunger rod, such as a plunger rod of the auto-injector. The drive module can be configured to receive power from a battery. The drive module can be electrically connected to the battery to receive power. The drive module can be housed in a housing. The drive module can include a motor, such as an electromechanical motor, such as a DC motor, for example, a brushed or brushless DC motor. The drive module can include a solenoid motor. The drive module can include a shape memory metal engine. The drive module can include a spring device configured to actuate the plunger rod. The drive module can include pressurized gas configured to actuate the plunger rod.

[0052] A more detailed description continues below with reference to the drawings. [Brief explanation of the drawings]

[0053] [Figure 1] a)-b) show a typical auto-injector. [Figure 2] a)-b) show a typical auto-injector with a typical cartridge. [Figure 3] 1 shows a typical auto-injector with an electrical connector. [Figure 4] 1 a)-b) show a schematic representation of the components of a typical auto-injector. [Figure 5] 10a)-10d) show schematic diagrams of insertion and removal of a typical cartridge in a typical auto-injector. [Figure 6] a) to f) show schematic diagrams of typical connections between a blocking member and an ejector member. [Figure 7] a) to b) show a schematic diagram of a typical blocking member. [Figure 8] 1 shows a schematic representation of a typical cartridge. [Figure 9] 1 shows a schematic representation of a typical drive module and plunger rod. [Figure 10] 1 shows a schematic representation of typical components of a typical auto-injector. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0054] Various embodiments will now be described with reference to the drawings. Like reference numerals refer to like elements throughout. Accordingly, like elements will not be described in detail with respect to the description of each figure. It should also be noted that the drawings are intended only to facilitate the description of the embodiments. They are not intended to provide an exhaustive description of the claimed invention, nor are they intended to limit the scope of the claimed invention. In addition, an illustrated embodiment need not necessarily have all of the aspects or advantages shown. An aspect or advantage discussed in connection with a particular embodiment is not necessarily limited to that embodiment and may be implemented in any other embodiment, even if not so illustrated or explicitly stated.

[0055] Figures 1a and 1b show a typical auto-injector 4. Figure 1b shows the auto-injector 4 rotated 180 degrees compared to the view in Figure 1a.

[0056] The auto-injector 4 may be configured to administer a medication. The auto-injector 4 may be an electronic auto-injector, for example, the auto-injector 4 may be connectable to a power source (not shown), such as an external battery or a power plug.

[0057] The auto-injector 4 comprises a housing 6 and a first electrical connector 12. The first electrical connector 12 is accessible through a connector opening 14 in the housing 6. The first electrical connector 12 receives a second electrical connector 18 (see, e.g., FIG. 3).

[0058] The connection between the second electrical connector 18 and the first electrical connector 12 may, for example, provide for charging a battery (not visible) of the auto-injector 4. The battery may be contained in the housing 6. Alternatively, or in addition, the connection between the second electrical connector 18 and the first electrical connector 12 may provide for the transfer of data to and from the auto-injector 4, such as a memory of the auto-injector 4.

[0059] The automatic injector 4 includes a cartridge receiver 300. The cartridge receiver is configured to receive a cartridge and / or a cartridge assembly including a cartridge. The cartridge can contain a medication.

[0060] The cartridge receiver 300 has a cartridge-receiving opening 301. The cartridge receiver 300 is configured to receive a cartridge through the cartridge-receiving opening 301 in a cartridge-receiving direction 304 along the longitudinal axis L.

[0061] The auto-injector 4 may include a user interface 1100, as shown. The auto-injector 4 may include a contact member 1102. The contact member 1102 may be configured to be pressed against an injection site. The contact member 1102 may be movable relative to the housing in a cartridge-receiving direction 304 when pressed against the injection site. The contact member 1102 may be part of the user interface 1100.

[0062] Figures 2a and 2b show an exemplary system 2. System 2 comprises an exemplary auto-injector 4 as described in relation to Figure 1 and an exemplary cartridge 700 received in a cartridge receiver 300. Figure 2a shows a front view of the auto-injector 4. Figure 2b shows the auto-injector 4 rotated 180 degrees compared to the view of Figure 2a.

[0063] The auto-injector 4 includes a blocking member 100, 100'. The blocking member is configured to move between a blocking position and a non-blocking position. In the blocking position, the connector opening 14 is blocked, e.g., closed, as shown. In the non-blocking position, the connector opening 14 is not blocked, e.g., open, as shown in FIG. 1b. In the non-blocking position, the second electrical connector 18 (see, e.g., FIG. 3) and the first electrical connector 12 may be connectable through the connector opening 14. In the blocking position, the blocking member 100, 100' may prevent connection between the second electrical connector 18 (see, e.g., FIG. 3) and the first electrical connector 12.

[0064] The blocking member 100 may be movable along the longitudinal axis L, for example between a blocking position and a non-blocking position along the longitudinal axis L. For example, the blocking member 100 may be a sliding element that slides, for example, along the longitudinal axis L.

[0065] Alternatively, the blocking member 100′ may be movable perpendicular to the longitudinal axis L, e.g., between a blocking position and a non-blocking position perpendicular to the longitudinal axis L. For example, the blocking member 100′ may be a rotating element that rotates, e.g., about the longitudinal axis L.

[0066] The position of the blocking members 100, 100' can be determined by the insertion of the cartridge 700 into the cartridge receiver 300. The blocking members 100, 100' can be positioned in a blocking position when the cartridge 700 is received in the cartridge receiver 300, for example, as shown in Figure 2b. The blocking members 100, 100' can be positioned in a non-blocking position when the cartridge is not received in the cartridge receiver, for example, as shown in Figure 1b.

[0067] Figure 3 shows the typical auto-injector 4 described in connection with the previous figures, with the second electrical connector 18 connected to the first electrical connector, and the blocking member in the non-blocking position to allow connection of the second electrical connector 18 to the first electrical connector through the connector opening 14 in the housing 6.

[0068] The blocking member can be prevented from moving to the blocking position by, for example, the second electrical connector 18. For example, the second electrical connector 18 can block the path of movement of the blocking member toward the blocking position.

[0069] Insertion of a cartridge into the cartridge receiver 300 can cause movement of the blocking member 100. For example, insertion of a cartridge into the cartridge receiver 300 can require movement of the blocking member to a blocking position. Thus, preventing movement of the blocking member to the blocking position can prevent insertion of the cartridge. In this manner, insertion of a cartridge into the cartridge receiver 300 can be prevented when the first electrical connector is connected to the second electrical connector 18.

[0070] Figures 4a and 4b show a schematic representation of some selected components of a typical auto-injector as described in relation to the previous figures.

[0071] 4a and 4b show an ejector 200 of an auto-injector. The ejector 200 includes an ejector member 202. The ejector member 202 is movable along a longitudinal axis L. The ejector member 202 is movable between a first ejector position shown in FIG. 4a and a second ejector position shown in FIG. 4b. The ejector member 202 is configured to follow the movement of the cartridge 700 (only a portion of which is shown) when the cartridge 700 is received in the cartridge receiver 300 (see the figures above). As shown, when the cartridge 700 is received, the ejector member 202 moves to the second ejector position. As shown in FIG. 4a, when the cartridge 700 is not received in the cartridge receiver, the ejector member 202 can be located in the first ejector position. As shown in FIG. 4b, when the cartridge 700 is received in the cartridge receiver, the ejector member 202 can be positioned in a second ejector position.

[0072] The ejector member 202 includes an ejector abutment surface 204. The ejector abutment surface 204 is configured to abut against a surface of the cartridge 700, such as the cartridge rear surface 716. Insertion of the cartridge 700 into the cartridge receiver allows the cartridge rear surface 716 to abut against the ejector abutment surface 204, and the ejector member 202 to be pushed toward the second ejector position.

[0073] An auto-injector, such as auto-injector ejector 200, includes an ejector resilient member 218, such as a spring. The ejector resilient member 218 is configured to apply a force to the ejector member 202. For example, the ejector resilient member 218 can be configured to bias the ejector member 202 toward the first ejector position. For example, the ejector resilient member 218 can position the ejector member 202 in the first ejector position when the cartridge 700 has not been received in a cartridge receiver and / or is not in the process of being received in a cartridge receiver and / or is not in the process of being removed from a cartridge receiver. As shown in FIG. 4b, the ejector resilient member 218 can be compressed when the cartridge 700 is received in the cartridge receiver.

[0074] Figures 4a and 4b show a blocking member 100 of an auto-injector. An ejector member 202 is connected to the blocking member 100. The blocking member comprises a first blocking coupling member 102. The ejector member comprises a second blocking coupling member 208. The first blocking coupling member 102 and the second blocking coupling member 208 engage to transmit movement of the ejector member 202 to the blocking member 100.

[0075] As shown in Figure 4b, when the ejector member 202 is in the second ejector position, the blocking member 100 is in the blocking position. As shown in Figure 4a, when the ejector member 202 is in the first ejector position, the blocking member 100 is in the non-blocking position.

[0076] In the non-blocking position, as shown in Figure 4a, the second electrical connector 18 can be connected to the first electrical connector 12. In the blocking position, the blocking member 100 is located in front of the first electrical connector 12. This prevents the second electrical connector 18 from being connected to the first electrical connector 12 when the blocking member 100 is in the blocking position.

[0077] 4a, the blocking member 100 cannot move to the blocking position because the second electrical connector 18 is connected to the first electrical connector 12. Therefore, the ejector member 202 can be prevented from moving to the second ejector position. Therefore, insertion of a cartridge can be prevented when the second electrical connector 18 is connected to the first electrical connector 12.

[0078] The blocking member 100 includes a first blocking member stopper 104 and a second blocking member stopper 106. The first blocking coupling member 102 is formed as a slot that includes the first blocking member stopper 104 and the second blocking member stopper 106.

[0079] The second blocking coupling member 208 can include a protrusion arranged to capture the first blocking member stop 104 upon movement in one direction, e.g., along the longitudinal axis, and to capture the second blocking member stop 106 upon movement in another direction. For example, when the ejector member moves toward the first ejector position, such as during removal of the cartridge 700 from a cartridge receiver, the second blocking coupling member 208 can capture the first blocking member stop 104, as shown in FIG. 4a. When the ejector member moves toward the second ejector position, such as during insertion of the cartridge 700 into a cartridge receiver, the second blocking coupling member 208 can capture the second blocking member stop 106, as shown in FIG. 4b.

[0080] Figures 5a-5d illustrate schematically the insertion and removal of a typical cartridge in a typical auto-injector 4, such as the auto-injector described in relation to Figures 1-3. Figures 5a-5d show only selected parts of a typical auto-injector 4.

[0081] The auto-injector 4 includes a first electrical connector 12 and a cartridge receiver 300 configured to receive a cartridge 700 .

[0082] The auto-injector 4 includes an ejector member 202 and an ejector resilient member 218. The ejector member 202 includes an ejector abutment surface 204 configured to abut a surface of the cartridge 700, such as the cartridge rear face 716. The auto-injector further includes a blocking member 100 coupled to the ejector member 202. In the illustrated example, the ejector member 202 and the blocking member 100 are fixedly connected. The blocking member 100 is configured to block a connector opening to the first electrical connector 12, for example, when the blocking member is in a blocking position.

[0083] 5a-5d also show cartridge assembly 600, which includes cartridge 700. Cartridge 700 includes a cartridge chamber 702. Cartridge chamber 702 may contain or be configured to contain a medicament. The cartridge includes a cartridge rear face 716 configured to abut against ejector abutment surface 204 of ejector member 202.

[0084] Cartridge assembly 600 includes a needle assembly 900. Needle assembly 900 includes a needle 902, such as a hypodermic needle, and a needle cover 908. Needle cover 908 covers needle 902 to avoid contact with needle 902. Needle cover 908 is removable. Needle cover 908 can be removed before starting injection of a medication.

[0085] 5a shows a first situation in which the cartridge 700 is about to be received into the cartridge receiver 300 in the cartridge-receiving direction 304. The cartridge rear face 716 abuts against the ejector abutment face 204. The ejector member 202 is in the first ejector position. The blocking member 100 is in the non-blocking position.

[0086] 5c illustrates a second situation subsequent to the first situation, in which the cartridge 700 is moving to be received by the cartridge receiver 300. The cartridge 700 can be retained in the cartridge receiver 300 when received in the cartridge receiver 300. The cartridge receiver 300 is configured to selectively retain the cartridge 700 in the cartridge receiver 300. The ejector member 202 is in the second ejector position, and the blocking member 100 is in the blocking position. The ejector elastic member 218 is compressed. The cartridge 700 retained in the cartridge receiver 300 prevents the ejector elastic member 218 from moving the ejector member 202 toward the first ejector position.

[0087] When the second electrical connector is connected to the first connector 12, the blocking member 100 is prevented from moving to the blocking position, and therefore the ejector member 202 is also prevented from moving to the second ejector position because the ejector member 202 and the blocking member 100 are connected. Therefore, when the second electrical connector is connected to the first connector 12, the cartridge 700 cannot be received by the cartridge receiver 300, for example, so as to be held by the cartridge receiver 300.

[0088] 5b illustrates an optional third condition between the first and second conditions, in which the cartridge 700 is pushed further into the cartridge receiver 300 in the cartridge-receiving direction 304. The ejector member has moved past the second ejector position. The ejector resilient member 218 is compressed, and the blocking member 100 has moved past the blocking position. This condition illustrates an example of how the cartridge receiver 300 can selectively retain the cartridge 700 therein.

[0089] For example, the cartridge receiver 300 can hold the cartridge 700 after the cartridge 700 is pushed in the cartridge-receiving direction, causing the ejector member to move a first time past the second ejector position. The cartridge receiver 300 can release the cartridge 700 after the cartridge 700 is pushed in the cartridge-receiving direction, causing the ejector member to move a second time past the second ejector position.

[0090] 5d shows a fourth situation in which the cartridge 700 is released from the cartridge receiver 300 and moves in the direction opposite to the cartridge-receiving direction 304 by extending the ejector elastic member 218. The ejector elastic member 218 moves the ejector member 202 toward the first ejector position. The retaining member of the cartridge receiver 300 does not impede the movement of the cartridge 700, and the ejector elastic member 218 moves the ejector member 202 toward the first ejector position. By moving the ejector member 202 to the first ejector position, the blocking member 100 moves to the non-blocking position. Therefore, the second electrical connector can again be connected to the first electrical connector 12.

[0091] Release of the cartridge 700 from the cartridge receiver 300 may require moving the cartridge in the cartridge-receiving direction 304, as described in connection with Figure 5b. Thus, the optional situation shown in Figure 5b may optionally be inserted between the situations of Figures 5c and 5d.

[0092] Figures 6a-6f show schematically a typical coupling between a blocking member 100 and an ejector member 202, such as the blocking member 100 and ejector member 202 of a typical auto-injector, such as the auto-injector described in relation to Figures 1-3. Figures 6a-6f show only selected parts of a typical auto-injector.

[0093] An auto-injector, such as an auto-injector ejector, includes an ejector resilient member 218, such as a spring. The ejector resilient member 218 is configured to apply a force to the ejector member 202. For example, the ejector resilient member 218 can be configured to bias the ejector member 202 toward a first ejector position. The ejector member 202 can be movable between a first ejector position and a second ejector position. The first ejector position can be a position of the ejector member 202 when a cartridge is not received in a cartridge receiver. The second ejector position can be a position of the ejector member 202 when a cartridge is received in a cartridge receiver. The ejector member 202 can be positioned in other positions, such as a third ejector position and / or a fourth ejector position. The third ejector position and / or the fourth ejector position can be between the first ejector position and the second ejector position.

[0094] The blocking member 100 is configured to block a connector opening to the first electrical connector 12, for example, when the blocking member is in a blocking position.

[0095] The ejector member 202 is connected to the blocking member 100. The blocking member includes a first blocking coupling member 102. The ejector member includes a second blocking coupling member 208. The first blocking coupling member 102 and the second blocking coupling member 208 engage to translate movement of the ejector member 202 into movement of the blocking member 100.

[0096] The blocking member 100 includes a first blocking member stopper 104 and a second blocking member stopper 106. The first blocking coupling member 102 is formed as a slot that includes the first blocking member stopper 104 and the second blocking member stopper 106. The second blocking coupling member 208 is positioned to capture the second blocking member stopper 106 upon movement in one direction, such as the cartridge-receiving direction 304, and to capture the first blocking member stopper 104 upon movement in the opposite direction, such as the direction opposite the cartridge-receiving direction 304.

[0097] 6a shows a first situation, for example, when a cartridge is not received in the cartridge receiver. The ejector member 202 is in the first ejector position and the blocking member 100 is in the non-blocking position. Therefore, the second electrical connector can be connected to the first electrical connector 12.

[0098] 6b shows a second situation, for example, during the reception of a cartridge into the cartridge receiver. The ejector member 202 is in the third ejector position. Compared to the previous figure, the ejector member 202 has been moved in the cartridge-receiving direction 304, for example, by inserting the cartridge into the cartridge receiver. The second blocking coupling member 208 abuts the second blocking member stopper 106. Thus, movement of the ejector member 202 in the cartridge-receiving direction 304 from the third ejector position results in movement of the blocking member 100 in the cartridge-receiving direction 304.

[0099] 6c shows a third situation in which, for example, the cartridge is pushed further in the cartridge-receiving direction 304, for example, to receive the cartridge into the cartridge receiver. The ejector member 202 is in the second ejector position. The blocking member 100 is in the blocking position. Compared to the previous figure, the ejector member 202 has moved in the cartridge-receiving direction 304, for example, due to the cartridge being received into the cartridge receiver. The second blocking coupling member 208 moves together with the ejector member 202 and abuts against the second blocking member stopper 106, so that the movement of the ejector member 202 to the second ejector position causes the movement of the blocking member 100 to the blocking position.

[0100] 6d illustrates a fourth situation in which the ejector member 202 is positioned such that the second coupling member 208 is not in contact with either the first blocking member stopper 104 or the second blocking member stopper 106. For example, such a position may be between the second ejector position and the third and / or fourth ejector positions. For example, the ejector member 202 may be positioned such that the cartridge is received in the cartridge receiver. In the illustrated situation, e.g., with the ejector member 202 in the illustrated position, movement of the ejector member 202 is not immediately translated into movement of the blocking member. The engagement between the first blocking coupling member 102 and the second blocking coupling member 208 allows for a blind distance between the movement of the ejector member 202 and the blocking member 106.

[0101] 6e shows a fifth situation in which the cartridge has been released from the cartridge receiver and is moving in the direction opposite to the cartridge-receiving direction 304. The ejector member 202 is in the fourth ejector position. The blocking member is in the blocking position. Compared to the previous figures, the ejector member 202 has been moved in the direction opposite to the cartridge-receiving direction 304 to the fourth ejector position, for example, by an ejector elastic member (see previous figures). The second blocking coupling member 208 abuts against the first blocking member stopper 104. Therefore, movement of the ejector member 202 from the fourth ejector position in the direction opposite to the cartridge-receiving direction 304 results in movement of the blocking member 100 in the direction opposite to the cartridge-receiving direction 304.

[0102] Figure 6f shows a sixth situation, for example, when the cartridge has been removed from the cartridge receiver. The ejector member 202 is in the first ejector position. The blocking member 100 is in the non-blocking position. Compared to the previous figures, the ejector member 202 has been moved, for example, by the ejector elastic member (see previous figures), and the cartridge has been removed from the cartridge receiver. The second blocking coupling member 208 moves together with the ejector member 202 and abuts against the first blocking member stopper 104, so that the movement of the ejector member 202 to the first ejector position causes the movement of the blocking member 100 to the non-blocking position.

[0103] Figures 7a and 7b show an exemplary blocking member 100' for a typical auto-injector, such as the auto-injector of Figures 1 to 3. The blocking member 100' shown in Figures 7a and 7b is a rotatable blocking member. The blocking member 100' is configured to rotate in a rotational direction DR in response to translational movement of the ejector member in the cartridge-receiving direction.

[0104] 7a shows the blocking member 100' in the non-blocking position. The second electrical connector 18 is connected to the first electrical connector 12.

[0105] Figure 7b shows the blocking member 100' in the blocking position. The blocking member 100' prevents the second electrical connector from connecting to the first electrical connector 12. Compared to Figure 7a, the blocking member 100' has been rotated in the rotational direction DR to the blocking position.

[0106] FIG. 8 illustrates a schematic representation of a typical cartridge 700, such as the cartridge 700 configured to be received in a cartridge receiver of an auto-injector, such as the auto-injector described in connection with the previous figures.

[0107] The cartridge 700 includes a cartridge chamber 702. The cartridge chamber 702 can be configured to contain a medication. The cartridge 700 has a first end 718 and a second end 720. The cartridge 700 includes a cartridge outlet 714 at the first cartridge end 718. The cartridge can be configured to expel the medication through the cartridge outlet 714.

[0108] The cartridge includes a first stopper 708 that can move within the cartridge chamber, e.g., toward a first cartridge end, e.g., in a first stopper direction 722. For example, medication can be expelled through a cartridge outlet 714 when the first stopper 708 moves in the first stopper direction. The cartridge includes a cartridge rear face 716 at the second cartridge end. The cartridge rear face 716 includes a cartridge rear end opening for providing a plunger rod access to the first stopper 708.

[0109] As shown, cartridge 700 may be a two-chamber cartridge. The cartridge includes a second stopper 710 that can move within cartridge chamber 702, e.g., toward a first cartridge end, e.g., in a first stopper direction 722. Cartridge chamber 702 includes a first cartridge portion chamber 704 and a second cartridge portion chamber 706. First cartridge portion chamber 704 is located between first stopper 708 and second stopper 710. Second cartridge portion chamber 706 is located between second stopper 710 and cartridge outlet 714. Cartridge includes a bypass portion 712 for providing communication between the first cartridge portion chamber and the second cartridge portion chamber. Bypass portion 712 provides communication between the first cartridge portion chamber and the second cartridge portion chamber when second stopper 710 is located in bypass portion 712.

[0110] 9 shows a schematic diagram of an exemplary drive module 500 and plunger rod 400, such as the drive module 500 and plunger rod 400 for the auto-injector described in connection with the previous figures.

[0111] The plunger rod 400 is configured to advance a first stopper of a cartridge, such as the cartridge described in connection with FIG. 8 , received in an auto-injector, e.g., a cartridge receiver of the auto-injector. The plunger rod 400 includes an outer plunger rod 404 having a female thread and an inner plunger rod 402 having a male thread. The threads of the inner plunger rod 402 engage the threads of the outer plunger rod 404. Rotation of the outer plunger rod 404 relative to the housing of the auto-injector is prevented. Movement of the plunger rod 400 includes rotation of the inner plunger rod 402. Rotation of the inner plunger rod 402 results in translation of the outer plunger rod 404 because rotation of the outer plunger rod 404 is prevented. The outer plunger rod 404 is configured to abut a first stopper of the cartridge when translated in the first stopper direction 722 and move the first stopper in the first stopper direction 722 .

[0112] A drive module 500 is coupled to actuate the plunger rod 400. The drive module 500 is electrically connected to a battery to receive power. The drive module 500 includes a motor 502, such as an electromechanical motor, such as a DC motor. The drive module 500 includes a transmission mechanism 504 for coupling the motor 502 to the inner plunger rod 402 of the plunger rod 400.

[0113] While the illustrated example includes a motor 502 that may be an electromechanical motor, it will be readily appreciated that auto-injectors 4 having other drive modules are possible, including, for example, a solenoid motor, a shape memory metal engine, a spring device, and / or pressurized gas configured to actuate the plunger rod 400.

[0114] FIG. 10 schematically illustrates typical components of a typical auto-injector 4, such as those described in connection with the previous figures. A second electrical connector 18 can be connected to the first electrical connector 12. In doing so, the auto-injector's battery 10 can be charged. The battery 10 can provide power to a motor 502. A processing unit 20 can be electrically operated by power from the battery 10. The processing unit 20 can control the flow of power to the motor 502. For example, the processing unit 20 can control the motor 502 to turn it on or off. The processing unit 20, the motor 502, the battery 10, and the first electrical connector 12 are contained within a housing 6 of the auto-injector 4.

Claims

1. It can be connected to a power source, a housing containing a battery and a first electrical connector, the first electrical connector being accessible through a connector opening in the housing and adapted to receive a second electrical connector of the power source; a cartridge receiver configured to receive a cartridge containing a medicament; an ejector member movable along a longitudinal axis between a first ejector position and a second ejector position, the ejector member configured to follow movement of a cartridge along the longitudinal axis when the cartridge is received in the cartridge receiver; 1. An automatic injector for administering a medication, comprising: a blocking member coupled to the ejector member and configured to move between a blocking position in which the ejector member blocks the connector opening and a non-blocking position in which the ejector member does not block the connector opening, the blocking member being positioned at the blocking position when the ejector member is in the second ejector position and being positioned at the non-blocking position when the ejector member is in the first ejector position; An automatic injector comprising:

2. 10. The automatic injector of claim 1, further comprising a drive module coupled to actuate a plunger rod, the drive module configured to receive power from the battery.

3. 3. The automatic injector of claim 1 or 2, wherein the ejector member has an ejector abutment surface configured to abut a surface of the cartridge.

4. 4. The automatic injector of claim 1, further comprising an ejector resilient member configured to exert a force on the ejector member.

5. 5. The automatic injector of claim 1, wherein the blocking member comprises a first blocking coupling member and the ejector member comprises a second blocking coupling member, the first blocking coupling member and the second blocking coupling member engaging to transmit movement of the ejector member to the blocking member.

6. 6. The automatic injector of claim 1, wherein movement of the ejector member from a third ejector position to the second ejector position moves the blocking member from the non-blocking position to the blocking position, the third ejector position being between the first ejector position and the second ejector position.

7. 7. The automatic injector of claim 1, wherein movement of the ejector member from a fourth ejector position to the first ejector position moves the blocking member from the blocking position to the non-blocking position, the fourth ejector position being between the first ejector position and the second ejector position.

8. The automatic injector of any one of claims 1 to 5, wherein the ejector member and the blocking member are fixedly connected with respect to movement along the longitudinal axis.

9. 9. The automatic injector according to claim 1, wherein the ejector member is located in the first ejector position when a cartridge is not received in the cartridge receiver, and the ejector member is located in the second ejector position when a cartridge is received in the cartridge receiver.

10. The automatic injector of any one of claims 1 to 9, wherein the cartridge receiver is configured to receive a cartridge through a cartridge-receiving opening in a cartridge-receiving direction along the longitudinal axis.

11. The automatic injector of any preceding claim, wherein the blocking member is movable along the longitudinal axis between the blocking position and the non-blocking position.

12. The automatic injector of any one of claims 1 to 10, wherein the blocking member is movable perpendicular to the longitudinal axis between the blocking position and the non-blocking position.

13. The automatic injector of any one of claims 1 to 12, wherein movement of the blocking member to the blocking position is prevented when the first electrical connector is mated with the second electrical connector.

14. The automatic injector of any one of claims 1 to 13, wherein movement of the ejector member to the second ejector position is prevented when movement of the blocking member to the blocking position is prevented.

15. A system comprising an automatic injector according to any one of claims 1 to 14 and a cartridge containing a medicament, the cartridge configured to be received in the cartridge receiver.

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