Auxiliary device or system for needleless syringe, method for changing ampoules for needleless syringe, and control program for auxiliary device or system for needleless syringe

Abstract

The present invention provides an auxiliary device or system for a needleless syringe that uses the force of an elastic body to eject the injectable solution from the ampoule, and that can automatically perform the charging of the elastic body and the loading of the ampoule. [Solution] The auxiliary device 1 or system for the needleless syringe includes a holding unit 3 for holding the needleless syringe 10, an elastic body energy storage unit 5 for storing energy in the elastic body of the needleless syringe, an ampoule loading unit 6 for loading a pre-filled ampoule into the needleless syringe, a drive unit 7 for relatively moving the holding unit, and a control unit 8 for controlling the operation of the drive unit, and sequentially moves the needleless syringe to a position where the elastic body can be stored and to a position where the pre-filled ampoule can be loaded.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] When using a needleless syringe that can inject an injection solution into the subcutaneous or internal skin without using a needle by injecting the injection solution in the ampoule at high speed by the force of an elastic body such as a spring, the present invention relates to an auxiliary device or auxiliary system for a needleless syringe that assists its use. In particular, the present invention provides an auxiliary device or auxiliary system for a needleless syringe characterized in that the loading of the ampoule and the preloading of the elastic body can be automatically performed without manual operation. Further, the present invention provides a method for replacing an ampoule of a needleless syringe and a control program for an auxiliary device or auxiliary system of a needleless syringe.

Background Art

[0002] A needleless syringe is a medical device that can inject an injection solution into the subcutaneous or internal skin without using a needle by injecting the injection solution at high speed from a nozzle having a minute diameter. Since a needleless syringe does not pierce the skin with a needle, it has an advantage of less pain compared to a syringe using a needle, and also has an advantage of preventing infections and injuries such as viruses caused by needle stick accidents.

[0003] These advantages of the needleless syringe are particularly great in medical treatment for children who are afraid of injection by a needle and patients with acrophobia. In response to the fact that the needleless syringe developed by the applicant of the present application obtained the approval for manufacturing and selling medical devices for the first time in Japan, the sale of the needleless syringe Injex50 was started in (接続問題で途切れていますが、原文に従って翻訳を続けます)2020. At the time of the present application, its use is particularly expanding in pediatric dentistry.

[0004] The most common driving principle for needleless syringes is the use of an elastic body such as a spring. Other methods include using gas pressure, electromagnetic force, or explosives. However, methods using gas pressure or electromagnetic force have difficulty injecting the solution at high speeds. Therefore, when the solution is small, it can be injected into the skin (epidermis and dermis), but not into the subcutaneous tissue (tissue deeper than the dermis). Methods using explosives have problems with controlling the explosive force and safety. On the other hand, methods using an elastic body such as a spring can inject the solution at high speeds by continuously applying stress to the elastic body to deform it and accumulate elastic energy (energy storage of the elastic body), and then releasing the deformed elastic body to release the stored elastic energy and convert it into kinetic energy (energy release of the elastic body). The amount of elastic energy used for injection remains constant. Because of these characteristics, methods using elastic bodies can reliably and safely inject even small amounts of solution subcutaneously, making them the most suitable for needleless syringes.

[0005] The driving principle of conventional needleless syringes that utilize elastic bodies such as springs will be explained as follows, using a diagram from Patent Document 1, which was previously filed by one of the inventors of this application. Figure 10 is a drawing in which Fig. 23 and Fig. 24 of Patent Document 1 have been given new reference numerals in accordance with the reference numerals used in this application. Figure 10(A) shows a conventional needleless syringe with the spring compressed and energized, while Figure 10(B) shows the compressed spring released and the injection fluid ejected. As shown in Figure 10(A), an ampoule 11A can be attached to the ampoule mounting section at the front of the needleless syringe 10A. The ampoule 11A has a cylinder-like structure and contains an injection solution inside, and the injection solution can be ejected by pushing the plunger 1102A into the cylinder-like structure. Inside the body of the needleless syringe 10A is a piston 1030A that can slide back and forth, and a piston head 1031A is provided at the front end of the piston 1030A. Furthermore, a spring 1040A is installed inside the needleless syringe 10A that applies a forward force to the piston 1030A. By manually moving the piston 1030A backward, the spring 1040A becomes compressed, as shown in Figure 10(A). Here, the trigger finger 1091A prevents the piston 1030A from moving forward, and the spring 1040A maintains a compressed, "stored energy" state. The trigger finger 1091A is located at the front end of the trigger 1090A, and by the force of another spring, the push end 1092A, located at the rear end of the trigger 1090A, is lifted. This causes the trigger finger 1091A to be pushed down by the principle of leverage, preventing the piston 1030A from moving forward. To maintain the lifted position of the push end 1092A, a safety lock 1093A, which can move back and forth, is pushed under the push end 1092A to lock it in place. Next, as shown in Figure 10(B), the safety lock 1093A is moved backward to release the lock, and then the push end 1092A is pushed downward, which lifts the trigger finger 1091A by lever principle, allowing the piston 1030A to move freely forward by the force of the spring 1040A. As shown in Figure 10(A), before the piston 1030A is freely moved forward, there is a gap (space) between the piston 1030A and the plunger 1102A. Therefore, the piston 1030A, receiving the force of the spring 1040A, accelerates at high speed and collides with the plunger 1102A. In this way, the piston head 1030A acts like a hammer striking the plunger 1102A, pressing the plunger 1102A with a strong impact force, and the injection fluid in the ampoule 11A can be ejected at high speed from the small diameter outlet 1101A.

[0006] Thus, needleless syringes that utilize an elastic body eject the injectable solution from the ampoule by releasing the elastic body's energy. While this method has the advantage of high-speed injection, it required manually applying force to the elastic body to accumulate elastic energy.

[0007] Patent Document 2 discloses a device that allows a syringe, which uses the release of a spring to eject the injectable fluid from the ampoule, to store energy without manual force. One device is a belt-type motor that can be attached to the waist or arm of a medical professional and is connected to the syringe by a cable. By pulling a movable core inside the cable with the motor, the spring in the syringe can be compressed (Figure 2 of Patent Document 2). The other device is a foot-operated device that is connected to the syringe by a cable. By pulling a movable core inside the cable with a foot-operated motion, the spring in the syringe can be compressed (Figure 3 of Patent Document 2). Furthermore, Patent Document 2 discloses an electric recharge device that has a dock for receiving syringes that use a spring release mechanism to eject the injectable solution from the ampoule, and can recharge the spring of the syringe placed in the dock (Figure 4 of Patent Document 2). Patent Document 2 states that this recharge device requires operation by an assistant working with the physician administering the vaccine, and that without the assistant's help, the physician administering the vaccine has a greater workload compared to using devices like those shown in Figures 2 and 3 of Patent Document 2 (

[0019] of Patent Document 2). Furthermore, Patent Document 2 discloses a syringe in which a motor for storing spring energy is permanently fixed, rather than being separate from the syringe (Figure 6b of Patent Document 2).

[0008] Unlike conventional syringes, needleless syringes are not disposable devices. They require repeated use by removing the used ampoule and loading a new ampoule filled with the injection solution. Devices have also been developed to assist with loading ampoules into needleless syringes. Patent Document 2 discloses a syringe that ejects the injectable solution from an ampoule by the release of a spring, and a rotary automatic supply magazine to assist in loading ampoules. The syringe disclosed in Patent Document 2 (Figures 7a to 7d of Patent Document 2) has gripping claws for grasping ampoules, and the rotary automatic supply magazine (Figures 14a and 14b of Patent Document 2) has an opening that stores multiple ampoules and allows each ampoule to be pulled out from the same position every time. The opening of the rotary automatic supply magazine has a funnel shape, which allows the gripping claws of the syringe to be guided to a position where the ampoule can be grasped. After grasping and pulling out an ampoule with the gripping claws of the syringe, pressing the switch on the rotary automatic supply magazine allows the next ampoule to be automatically supplied to the opening. After the injectable solution from the ampoule has been ejected, the used ampoule can be discharged and collected from the syringe by opening the gripping claws of the syringe over a trash can (Figure 9 of Patent Document 2). [Prior art documents] [Patent Documents]

[0009] [Patent Document 1] International Publication No. WO2014 / 042930 [Patent Document 2] Japanese Patent Publication No. 4212475 [Overview of the project] [Problems that the invention aims to solve]

[0010] As described in the background technology section, needleless syringes that eject the injection solution from an ampoule by releasing the force of an elastic body have the advantage of being able to eject the injection solution at high speed. However, when the elastic body is charged, it is necessary to manually apply force to the elastic body to accumulate elastic energy. Therefore, when using a needleless syringe to inject a large number of people, such as in mass vaccination, it is necessary to repeatedly apply force to the elastic body manually to charge it, which causes considerable fatigue to the user of the needleless syringe. Furthermore, in needleless syringes that use the force of an elastic body to eject the injection solution from the ampoule, when administering injections to a large number of subjects, it was necessary to smoothly and repeatedly remove used ampoules and load new ampoules filled with injection solution (pre-filled ampoules) in order to administer injections to many subjects in a short amount of time. As disclosed in Patent Document 2, a device has been developed that can store energy in a syringe that uses the release of an elastic body to eject the injectable fluid from the ampoule without manual force being applied. However, belt-type motors are burdensome due to the effort required to put them on and their weight, and foot-operated devices have the problem of not being easily moved because they are placed on the floor. Furthermore, electric re-energization equipment has the problem of requiring an assistant, and syringes with a motor permanently attached for storing energy in the elastic body have the problem of increased weight. And although these devices can store energy in the elastic body without manual force being applied, the replacement of used ampoules still had to be done manually. As disclosed in Patent Document 2, a rotary automatic supply magazine has been developed to assist in loading ampoules, but it is still necessary to manually insert the syringe's gripping claw into the magazine's opening and pull out the ampoule. Therefore, even though it is called automatic, it is a device that requires manual operation. Furthermore, when disposing of used ampoules, it is necessary to move the syringe onto a trash can.

[0011] Therefore, the object of the present invention is to develop an auxiliary device or system for a needleless syringe that uses the force of an elastic body to eject the injection solution from the ampoule, and that can automatically perform the charging of the elastic body and the loading of a new ampoule filled with the injection solution. [Means for solving the problem]

[0012] To solve these problems, the inventors conducted diligent research and developed an auxiliary device or system comprising an elastic body charging unit for charging the elastic body of a needleless syringe and an ampoule loading unit for loading a pre-filled ampoule into the needleless syringe. Furthermore, they developed a device or system that further comprises a holding unit for holding the needleless syringe, a drive unit for driving the holding unit, and a control unit for controlling the operation of the drive unit. They then discovered that by sequentially moving the needleless syringe held by the holding unit to a position where the elastic body can be charged by the elastic body charging unit and a position where a pre-filled ampoule can be loaded by the ampoule loading unit, it is possible to automatically charge the elastic body and load the pre-filled ampoule, thus completing the present invention. In other words, the present invention provides an auxiliary device or system for the following [1] needleless syringe. [1] In an auxiliary device or system for a needleless syringe that assists in the use of a needleless syringe that ejects the injectable solution in an ampoule by the force of an elastic body, The holding part for holding the needleless syringe, The elastic body energy storage unit for storing energy in the elastic body of the needleless syringe, The needleless syringe includes an ampoule loading section for loading pre-filled ampoules, A drive unit moves the needleless syringe held in the holding unit relative to the elastic energy storage unit and the ampoule loading unit, A control unit that controls the operation of the drive unit and It has, The operation of the drive unit sequentially moves the needleless syringe to a position where the elastic body can be charged by the elastic body charge unit, and to a position where the filled ampoule can be loaded by the ampoule loading unit. An auxiliary device or system for a needleless syringe, characterized by automatically performing the energy storage of the elastic body and the loading of the pre-filled ampoule.

[0013] In the auxiliary device or system for a needleless syringe of the present invention, it is preferable to further include an ampoule recovery unit for recovering used ampoules removed from the needleless syringe, in addition to the elastic energy storage unit and the ampoule loading unit. If an ampoule recovery unit is included, the drive unit sequentially moves the needleless syringe between a position where used ampoules can be recovered by the ampoule recovery unit, a position where the elastic body can be charged by the elastic body charge unit, and a position where filled ampoules can be loaded by the ampoule loading unit. This allows for the automatic recovery of used ampoules, the charging of the elastic body, and the loading of filled ampoules. In other words, the present invention provides the following [2] auxiliary device or system for a needleless syringe. [2] The device further includes an ampoule recovery unit for recovering used ampoules removed from the needleless syringe, The operation of the drive unit sequentially moves the needleless syringe between a position where the used ampoule can be recovered by the ampoule recovery unit, a position where the elastic body can be charged by the elastic body charge unit, and a position where the filled ampoule can be loaded by the ampoule loading unit. An auxiliary device or auxiliary system for a needleless syringe according to [1], characterized by automatically recovering the used ampoule, accumulating the elastic body, and loading the filled ampoule.

[0014] As described in the background art, a needleless syringe that injects the injection solution in the ampoule by releasing the elastic body usually attaches an ampoule having a plunger for pushing out the internal injection solution to the ampoule attachment part at the front of the needleless syringe. Then, the needleless syringe has a piston that is driven forward by the force of the elastic body, and by driving the piston forward, the plunger is pressed to inject the injection solution inside the ampoule. Therefore, when the used ampoule is removed from the ampoule attachment part of the needleless syringe, an opening through which the piston of the needleless syringe can be accessed is exposed in the ampoule attachment part. Thus, the inventors have found that by automatically pushing the insertion rod inward from the exposed opening, the piston is pushed backward to deform the elastic body that applies force to the piston, and the elastic body can be automatically accumulated without providing a special mechanism in the needleless syringe. That is, the present invention provides an invention of an auxiliary device or auxiliary system for a needleless syringe as described in [3] below. [3] The ampoule has a plunger for pushing out the internal injection solution, The needleless syringe has a piston that presses the plunger by being driven forward by the force of the elastic body, The elastic body accumulating part has an insertion rod, After removing the used ampoule from the needleless syringe, the insertion rod is pushed inward from the opening exposed in the ampoule attachment part of the needleless syringe, and the piston is pushed backward to deform the elastic body that applies force to the piston, thereby accumulating the elastic body. An auxiliary device or auxiliary system for a needleless syringe according to [1] or [2].

[0015] In the needleless syringe of the present invention, by providing a gripping part that can be opened and closed and can grip and fix an ampoule, when loading a filled ampoule, the gripping part is closed to grip the ampoule, so that it is possible to easily load the filled ampoule. At the same time, when collecting the used ampoule, by opening the gripping part with the holding part or the ampoule collection part, it is possible to automatically remove the used ampoule without manual operation. Further, by providing a flange or a plurality of protrusions on the outer periphery of the ampoule and providing a stopper on the gripping part that engages in front of the flange or the plurality of protrusions of the ampoule when the gripping part is closed, it is possible to prevent an accident in which the ampoule jumps out of the needleless syringe due to the impact force of the piston. That is, the present invention provides an invention of an auxiliary device or an auxiliary system for a needleless syringe as described in the following [4]. [4] The ampoule has a flange or a plurality of protrusions on its outer periphery, The needleless syringe has a gripping part that grips and fixes the ampoule, The gripping part is openable and closable, and has a stopper that engages in front of the flange or the plurality of protrusions when the gripping part is closed, The holding part or the ampoule collection part removes and collects the used ampoule from the needleless syringe by opening the gripping part, and the auxiliary device or the auxiliary system for a needleless syringe according to any one of the above [1] to [3].

[0016] In the ampoule collection part of the auxiliary device or the auxiliary system for a needleless syringe of the present invention, a rotating table for placing a plurality of filled ampoules can be provided. Then, after using one of the filled ampoules on the rotating table for loading into the needleless syringe, by rotating the rotating table, a new filled ampoule can be supplied, and by repeating this, it is possible to supply new ampoules one after another. Further, when a plurality of types of filled ampoules with different uses and amounts are placed on the rotating table, by controlling the rotation of the rotating table, it is possible to select and supply the type of the filled ampoule. That is, the present invention provides an invention of an auxiliary device or an auxiliary system for a needleless syringe as described in the following [5]. [5] An auxiliary device or system for a needleless syringe according to any one of [1] to [4], characterized in that the ampoule loading section has a rotating table on which a plurality of filled ampoules are placed.

[0017] In the auxiliary device or system for a needleless syringe of the present invention, the drive unit can be a robotic arm. Since the robotic arm can perform flexible movements like a human arm, it can perform operations other than ampoule retrieval and loading, and elastic body energy storage. In other words, the present invention provides the following [6] auxiliary device or system for a needleless syringe. [6] An auxiliary device or system for a needleless syringe according to any one of [1] to [5], characterized in that the drive unit is a robotic arm.

[0018] In the auxiliary device or system for a needleless syringe of the present invention, if the drive unit is a robotic arm, and the device or system is capable of bringing the dispensing part of the needleless syringe closer to the injection site and ejecting the injection solution from the needleless syringe, manual operation of the needleless syringe becomes unnecessary, and injections can be performed, for example, by remote control. In other words, the present invention provides the following [7] auxiliary device or system for a needleless syringe. [7] The auxiliary device or system for a needleless syringe according to [6], characterized in that the robotic arm can bring the dispensing part of the needleless syringe closer to the injection site and eject the injection solution from the needleless syringe.

[0019] The present invention also provides the following inventions for ampoule replacement methods for needleless syringes [8] to

[10] . [8] In a method for replacing an ampoule of a needleless syringe that ejects the injection solution inside the ampoule by the force of an elastic body, Using an auxiliary device or system for a needleless syringe, B) An elastic body energy storage step that automatically stores energy in the elastic body, C) An ampoule loading step in which a pre-filled ampoule is automatically loaded into the needleless syringe. A method for changing ampoules in a needleless syringe, characterized by having the following features.

[0020] [9] A) The method for replacing an ampoule in a needleless syringe according to [8], further comprising an ampoule recovery step of removing a used ampoule from the needleless syringe.

[0021]

[10] The ampoule has a plunger for pushing out the injection solution inside, The needleless syringe has a piston that presses the plunger by being driven forward by the force of the elastic body, The auxiliary device or auxiliary system has an insertion rod, After performing the ampoule retrieval step A) above, the insertion rod is automatically pushed into the interior through the opening exposed in the ampoule mounting portion of the needleless syringe, thereby deforming the elastic body that applies force to the piston by pushing the piston backward, and the elastic body energy storage step B) above is performed. The method for replacing an ampoule of a needleless syringe according to [9], characterized in that after performing the elastic body energy storage step of B) above, the ampoule loading step of C) above is performed.

[0022] The present invention further provides the invention of control programs for auxiliary devices or systems of needleless syringes as described in

[11] and

[12] below.

[11] The control unit of the auxiliary device or auxiliary system for a needleless syringe described in any of [1] to [7] above: B') A step of generating a command signal for storing energy in the elastic body, C') A step of generating a command signal for loading the filled ampoule into the needleless syringe. A control program for an auxiliary device or system of a needleless syringe, characterized by causing it to perform information processing including information processing.

[0023]

[12] Step B') includes generating a command signal to operate the drive unit so that the needleless syringe moves relative to a position in which the elastic body can be charged using the elastic body charge unit, Step C') includes generating a command signal to operate the drive unit so that the needleless syringe moves relative to a position in which the filled ampoule can be loaded using the ampoule loading unit. A control program for an auxiliary device or system for a needleless syringe as described in

[11] , characterized in that

[0024] In addition, the present invention provides the following needle-free injection systems:

[13] and

[14] .

[13] A needleless injection system comprising a needleless syringe that ejects an injection solution from an ampoule by the force of an elastic body, and an auxiliary device thereof, An elastic energy storage unit that stores energy in the elastic body, The needleless syringe includes a loading section for loading pre-filled ampoules, The holding part for holding the needleless syringe and A drive unit for moving the needleless syringe held in the holding unit, A control unit that controls the operation of the drive unit and A needle-free injection system characterized by having the following features.

[14] The needle-free injection system according to

[13] , characterized in that the drive unit is a robotic arm. [Effects of the Invention]

[0025] The present invention provides an auxiliary device or system for a needleless syringe, a method for changing ampoules for needleless injection, a control program for the auxiliary device or system for a needleless syringe, and a needleless injection system, which have the effect of automatically accumulating energy in the elastic body of the needleless syringe and loading a filled ampoule into the needleless syringe. [Brief explanation of the drawing]

[0026] [Figure 1]This is a schematic diagram showing an auxiliary device for a needleless syringe according to the first embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 2] Figure 2(A) shows a used ampoule 11E attached to the needleless syringe 10, and Figure 2(B) shows a used ampoule 11E removed from the needleless syringe 10. [Figure 3] This is a schematic diagram showing a state in which the needleless syringe is in a position where the elastic body can be energized by the elastic body energy storage section, in an auxiliary device for a needleless syringe according to the first embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 4] This is a schematic cross-sectional view illustrating the operation of storing energy in the elastic body of a needleless syringe by the elastic energy storage unit in a first embodiment of the present invention. Figure 4(A) shows the state in which the opening of the needleless syringe 10 is brought close to the insertion rod 501 of the elastic energy storage unit, and Figure 4(B) shows the state in which the insertion rod 501 is pushed into the interior from the opening of the needleless syringe 10, thereby storing energy in the elastic body (spring) 1040. [Figure 5] This is a schematic diagram showing the state in which the needleless syringe is in a position where a pre-filled ampoule can be loaded by the ampoule loading section, in an auxiliary device for a needleless syringe according to the first embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 6] Figure 6(A) shows a state in which a pre-filled ampoule 11 is inserted into the opening of the needleless syringe 10, and Figure 6(B) shows a state in which the gripping part 1050 of the needleless syringe 10 is closed and the loading of the pre-filled ampoule 11 is completed. [Figure 7] Figure 7(A) shows a schematic cross-sectional view illustrating the operation of a needleless syringe loaded with a pre-filled ampoule to inject the injection solution in a first embodiment of the present invention. Figure 7(A) shows the nozzle 1101 of the needleless syringe 10 in contact with the skin 12 from which the injection solution is to be injected, and Figure 7(B) shows the state in which the injection solution 1104 is injected from the nozzle 1101 by releasing the elastic body (spring) 1040 by pressing down the launch lever 1080. [Figure 8] This is a schematic diagram showing an auxiliary system for a needleless syringe according to a second embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 9] This is a flowchart of a control program that causes the control unit of the auxiliary device for a needleless syringe according to the first embodiment of the present invention to perform information processing. [Figure 10] This diagram illustrates the driving principle of a conventional needleless syringe that utilizes an elastic body such as a spring. Figure 10(A) shows a conventional needleless syringe with the spring compressed and energized, while Figure 10(B) shows the compressed spring released and the injection fluid ejected. [Modes for carrying out the invention]

[0027] 1. Auxiliary device or system for needleless syringes 1-1. Overview of auxiliary devices or systems for needleless syringes The present invention provides an auxiliary device or system for a needleless syringe that assists in the use of a needleless syringe that ejects the injection solution in an ampoule by the force of an elastic body. In this invention, a "needleless syringe" is a medical device that can inject an injectable solution subcutaneously, into the skin, or into the mucous membrane without using a needle. Here, "medical treatment" includes not only medical treatment for humans, but also veterinary medicine for livestock animals such as cattle, horses, pigs, and chickens, as well as non-human animals including pets such as dogs, cats, turtles, and koi carp.

[0028] In this invention, "elastic body" refers to a member that deforms when stress is applied and returns to its original shape when the stress is removed. While "elastic body" is not limited to these examples, examples of elastic bodies that can be used include coil springs, leaf springs, compression springs, tension springs, rubber, and the like. In this invention, the "release" of an elastic body is the opposite concept to the "storage" of an elastic body. While "storage" of an elastic body involves deforming it by continuously applying stress and accumulating elastic energy in the elastic body, "release" refers to releasing the stored elastic energy and converting it into kinetic energy by releasing the stress and returning the deformed elastic body to its original shape.

[0029] In the present invention, the method of ejecting the injection solution from the ampoule by the release of an elastic body is not limited to these, but for example, as in the conventional needleless syringe shown in Figure 10, an ampoule having a cylinder-like structure that contains the injection solution, a discharge port at the tip, and a plunger that can slide along the inner diameter of the cylinder-like structure can be used, and the injection solution is ejected from the discharge port by pressing the plunger with a piston accelerated by the release of an elastic body. Alternatively, for example, an ampoule containing the injection solution in a flexible, tubular container with a discharge port may be used, and the injection solution may be ejected from the discharge port by crushing the tubular ampoule with a plate-shaped member or the like using the force of an elastic body.

[0030] The ampoule used in this invention is a separate component from the needleless syringe, capable of containing the injection solution, and is typically a disposable consumable item. After the injection solution in the ampoule is dispensed, the used ampoule can be removed from the needleless syringe and a new, pre-filled ampoule can be attached, allowing the needleless syringe to dispense the injection solution repeatedly. Since it is necessary to prevent contamination of injectable solutions with bacteria before injecting them into the body, ampoules should either be used by injecting sterile injectable solution into sterile ampoules, or by purchasing ampoules that are pre-filled with the injectable solution and then sterile.

[0031] The auxiliary device or system for a needleless syringe of the present invention is characterized by having at least five parts (units) as described in (a) through (e) below. i) Retaining part for holding needleless syringes (b) Elastic energy storage unit that stores energy in an elastic body. (h) Ampoule loading section for loading a filled ampoule into a needleless syringe from which a used ampoule has been removed. 2) A drive unit that moves the holding unit relative to the ampoule recovery unit, the elastic energy storage unit, and the ampoule loading unit. (e) Control unit that controls the operation of the drive unit In addition to the six parts described in (a) through (e) above, the auxiliary device or system for the needleless syringe of the present invention may be provided with other functional parts. For example, although not limited thereto, it is preferable to provide the following parts: (h) Ampoule collection unit for collecting used ampoules removed from needleless syringes. Furthermore, an ampoule loading inspection unit can be provided to check whether a pre-filled ampoule is correctly loaded into the needleless syringe. This prevents accidents such as ampoules flying out when the elastic body is released.

[0032] If the auxiliary device or system for a needleless syringe of the present invention comprises all of the components described in (a) through (e) above in a single device, it constitutes an invention of a device (auxiliary device for a needleless syringe). On the other hand, if the components described in (a) through (e) above are divided and provided in multiple devices, it constitutes an invention of a system consisting of multiple devices (auxiliary system for a needleless syringe). As an example of a system configuration, although not limited to these, the five parts described in (a) to (d) above can be integrated to form a single device, as in the auxiliary system for a needleless syringe of the second embodiment described later, and the control unit described in (e) above can be a portable terminal that controls the device via the internet. Thus, an auxiliary system for a needleless syringe can be configured. By making the control unit an auxiliary system that connects via the internet, remote operation becomes possible.

[0033] The "holding part" in (a) above, which is included in the auxiliary device or auxiliary system for the needleless syringe of the present invention, may be any structure or mechanism capable of holding a needleless syringe. The "holding part" may be, for example, a holding part having a structure into which a needleless syringe can be fitted, a holding part having a mechanism for clamping and fixing a needleless syringe with multiple members, or a holding part having a member that engages with a needleless syringe. The "holding part" may not only hold the needleless syringe but also have a structure or mechanism for removing the used ampoule from the needleless syringe. The specific structure and mechanism of the "holding part" can be, for example, the holding part provided in the auxiliary device for the needleless syringe of the first embodiment described later, or the holding part provided in the auxiliary system for the needleless syringe of the second embodiment described later.

[0034] The "elastic body energy storage unit" in (b) above, which is included in the auxiliary device or auxiliary system of the needleless syringe of the present invention, may be any structure or mechanism capable of storing energy in an elastic body. The "elastic body energy storage unit" may, for example, store energy by deforming an elastic body using the driving force of an actuator, or it may store energy by deforming an elastic body using the force that moves the needleless syringe by a drive unit. The specific structure and mechanism of the "elastic energy storage unit" can be, for example, a structure or mechanism similar to the elastic energy storage unit provided in the auxiliary device of the needleless syringe of the first embodiment or the auxiliary system of the needleless syringe of the second embodiment, which will be described later.

[0035] The "ampoule loading section" in (c) above, which is included in the auxiliary device or auxiliary system for the needleless syringe of the present invention, may be any structure or mechanism that can load a pre-filled ampoule into the needleless syringe. The "ampoule loading section" may, for example, supply pre-filled ampoules one after another by being driven by an actuator, although it is not limited to these, or it may be a system in which multiple pre-filled ampoules are placed and the needleless syringe is moved to the position where the pre-filled ampoules are placed by the operation of a driving force and the pre-filled ampoules are attached. The specific structure and mechanism of the "ampoule loading section" can be, for example, the ampoule loading section provided in the auxiliary device of the needleless syringe of the first embodiment described later, or the ampoule loading section provided in the auxiliary system of the needleless syringe of the second embodiment. Furthermore, the "ampoule loading section" can be a removable cartridge that dispenses ampoules one after another. This allows the cartridge to be replaced when it runs out of pre-filled ampoules, and the empty cartridge can be recycled by having it refilled with ampoules at a facility such as an ampoule manufacturer.

[0036] The "drive unit" in the auxiliary device or auxiliary system for the needleless syringe of the present invention may be any structure or mechanism that moves the needleless syringe held by the holding unit relative to the elastic energy storage unit and the ampoule loading unit. The "drive unit" may, for example, be able to move the needleless syringe held by the holding unit freely in the X-axis direction and the Y-axis direction, or it may be able to move it freely in the X-axis direction, the Y-axis direction and the Z-axis direction, or it may also impart rotational motion to the needleless syringe. Alternatively, the needleless syringe held by the holding unit may be kept stationary while the elastic energy storage unit and the ampoule loading unit are moved to enable relative movement, or both may be moved. The specific structure and mechanism of the "drive unit" can be, for example, the drive unit provided in the auxiliary device for the needleless syringe of the first embodiment described later, or the drive unit provided in the auxiliary system for the needleless syringe of the second embodiment described later.

[0037] The "control unit" in the auxiliary device or auxiliary system of the needleless syringe of the present invention may be any device that has a mechanism capable of controlling the operation of the drive unit. The "control unit" may be, for example, a microcontroller (MCU), a general-purpose computer, a portable information processing device, or a combination of these and a control circuit, although it is not limited to these. While a single integrated control unit may be used as the "control unit," in this invention, multiple "control units" may be used, with each control unit separately controlling, for example, the "drive unit," the "elastic energy storage unit," and the "ampoule loading unit." A control unit typically includes an information processing device and a storage device that stores control programs, etc., but is not limited to this; for example, a control unit that controls the drive unit using only a control circuit and a drive circuit may also be used. More specifically, the "control unit" can be configured as follows: for example, as the control unit provided in the auxiliary device for the needleless syringe of the first embodiment described later, or as the control unit provided in the auxiliary system for the needleless syringe of the second embodiment.

[0038] The auxiliary device or system for the needleless syringe of the present invention preferably further comprises the "ampoule recovery unit" described in (f) above. The "ampoule recovery unit" may be any structure or mechanism that can recover used ampoules removed from the needleless syringe. The "ampoule recovery unit" may not only recover used ampoules but also have a structure or mechanism for removing used ampoules from the needleless syringe. The "ampoule recovery unit" may, for example, have a mechanism for removing used ampoules from the needleless syringe and a structure for recovering the removed ampoules, although these are not limited to the above. Alternatively, it may automatically operate the ampoule holding mechanism of the needleless syringe to remove the used ampoules and then recover the removed ampoules. The "ampoule recovery unit" may simply catch and recover used ampoules that have fallen due to the manual operation of the ampoule holding mechanism of the needleless syringe. The specific structure and mechanism of the "ampoule recovery unit" can be, for example, the structure and mechanism of the ampoule recovery unit provided in the auxiliary device of the needleless syringe of the first embodiment or the auxiliary system of the needleless syringe of the second embodiment, which will be described later.

[0039] The auxiliary device or system for a needleless syringe of the present invention can sequentially move the needleless syringe held by the holding part of (a) by the drive unit of (f) to a position where the elastic body can be charged by the elastic body charge unit of (b) and to a position where a filled ampoule can be loaded by the ampoule loading unit of (c). This makes it possible to automatically build up the elastic body of the needleless syringe and load the pre-filled ampoule.

[0040] Here, "moving the needleless syringe sequentially" means moving it one after another in any order, and is not limited to moving it in the order of "position where the elastic body can be charged by the elastic body charge unit" → "position where a filled ampoule can be loaded by the ampoule loading unit," but may also be moved in the order of "position where a filled ampoule can be loaded by the ampoule loading unit" → "position where the elastic body can be charged by the elastic body charge unit."

[0041] If the auxiliary device or system for the needleless syringe of the present invention is further provided with a part used for performing other operations on the needleless syringe, the needleless syringe can be moved in any order, including moving to a position where operations can be performed using that part. For example, if an "ampoule recovery unit" is further provided in the auxiliary device or system for the needleless syringe of the present invention, the needleless syringe can be moved sequentially in any order, including moving to a "position where used ampoules can be recovered by the ampoule recovery unit." However, since used ampoules are usually removed manually or automatically at the "position where used ampoules can be recovered by the ampoule recovery unit," it is preferable to move the syringe to the "position where filled ampoules can be loaded by the ampoule loading unit" before moving it to the "position where filled ampoules can be loaded by the ampoule loading unit." Furthermore, as with the auxiliary device for the needleless syringe of the first embodiment described later, when inserting a rod into the interior of the needleless syringe through an opening exposed at the ampoule attachment part after removing a used ampoule to store energy in the elastic body, it is preferable to move the needleless syringe in the following order: "a position where a used ampoule can be collected by the ampoule collection part" → "a position where energy can be stored in the elastic body by the elastic body storage part" → "a position where a filled ampoule can be loaded by the ampoule loading part".

[0042] 1-2. First Embodiment Embodiments of the present invention will be described below with reference to the drawings, but the present invention is not limited to these embodiments. 1-2-1. Overall configuration of the auxiliary device for the needleless syringe of the first embodiment Figure 1 is a schematic diagram showing an auxiliary device for a needleless syringe according to the first embodiment of the present invention. As shown in Figure 1, the auxiliary device 1 for the needleless syringe of the first embodiment is configured by including a holding unit 3, an ampoule recovery unit 4, an elastic body energy storage unit 5, an ampoule loading unit 6, a drive unit 7, and a control unit 8, etc., on a desk-type machine frame 2. Note that in Figure 1, the housing that covers the entire auxiliary device 1 is omitted in order to make the arrangement and structure of each part of the auxiliary device 1 easier to see.

[0043] The auxiliary device 1 of the needleless syringe is an electrically operated device. The power distribution box 9 receives external power from a power source (not shown) via a power cable 901 and supplies power to each part, including the holding unit 3, the elastic energy storage unit 5, the ampoule loading unit 6, the drive unit 7, and the control unit 8. The power distribution box 9 is mounted on a shelf 201 provided on the machine frame 2 and is connected to each part by electrical wiring (not shown) to supply power to each part. The control unit 8 is connected to the drive unit 7 by electrical wiring for transmitting command signals to control the operation of the drive unit 7. This electrical wiring can also be used to receive detection signals from sensors on the drive unit 7 at the same time as transmitting command signals. The control unit 8 is also connected to the holding unit 3, the elastic energy storage unit 5, and the ampoule loading unit 6, etc., by electrical wiring, and can transmit and receive command signals, detection signals, etc.

[0044] As shown in Figure 1, the machine frame 2 is provided with two support columns 202, and the drive unit 7 is supported by the two support columns 202. The drive unit 7 consists of an X-axis rail 701, a movable body 702, a Y-axis rail 703 connected to the movable body 702, and an actuator provided within the holding unit 3. The X-axis rail 701 is horizontally mounted and supported by two pillars 202, and extends in the X-axis direction as indicated by the arrow in Figure 1. The movable body 702 has an X-axis drive actuator inside, and its driving force allows it to move freely back and forth on the X-axis rail 701. The movable body 702 is connected to a Y-axis rail 703, which extends in the Y-axis direction as indicated by the arrow in Figure 1. The holding unit 3 has a Y-axis drive actuator inside, and its driving force allows it to move freely up and down on the Y-axis rail 703.

[0045] The X-axis drive actuator located inside the mobile body 702 and the Y-axis drive actuator located inside the holding unit 3 are driven by command signals transmitted by the control unit 8, and the holding unit 3 can be freely scanned on the XY plane by the control unit 8. The drive unit 7 can be equipped with sensors to detect the positions of the moving body 702 and the holding unit 3. In this case, the control unit 8 can accurately move the moving body 702 and the holding unit 3 to the desired position by detecting the positions using the sensors and controlling the driving of the X-axis drive actuator and the Y-axis drive actuator.

[0046] The needleless syringe auxiliary device 1 is a device that assists in the use of a needleless syringe by replacing ampoules and accumulating energy in the elastic body of the needleless syringe. After the user injects the injection solution using the needleless syringe 10, the user sets the needleless syringe 10, to which the used ampoule 11E is attached, into the holding unit 3. After setting the needleless syringe 10 into the holding unit 3, when the user initiates operation via the touch panel 801 of the control unit 8, the used ampoule 11E is automatically collected, the elastic body is accumulating energy, and a filled ampoule 11 is loaded.

[0047] Figure 1 shows the needleless syringe 10 set in the holder 3. In Figure 1, the needleless syringe 10 is positioned so that used ampoules can be collected by the ampoule collection unit 4. A top plate 203 is provided on the top surface of the desk-type machine frame 2, but a portion of the top surface has a through-hole 204 that penetrates vertically without the top plate 203. A chute (ampoule recovery section) 4 is provided at the bottom of the through-hole 204.

[0048] The needleless syringe 10 has an openable and closable gripping section that can grip and secure an ampoule. When the needleless syringe 10 is set in the holding section 3, the holding section 3, driven by an actuator, opens the gripping section of the needleless syringe 10 and removes the used ampoule 11E. The used ampoule 11E removed from the needleless syringe 10 falls and is caught by the chute (ampoule collection section) 4 shown in Figure 1. Due to the inclination of the chute (ampoule collection section) 4, it moves in the direction of gravity and is collected in the ampoule collection container 401.

[0049] After the used ampoule 11E is collected, the holding unit 3 is moved by the operation of the drive unit 7 to a position where the elastic body can be charged by the elastic body charge unit 5. As shown in Figure 1, the elastic body energy storage unit 5 consists of an insertion rod 501 and an energy storage unit body 502 equipped with an actuator that drives the insertion rod 501 up and down. The energy storage unit body 502 is installed on a shelf plate 201 and is accessible to the needleless syringe 10 through a through-hole 204, allowing the insertion rod 501 to be pushed into the inside of the needleless syringe 10 to store energy in the elastic body of the needleless syringe 10.

[0050] After the elastic body has been charged, the holding unit 3 is moved by the operation of the drive unit 7 to a position where the filled ampoules can be loaded by the ampoule loading unit 6. As shown in Figure 1, the ampoule loading unit 6 is located on the top plate 203. The ampoule loading unit 6 consists of a circular rotary table 601 and an actuator for the ampoule loading unit (not shown). The rotary table 601 can be rotated on the top plate 201 by the driving force of the actuator for the ampoule loading unit. The rotary table 601 is provided with a plurality of holes 602, and a plurality of filled ampoules 11 are placed on the rotary table 601 by inserting the filled ampoules 11 into the plurality of holes 602. When the needleless syringe 10 moves to a position where the ampoule loading unit can load a pre-filled ampoule, the gripping part of the needleless syringe 10 can grasp the pre-filled ampoule 11 placed on the rotating table 601 of the ampoule loading unit 6, enabling the loading of the pre-filled ampoule 11.

[0051] As described above, in the first embodiment of the present invention, after the user of the needleless syringe 10 sets the needleless syringe 10 in the holding part 3 of the auxiliary device 1 for the needleless syringe, the operation of each part of the auxiliary device 1 for the needleless syringe automatically performs the collection of used ampoules, the storage of energy in the elastic body, and the loading of filled ampoules. below," 1-2-2. Collection of used ampoules The section of " and, 1-2-3. Energy storage in elastic bodies The section of " and, 1-2-4. Loading the filled ampoulesIn the section, the structure and operation of the auxiliary device 1 for the needleless syringe and the needleless syringe 10 are described, and how they can perform the collection of used ampoules, the accumulation of energy in the elastic body, and the loading of filled ampoules, respectively.

[0052] 1-2-2. Collection of used ampoules Figure 2 is a schematic cross-sectional view showing the structure of the holding part of the auxiliary device for a needleless syringe according to the first embodiment of the present invention, and the structure of the needleless syringe held by the holding part. Figure 2(A) shows the used ampoule 11E attached to the needleless syringe 10, and Figure 2(B) shows the used ampoule 11E removed from the needleless syringe 10.

[0053] As shown in Figure 2(A), the needleless syringe 10, to which the used ampoule 11E is attached, is held in the holding part 3. The cylindrical frame body 1010 of the needleless syringe 10 has two legs 1011 formed thereon, and the holding part 3 is provided with two recesses 301 formed to match the shape of the two legs 1011. The user of the needleless syringe 10 can set the needleless syringe 10 into the holding part 3 by inserting the two legs 1011 of the needleless syringe 10 into the recesses 301 of the holding part 3.

[0054] A used ampoule 11E is inserted into the front end (ampoule mounting section) 1012 of the main body of the needleless syringe 10. In this invention, the "front" direction of the needleless syringe means the direction from which the injection solution is ejected, and in Figure 2, the downward direction is the "front" direction, and the "front end" means the lower end. The ampoule 11E used in the first embodiment of the present invention has a cylinder-like structure, and a small diameter outlet 1101 is provided at its front end. The injection solution inside can be ejected by pushing a plunger 1102 into the cylinder-like structure. The outer circumference of the ampoule 11E is provided with a projection 1103, allowing the ampoule 11E to be inserted until the projection 1103 contacts the front end (ampoule mounting portion) 1012 of the machine frame body.

[0055] The needleless syringe 10 has a cylinder 1020 inside the main body frame 1010. Inside the cylinder 1020 is a piston 1030 that can slide back and forth relative to the cylinder 1020. A piston head 1031 is provided at the front end of the piston 1030, and a piston follower 1032 is provided behind it. The piston follower 1032 receives the force of the elastic body (spring) 1040, allowing the piston 1030 to be driven forward at high speed. When the piston 1030 is driven forward, the piston head 1031 collides with the plunger 1102, pressing the plunger 1102 and ejecting the injection fluid inside the ampoule 11E. As shown in Figure 2(A), in the used ampoule 11E, the plunger 1102 has been pushed in to the front end of the cylinder-like structure of the ampoule 11E, and all of the injection fluid has been ejected.

[0056] The front end of the needleless syringe 10 is provided with an openable and closable gripping section 1050. The gripping section 1050 rotates around a rotation axis 1051, causing its tip to open and close, thereby gripping and dispensing the ampoule 11E. As shown in Figure 2(A), when the gripping section 1050 is closed, the stopper 1052 at the tip engages with the front of the projection 1103 on the ampoule 11E, thereby fixing the ampoule 11E in place. The opening and closing of the gripping portion 1050 can be controlled by a cylindrical case 1060 provided around the gripping portion 1050. The gripping portion 1050 is provided with a spherical contact portion 1053, which contacts a cam 1061 of the cylindrical case 1060. A force is applied to the gripping portion 1050 in the direction of opening due to the force of the extended spring 1054 returning to its original position. However, as shown in Figure 2(A), when the contact portion 1053 contacts the cam 1061, the gripping portion 1050 cannot open any further, thus firmly gripping the ampoule 11E. The cylindrical case 1060 is cylindrical in shape and slides against the main frame body 1010 of the needleless syringe 10, and can rotate freely around the axis of the cylinder. When the cylindrical case 1060 is rotated, the thickness of the cam 1061 at the point where it contacts the contact portion 1053 changes. When the cam 1061 becomes thinner, the gripping portion 1050 opens, and when the cam 1061 becomes thicker, the gripping portion 1050 closes, thereby allowing the gripping portion 1050 to be opened and closed.

[0057] Multiple teeth 1062 are provided around the cylindrical case 1060, forming a gear. The holding part 3 is equipped with an actuator 302 and a gear 303 that rotates due to the actuator's driving force. The teeth 304 of the gear 303 mesh with the teeth 1062 of the cylindrical case 1060, transmitting the driving force of the actuator 302 and allowing the cylindrical case 1060 to rotate. The actuator 302 can be driven by a command signal transmitted from the control unit 8.

[0058] Figure 2(B) shows the state in which the gripping portion 1050 is opened by rotating the cylindrical case 1060 with the driving force of the actuator 302, and the used ampoule 11E is removed from the needleless syringe 10. As shown in Figure 2(B), the rotation of the cylindrical case 1060 due to the driving force of the actuator 302 reduces the thickness of the cam 1061 at the point where it contacts the contact portion 1053. The force of the stretched spring 1054 returning to its original position causes the gripping portion 1050 to open. As a result, the stopper 1052 that was locking the projection 1103 of the used ampoule 11E in place at the front is released, and the used ampoule 11E is detached from the front end (ampoule mounting section) 1012 of the machine frame body by gravity and the force of being pressed by the piston head 1031, and falls downward.

[0059] The used ampoules 11E that fall downward are caught by the chute (ampoule collection unit) 4 shown in Figure 1, and are moved in the direction of gravity by the inclination of the chute (ampoule collection unit) 4 and collected in the ampoule collection container 401. In the first embodiment of the present invention, as shown in Figure 1, the user sets (attaches) the needleless syringe 10 to the holding unit 3 at a position where the used ampoule 11E can be collected by the chute (ampoule collection unit) 4. However, the present invention is not limited to this embodiment. For example, the user may move the holding unit 3 shown in Figure 1 to a position closer to the control unit 8 than the position shown in Figure 1, and then set the needleless syringe 10 into the holding unit 3. Subsequently, the drive unit 7 moves the holding unit 3 to the position shown in Figure 1, thereby allowing the used ampoule 11E to be removed and the removed ampoule 11E to be recovered.

[0060] In the first embodiment of the present invention, as shown in Figure 2, the cylindrical case 1060 is rotated by the driving force of the actuator 302 provided in the holding part 3, thereby opening the gripping part 1050 and removing the used ampoule 11E. However, the present invention is not limited to this embodiment. For example, the used ampoule 11E may be removed by manually rotating the cylindrical case 1060 and then recovered by the chute (ampoule recovery unit) 4. Furthermore, in the present invention, the auxiliary device 1 for the needleless syringe does not necessarily have to be equipped with an ampoule recovery unit. In that case, the used ampoule may be removed manually and recovered by manually placing it into a waste box or the like.

[0061] 1-2-3. Energy storage in elastic bodies Figure 3 is a schematic diagram showing the state in which the needleless syringe is in a position where the elastic body can be energized by the elastic body energy storage section, in the auxiliary device for the needleless syringe of the first embodiment of the present invention. The aforementioned 1-2-2. Collection of used ampoules After the used ampoule is collected as shown above, the holding part 3 of the auxiliary device 1 for the needleless syringe moves to the upper part of the elastic body storage unit 5 as the movable body 702 moves in the X-axis direction due to the driving force of the X-axis drive actuator, as shown in Figure 3. In addition, the holding part 3 moves in the Y-axis direction due to the driving force of the Y-axis drive actuator, bringing the opening of the needleless syringe 10 closer to the insertion rod 501 of the elastic body storage unit 5. The X-axis drive actuator and the Y-axis drive actuator can be driven by command signals transmitted by the control unit 8, thereby moving the needleless syringe 10 to a position where the elastic body can be stored by the elastic body storage unit 5.

[0062] As shown in Figure 3, the elastic energy storage unit 5 is composed of an insertion rod 501 and an energy storage unit body 502 equipped with an actuator that drives the insertion rod 501 up and down. The actuator of the energy storage unit body 502 can be driven by a command signal transmitted by the control unit 8.

[0063] Figure 4 is a schematic cross-sectional view illustrating the operation of accumulating energy in the elastic body of a needleless syringe by the elastic body energy storage unit in a first embodiment of the present invention. Figure 4(A) shows the state in which the opening of the needleless syringe 10 is brought close to the insertion rod 501 of the elastic body energy storage section, and Figure 4(B) shows the state in which the insertion rod 501 is pushed into the interior through the opening of the needleless syringe 10 to store energy in the elastic body (spring) 1040.

[0064] As shown in Figure 4(A), when a used ampoule is removed from the needleless syringe 10, the front end (ampoule mounting section) 1012 of the machine frame body is exposed, forming an opening. In Figure 4(A), the opening 1012 of the needleless syringe 10 is brought close to the insertion rod 501 of the elastic energy storage section by the operation of the drive unit. As shown in Figure 4(A), the holding section 3 has a Y-axis drive actuator 704, and the gear 705 driven by this actuator engages with the Y-axis rail and rotates, allowing the holding section 3 to move freely in the Y-axis direction (up and down direction in Figure 4(A)).

[0065] As shown in Figure 4(A), the insertion rod 501 can be driven upward by the actuator of the energy storage unit body, so that the insertion rod 501 can be pushed into the inside of the needleless syringe 10 through the opening. When the insertion rod 501 is driven upward by the actuator's driving force, the insertion rod 501 enters the inside of the needleless syringe 10 from the front end (ampoule mounting part) 1012 of the machine frame body and abuts against the piston head 1031. However, the driving force of the actuator of the energy storage unit body pushes the piston head 1031 in, allowing the piston 1030 to move upward. As the piston 1030 is moved upward, the piston follower 1032 comes into contact with the trigger 1070. However, because the trigger 1070 has a smoothly sloping shape at the point of contact, the trigger 1070 is pushed to the side, allowing the piston follower 1032 to pass the position where the trigger 1070 was located. When the trigger 1070 is pushed to the side, the spring 1071 becomes stretched. Once the piston follower 1032 has completely passed the position where the trigger 1070 was located, the trigger 1070, which had been pushed back by the piston follower 1032, returns to its original position due to the force of the spring 1071. As a result, the trigger 1070 engages with the front of the piston follower 1032, as shown in Figure 4(B). At this point, the actuator of the energy storage unit body is driven in the reverse direction to stop pushing the insertion rod 501 in and move it in the reverse direction (downward) to return it to its original position.

[0066] As shown in Figure 4(B), when the piston 1030 moves upward, the elastic body (spring) 1040 becomes compressed and stores energy. The elastic body (spring) 1040 applies a downward force to the piston follower 1032, but the piston follower 1032 is locked by the trigger 1070 so as not to be driven forward. Therefore, even when the needleless syringe 10 is removed by driving the insertion rod 501 downward, the elastic body (spring) 1040 remains in an energized state. In this way, the elastic body (spring) 1040 can be energized by the elastic body energy storage section.

[0067] The needleless syringe 10 may be equipped with a sensor for detecting the position of the piston 1030 or the piston follower 1032. Alternatively, a sensor for detecting the position of the insertion rod 501 may be provided in the elastic body energy storage section. By providing a sensor, when storing energy in the elastic body (spring) 1040, it becomes possible to sufficiently push the insertion rod 501 into the needleless syringe 10 until the piston follower 1032 passes the position of the trigger 1070 and is locked by the trigger 1070. Furthermore, by providing a sensor, it is possible to prevent the piston 1030 from moving too far upward due to the insertion rod 501, thereby preventing accidents such as the piston follower 1032 being pressed too hard against the cylinder 1020 and breaking.

[0068] In the first embodiment of the present invention, the elastic body (spring) 1040 is energized by driving the insertion rod 501 up and down with an actuator. However, the present invention is not limited to this embodiment. For example, the insertion rod 501 may be fixed without being driven, and the insertion rod 501 may be pushed into the needleless syringe 10 by driving the holding part 3 up and down, thereby energizing the elastic body (spring) 1040.

[0069] 1-2-4. Loading the filled ampoules Figure 5 is a schematic diagram showing the state in which the needleless syringe is in a position where a pre-filled ampoule can be loaded by the ampoule loading section, in an auxiliary device for a needleless syringe according to the first embodiment of the present invention. The aforementioned 1-2-3. Energy storage in elastic bodies After the elastic body of the needleless syringe is energized as shown above, the holding part 3 of the auxiliary device 1 for the needleless syringe moves to the top of the ampoule loading unit 6 as the movable body 702 moves further in the X-axis direction by the driving force of the X-axis drive actuator, as shown in Figure 5. Then, the holding part 3 moves in the Y-axis direction by the driving force of the Y-axis drive actuator, lowering the needleless syringe 10 until the filled ampoule 11 placed on the rotary table 601 of the ampoule loading unit 6 is inserted into the opening of the needleless syringe 10. The X-axis drive actuator and the Y-axis drive actuator can be driven by command signals transmitted by the control unit 8, thereby moving the needleless syringe 10 to a position where the filled ampoule can be loaded by the ampoule loading unit 6.

[0070] As shown in Figure 5, the rotary table 601 is provided with multiple holes 602, and multiple filled ampoules 11 are placed on the rotary table 601 by inserting the filled ampoules 11 into the multiple holes 602. If a filled ampoule 11 in a position accessible by the needleless syringe 10, which is moved by the drive unit 7, is empty because it was used during the previous loading of the needleless syringe, the control unit 8 sends a command signal to drive the actuator of the ampoule loading unit 6, which rotates the rotary table 601 to supply a filled ampoule 11 to a position accessible by the needleless syringe 10. In this way, the ampoule loading unit 6 can successively supply the filled ampoules 11 necessary for loading into the needleless syringe 10.

[0071] Figure 6 is a schematic cross-sectional view illustrating the operation of loading a pre-filled ampoule into a needleless syringe using the ampoule loading unit in a first embodiment of the present invention. Figure 6(A) shows the state in which a pre-filled ampoule 11 has been inserted into the opening of the needleless syringe 10, and Figure 6(B) shows the state in which the gripping part 1050 of the needleless syringe 10 has been closed and the loading of the pre-filled ampoule 11 is complete.

[0072] As shown in Figure 4(B), the front end (ampoule mounting section) 1012 of the main body frame of the needleless syringe 10 after the used ampoule has been removed has an opening that can be accessed from the outside. Then, as shown in Figure 6(A), the holding part that holds the needleless syringe 10 moves downward and approaches the rotary table 601, so that the filled ampoule 11 inserted into the hole 602 of the rotary table 601 can be inserted into the front end (ampoule mounting section) 1012 of the main body frame of the needleless syringe 10. The inside of the filled ampoule 11 is filled with injection solution 1104.

[0073] Next, the actuator 302 is driven by a command signal transmitted from the control unit, which rotates the gear 303 and transmits the driving force to the cylindrical case 1060, thereby causing the cylindrical case 1060 to rotate. As a result, as shown in Figure 6(B), the thickness of the cam 1061 that contacts the contact portion 1053 of the gripping portion 1050 increases, the gripping portion 1050 closes, the stopper 1052 engages in front of the projection 1103 of the filled ampoule 11, and the filled ampoule 11 can be firmly gripped. With the filled ampoule 11 being held in this position, the Y-axis drive actuator 704 is driven by a command signal transmitted from the control unit to move the holding unit 3 upward, allowing the filled ampoule 11 to be withdrawn from the rotary table 601, as shown in Figure 6(B). Subsequently, the X-axis drive actuator is also driven by a command signal transmitted from the control unit 8 to return the needleless syringe 10 to the position at the start of operation shown in Figure 1. In this way, the ampoule loading unit 6 can load the filled ampoule 11 into the needleless syringe 10.

[0074] Furthermore, the auxiliary device 1 of the needleless syringe according to the first embodiment of the present invention includes at least an actuator 302 located inside the holding part 3, an X-axis drive actuator, a Y-axis drive actuator 704, an actuator for driving the insertion rod 501 up and down, and an actuator for rotating the rotary table 601. Such actuators can be any component or device capable of generating driving force, and are not limited to these, but examples include servo motors, stepping motors, linear motors, hydraulic actuators, pneumatic actuators, ultrasonic motors, etc.

[0075] As described above, in the first embodiment of the present invention, the auxiliary device 1 for the needleless syringe can be used to automatically collect used ampoules, store energy in the elastic body, and load filled ampoules.

[0076] 1-2-5. Dispensing the Injectable Solution Figure 7 is a schematic cross-sectional view illustrating the operation of a needleless syringe loaded with a pre-filled ampoule, in which the injection solution is dispensed. Figure 7(A) shows the nozzle 1101 of the needleless syringe 10 in contact with the skin 12 from which the injection solution will be injected, and Figure 7(B) shows the state in which the injection solution 1104 is injected from the nozzle 1101 by releasing the elastic body (spring) 1040 by pressing down the launch lever 1080.

[0077] As shown in Figure 7(A), the needleless syringe 10 loaded with a filled ampoule 11 has been removed by the user from the holding part of the needleless syringe's auxiliary device and is in contact with the patient's skin 12. The patient's skin 12 is the target to which the injection solution will be injected, and the discharge port 1101 of the ampoule 11 of the needleless syringe 10 is in contact with the skin 12. The piston 1030 of the needleless syringe 10 receives a force from the compressed elastic body (spring) 1040 via the piston follower 1032, applying a downward force (forward direction of the needleless syringe 10) as shown in Figure 7(A). However, since the trigger 1070 is locked to the lower (front) part of the piston follower 1032, the piston 1030 is prevented from being driven downward (forward direction of the needleless syringe 10). The user can release the locking mechanism of the trigger 1070 by pushing down the firing lever 1080 in the direction of the arrow in Figure 7(A).

[0078] As shown in Figure 7(B), when the firing lever 1080 is pushed down, the firing lever 1080 acts as a lever, pushing up the trigger 1070. This pushes the trigger 1070, which was locked in front of the piston follower 1032, to the side of the needleless syringe 10, allowing the piston 1030 to move freely in the forward direction (downward in Figure 7(B)). As shown in Figure 7(A), when the piston 1030 is stopped from moving forward, a gap (space) exists between the piston head 1031 and the plunger 1102. Therefore, as shown in Figure 7(B), when the trigger 1070 is pushed to the side and the piston 1030 can move freely forward, the piston 1030 receives the force of the elastic body (spring) 1040 at the piston follower 1032 and moves forward while accelerating without encountering resistance in the gap (space). Then, when the piston 1030 is sufficiently accelerated, the piston head 1031 collides with the plunger 1102, exerting an impact force as if the plunger 1102 had been struck with a hammer, and as shown in Figure 7(B), the plunger 1102 pushes out the injection solution 1104 in the ampoule 11, allowing the injection solution 1104 to be ejected at high speed from the discharge port 1101. As shown in Figure 7(B), the rapidly injected solution is injected into the skin 12, but it passes through the epidermis and reaches the subcutaneous tissue, where it diffuses.

[0079] The impact force from the piston head 1031 colliding with the plunger 1102 applies a significant force to the ampoule 11. However, as shown in Figure 7(B), the stopper 1052 of the gripping part 1050 engages with the front of the projection 1103 of the ampoule 11, and the gripping part 1050 is held down on both sides by the cam 1061, so the ampoule 11 is firmly fixed. This prevents accidents where the ampoule 11 is ejected, and the needleless syringe 10 can be used safely. Figure 7(B) shows the piston 1030 in a forward-moving position. After this, the piston 1030 continues to move forward until the plunger 1102 pushes out all of the injection fluid 1104 inside the ampoule 11 and hits the front end of the ampoule 11, at which point it stops. When the user stops pressing down the firing lever 1080, the force of the spring 1071 returns it to its original position along with the trigger 1070.

[0080] 1-3. Second Embodiment Figure 8 is a schematic diagram showing an auxiliary system for a needleless syringe according to a second embodiment of the present invention. As shown in Figure 8, the auxiliary system 1' for a needleless syringe according to the second embodiment of the present invention consists of an auxiliary system main body equipped with a holding unit 3', an ampoule recovery unit 4, an elastic body energy storage unit 5, an ampoule loading unit 6', a drive unit 7', and a power / network wiring box 9', etc., on a desk-type machine frame 2, and a control unit 8' connected to the auxiliary system main body via the Internet.

[0081] Compared to the auxiliary device for the needleless syringe of the first embodiment of the present invention shown in Figure 1, the auxiliary system 1' of the second embodiment of the present invention, as shown in Figure 8, has a separate control unit 8' from the auxiliary system body and is a system composed of multiple devices. As shown in Figure 8, the power and network wiring box 9' takes in external power through the power cable 901 and supplies power to each part, such as the holding unit 3', the elastic energy storage unit 5, and the drive unit 7'. At the same time, the power and network wiring box 9' is connected to the internet through the network cable 902, receives command signals generated by the user's operation of the control unit 8' via the internet, and transmits these command signals to each part, such as the holding unit 3', the elastic energy storage unit 5, and the drive unit 7'.

[0082] The ampoule recovery unit 4 and elastic energy storage unit 5 in the auxiliary system 1' of the second embodiment of the present invention are the same devices as the ampoule recovery unit 4 and elastic energy storage unit 5 in the auxiliary device 1 of the first embodiment of the present invention. On the other hand, the holding unit 3', ampoule loading unit 6', and drive unit 7' in the auxiliary system 1' of the second embodiment of the present invention are devices with different structures and mechanisms from the holding unit 3, ampoule loading unit 6, and drive unit 7 in the auxiliary device 1 of the first embodiment of the present invention.

[0083] As shown in Figure 8, the needleless syringe 10' is inserted into the holding part 3' of the auxiliary system 1' for the needleless syringe of the second embodiment of the present invention, and the two are connected by a locking mechanism (not shown). The needleless syringe 10' can be automatically removed from the holding part 3' by the driving force of an actuator (not shown). Furthermore, if another needleless syringe with a different injection force is available, the other needleless syringe can be inserted into the holding part 3' by the operation of the drive unit 7', and the other needleless syringe can be automatically attached.

[0084] The drive unit 7' consists of a rail 701', a moving body 702', a rotating part 706, and an arm 707. Rail 701' is a rail extending in a straight line on the machine frame 2, and serves as a track for the mobile body 702' to move in a straight line. The mobile body 702' has an actuator inside, and its driving force allows it to move freely on rail 701'. The mobile body 702' is provided with a rotating part 706 that supports the arm 707, and the rotating part 706 rotates with the driving force of the actuator, allowing the arm 707 to be directed in any direction. The arm 707 has three joints driven by actuators, and can move the needleless syringe 10' held by the holding part 3' to any position and direct it in any direction. In this way, the drive unit 7' as a whole constitutes a robot arm.

[0085] The drive unit moves the needleless syringe 10' sequentially between a position where used ampoules can be collected by the ampoule recovery unit 4, a position where the elastic body can be charged by the elastic body charge unit 5, and a position where filled ampoules can be loaded by the ampoule loading unit 6'. This allows for the automatic collection of used ampoules, the charging of the elastic body, and the loading of filled ampoules.

[0086] In the auxiliary system 1' for the needleless syringe of the second embodiment of the present invention, as described above, the drive unit 7' constitutes a robotic arm, which can move the needleless syringe 10' to any position and orient it in any direction, and can perform flexible movements like a human arm. Therefore, the robotic arm can bring the dispensing part (dispensing port) of the needleless syringe 10' close to the injection target site, such as the skin of the patient's arm, and perform the operation of ejecting the injection solution from the needleless syringe 10'. Since the needleless syringe does not require piercing the patient with a needle, and only the dispensing port needs to be brought close to the patient's skin and made contact, injection can be safely performed even with a robotic arm. As a result, all operations, from the collection of used ampoules removed from the needleless syringe, the accumulation of energy in the elastic body of the needleless syringe, and the loading of filled ampoules into the needleless syringe, to the injection of the patient using the needleless syringe, can be performed automatically without manual intervention.

[0087] In the auxiliary system 1′ for the needleless syringe of the second embodiment of the present invention, the drive unit 7′ constitutes a robot arm and can move the needleless syringe 10′ to any position. As shown in Figure 8, the ampoule loading unit 6′ can be configured not as a rotary table like the ampoule loading unit 6 of the first embodiment of the present invention, but as a table 601′ with a plurality of holes 602′ for inserting filled ampoules 11.

[0088] As shown in Figure 8, the auxiliary system 1' for the needleless syringe according to the second embodiment of the present invention has a control unit 8' separate from the auxiliary system body. The control unit 8' is a portable information processing device equipped with a touch panel 801' and is connected to the internet via wireless communication. The user can remotely operate the auxiliary system body of the needleless syringe auxiliary system 1' by operating it through the touch panel 801'. A camera can also be installed in the auxiliary system body, in which case the user can remotely operate it from a distance while displaying images of the site situation on the touch panel 801'. By separating the control unit 8' in this way, remote operation becomes possible, and one medical professional can operate multiple needleless syringe auxiliary systems 1'. This helps to alleviate the shortage of personnel in medical settings. Furthermore, it enables remote treatment for patients isolated due to viral infections, etc.

[0089] 2. How to replace ampoules in a needleless syringe The present invention relates to a method for replacing ampoules in a needleless syringe, which involves ejecting the injection solution from the ampoule by the release of an elastic body. Here, regarding the "needleless syringe that ejects the injection solution inside the ampoule by the force of an elastic body," the above-mentioned " 1-1. Overview of auxiliary devices or systems for needleless syringes As explained in the section above. The present invention relates to a method for replacing ampoules in a needleless syringe, characterized by the use of an auxiliary device or system for the needleless syringe, and further comprising B) an elastic body charging step for automatically charging the elastic body, and C) an ampoule loading step for automatically loading a pre-filled ampoule into the needleless syringe. This makes it possible not only to automatically load a pre-filled ampoule and replace the ampoule, but also to automatically charge the elastic body.

[0090] Any auxiliary device or system may be used in the ampoule replacement method for the needleless syringe of the present invention, as long as it has B) a mechanism that can automatically store energy in an elastic body and C) a mechanism that can automatically load a pre-filled ampoule into the needleless syringe. Examples of such auxiliary devices or systems include the aforementioned 1. Auxiliary device or system for needleless syringes The auxiliary devices and systems described in [the relevant section] can be used.

[0091] In the present invention's method for replacing ampoules in a needleless syringe, it is preferable to further include A) an ampoule recovery step of removing the used ampoule from the needleless syringe. In this case, the method for replacing ampoules in the needleless syringe of the present invention comprises the following steps A) to C). A) Ampoule retrieval step: Remove the used ampoule from the needleless syringe. B) Elastic body energy storage step that automatically stores energy in the elastic body C) Ampoule loading step, which automatically loads a pre-filled ampoule into a needleless syringe. Here, it is necessary to remove the used ampoule in step A) and then automatically load the filled ampoule in step C). For this reason, the order in which steps A) through C) are performed can be A)→B)→C), A)→C)→B), or B)→A)→C).

[0092] In the method for replacing ampoules in a needleless syringe of the present invention, the " 1-2. First EmbodimentAs specifically explained in step A), after removing the used ampoule in step A), it is preferable to automatically push the insertion rod into the opening exposed at the ampoule mounting part of the needleless syringe and push the piston backward to perform the elastic body charging step B). This makes it possible to automatically charge the elastic body without providing a special mechanism in the needleless syringe. In this case, since it is necessary to charge the elastic body before the opening is closed by loading the filled ampoule in step C), the steps are performed in the order of A) → B) → C).

[0093] 3. Control Program The control program for the auxiliary device or auxiliary system of the needleless syringe of the present invention is as follows: 1. Auxiliary device or system for needleless syringes This is a program for performing information processing to cause the auxiliary device or auxiliary system of the needleless syringe of the present invention, as described above, to execute B) an elastic body charging step, which automatically charges an elastic body, and C) an ampoule loading step, which automatically loads a pre-filled ampoule into the needleless syringe. The control program of the present invention provides control to the control unit of an auxiliary device or auxiliary system for a needleless syringe. B') A step of generating a command signal for storing energy in an elastic body, C') A step of generating a command signal to load a filled ampoule into a needleless syringe. It is characterized by performing information processing that includes [the specified element].

[0094] The control program of the present invention may be stored in a memory device of an auxiliary device or system of a needleless syringe, and by reading it, the information processing described in the control program may be executed by an information processing device of the control unit. Alternatively, the control program of the present invention may be stored in a memory device of a server and downloaded to a mobile terminal or the like via the internet, thereby allowing the mobile terminal or the like to function as the control unit of the auxiliary system of the needleless syringe.

[0095] The control program of the present invention may, but is not limited to, cause the control unit to perform other information processing, for example, A') generate a command signal for removing a used ampoule from a needleless syringe. In this case, the control program of the present invention is a program that causes the control unit to execute information processing including the following steps A') to C'). A') A step of generating a command signal to remove the used ampoule from the needleless syringe. B') A step of generating a command signal for storing energy in an elastic body. C') A step of generating a command signal to load a filled ampoule into a needleless syringe.

[0096] Here, the command signal generated by step A') can be any command signal that can move various parts of the auxiliary device or auxiliary system to perform the necessary actions to remove the used ampoule from the needleless syringe. For example, but not limited to this, it can be a command signal that drives an actuator to open the gripping part that grips and secures the used ampoule. Furthermore, the command signal generated in step B') can be any command signal that can move each part of the auxiliary device or auxiliary system to perform the necessary actions for storing energy in the elastic body. For example, although not limited to this, it can be a command signal that operates the drive unit so that the needleless syringe moves relative to a position where it can store energy in the elastic body using the elastic body storage unit. In this case, a command signal to operate the elastic body storage unit may also be generated. The command signal generated in step C') can be any command signal that can move the various parts of the auxiliary device or auxiliary system to perform the necessary actions to load a pre-filled ampoule into the needleless syringe. For example, but not limited to this, the command signal may include a command signal that operates the drive unit so that the needleless syringe moves relative to a position where a pre-filled ampoule can be loaded using the ampoule loading unit. In this case, a command signal that operates the ampoule loading unit may also be generated.

[0097] Figure 9 shows the aforementioned 1-2. First Embodiment This is a flowchart of a control program that causes the control unit of the auxiliary device for the needleless syringe of the first embodiment of the present invention, as described above, to perform information processing. In Figure 9, S01 to S09 represent the information processing steps executed by the control unit according to the control program.

[0098] The aforementioned 1-2-1. Overall configuration of the auxiliary device for the needleless syringe of the first embodiment As described above, after the user injects the injection solution using the needleless syringe, the user sets the needleless syringe 10, to which the used ampoule 11E shown in Figure 1 is attached, into the holding part 3 of the auxiliary device 1 for the needleless syringe. When the power to the auxiliary device 1 of the needleless syringe is turned on, the control unit 8 reads the control program, and the information processing flow shown in Figure 9 starts from the "Start" position. Step S01 of the first information processing shown in Figure 9 is a step of information processing that detects the user's operation to start the auxiliary device of the needleless syringe. In the information processing of step S01, if there is no reception of a signal generated by the user's operation to start the operation via the touch panel 801 of the control unit 8 shown in Figure 1 (in the case of "No" in step S01 in Figure 9), the detection is repeated and waiting is performed. If a signal generated by the user's operation to start the operation is received (in the case of "Yes"), the process proceeds to the next step S02A.

[0099] Step S02A shown in Figure 9 corresponds to the step described above as "A') generating a command signal to remove the used ampoule from the needleless syringe." In the information processing of step S02A, a command signal is generated to drive the actuator 302 of the holding unit 3 in order to open the gripping unit 1050 shown in Figure 2 and remove the used ampoule 11E. This is how the above " 1-2-2. Collection of used ampoules As shown in Figure 2(B), the used ampoule 11E is removed from the needleless syringe 10 and falls, where it is caught by the chute (ampoule collection unit) 4 shown in Figure 1 and collected in the ampoule collection container 401. After completing the generation of the command signal through information processing in step S02A, the process proceeds to the next step, S03B.

[0100] Steps S03B to S05B shown in Figure 9 correspond to the aforementioned "B') step of generating a command signal for storing energy in the elastic body". In the information processing of step S03B, command signals are generated to drive the X-axis drive actuator and the Y-axis drive actuator in order to move the needleless syringe 10 shown in Figure 1 to a position where the elastic body can be charged by the elastic body charge unit 5. As a result, the above 1-2-3. Energy storage in elastic bodies As shown in Figure 3, the holding part 3 of the auxiliary device 1 for the needleless syringe moves to the upper part of the elastic energy storage section 5 as the movable body 702 moves in the X-axis direction due to the driving force of the X-axis drive actuator. Also, as the holding part 3 moves in the Y-axis direction due to the driving force of the Y-axis drive actuator, the opening of the needleless syringe 10 is brought closer to the insertion rod 501 of the elastic energy storage section 5. After completing the generation of the command signal through information processing in step S03B, the process proceeds to the next step, S04B.

[0101] In the information processing of step S04B shown in Figure 9, a command signal is generated to drive the actuator of the main body of the elastic energy storage unit in order to push the insertion rod 501 into the needleless syringe 10 shown in Figure 4 and store energy in the elastic body (spring) 1040. As a result, the above 1-2-3. Energy storage in elastic bodies As shown in Figure 4, the insertion rod 501 pushes the piston head 1031, moves the piston 1030 upward, and pushes the insertion rod 501 into the needleless syringe 10 until the trigger 1070 engages in front of the piston follower 1032. After completing the generation of command signals through information processing in step S04B, the process proceeds to the next step, S05B.

[0102] In the information processing of step S05B shown in Figure 9, a command signal is generated to drive the actuator of the energy storage unit body in the reverse direction in order to stop pushing in the insertion rod 501 shown in Figure 4 and move it in the reverse direction to return it to its original position. As a result, the above 1-2-3. Energy storage in elastic bodies As shown in Figure 4(B), the insertion rod 501 is removed from the needleless syringe 10, but the piston follower 1032 is locked in place by the trigger 1070 so as not to be driven forward, and the elastic body (spring) 1040 remains in an energized state. After completing the generation of command signals through information processing in step S05B, the process proceeds to the next step, S06C.

[0103] Steps S06C to S08C shown in Figure 9 correspond to the aforementioned "C') step of generating a command signal for loading a filled ampoule into a needleless syringe." In the information processing of step S06C, a command signal is generated to drive the actuator of the ampoule loading unit 6 in order to rotate the rotary table 601 shown in Figure 5 and supply the filled ampoules 11 to a position accessible by the needleless syringe 10. As a result, the above 1-2-4. Loading the filled ampoules As shown in Figure 5, if a filled ampoule 11 in a position accessible by the needleless syringe 10, which is moved by the drive unit 7, was empty because it was used during the previous loading of the needleless syringe, the filled ampoule 11 can be supplied to a position accessible by the needleless syringe 10 by rotating the rotary table 601. After completing the generation of the command signal through information processing in step S06C, the process proceeds to the next step, S07C.

[0104] In the information processing of step S07C shown in Figure 9, command signals are generated to drive the X-axis drive actuator and the Y-axis drive actuator in order to move the needleless syringe 10 shown in Figure 3 to a position where the filled ampoules 11 can be loaded by the ampoule loading unit 6. As a result, the above 1-2-4. Loading the filled ampoules As shown in Figure 5, the holding part 3 of the auxiliary device 1 for the needleless syringe moves to the top of the ampoule loading section 6 as the moving body 702 moves further in the X-axis direction due to the driving force of the X-axis drive actuator. Then, the holding part 3 moves in the Y-axis direction due to the driving force of the Y-axis drive actuator, lowering the needleless syringe 10 until the filled ampoule 11 placed on the rotary table 601 of the ampoule loading section 6 is inserted into the opening of the needleless syringe 10. After completing the generation of the command signal through information processing in step S07C, the process proceeds to the next step, S08C.

[0105] In the information processing of step S08C shown in Figure 9, a command signal is generated to drive the actuator 302 of the holding unit 3 in order to close the gripping unit 1050 shown in Figure 6 and firmly hold the filled ampoule 11. As a result, the above 1-2-4. Loading the filled ampoules As shown in Figure 6, the driving force of the actuator 302 is transmitted by the gear 303 to rotate the cylindrical case 1060, and the thickness of the cam 1061 that contacts the contact portion 1053 of the gripping portion 1050 increases, causing the gripping portion 1050 to close, and the stopper 1052 engages in front of the projection 1103 of the filled ampoule 11, allowing the filled ampoule 11 to be firmly gripped (Figure 6(B)). After completing the generation of the command signal through information processing in step S08C, the process proceeds to the next step, S09.

[0106] In the information processing of step S09 shown in Figure 9, command signals are generated to drive the X-axis drive actuator and the Y-axis drive actuator in order to return the needleless syringe 10 shown in Figure 5 to its position at the start of operation. As a result, the above 1-2-4. Loading the filled ampoules As shown above, first, the Y-axis drive actuator 704 shown in Figure 6(B) is driven to move the holding part 3 upward, thereby withdrawing the filled ampoule 11 from the rotary table 601. Then, the X-axis drive actuator is also driven to return the needleless syringe 10 to the position at the start of operation shown in Figure 1. After the generation of the command signal through information processing in step S09 is completed, the flow proceeds to "end" as shown in Figure 9, and the flow of information processing performed by the control unit by the control program ends.

[0107] As described above, the control program of the present invention performs a series of information processing in the control unit, and the command signals generated by this information processing operate each part of the auxiliary device of the needleless syringe, enabling the automatic accumulation of energy in the elastic body of the needleless syringe and the loading of pre-filled ampoules into the needleless syringe.

[0108] 4. Needle-free injection system The present invention relates to the above-mentioned " 1. Auxiliary device or system for needleless syringes The present invention provides a needle-free injection system comprising an auxiliary device or system for a needle-free syringe as described in [the relevant section], and a needle-free syringe. The needle-free injection system of the present invention is a needle-free injection system that ejects the injection solution in the ampoule by the force of an elastic body. An elastic energy storage unit that stores energy in an elastic body, A needleless syringe has a loading section for loading pre-filled ampoules, A holding part for holding a needleless syringe, A drive unit that moves the needleless syringe held in the holding unit, It is characterized by having a control unit that controls the operation of the drive unit.

[0109] The structure and mechanism of each part of the needleless injection system of the present invention are as described above. 1. Auxiliary device or system for needleless syringes The mechanism of each part of the auxiliary device or auxiliary system for needleless syringes is the same as described in [the relevant section]. However, in the case of a needle-free injection system where the drive unit constitutes a robotic arm and the robotic arm performs the injection to the patient, the user does not need to remove the needle-free syringe from the holding unit for use, so the holding unit and the needle-free syringe may be integrated. Furthermore, in this case, since the user does not need to hold the needleless syringe, there is no need to make the needleless syringe lighter, and therefore the needleless syringe and the elastic body charge unit may be integrated. This allows the elastic body to be charged regardless of the position of the needleless syringe, without having to move the needleless syringe to a position where the elastic body can be charged by the elastic body charge unit, thus enabling a series of operations to be performed in a short time. [Industrial applicability]

[0110] The present invention relates to an auxiliary device or system for a needleless syringe, a method for changing ampoules for a needleless syringe, a control program for the auxiliary device or system for a needleless syringe, and a needleless injection system. These inventions relate to medical, veterinary, or experimental equipment, as well as methods for operating such equipment and control programs for such equipment, and are not inventions for methods of treating or diagnosing human beings. Therefore, they are inventions that can be used industrially. [Explanation of symbols]

[0111] 1. Auxiliary device for needleless syringes 1' Needleless syringe auxiliary system 2 machine slots 201 Shelf 202 Post 203 Top plate 204 Penetration section 3 Holding part 301 Recess 302 Actuator 4. Ampoule recovery section (shooter) 401 Ampoule container 5 Elastic energy storage section 501 Insertion rod 502 Energy storage unit body 6. Ampoule loading section 601 Rotating Table 601′ Table 602 holes 7 Drive Unit 701 X-axis rail 702 Mobile Unit 703 Y-axis rail 704 Y-axis drive actuator 705 Gear 706 Rotating part 707 Arm 8 Control Unit 801 Touch Panel 9. Distribution box 9′ Power and network wiring box 901 Power Cable 902 Network Cable 10 Needleless syringe 1010 Frame Body 1011 Foot 1012 Front end of the main frame (ampoule mounting section) 1020 Cylinder 1030 pistons 1031 Piston Head 1032 Piston Follower 1040 Elastic body (spring) 1050 Gripping part 1051 Rotation axis 1052 Stopper 1053 Contact part 1054 Spring 1060 Cylindrical Case 1061 Cam 1062 teeth 1070 Trigger 1071 Spring 1080 Launch lever 1090A Trigger 1091A Trigger Finger 1092A Push End 1093A Safety Lock 11 ampoules, pre-filled ampoules 11E Used ampoule 1101 Discharge port 1102 Plunger 1103 Protrusion 1104 Injection 12 Skin S01-S09 Each step of information processing

Claims

1. In an auxiliary device or system for a needleless syringe that assists in the use of a needleless syringe that ejects the injectable solution from an ampoule by the force of an elastic body, The holding part for holding the needleless syringe, The elastic body energy storage unit for storing energy in the elastic body of the needleless syringe, The needleless syringe includes an ampoule loading section for loading pre-filled ampoules, A drive unit moves the needleless syringe held in the holding unit relative to the elastic energy storage unit and the ampoule loading unit, A control unit that controls the operation of the drive unit and It has, The operation of the drive unit sequentially moves the needleless syringe to a position where the elastic body can be charged by the elastic body charge unit, and to a position where the filled ampoule can be loaded by the ampoule loading unit. An auxiliary device or system for a needleless syringe, characterized by automatically performing the energy storage of the elastic body and the loading of the pre-filled ampoule.

2. It further includes an ampoule recovery unit for recovering used ampoules removed from the needleless syringe, The operation of the drive unit sequentially moves the needleless syringe between a position where the used ampoule can be recovered by the ampoule recovery unit, a position where the elastic body can be charged by the elastic body charge unit, and a position where the filled ampoule can be loaded by the ampoule loading unit. The auxiliary device or system for a needleless syringe according to claim 1, characterized in that it automatically performs the collection of the used ampoules, the storage of energy in the elastic body, and the loading of the filled ampoules.

3. The ampoule has a plunger that pushes out the injection solution inside, The needleless syringe has a piston that presses the plunger by being driven forward by the force of the elastic body, The aforementioned elastic energy storage section has an insertion rod, An auxiliary device or system for a needleless syringe according to claim 1, characterized in that, after removing a used ampoule from the needleless syringe, the insertion rod is pushed into the interior through an opening exposed in the ampoule mounting portion of the needleless syringe, thereby pushing the piston backward and deforming the elastic body that applies force to the piston, thereby storing energy in the elastic body.

4. The ampoule has a flange or multiple protrusions on its outer circumference, The needleless syringe has a gripping portion for gripping and securing the ampoule, The gripping portion is openable and closable and has a stopper that engages with the flange or the front of the multiple protrusions when the gripping portion is closed. The auxiliary device or system for a needleless syringe according to claim 1, characterized in that the holding part or the ampoule recovery part opens the gripping part to remove and recover the used ampoule from the needleless syringe.

5. The auxiliary device or system for a needleless syringe according to claim 1, characterized in that the ampoule loading section has a rotating table on which a plurality of filled ampoules are placed.

6. The auxiliary device or system for a needleless syringe according to any one of claims 1 to 5, characterized in that the drive unit is a robot arm.

7. The auxiliary device or system for a needleless syringe according to claim 6, characterized in that the robotic arm can bring the dispensing part of the needleless syringe closer to the injection site and eject the injection solution from the needleless syringe.

8. In a method for replacing ampoules in a needleless syringe that ejects the injection solution inside the ampoule by the release of an elastic body, Using an auxiliary device or system for a needleless syringe, B) An elastic body energy storage step that automatically stores energy in the elastic body, C) An ampoule loading step in which a pre-filled ampoule is automatically loaded into the needleless syringe. A method for changing ampoules in a needleless syringe, characterized by having the following features.

9. A) The method for replacing an ampoule in a needleless syringe according to claim 8, further comprising an ampoule recovery step of removing a used ampoule from the needleless syringe.

10. The ampoule has a plunger that pushes out the injection solution inside, The needleless syringe has a piston that presses the plunger by being driven forward by the force of the elastic body, The auxiliary device or auxiliary system has an insertion rod, After performing the ampoule retrieval step A) above, the insertion rod is automatically pushed into the interior through the opening exposed in the ampoule mounting portion of the needleless syringe, thereby deforming the elastic body that applies force to the piston by pushing the piston backward, and the elastic body energy storage step B) above is performed. The method for replacing an ampoule of a needleless syringe according to claim 9, characterized in that the ampoule loading step C) is performed after the elastic body energy storage step B) is performed.

11. With respect to the control unit of the auxiliary device or auxiliary system for a needleless syringe according to any one of claims 1 to 5: B') A step of generating a command signal for storing energy in the elastic body, C') A step of generating a command signal for loading the filled ampoule into the needleless syringe. A control program for an auxiliary device or system of a needleless syringe, characterized by causing it to perform information processing including information processing.

12. Step B') includes generating a command signal to operate the drive unit so that the needleless syringe moves relative to a position in which the elastic body can be charged using the elastic body charge unit, Step C') includes generating a command signal to operate the drive unit so that the needleless syringe moves relative to a position in which the filled ampoule can be loaded using the ampoule loading unit. A control program for an auxiliary device or system for a needleless syringe according to claim 11, characterized in that

13. A needleless injection system including a needleless syringe that ejects the injection solution in an ampoule by the force of an elastic body, and an auxiliary device thereof, An elastic energy storage unit that stores energy in the elastic body, The needleless syringe includes a loading section for loading pre-filled ampoules, The holding part for holding the needleless syringe and A drive unit for moving the needleless syringe held in the holding unit, A control unit that controls the operation of the drive unit and A needle-free injection system characterized by having the following features.

14. The needleless injection system according to claim 13, characterized in that the drive unit is a robotic arm.

Images