Applicator and applicator assembly

Abstract

The present invention provides an applicator and applicator assembly that allow for the precise insertion of a transcutaneous sensor into the subcutaneous location while stably attaching a wearable unit to the skin. [Solution] An applicator according to one aspect of the present invention includes a body housing in which a movable space is formed inside; a sensor unit carrier provided to be movable in the movable space; a bridge pressurizing section provided on either the body housing or the sensor unit carrier; and a bridge provided on the other of the body housing or the sensor unit carrier and positioned at a location corresponding to the bridge pressurizing section.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present invention relates to an applicator and an applicator assembly, and more specifically, to an applicator and an applicator assembly for subcutaneously inserting a transcutaneous sensor for sensing biological information.

Background Art

[0002] Chronic diseases such as diabetes require continuous management. Diabetes is characterized by almost no symptoms in the early stage, but as diabetes progresses, specific symptoms such as polydipsia, polyphagia, polyuria, weight loss, general malaise, itching of the skin, and difficulty in healing wounds on the hands and feet appear. If diabetes progresses further, complications such as visual impairment, hypertension, kidney disease, stroke, periodontal disease, muscle cramps and neuralgia, and gangrene may occur. In order to diagnose such diabetes and manage it so as not to progress to complications, it is necessary to perform systematic blood glucose measurement and treatment in parallel.

[0003] Diabetic patients or those who have not developed diabetes but have a blood sugar level above the reference value detected in their blood require continuous and regular blood glucose measurement to manage diabetes or prevent its progression.

[0004] Currently, the blood sampling method of collecting blood from a position such as the fingertip and measuring blood glucose in single units is the most common blood glucose measurement method. However, in the case of the blood sampling type blood glucose measurement method, there are limitations to continuous and regular blood glucose measurement due to the pain associated with blood sampling and the inconvenience caused thereby.

[0005] In recent years, in order to overcome the limitations of blood glucose measurement methods, blood glucose monitoring systems that use transdermal sensors inserted subcutaneously to continuously and regularly measure blood glucose levels have been developed and are in use. A blood glucose monitoring system using transdermal sensors generally consists of a wearable unit that includes a transdermal sensor and is provided to be wearable on the body, an applicator that is pre-coupled to the wearable unit so as to be inserted subcutaneously and simultaneously attached to the wearable unit, and a receiving unit that processes the information received from the wearable unit.

[0006] On the other hand, from the standpoint of hygiene and infection prevention, wearable units are usually provided to be discarded after one wear, and applicators are also usually provided to be discarded after one ejection. In other words, if the transcutaneous sensor is not inserted into the correct subcutaneous position, or if the wearable unit is not properly attached to the skin, the wearable unit and applicator must be discarded regardless of their respective lifespans. Therefore, in order to improve the convenience and cost-effectiveness of blood glucose monitoring systems that utilize transcutaneous sensors, an applicator is needed that allows for the accurate insertion of the transcutaneous sensor into the correct subcutaneous position and for the wearable unit to be stably attached to the skin. [Overview of the project] [Problems that the invention aims to solve]

[0007] One aspect of the present invention is to provide an applicator and applicator assembly that can stably attach a wearable unit to the skin while inserting a transcutaneous sensor into an accurate subcutaneous position.

[0008] The problems that the present invention addresses are not limited to those described above. A person ordinary to the art in which the present invention pertains will be able to easily understand further problems that the present invention addresses from the overall content of this specification. [Means for solving the problem]

[0009] The present invention is defined by the independent claims. Other aspects of the present invention are disclosed in the dependent claims.

[0010] An applicator according to one aspect of the present invention includes a body housing in which a movable space is formed inside; a sensor unit carrier provided to be movable in the movable space; a bridge pressurizing portion provided on either the body housing or the sensor unit carrier; and a bridge provided on the other of the body housing or the sensor unit carrier and positioned corresponding to the bridge pressurizing portion, wherein the bridge can contact the bridge pressurizing portion and restrict the movement of the sensor unit carrier from its initial position to its insertion position.

[0011] An applicator according to one aspect of the present invention may include a body housing in which a movable space is formed inside; a sensor unit carrier provided to be movable in the movable space; a bridge pressurizing section provided on either the body housing or the sensor unit carrier; and a bridge provided on the other of the body housing or the sensor unit carrier, positioned at a location corresponding to the bridge pressurizing section, and configured to restrict the movement of the sensor unit carrier from its initial position to an insertion position.

[0012] The body housing may include a column having the bridge pressurization portion at its end, which is arranged to form the moving space inside the body housing.

[0013] The sensor unit carrier may include a sensor unit carrier body, at least a portion of which is housed in the moving space and provided to move along the moving space; an extending arm extending from the side end of the sensor unit carrier body and positioned outside the column; and a bridge, one end of which is connected to the sensor unit carrier body and the other end of which is connected to the extending arm and positioned opposite the bridge pressurizing portion.

[0014] When the sensor unit carrier is in the initial position, the bridge may be in contact with the bridge pressurizing portion or at a position separated from the bridge pressurizing portion.

[0015] The sensor unit carrier may move along the first direction from the initial position to the insertion position in the moving space.

[0016] When the sensor unit carrier is located in the insertion position, at least a portion of the bridge may be located in a position that overlaps with at least a portion of the bridge pressurizing portion.

[0017] An applicator according to one aspect of the present invention includes a body housing having a movable space formed inside along a first direction, a sensor unit carrier provided to be movable relative to the body housing within the movable space, a bridge pressurizing portion provided on either the body housing or the sensor unit carrier, and a bridge positioned on the other of the body housing or the sensor unit carrier so as to be able to contact the bridge pressurizing portion, wherein the restriction on the movement of the sensor unit carrier in the first direction may be released by deformation of the bridge due to pressurization by the bridge pressurizing portion.

[0018] An applicator according to one aspect of the present invention includes a body housing having a movable space formed inside along a first direction, a sensor unit carrier provided so as to be movable relative to the body housing in the movable space, a bridge pressurizing portion provided on either the body housing or the sensor unit carrier, and a bridge positioned on either the other of the body housing or the sensor unit carrier so as to be able to contact the bridge pressurizing portion, wherein the restriction on the movement of the sensor unit carrier in the first direction may be released by deformation of the bridge due to pressurization by the bridge pressurizing portion.

[0019] The bridge may have a weak area where shape deformation is concentrated compared to other areas when pressure is applied by the bridge pressurizing section.

[0020] The body housing may include a column having the bridge pressurization portion at its end, which is arranged to form the moving space inside the body housing.

[0021] The sensor unit carrier includes a sensor unit carrier body, at least a portion of which is housed in the moving space and provided to move along the moving space; an extending arm extending from the side end of the sensor unit carrier body and positioned outside the column; and a bridge, one end of which is connected to the sensor unit carrier body and the other end of which is connected to the extending arm and positioned opposite the bridge pressurizing portion, wherein the vulnerable portion may be formed closer to one surface of the sensor unit carrier body to which the bridge is connected than to the tip of the bridge pressurizing portion.

[0022] A carrier slit may be provided at the tip of the column adjacent to the bridge pressurization section, formed by cutting along the first direction.

[0023] An extending arm guide groove, having a shape corresponding to the carrier slit, may be recessed along the first direction on one surface of the extending arm connection portion, which is located between the sensor unit carrier body and the extending arm.

[0024] As the sensor unit carrier moves along the first direction, the extending arm guide groove may flow into the carrier slit, guiding the movement of the sensor unit carrier in the first direction.

[0025] The weak portion may be formed to have a thinner thickness than the bridge.

[0026] The bridge pressing portion may have at least one inclined surface and be arranged at an end portion of the column in a shape in which a cross section decreases toward the bridge.

[0027] The bridge may be arranged in a direction intersecting the first direction, and the bridge pressing portion may be arranged along the first direction.

[0028] The movement restriction of the sensor unit carrier in the first direction may be released by cutting the bridge.

[0029] The applicator further includes a handle housing connected to the body housing such that one end thereof contacts the sensor unit carrier and moves together with the sensor unit carrier, and the movement restriction of the handle housing in the first direction is released only when a pressure exceeding a reference pressure is applied to the handle housing and the bridge is deformed.

[0030] An applicator assembly according to an aspect of the present invention includes a transmission unit configured to be transmitted to a sensing position, a body housing having the transmission unit detachably fixed to one end thereof and having a movement space formed therein along a first direction, a sensor unit carrier provided to move along the movement space, a percutaneous sensor member capable of sensing biological information under the skin of the body, a sensor unit provided to move along the first direction in the movement space together with the sensor unit carrier and be coupled to the transmission unit, a bridge pressing portion provided on either one of the body housing and the sensor unit carrier, and a bridge arranged at a position corresponding to the bridge pressing portion on the other one of the body housing and the sensor unit carrier and provided to be deformed or cut only when a pressure applied from the bridge pressing portion exceeds a reference pressure, and the movement restriction of the sensor unit carrier in the first direction may be released by deformation or cutting of the bridge.

[0031] The bridge may be provided in a shape that extends along a direction intersecting the first direction.

[0032] The bridge pressurizing portion may be arranged to extend along a direction parallel to the first direction.

[0033] An applicator according to one aspect of the present invention may include a body housing that forms a space capable of accommodating a first unit, and a unit carrier that is movably provided within the space.

[0034] The first unit may include a sensor member configured to acquire glucose data.

[0035] An applicator according to one aspect of the present invention may include a body housing having a housing portion at one end that can accommodate a first unit and a movable space connected to the housing portion, and a first unit carrier configured to move within the movable space.

[0036] The housing may include a unit support provided on one side of the housing to restrict the movement of the first unit.

[0037] The unit support portion may twist and move from a restricted position in contact with the first unit housed in the housing portion to a release position separated from the first unit, as the first unit carrier moves toward the housing portion and pressurizes the unit support portion by one end of the first unit carrier.

[0038] An applicator assembly according to one aspect of the present invention may include an applicator configured to discharge a sensor member, and a cap detachably coupled to one end of the applicator.

[0039] An applicator according to one aspect of the present invention may include a body housing that forms an internal space capable of accommodating a first unit including a sensor member, and a handle housing that is arranged to overlap at least a portion of the body housing.

[0040] According to one aspect of the present invention, the applicator assembly may include a sensor member configured to acquire analyte data.

[0041] According to one aspect of the present invention, the sensor member may be a glucose sensor configured to acquire glucose data.

[0042] According to one aspect of the present invention, at least a portion of the sensor member may be electrically coupled to the circuit board.

[0043] According to one aspect of the present invention, at least a portion of the sensor member may have a surface that faces or extends toward the skin. [Effects of the Invention]

[0044] According to one aspect of the present invention, it is possible to provide an applicator and applicator assembly that can stably attach a wearable unit to the skin while inserting a transcutaneous sensor into an accurate subcutaneous position.

[0045] According to one aspect of the present invention, an applicator and an applicator assembly can be provided that can improve the safety of invasive medical devices.

[0046] According to one aspect of the present invention, an applicator and applicator assembly can be provided that allow a transcutaneous sensor member to be inserted into subcutaneous tissue when a force exceeding a predetermined level is applied to the applicator.

[0047] According to one aspect of the present invention, an applicator and applicator assembly can be provided that can penetrate the skin with a speed and force suitable for needle insertion.

[0048] The effects of the present invention are not limited to those described above, and may include matters that a person with ordinary skill in the art to which the invention belongs can reasonably infer from the following description. [Brief explanation of the drawing]

[0049] [Figure 1] This is a perspective view showing an exemplary embodiment of the applicator assembly. [Figure 2] This is a perspective view showing an exemplary embodiment of the applicator assembly with the cap removed. [Figure 3] This is a perspective view showing an exemplary embodiment of a wearable unit. [Figure 4] This is a conceptual diagram illustrating an exemplary embodiment of a wearable unit attached to the body and a remote terminal. [Figure 5] This is a perspective view showing an exemplary embodiment of the sensor unit with the needle attached. [Figure 6] This is a perspective view illustrating an exemplary embodiment of the coupling process between the sensor unit and the transmission unit. [Figure 7] This is an exploded perspective view showing an exemplary embodiment of the applicator assembly with the cap removed. [Figure 8] This is an exploded perspective view showing an exemplary embodiment of the applicator assembly with the cap removed. [Figure 9] This is a perspective view showing an exemplary embodiment of the handle housing. [Figure 10] This is a bottom view showing an exemplary embodiment of the handle housing. [Figure 11] Figures 9 and 10 show cross-sectional views of the handle housing taken in the direction A-A'. [Figure 12] These are perspective views and partial enlarged views illustrating exemplary embodiments of the body housing. [Figure 13] This is a bottom view showing an exemplary embodiment of the body housing. [Figure 14]This is a plan view showing an exemplary embodiment of the body housing. [Figure 15] This is a cross-sectional view of the body housing cut along line B-B' in Figure 14. [Figure 16] This is a partial cross-sectional perspective view of the body housing cut along line C-C' in Figure 14. [Figure 17] This is a perspective view showing an exemplary embodiment of a sensor unit carrier. [Figure 18] This is a perspective view showing an exemplary embodiment of a sensor unit carrier. [Figure 19] This is a perspective view illustrating the bonding relationships of needle carriers. [Figure 20] This is a perspective view showing an exemplary embodiment of a needle carrier. [Figure 21] This is a front view illustrating the coupling relationship between the needle carrier and the sensor unit carrier. [Figure 22] This is an exploded perspective view showing an exemplary embodiment of the cap. [Figure 23] Figure 22 is a cross-sectional view of the cap cut along the E-E' direction. [Figure 24] This is a partially enlarged cross-sectional view showing an exemplary embodiment of an applicator assembly to which a cap has been applied. [Figure 25] This is a partially enlarged cross-sectional view showing an exemplary embodiment of an applicator assembly to which a cap has been applied. [Figure 26] This is a partially enlarged cross-sectional view showing an exemplary embodiment of an applicator assembly to which a cap has been applied. [Figure 27] This is a partial cross-sectional view showing an exemplary embodiment in which the sensor unit carrier is coupled to the body housing during the assembly process of the applicator assembly. [Figure 28] This is a partial cross-sectional view illustrating an exemplary embodiment of the process of joining the handle housing to the body housing, to which the sensor unit carrier is coupled, during the assembly process of the applicator assembly. [Figure 29]This is a partial cross-sectional view illustrating an exemplary embodiment of the process of joining the handle housing to the body housing, to which the sensor unit carrier is coupled, during the assembly process of the applicator assembly. [Figure 30] This is an enlarged cross-sectional view showing an exemplary embodiment in which the tip of the fixing projection is inserted into the fixing groove during the assembly process of the applicator assembly. [Figure 31] This is an enlarged cross-sectional view showing an exemplary embodiment in which the tip of the fixed projection is ejected from the fixed groove during the assembly process of the applicator assembly. [Figure 32] This is a partial cross-sectional view illustrating an exemplary embodiment of the sensor unit carrier moving from its initial position to the insertion position during the operation of the applicator assembly. [Figure 33] This is a partial cross-sectional view illustrating an exemplary embodiment of the sensor unit carrier moving from its initial position to the insertion position during the operation of the applicator assembly. [Figure 34] This is a partial cross-sectional view illustrating an exemplary embodiment of the sensor unit carrier moving from its initial position to the insertion position during the operation of the applicator assembly. [Figure 35] This is a partial cross-sectional view illustrating an exemplary embodiment of the needle carrier moving to the retracted position during the operation of the applicator assembly. [Figure 36] This is a partial cross-sectional view showing an exemplary embodiment of the applicator assembly before the bridge is disconnected during operation. [Figure 37] This is a partial cross-sectional view showing an exemplary embodiment in which the bridge is disconnected during the operation of the applicator assembly. [Figure 38] This is a partial cross-sectional view showing exemplary embodiments of a deformable bridge and a bridge pressurizing section. [Figure 39] This is a partial cross-sectional view showing exemplary embodiments of a deformable bridge and a bridge pressurizing section. [Figure 40]These are cross-sectional views and partially enlarged cross-sectional views illustrating exemplary embodiments of the positional relationship between the first and second movement limiting units in the pre-operation state of the applicator assembly. [Figure 41] (a) to (c) are partially enlarged cross-sectional views, shown in order to illustrate exemplary embodiments of the positional relationship between the first and second movement limiters during the operation of the applicator assembly. [Figure 42] These are cross-sectional views illustrating exemplary embodiments of pressurization and depressurization of the grip arm projection during the operation of the applicator assembly. [Figure 43] These are cross-sectional views illustrating exemplary embodiments of pressurization and depressurization of the grip arm projection during the operation of the applicator assembly. [Figure 44] These are cross-sectional views illustrating exemplary embodiments of pressurization and depressurization of the grip arm projection during the operation of the applicator assembly. [Figure 45] These are cross-sectional views illustrating exemplary embodiments of the movement constraint and release of the transmission unit by the transmission unit support during the operation of the applicator assembly. [Figure 46] These are cross-sectional views illustrating exemplary embodiments of the movement constraint and release of the transmission unit by the transmission unit support during the operation of the applicator assembly. [Modes for carrying out the invention]

[0050] Preferred embodiments of an applicator and applicator assembly according to one aspect of the present invention will be described in more detail below with reference to the accompanying drawings. Embodiments of the present invention can be modified in various ways, and the scope of the present invention should not be construed as being limited to the embodiments described below. These embodiments are provided to explain the present invention in more detail to those who have ordinary skill in the art to which the invention pertains. Accordingly, the shapes of the elements shown in the drawings may be exaggerated or emphasized for clarity.

[0051] The applicator and applicator assembly will be described in more detail below with reference to Figures 1 through 26.

[0052] Applicator Assembly Figure 1 is a perspective view showing an exemplary embodiment of the applicator assembly 1, and Figure 2 is a perspective view showing an exemplary embodiment of the applicator assembly 1 with the cap 50 removed. Figure 3 is a perspective view showing an exemplary embodiment of the wearable unit 20, and Figure 4 is a conceptual diagram showing an exemplary embodiment of the wearable unit 20 and remote terminal 5 worn on body B.

[0053] The applicator assembly 1 may include a wearable unit 20 and an applicator 10 that is pre-assembled and provided to the wearable unit 20. A cap 50 may be detachably disposed at one end of the applicator 10. The cap 50 disposed at one end of the applicator 10 prevents arbitrary ejection of the applicator 10 and prevents external contaminants or moisture from flowing into the applicator assembly 1.

[0054] The wearable unit 20 may include a sensor member 330. The sensor member may be a transcutaneous sensor member. The transcutaneous sensor member may be an invasive sensor or a non-invasive sensor including an optical sensor.

[0055] The transdermal sensor member 330 is inserted subcutaneously into body B and can sense biological information. The biological information sensed by the transdermal sensor member 330 can vary, but preferred biological information sensed by the transdermal sensor member 330 may include glucose concentration, ketones, glycated hemoglobin (HbA1c), fructosamine, 1,5-anhydroglucitol, other blood-based markers, or combinations thereof.

[0056] The applicator 10 may be used to transmit the wearable unit 20 to a sensing position on the skin so that the end of the transcutaneous sensor member 330 included in the wearable unit 20 is inserted subcutaneously into the skin of body B. An adhesive member 430 may be provided at one end of the wearable unit 20, and the adhesive member 430 can hold the wearable unit 20 at the sensing position for a certain period of time.

[0057] The wearable unit 20 is preferably provided on the applicator 10 such that the adhesive surface of the adhesive member 430 is exposed to the outside when the cap 50 is removed from the applicator assembly 1. The sensing position is not limited to a specific position on body B, but from the viewpoint of convenience in daily life, the wearable unit 20 is preferably attached to the skin of a part of body B such as the upper arm, thigh, or abdomen.

[0058] The wearable unit 20 is attached to the skin of body B to sense biometric information and can wirelessly transmit the sensed biometric information data to an external terminal 5. The wireless transmission method is not particularly limited, and wireless transmission methods such as Bluetooth® (BT), Low Energy Bluetooth (BLE), Near Field Communication (NFC), and RFID can be applied.

[0059] The external terminal 5 is not particularly limited as long as it is a device capable of receiving and processing data, and can include mobile terminals, dedicated medical devices, PCs, and servers. As a non-limiting example, the wearable unit 20 can continuously or periodically sense the glucose concentration of body B and transmit the glucose concentration data to the external terminal 5.

[0060] Wearable unit Figure 5 is a perspective view showing an exemplary embodiment of the sensor unit 30 with the needle 1401 coupled, and Figure 6 is a perspective view showing an exemplary embodiment of the coupling process between the sensor unit 30 and the transmission unit 40.

[0061] The wearable unit 20 may include a sensor unit 30 and a transmission unit 40. The wearable unit 20 may be arranged inside the applicator 10 as an integrated unit in which the sensor unit 30 and the transmission unit 40 are combined. In this case, during the injection process of the applicator 10, the integrated wearable unit 20, in which the sensor unit 30 and the transmission unit 40 are combined, can be attached to the skin of body B.

[0062] On the other hand, the sensor unit 30 and the transmitting unit 40 may be arranged inside the applicator 10 in a state where they are separated from each other. In this case, the sensor unit 30 and the transmitting unit 40 may be coupled and positioned at the sensing location during the process of inserting the transcutaneous sensor member 330 subcutaneously. This may include all cases in which the sensor unit 30 and the transmitting unit 40 are coupled before the transcutaneous sensor member 330 is inserted subcutaneously, when the sensor unit 30 and the transmitting unit 40 are coupled simultaneously with the insertion of the transcutaneous sensor member 330 subcutaneously, or when the sensor unit 30 and the transmitting unit 40 are coupled after the transcutaneous sensor member 330 is inserted subcutaneously.

[0063] When the wearable unit 20 is placed inside the applicator 10 with the sensor unit 30 and the transmitting unit 40 separated, the sensor unit 30 and the transmitting unit 40 may be coupled during the subcutaneous insertion process of the transcutaneous sensor member 330 by the sensor unit 30 moving relative to the transmitting unit 40. That is, the subcutaneous insertion of the transcutaneous sensor member 330 may be performed by the sensor unit 30 moving toward the transmitting unit 40 while the transmitting unit 40 is in the sensing position.

[0064] When the sensor unit 30 moves towards the transmission unit 40, allowing for subcutaneous insertion of the transcutaneous sensor member 330, even with relatively small thrust applied to the transcutaneous sensor member 330, compared to the wearable unit 20 provided as an integrated unit, the transcutaneous sensor member 330 can be inserted into the correct position, effectively reducing pain and discomfort during the subcutaneous insertion process.

[0065] The transmitting unit 40 may include a transmitting unit housing 410 that forms the outer shape of the transmitting unit 40. The first transmitting unit housing 410a and the second transmitting unit housing 410b are joined together to form the transmitting unit housing 410, and the inside of the transmitting unit housing 410 may be provided with a battery which is a power source and an electronic unit which transmits biometric information data. The joint between the first transmitting unit housing 410a and the second transmitting unit housing 410b may be provided with a seal to prevent external contaminants or moisture from flowing into the inside of the transmitting unit housing 410.

[0066] An anchoring groove 412 for housing and connecting the sensor unit 30 may be recessed inward from one end of the first transmitting unit housing 410a. The anchoring groove 412 may be formed in a recessed shape from one surface of the first transmitting unit housing 410a toward the inside of the transmitting unit housing 410. Preferably, the anchoring groove 412 is formed in a shape corresponding to the sensor unit housing 310, which will be described later. A side projection 414 that protrudes toward the anchoring groove 412 may be provided in a region of the first transmitting unit housing 410a that forms the side surface of the anchoring groove 412. The side projection 414 may be divided into multiple parts by a dividing part 415, and the sensor unit housing projection 311, which will be described later, may be positioned on the dividing part 415 when the sensor unit and the transmitting unit are connected.

[0067] A first connection opening 416 connecting the inside and outside of the transmission unit housing 410 may be formed through one surface of the first transmission unit housing 410a that forms the anchoring groove 412. The transmission unit connection portion 420, which is connected to an electronic unit located inside the transmission unit housing 410, may be exposed to the outside through the first connection opening 416. The shape of the transmission unit connection portion 420 is not limited to the shape shown in the drawing, and can be modified in various ways without limitation as long as it is a shape that can be electrically connected to the connection terminal to which the transmission unit connection portion 420 is intended to be connected. The transmission unit connection portion 420 is preferably made of an electrically conductive material, and more preferably made of a material or structure that has self-elasticity from the viewpoint of contact safety.

[0068] A fastening latch 413 may be provided at the end of the first transmitting unit housing 410a that forms the boundary with the first connection opening 416, projecting toward the inside of the fastening groove 412. The fastening latch 413 may be coupled to a fastening ring 315, which will be described later, and the fastening latch 413 can be fastened to the fastening ring 315, helping to maintain a firm connection between the sensor unit 30 and the transmitting unit 40.

[0069] The insertion hole 411 may be formed in a shape that penetrates the first transmitting unit housing 410a and the second transmitting unit housing 410b inside the fixing groove 412. When the transcutaneous sensor member 330 is inserted subcutaneously, at least a portion of the needle body 1402 and at least a portion of the transcutaneous sensor member 330 may be inserted subcutaneously through the insertion hole 411. After the end of the transcutaneous sensor member 330 is inserted subcutaneously, the needle body 1402 can be discharged from the skin through the insertion hole 411, and the state in which one end of the transcutaneous sensor member 330 is inserted subcutaneously can be maintained.

[0070] An adhesive member 430 may be provided at one end of the second transmitting unit housing 410b opposite to the end where the adhesive groove 412 is formed. The adhesive member 430 attached to the skin can hold the wearable unit 20 in the sensing position for a certain period of time. The adhesive member 430 may comprise a first adhesive surface that adheres to the skin and a second adhesive surface that adheres to one end of the second transmitting unit housing 410b. To protect the first adhesive surface before it is attached to the skin, a protective film may be further provided on the first adhesive surface that is attached to the skin. The protective film may have any configuration. Figure 6 shows an adhesive member 430 provided to have a larger area than one end of the second transmitting unit housing 410b, but the size and shape of the adhesive member 430 are not necessarily limited thereto. The adhesive member 430 may be provided to have an area corresponding to one end of the second transmitting unit housing 410b, or to have a smaller area than one end of the second transmitting unit housing 410b. The adhesive member 430 may be provided separately for the user to attach to the transmitting unit housing 410 during the subcutaneous insertion process of the transcutaneous sensor member 330, or it may be provided so as to maintain a state in which the adhesive member 430 is pre-attached to the transmitting unit housing 410 located inside the applicator assembly 1.

[0071] A transmission unit housing groove 417 may be provided at the side end of the transmission unit housing 410. For example, a transmission unit housing groove 417 recessed toward the inside of the transmission unit housing 410 may be provided at the side end of one end of the second transmission unit housing 410b facing the adhesive member 430. The end of the locking portion 1164 provided on the transmission unit support portion 1160, which will be described later, may be positioned inside the transmission unit housing groove 417. In this case, it is possible to effectively prevent the transmission unit 40 from detaching from the applicator 10 at will.

[0072] The sensor unit 30 may include a sensor unit housing 310 that forms the outer shape of the sensor unit 30, and a transcutaneous sensor member 330 disposed inside the sensor unit housing 310 and provided such that one end is exposed to the outside of the sensor unit housing 310. When the wearable unit 20 is attached to the body B, one end of the transcutaneous sensor member 330 exposed to the outside of the sensor unit housing 310 can be kept inserted subcutaneously, and biological information can be sensed by the transcutaneous sensor member 330 inserted subcutaneously.

[0073] The sensor unit housing 310 may be formed by joining a first sensor unit housing 310a and a second sensor unit housing 310b together. The joint between the first sensor unit housing 310a and the second sensor unit housing 310b may be provided with a sealing portion to prevent external contaminants or moisture from flowing into the interior of the sensor unit housing 310. Multiple recesses 312, which are recessed from the side surface of the second sensor unit housing 310b, may be formed at regular intervals along the circumferential direction of the second sensor unit housing 310b, and one surface of the first sensor unit housing 310a facing the second sensor unit housing 310b may be provided with a sensor unit housing projection 311 that protrudes at positions corresponding to the multiple recesses 312.

[0074] The sensor unit housing protrusions 311 and recesses 312 may be provided such that, when the first sensor unit housing 310a and the second sensor unit housing 310b are joined together, the sensor unit housing protrusions 311 are in close contact with the recesses 312, or the sensor unit housing protrusions 311 have a shape that allows them to press against the recesses 312. In order to maintain the state in which the sensor unit housing protrusions 311 are in close contact with or press against the recesses 312 when the first sensor unit housing 310a and the second sensor unit housing 310b are joined together, it is possible to maintain a state in which the first sensor unit housing 310a and the second sensor unit housing 310b are more firmly joined.

[0075] On the other hand, the side projection 414 formed on the transmitting unit housing 410 may be provided in a shape that allows it to adhere closely to the side end of the second sensor unit housing 310b or to press on the side end of the second sensor unit housing 310b when the sensor unit 30 and the transmitting unit 40 are coupled together. The adhesion between the side projection 414 and the second sensor unit housing 310b, or the pressurization of the second sensor unit housing 310b by the side projection 414, can maintain a more firmly fixed state between the sensor unit 30 and the transmitting unit 40. When maintaining the coupled state between the sensor unit 30 and the transmitting unit 40, the sensor unit housing projection 311 may be positioned inside the divided portion 415 formed on the side end of the fixing groove 412. The sensor unit housing projection 311 may adhere closely to one surface of the first transmitting unit housing 410a forming the divided portion 415, or one surface of the first transmitting unit housing 410a forming the divided portion 415 may press on the sensor unit housing projection 311. When the sensor unit 30 and the transmitting unit 40 are coupled, a second connection opening 316 connecting the inside and outside of the sensor unit housing 310 is formed through one end of the second sensor unit housing 310b, which is positioned to face the fixing groove 412. The sensor unit connection portion 320 connected to the transcutaneous sensor member 330 may be exposed to the outside through the second connection opening 316. When the sensor unit 30 and the transmitting unit 40 are coupled, the sensor unit connection portion 320 and the transmitting unit connection portion 420 are electrically in contact with each other, and the biometric information data sensed by the transcutaneous sensor member 330 can be transmitted to an electronic unit provided in the transmitting unit 40 via the sensor unit connection portion 320 and the transmitting unit connection portion 420.

[0076] A boss 313 may be provided at one end of the second sensor unit housing 310b facing the transmitting unit 40, projecting in a shape corresponding to the insertion hole 411. A through hole 314 may be formed through the boss 313, connecting the inside and outside of the sensor unit housing 310, and one end of the transcutaneous sensor member 330 intended for subcutaneous insertion may extend from the inside of the sensor unit housing 310 to the outside of the sensor unit housing 310 through the through hole 314. The through hole 314 may extend not only through the second sensor unit housing 310b but also through the first sensor unit housing 310a. The needle body 1402 may be positioned to pass through the through hole 314 with the sensor unit 30 and needle 1401 connected. In this case, one end of the transcutaneous sensor member 330 extending to the outside of the sensor unit housing 310 may be housed inside the needle body 1402 and positioned outside the sensor unit housing 310. When the sensor unit 30 and the transmitting unit 40 are connected, the circumferential side surface of the boss 313 and the inner surface of the transmitting unit housing 410 that forms the insertion hole 411 may be in close contact with each other. This not only allows one end of the transcutaneous sensor member 330 to be inserted into the correct position, but also maintains a more firmly connected state between the sensor unit 30 and the transmitting unit 40. On the other hand, when the sensor unit 30 and the transmitting unit 40 are connected to each other, the circumferential side surface of the boss 313 and the inner surface of the transmitting unit housing 410 that forms the insertion hole 411 can maintain close contact with each other, effectively preventing external contaminants or moisture from flowing into the sensor unit connection part 320 and the transmitting unit connection part 420 while the wearable unit 20 is attached to the body B.

[0077] A fastening ring 315 may be provided at the end of the second sensor unit housing 310b that forms the boundary with the second connection opening 316, projecting in a direction parallel to the projection direction of the transcutaneous sensor member 330. During the coupling process of the sensor unit 30 and the transmitting unit 40, the fastening latch 413 is fixed to the fastening ring 315, and the mutual coupling of the fastening latch 413 and the fastening ring 315 allows the sensor unit 30 and the transmitting unit 40 to maintain a firmly coupled state. The above description has been given as an example in which the fastening latch 413 is provided on the first transmitting unit housing 410a and the fastening ring 315 is provided on the second sensor unit housing 310b, but the case may also include the case in which the fastening latch is provided on the second sensor unit housing 310b and the fastening ring is provided on the first transmitting unit housing 410a. On the other hand, the fastening means for the sensor unit 30 and the transmitting unit 40 is not limited to a latch and a ring. Any means that does not prevent the sensor unit 30 from moving toward the transmitting unit 40 during the subcutaneous insertion process of the transcutaneous sensor member 330, and that prevents the sensor unit 30 from separating from the transmitting unit 40 after the sensor unit 30 and the transmitting unit 40 are coupled together, can be modified and applied in various ways.

[0078] A fixing groove 317 may be recessed on one surface of the first sensor unit housing 310a, and the tip of a fixing projection 1317 formed on the sensor unit carrier 130 (described later) may be inserted into the fixing groove 317. During the subcutaneous insertion process of the transcutaneous sensor member 330, the sensor unit 30 moves toward the transmitting unit 40 together with the sensor unit carrier 130, and as the sensor unit 30 moves, the tip of the fixing projection 1317 remains inserted into the fixing groove 317, allowing the sensor unit 30 to move while being stably supported by the sensor unit carrier 130. After subcutaneous insertion of the transcutaneous sensor member 330, during the process of the user removing the applicator 10 from the skin, the fixing projection 1317 is discharged from the fixing groove 317, thereby releasing the fixing relationship between the sensor unit carrier 130 and the sensor unit 30.

[0079] Applicator Figures 7 and 8 are exploded perspective views showing an exemplary embodiment of the applicator assembly 1 with the cap 50 removed. For convenience of explanation, the direction substantially parallel to the insertion direction of the transcutaneous sensor member 330 will be defined as the first direction, and all directions substantially perpendicular to the first direction will be defined as the second direction, and the specific configuration of the applicator 10 and applicator assembly 1 will be described below.

[0080] The applicator 10 may be provided to transmit the wearable unit 20 to a sensing position on the skin. The applicator 10 may include a body housing 110 to which a transmitting unit 40 is detachably coupled at one end; a handle housing 120 positioned to move relative to the body housing 110 along a first direction when the transcutaneous sensor member 330 is subcutaneously inserted; a sensor unit carrier 130 to which a sensor unit 30 is detachably coupled at one end and positioned to move together with the handle housing 120 along the first direction; a needle carrier 140 comprising a needle body 1402 for subcutaneous insertion of the transcutaneous sensor member 330, and positioned detachably fixed to the sensor unit carrier 130; and an elastic member 150, with one end and the other end connected to the sensor unit carrier 130 and the needle carrier 140, respectively, which provides a driving force to expel the subcutaneously inserted needle body 1402 from the body B.

[0081] In addition to the applicator 10 described above, the applicator assembly 1 may further include a transmitting unit 40 detachably fixed to one end of the body housing 110, a sensor unit 30 detachably fixed to one end of the sensor unit carrier 130, and a cap 50 detachably coupled to the handle housing 120 to block external exposure of the body housing 110 on which the transmitting unit 40 is located.

[0082] Handle housing Figures 9 and 10 are perspective and bottom views showing exemplary embodiments of the handle housing 120, and Figure 11 is a cross-sectional view of the handle housing 120 of Figures 9 and 10, cut in the direction A-A'.

[0083] The handle housing 120, together with the body housing 110, can form the outer shape of the applicator 10. The handle housing 120 may be grasped or pressed by the user during the subcutaneous insertion process of the transcutaneous sensor member 330. Figures 9 to 11 show a cup-shaped handle housing 120, but the shape of the handle housing 120 is not necessarily limited to a cup shape, and it can be modified and applied to various shapes as long as it can achieve the functions described later. However, a cap 50 can be detachably attached to one end of the handle housing 120. Since the cap 50 can be detachably attached by screw connection, it is more preferable that one end of the handle housing 120, which has screw threads for screw connection, is provided to have a cylindrical structure.

[0084] A first internal space 1202 is formed inside the handle housing 120, and the first internal space 1202 can communicate with the outside through a first opening 1201 formed at one end of the handle housing 120. The push arm 1230 may be formed to extend along a first direction from one inner surface of the handle housing 120 facing the first opening 1201.

[0085] The push arm 1230 may be provided to interact with the fixing part 1130, which will be described later. During the assembly process of the applicator 10, the push arm 1230 pressurizes and moves the fixing part 1130, thereby releasing the temporary restriction on the movement of the sensor unit carrier 130 imposed by the fixing part 1130. The push arm slit 1232 may be shaped to divide the end of the push arm 1230 and extend from the tip of the push arm 1230 in a direction opposite to the direction in which the push arm 1230 protrudes. The extension part 1136 provided on the fixing part 1130, which will be described later, is positioned within the push arm slit 1232, thereby eliminating interference of the extension part 1136 with the movement of the push arm 1230 during the assembly process of the applicator 10 or the subcutaneous insertion process of the transcutaneous sensor member 330. Figures 9 to 11 show a push arm 1230 formed symmetrically with respect to the push arm slit 1232. However, the shape of the push arm 1230 is not necessarily limited to this, and it can be modified in various ways as long as it is a structure that can pressurize and move the fixing part 1130 during the assembly process of the applicator 10. The push arm 1230 may also be a means for pressurizing and moving the fixing part 1130 during the assembly process of the applicator 10.

[0086] A carrier fixing fence 1207 may be provided on one inner surface of the handle housing 120 facing the first opening 1201, positioned adjacent to the push arm 1230. The carrier fixing fence 1207 may be erected in a shape corresponding to all or part of the periphery of one end of the sensor unit carrier 130. After the applicator 10 is assembled, the sensor unit carrier 130 may be positioned so that at least one surface of the sensor unit carrier 130 is adjacent to the inner surface of the carrier fixing fence 1207, or in close contact with the inner surface of the carrier fixing fence 1207. In this case, the sensor unit carrier 130 may be positioned so that one end of the sensor unit carrier 130 is spaced at a certain distance from the inner surface of the handle housing 120 facing the first opening 1201, or in contact with the inner surface of the handle housing 120 facing the first opening 1201.

[0087] When a user presses the handle housing 120 in a first direction for subcutaneous insertion of the transcutaneous sensor member 330, the sensor unit carrier 130 can switch to a state where one end of the sensor unit carrier 130 contacts one inner surface of the handle housing 120 facing the first opening 1201, or it can move along the first direction together with the handle housing 120 while maintaining contact with one inner surface of the handle housing 120 facing the first opening 1201. In this case, the sensor unit carrier 130 can move in the first direction while maintaining a state where at least one surface of the sensor unit carrier 130 is firmly in contact with one inner surface of the carrier fixing fence 1207, effectively preventing the handle housing 120 from returning to its initial position after the subcutaneous insertion of the transcutaneous sensor member 330 is completed.

[0088] On the other hand, the sensor unit carrier 130 can move in the first direction together with the handle housing 120 while maintaining a certain distance from the inner surface of the handle housing 120 facing the first opening 1201, and during or after the subcutaneous insertion of the transcutaneous sensor member 330, one end of the sensor unit carrier 130 may switch to a state in which it contacts the inner surface of the handle housing 120 facing the first opening 1201. In this case, at least one surface of the sensor unit carrier 130 will be more firmly attached to the inner surface of the carrier fixing fence 1207 during or after the subcutaneous insertion of the transcutaneous sensor member 330, and the engagement of the carrier fixing fence 1207 with one end of the sensor unit carrier 130 will effectively prevent the handle housing 120 from returning to its initial position.

[0089] A guide projection 1210 extending along a first direction in a shape that protrudes toward the first internal space 1202 may be provided on the inner side surface of the handle housing 120 that forms the first internal space 1202. The tip of the guide projection 1210 is positioned inside a handle housing guide groove 1142 recessed in the outer surface of the body housing 110, which will be described later, and can guide the direction of movement of the handle housing 120 as it moves in the first direction through the interaction between the guide projection 1210 and the handle housing guide groove 1142. The guide projections 1210 may be provided in pairs symmetrically on the inner side surface of the handle housing 120, and the handle housing guide groove 1142 may also be recessed in a shape corresponding to the guide projection 1210 at a position corresponding to the guide projection 1210. On the other hand, although the case in which the guide projection 1210 is formed on the handle housing 120 and the handle housing guide groove 1142 is formed on the body housing 110 has been described as an example, the case in which the guide groove is formed on the handle housing and the guide projection is formed on the body housing may also be included.

[0090] The first movement restricting portion 1220 may be formed to protrude from the inner side surface of the handle housing 120, which forms the first internal space 1202 of the handle housing 120, toward the center of the first internal space 1202. The first movement restricting portion 1220 can interact with the second movement restricting portion 1150 provided on the body housing 110, which will be described later. The interaction between the first movement restricting portion 1220 and the second movement restricting portion 1150 can restrict the handle housing 120, which is coupled to the body housing 110, from detaching from the body housing 110 at will, or restrict the handle housing 120 from moving in the direction opposite to the first direction after the transcutaneous sensor member 330 is subcutaneously inserted. The first movement restricting portion 1220 may be provided as a latch structure having a wedge-shaped cross-section including an inclined surface 1221 and a support surface 1222, but the shape of the first movement restricting portion 1220 is not necessarily limited thereto, and any shape that can restrict the handle housing 120 from detaching arbitrarily from the body housing 110 via interaction with the second movement restricting portion 1150, or restrict the handle housing 120 from moving in the opposite direction to the first direction after the transcutaneous sensor member 330 has been subcutaneously inserted, can be applied without limitation. The first movement restricting portion 1220 may be a means to restrict the handle housing 120 from detaching arbitrarily from the body housing 110, or it may be a means to restrict the handle housing 120 from moving in the opposite direction to the first direction after the transcutaneous sensor member 330 has been inserted into the subcutaneous tissue via interaction with the second movement restricting portion 1150.

[0091] A threaded portion 1240 for screw connection with the cap 50 may be provided on the outer surface of one end of the handle housing 120 in which the first opening 1201 is formed. The threaded portion 1240 formed on the handle housing 120 and the threaded portion 540 formed on the cap 50 (described later) are screw-connected, allowing the handle housing 120 and the cap 50 to be connected to each other in a separable manner. A locking projection 1242 may be provided on the outer surface of the handle housing 120, projecting outward from the outer surface of the handle housing 120 and extending along the circumferential direction of the handle housing 120. Since the locking projection 1242 is provided in a structure that can abut the tip of the cap 50, it is possible to prevent the threaded portion 1240 of the handle housing 120 and the threaded portion 540 of the cap 50 from being overtightened when screw-connecting the handle housing 120 and the cap 50. Alternatively, the handle housing 120 and the cap 50 may be provided in a structure where the locking projection 1242 and the end of the cap 50 are in close contact when the handle housing 120 and the cap 50 are joined together. In this case, it is possible to effectively prevent external contaminants and moisture from flowing into the inside of the applicator assembly 1.

[0092] Body Housing Figure 12 is a perspective view and a partially enlarged view showing an exemplary embodiment of the body housing 110, Figure 13 is a bottom view showing an exemplary embodiment of the body housing 110, and Figure 14 is a plan view showing an exemplary embodiment of the body housing 110. Figure 15 is a cross-sectional view of the body housing 110 cut along B-B' in Figure 14, and Figure 16 is a partial cross-sectional perspective view of the body housing 110 cut along C-C' in Figure 14.

[0093] The body housing 110 is provided to support the sensor unit carrier 130, which is located inside the applicator 10, to guide the direction of movement of the sensor unit carrier 130, and to limit the range of movement of the sensor unit carrier 130. A transmitting unit 40 for attachment to a body B may be detachably fixed to one end of the body housing 110.

[0094] The body housing 110 may include a body housing body portion 1100 having a circumferential surface shape corresponding to the first internal space 1202 of the handle housing 120. A second internal space 1102 is provided inside the body housing body portion 1100, and the second internal space 1102 can communicate with the outside through a second opening 1101 formed at one end of the body housing 110 adjacent to the handle housing 120. When the body housing 110 and the handle housing 120 are assembled to connect with each other, the second internal space 1102 formed in the body housing 110 and the first internal space 1202 formed in the handle housing 120 communicate with each other, forming an internal space (not shown) within the applicator 10 that is separated from the outside. On the other hand, the other end of the body housing 110 facing the end where the second opening 1101 is formed may be provided in a closed form.

[0095] A column 1110 may be erected inside the body housing 110, through which a first movement space 1111 is formed along a first direction. The column 1110 may include a plurality of partition walls 1112 that extend from the inner surface of the closed other end of the body housing 110 along a direction opposite to the first direction. The plurality of partition walls 1112 are provided so as to surround the first movement space 1111 on the side, and the plurality of partition walls 1112 may separate the second internal space 1102 from the first movement space 1111. The sensor unit carrier body 1310, needle carrier 140, and sensor unit 30 of the sensor unit carrier 130, which will be described later, can move towards the transmitting unit 40 side via the first movement space 1111 during the subcutaneous insertion process of the transcutaneous sensor member 330.

[0096] On the other hand, although the following explanation will use a hexagonal columnar column 1110 as an example, the shape of the column 1110 of the present invention is not limited to this, and can be modified and applied in various ways as long as it is a shape that can provide a movement path for the sensor unit carrier body 1310, needle carrier 140, and sensor unit 30 during the subcutaneous insertion process of the transcutaneous sensor member 330.

[0097] A first acceleration latch 1118 may be provided on the outer surface of one or more of the multiple partition walls 1112, with a shape that protrudes outward from the outer surface of the partition wall 1112. The first acceleration latch 1118 interacts with a second acceleration latch 1328 provided on the sensor unit carrier 130, which will be described later, and can provide a condition for the sensor unit carrier 130 to start moving, such that the sensor unit carrier 130 moves in the first direction only when a force of a certain amount or more is applied to the sensor unit carrier 130. In other words, the transcutaneous sensor member 330 is inserted subcutaneously only when a force sufficient to release the movement constraint of the second acceleration latch 1328 by the first acceleration latch 1118 is applied to the handle housing 120, thereby effectively avoiding situations in which the transcutaneous sensor member 330 is arbitrarily ejected in situations unintended by the user. On the other hand, for the transcutaneous sensor member 330 to be properly inserted subcutaneously, the needle body 1402 is required to move at a speed greater than or equal to the reference speed so that the tip of the needle body 1402 penetrates the skin surface. By applying acceleration conditions through the interaction of the first acceleration latch 1118 and the second acceleration latch 1328 so that the needle body 1402 is ejected at a speed greater than or equal to the reference speed, the proper subcutaneous insertion of the transcutaneous sensor member 330 can be effectively guided. The first acceleration latch 1118 may be provided as a latch structure having a wedge-shaped cross-section with an inclined surface 1119a and a support surface 1119b, but the shape of the first acceleration latch 1118 is not necessarily limited thereto, and can be modified and applied in various ways as long as it is a shape that can apply movement start conditions or acceleration conditions to the sensor unit carrier 130 through interaction with the second acceleration latch 1328. The first acceleration latch 1118 may also be a means for applying movement start conditions or acceleration conditions to the sensor unit carrier 130 through interaction with the second acceleration latch 1328.

[0098] The tip of the bulkhead 1112 equipped with the first acceleration latch 1118 may be provided with a bridge pressurizing section 1116 having a shape in which the cross-section decreases towards the tip. The bridge pressurizing section 1116 may be provided to pressurize the bridge 1330 provided on the sensor unit carrier 130, which will be described later, and deform or cut the bridge 1330. The bridge pressurizing section 1116 may be positioned opposite the bridge 1330 at a certain distance apart. As the sensor unit carrier 130 moves in the first direction, the distance between the bridge 1330 and the bridge pressurizing section 1116 may decrease. That is, in the initial step of the sensor unit carrier 130 moving in the first direction, the bridge 1330 provided on the sensor unit carrier 130 moves to a position in close contact with the bridge pressurizing section 1116, and the movement of the sensor unit carrier 130 in the first direction can be completed only when a force in the first direction is applied to the sensor unit carrier 130 to such an extent that the bridge 1330 is pressed by the bridge pressurizing section 1116 and cut or deformed. If the bridge 1330 is not cut or deformed despite the movement of the sensor unit carrier 130 in the first direction, the bridge 1330 remains caught in the bridge pressurizing section 1116, preventing the sensor unit carrier 130 from moving any further in the first direction. In other words, the interaction between the bridge 1330 and the bridge pressurizing section 1116 not only effectively prevents the arbitrary ejection of the transcutaneous sensor member 330 in situations unintended by the user, but also provides sufficient acceleration conditions to ensure that the transcutaneous sensor member 330 is properly inserted subcutaneously.

[0099] A bulkhead equipped with a first acceleration latch 1118 may be provided with a carrier slit 1117 that penetrates the bulkhead from the tip of the bulkhead 1112 in a shape that cuts through the bulkhead along a direction parallel to the direction opposite to the first direction. From the viewpoint of simplifying the structure, it is more preferable that the carrier slit 1117 penetrates between the first acceleration latch 1118 and the bridge pressurizing portion 1116. The carrier slit 1117 and the first moving space 1111 may be in communication, and the carrier slit 1117 may also be in communication with the first moving space 1111 and the second internal space 1102. In the process of the sensor unit carrier 130 moving in the first direction, the extended arm connection portion 1322 of the sensor unit carrier 130, which will be described later, may flow into the interior of the carrier slit 1117. As the extended arm connector 1322 flows into the carrier slit 1117, the obstruction of the extension arm connector 1322's movement in the first direction by the partition wall 1112 is eliminated, and the carrier slit 1117 can guide the movement of the sensor unit carrier 130. As the extended arm connector 1322 moves along the carrier slit 1117, the sensor unit 30, which is detachably fixed to the end of the sensor unit carrier 130, can be accurately transmitted to the anchoring groove 412 of the transmission unit 40.

[0100] At least one of the first acceleration latch 1118, the bridge pressurizing section 1116, and the carrier slit 1117 may be provided in pairs, and may be arranged symmetrically on opposing partition walls 1112.

[0101] A carrier guide groove 1114 may be recessed in the inner surface of the partition wall 1112 that forms the first moving space 1111, in a direction intersecting the first direction, and the carrier guide groove 1114 may be formed to extend along the first direction. For example, the carrier guide groove 1114 may be recessed in a shape that extends outward from the inner surface of the partition wall 1112.

[0102] The sensor unit carrier 130 may be provided with a carrier guide projection 1310a shaped to correspond to the carrier guide groove 1114. The carrier guide projection 1310a may be formed to protrude from one end of the sensor unit carrier body 1310 in a direction intersecting the first direction and extending along the first direction. At least one end of the carrier guide projection 1310a may be positioned inside the carrier guide groove 1114. The tip of the carrier guide projection 1310a is positioned inside the carrier guide groove 1114, and can guide the movement of the sensor unit carrier 130 so that it moves along the first direction. The drawings illustrate four carrier guide protrusions 1310a positioned at each corner of the sensor unit carrier 130, and carrier guide grooves 1114 formed on the inner surface of the column 1110 at corresponding positions and in corresponding numbers. However, the shape and number of the carrier guide protrusions 1310a and carrier guide grooves 1114 are not necessarily limited to those shown in the drawings, and can be modified and applied in various ways as long as they can guide the movement of the sensor unit carrier 130 in the first direction. The carrier guide protrusions 1310a and carrier guide grooves 1114 may also be means for guiding the movement of the sensor unit carrier 130 in the first direction.

[0103] A bulkhead support 1113 may be erected inside the second internal space 1102 to support the column 1110. The bulkhead support 1113 is positioned so that one end is connected to the bulkhead 1112 and the other end is connected to the inner side wall of the body housing section 1100, thereby improving the structural safety and rigidity of the column 1110 and the body housing section 1100.

[0104] The body extension portion 1140 may be provided in pairs at one end of the body housing body portion 1100, extending in a direction opposite to the first direction from one end of the body housing body portion 1100, where the second opening 1101 is formed. The handle housing guide groove 1142 may be formed in a shape extending from the outer surface on the tip side of the body extension portion 1140 to the outer surface on the other end side of the body housing body portion 1100 along the first direction. That is, the handle housing guide groove 1142 may be recessed extending from the outer surface of the body extension portion 1140 to the outer surface of the body housing body portion 1100, terminating the body extension portion 1140 and the body housing body portion 1100. The tip of the guide projection 1210 of the handle housing 120 is positioned inside the handle housing guide groove 1142, and can guide the direction of movement of the handle housing 120 as it moves along the first direction.

[0105] A second movement-restricting portion 1150 may be provided at the tip end of the fuselage extension portion 1140. A movement-restricting latch housing portion 1156 may be formed through the tip end of the fuselage extension portion 1140, in a shape that cuts open the fuselage extension portion 1140 from the tip end along a first direction. The movement-restricting body 1151 is arranged to be housed in the movement-restricting latch housing portion 1156, and both ends on the central side of the movement-restricting body 1151 may be connected to the fuselage extension portion 1140 by body connection portions 1157. Since both ends on the central side of the movement-restricting body 1151 are connected to the fuselage extension portion 1140 via the body connection portions 1157, when an external force is applied to the movement-restricting body 1151, the movement-restricting body 1151 may deform while housed in the movement-restricting latch housing portion 1156. In the present invention, the term “deformed” can be used interchangeably with “bent,” “curved,” “twisted” (including torsional deformation), or “distorted.” The deformation of the movement-restricting body 1151 is temporary and reversible, and it can return to its original position and / or shape when the external force is removed. A first movement-restricting latch 1152 may be provided on the outer surface of one end of the movement-restricting body 1151, and a second movement-restricting latch 1154 may be provided on the outer surface of the other end of the movement-restricting body 1151. Preferably, the first movement-restricting latch 1152 and the second movement-restricting latch 1154 are arranged to be spaced apart from each other along a first direction. The first movement-restricting latch 1152 may be provided as a latch structure having a wedge-shaped cross-section including a first inclined surface 1153a and a first support surface 1153b, and the second movement-restricting latch 1154 may also be provided as a latch structure having a wedge-shaped cross-section including a second inclined surface 1155a and a second support surface 1155b. The first movement-restricting latch 1152 and the second movement-restricting latch 1154 interact with the first movement-restricting portion 1220 of the handle housing 120, thereby restricting the movement of the handle housing 120.

[0106] The support surface 1222 of the first movement limiting portion 1220 may be formed along a direction substantially parallel to the second direction, and the inclined surface 1221 of the first movement limiting portion 1220 may be inclined to be adjacent to the inner side wall of the handle housing 120 along the first direction from the end of the protruding support surface 1222. The first support surface 1153b of the first movement limiting latch 1152 may be formed along a direction substantially parallel to the second direction, and the first inclined surface 1153a of the first movement limiting latch 1152 may be inclined to be adjacent to one end of the movement limiting body 1151 along the direction opposite to the first direction from the end of the protruding first support surface 1153b. The second support surface 1155b of the second movement-restricting latch 1154 may be formed along a direction substantially parallel to the second direction, and the second inclined surface 1155a of the second movement-restricting latch 1154 may be inclined to be adjacent to the other end of the movement-restricting body 1151 along a direction opposite to the first direction from the end of the protruding second support surface 1155b.

[0107] During the assembly of the handle housing 120 and the body housing 110, as the handle housing 120 moves relative to the body housing 110 in a first direction, the inclined surface 1221 of the first movement limiting portion 1220 can reach a state in which it contacts the first inclined surface 1153a of the first movement limiting latch 1152. Subsequently, as the handle housing 120 moves further along the first direction, one end of the movement limiting body 1151 deforms toward the second internal space 1102, thereby allowing the first movement limiting portion 1220 to pass through the first movement limiting latch 1152. After the first movement limiting portion 1220 has passed through the first movement limiting latch 1152, the movement limiting body 1151 can return to its pre-deformation state. After the first movement limiting portion 1220 passes through the first movement limiting latch 1152 and the coupling between the handle housing 120 and the body housing 110 is completed, the support surface 1222 of the first movement limiting portion 1220 and the first support surface 1153b of the first movement limiting latch 1152 are positioned facing each other. Therefore, even if a force is applied to the handle housing 120 in a direction opposite to the first direction, the support surface 1222 of the first movement limiting portion 1220 and the first support surface 1153b of the first movement limiting latch 1152 support each other, preventing the handle housing 120 from detaching from the body housing 110 at will.

[0108] During the subcutaneous insertion process of the transcutaneous sensor member 330, the handle housing 120 moves in the first direction with the inclined surface 1221 of the first movement restricting portion 1220 in contact with the second inclined surface 1155a of the second movement restricting latch 1154, causing the other end of the movement restricting body 1151 to deform towards the second internal space 1102, and the first movement restricting portion 1220 to pass through the second movement restricting latch 1154. After the first movement restricting portion 1220 has passed through the second movement restricting latch 1154, the movement restricting body 1151 can return to its pre-deformation state. After the subcutaneous insertion of the transcutaneous sensor member 330 is completed by the first movement restricting portion 1220 passing through the second movement restricting latch 1154, the support surface 1222 of the first movement restricting portion 1220 and the second support surface 1155b of the second movement restricting latch 1154 are placed facing each other, thereby restricting the handle housing 120 from moving in the direction opposite to the first direction. In other words, after subcutaneous insertion of the transcutaneous sensor member 330, the interaction between the first movement limiting portion 1220 and the second movement limiting portion 1150 can restrict the handle housing 120 from returning to its position before insertion of the transcutaneous sensor member 330, thereby effectively preventing the reuse of the applicator 10 after injection.

[0109] One of the multiple partition walls 1112 may be provided with a fixing portion 1130 that restricts the arbitrary movement of the sensor unit carrier 130 when assembling the applicator 10. At the tip of the partition wall 1112 on which the fixing portion 1130 is provided, a first cutting groove 1135a and a second cutting groove 1135b may be formed parallel to each other and spaced apart, cutting through the partition wall 1112 from the tip of the partition wall 1112 along a first direction. Between the first cutting groove 1135a and the second cutting groove 1135b, a support base 1134 may be erected in a direction parallel to the first direction, and a fixing projection 1137 may be provided on one surface of the support base 1134 facing the first moving space 1111, with a shape that protrudes toward the first moving space 1111. On the other side of the support base 1134 opposite to one side of the support base 1134 on which the fixed projection 1137 is formed, a pressurized movable extension 1136 is provided extending from the other side of the support base 1134, and a pressurized movable part 1131 may be provided at the protruding tip of the pressurized movable extension 1136. The pressurized movable part 1131 may include a pressurized movable body part 1132 connected to the pressurized movable extension 1136, and pressurized movable wing parts 1133 provided at both ends of the pressurized movable body part 1132. The pressurized movable wing parts 1133 may have a pressurized movable inclined surface 1133a having a shape that approaches the partition wall 1112 along the first direction. As will be described later, a fixed groove 1340 having a shape corresponding to the fixed projection 1137 may be recessed on one side of the sensor unit carrier body 1310. If we define the position of the sensor unit carrier 130 when the handle housing 120 is not pressurized by the user (i.e., when the transcutaneous sensor member 330 has not been injected or subcutaneously inserted) as the initial position, and define the position of the sensor unit carrier 130 after the handle housing 120 has been pressurized by the user (i.e., after the transcutaneous sensor member 330 has been injected or subcutaneously inserted) as the insertion position, then it is preferable that the fixing groove 1340 is recessed on one surface of the sensor unit carrier body 1310 such that the fixing groove 1340 and the fixing projection 1137 of the sensor unit carrier 130 in the initial position are located in corresponding positions to each other.

[0110] During the process of inserting the sensor unit carrier body 1310 into the first moving space 1111 to assemble the applicator 10, the fixed projection 1137 contacts one surface of the sensor unit carrier body 1310, causing the support base 1134 to deform outward, and the fixing part 1130 maintains a state of being moved away from the first moving space 1111. Subsequently, when the sensor unit carrier body 1310 is pushed into the first moving space 1111 along the first direction until the fixed projection 1137 and the fixing groove 1340 are in corresponding positions, the tip of the fixed projection 1137 flows into and is positioned inside the fixing groove 1340, and the support base 1134 returns to its pre-deformation state. The flow of the tip of the fixed projection 1137 into the fixing groove 1340 restricts any movement of the sensor unit carrier 130 in the first direction or the opposite direction to the first direction, after which the coupling operation of the handle housing 120 and the body housing 110 may be performed. During the process of connecting the handle housing 120 to the body housing 110, the tip of the push arm 1230 provided on the handle housing 120 comes into contact with the pressurizing moving inclined surface 1133a of the pressurizing moving wing portion 1133. As the tip of the push arm 1230 moves in the first direction while in contact with the pressurizing moving inclined surface 1133a, pressurizing the pressurizing moving wing portion 1133 causes the support base 1134 to deform outward, and the pressurizing moving portion 1131 may be pushed away from the sensor unit carrier body 1310. As the pressurizing moving portion 1131 is pushed away from the sensor unit carrier body 1310, the tip of the fixed projection 1137 moves to a position where it is separated from the fixed groove 1340, thereby releasing the restriction on arbitrary movement of the sensor unit carrier 130 by the fixed portion 1130. The fixing part 1130 allows the sensor unit carrier 130 to maintain its initial position while the applicator 10 is assembled, thereby more effectively improving work efficiency during the assembly of the applicator 10.

[0111] A transmission unit housing 1104 capable of accommodating a transmission unit 40 may be provided on the closed end of the body housing 110 facing the second opening 1101. The transmission unit housing 1104 may be formed in a concave shape from the outside of the body housing 110 toward the second internal space 1102. Preferably, the transmission unit housing 1104 is recessed in a shape corresponding to the transmission unit housing 410 so that the transmission unit housing 410 can be accommodated inside. Preferably, the transmission unit housing 1104 is recessed to a depth that allows the adhesive member 430 provided on the transmission unit 40 to be attached to the skin when one end of the applicator 10 is brought into close contact with the skin with the transmission unit 40 housed in the transmission unit housing 1104.

[0112] A third opening 1106 may be formed through one end of the body housing 110 in which the transmitting unit housing 1104 is formed, connecting the transmitting unit housing 1104 and the first moving space 1111. During the subcutaneous insertion process of the transcutaneous sensor member 330, the sensor unit 30 that has moved along the first direction in the first moving space 1111 may pass through the third opening 1106 and be transmitted to the anchoring groove 412 of the transmitting unit 40 housed in the transmitting unit housing 1104.

[0113] Transmitter unit support portions 1160 may be provided at both ends of the transmitter unit housing 1104 to prevent the transmitter unit 40 from detaching from the transmitter unit housing 1104. Support hook housing spaces 1161 may be provided at both ends of the transmitter unit housing 1104, formed to penetrate one closed end of the body housing 110. Transmitter unit support hooks 1162, provided to support the transmitter unit 40, may be arranged to be housed in the support hook housing spaces 1161. The transmitter unit support hooks 1162 may be supported by support hook connectors 1166, which extend from the ends of the body housing 110 forming the support hook housing spaces 1161 and are connected to both ends of the transmitter unit support hooks 1162. The transmitter unit support hook 1162 is connected to a support hook connection portion 1166 extending from the end of the body housing 110 and is located within the support hook housing space 1161. Therefore, if an external force is applied to the transmitter unit support hook 1162, the support hook connection portion 1166 may deform, and the position of the transmitter unit support hook 1162 may change.

[0114] The transmitting unit support hook 1162 may include a locking portion 1164 projecting toward the transmitting unit housing 1104, and a pressing portion 1165 projecting toward the opposite direction from the transmitting unit housing 1104. The tip of the locking portion 1164 may be inserted into the transmitting unit housing groove 417 of the transmitting unit 40 housed in the transmitting unit housing 1104, and the transmitting unit 40 housed in the transmitting unit housing 1104 will be supported by the locking portion 1164 with its tip inserted into the transmitting unit housing groove 417, thereby preventing it from detaching from the transmitting unit housing 1104 at will. The pressing portion 1165 may have a pressing portion inclined surface 1165a that is inclined to approach the transmitting unit housing 1104 along the first direction. The extended arm pushing portion 1326 of the sensor unit carrier 130, described later, pressurizes the pressed inclined surface 1165a, allowing the transmitting unit support hook 1162 to twist away from the transmitting unit housing portion 1104. In other words, during the subcutaneous insertion process of the transcutaneous sensor member 330, the sensor unit carrier 130 moves along the first direction together with the sensor unit 30, and at the same time as the sensor unit 30 is transmitted from the sensor unit carrier 130 to the transmitting unit 40, or slightly before the time when the sensor unit 30 is transmitted from the sensor unit carrier 130 to the transmitting unit 40, the extended arm pushing portion 1326 pressurizes the pressed inclined surface 1165a, thereby releasing the restriction on the movement of the transmitting unit 40 by the locking portion 1164. On the other hand, during the manufacturing of the applicator assembly 1, in the process of positioning the transmitting unit 40 in the transmitting unit housing 1104, the transmitting unit support hook 1162 is pressed by the transmitting unit housing 410 and twists away from the transmitting unit housing 1104. Once the transmitting unit 40 is fully secured in the transmitting unit housing 1104, the twisted transmitting unit support hook 1162 returns to its original position and may be positioned inside the transmitting unit housing groove 417 at the tip of the locking portion 1164.The transmitting unit support 1160 is provided to release the movement constraint of the transmitting unit 40 only when intended by the worker or user during the assembly or use of the applicator assembly 1, thereby more effectively improving the convenience of assembly and use of the applicator assembly 1.

[0115] A grip arm guide groove 1120 extending along the first direction may be formed in a concave shape toward the outward direction on one or more of the inner surfaces of the partition wall 1112 that forms the first moving space 1111. The grip arm 1422 of the needle carrier 140, which will be described later, is positioned in the grip arm guide groove 1120 to guide the direction of movement of the needle carrier 140. A stepped portion 1121 is formed in the center of the grip arm guide groove 1120, protruding to a height approximately corresponding to one surface of the partition wall 1112 on which the grip arm guide groove 1120 is formed. A first stepped inclined surface 1123 and a second stepped inclined surface 1124 may be formed at one end and the other end of the stepped portion 1121, respectively. The first stepped inclined surface 1123 may be inclined to be adjacent to the first moving space 1111 along the first direction, and the second stepped inclined surface 1124 may be inclined to be away from the first moving space 1111 along the first direction.

[0116] During the assembly of the applicator assembly 1, the needle carrier 140 flows into the first movement space 1111 along the first direction, and the needle carrier 140 can move to the initial position with the grip arm 1422 positioned in the grip arm guide groove 1120. When the needle carrier 140 is in the initial position, the grip arm projection 1424 formed on the grip arm 1422 may pass the first stepped inclined surface 1123, or may be positioned just before passing the first stepped inclined surface 1123. Subsequently, as the needle carrier 140 moves further along the first direction, the grip arm projection 1424 comes into close contact with the stepped portion 1121 and is pressed inward, and as the needle carrier 140 moves, the sensor unit 30 can maintain a state of being firmly fixed by the inwardly pressed grip arm 1422. On the other hand, as the needle carrier 140 moves further along the first direction to the insertion position, the grip arm projection 1424 passes the second stepped inclined surface 1124, and the pressure on the grip arm projection 1424 by the stepped portion 1121 can be released by the grip arm projection 1424 passing the second stepped inclined surface 1124. In other words, during the subcutaneous insertion process of the transcutaneous sensor member 330, the pressure on the grip arm projection 1424 by the stepped portion 1121 can be released at the same time as, or before, the sensor unit 30 is transmitted to the anchoring groove 412 of the transmitting unit 40. This not only effectively prevents the sensor unit 30 from detaching from its designated position inside the applicator 10 during the subcutaneous insertion process of the transcutaneous sensor member 330, but also effectively prevents the phenomenon of the sensor unit 30 being pulled in the opposite direction to the first direction by the grip arm 1422 immediately after subcutaneous insertion of the transcutaneous sensor member 330.

[0117] Sensor unit carrier Figures 17 and 18 are perspective views showing exemplary embodiments of the sensor unit carrier 130.

[0118] The sensor unit carrier 130 may be positioned inside the applicator assembly 1 so as to move in a first direction together with the needle carrier 140 and the sensor unit 30 during the subcutaneous insertion of the transcutaneous sensor member 330. After subcutaneous insertion of the transcutaneous sensor member 330, the needle carrier 140 may move to a retracted position so that the needle body 1402 is ejected from the skin, while the sensor unit carrier 130 may be held in the insertion position.

[0119] The sensor unit carrier 130 includes a sensor unit carrier body 1310 that constitutes the framework of the sensor unit carrier 130, and the sensor unit carrier body 1310 may be provided with a second movement space 1312 that is open at the front. The needle carrier 140 can be moved to a retracted position via the second movement space 1312 after the transcutaneous sensor member 330 has been inserted subcutaneously. A fourth opening 1312 that connects the outside to the second movement space 1312 may be formed through one end of the sensor unit carrier body 1310 adjacent to the third opening 1106 formed in the body housing 110. The needle body 1402 may protrude to the outside of the sensor unit carrier body 1310 through the fourth opening 1312'. A fixing projection 1317 is provided on one end face of the sensor unit carrier body 1310 facing the third opening 1106, with the shape protruding toward the third opening 1106. The tip of the fixing projection 1317, which is inserted into the fixing groove 317 of the sensor unit 30, allows the sensor unit 30 to be firmly fixed by the sensor unit carrier 130.

[0120] A carrier guide projection 1310a, which protrudes outward, may be provided at the corner of the side end of the sensor unit carrier body 1310 along the first direction. The tip of the carrier guide projection 1310a is positioned inside a carrier guide groove 1114 formed in the column 1110, and can guide the direction of movement of the sensor unit carrier body 1310 as it moves along the first direction by the carrier guide projection 1310a and the carrier guide groove 1114. A needle carrier guide projection 1313 may be provided on the inner side surface of the sensor unit carrier body 1310 that forms the second movement space 1312, protruding from the inner side surface of the sensor unit carrier body 1310 toward the center of the second movement space 1312 and extending along the first direction. The tip of the needle carrier guide projection 1313 is positioned inside the needle guide groove 1415 formed in the needle carrier body 1410, which will be described later. The needle carrier guide projection 1313 and the needle guide groove 1415 can guide the direction of movement of the needle carrier 140, which moves in a direction opposite to the first direction.

[0121] A sliding groove 1319 may be provided on the inner side surface of the sensor unit carrier body 1310 adjacent to the handle housing 120. This groove is recessed from the inner side surface of the tip end of the sensor unit carrier body 1310 and extends along the first direction. Preferably, the sliding groove 1319 is formed adjacent to the open front side of the second movement space 1312. A sensor unit carrier detent 1318, which has a detent inclined surface 1318a and a detent restraining surface 1318b, may be placed in the sliding groove 1319. In order to maintain the state in which the needle carrier latch 1434 of the needle carrier 140 (described later) is restrained by the sensor unit carrier detent 1318, the needle carrier 140 can move in the first direction together with the sensor unit carrier 130 during the subcutaneous insertion process of the transcutaneous sensor member 330. The detent restraint surface 1318b may be formed along a direction substantially parallel to the second direction, and the detent inclined surface 1318a may be inclined to be adjacent to the sliding groove 1319 along a direction opposite to the first direction from one protruding end of the detent restraint surface 1318b.

[0122] The extending arm 1320 may be provided in a shape that protrudes outward from both outer surfaces of the sensor unit carrier body 1310 and extends along the first direction. An extending arm connection portion 1322 may be provided between the sensor unit carrier body 1310 and the extending arm 1320. An extending arm guide groove 1324 may be recessed in the extending arm connection portion 1322 along the first direction. Preferably, the extending arm guide groove 1324 is formed in a position and shape corresponding to the carrier slit 1117 of the column 1110. As the sensor unit carrier body 1310 moves along a first direction to insert the transcutaneous sensor member 330 subcutaneously, the extended arm connection portion 1322, which has an extended arm guide groove 1324 formed therein, flows into the carrier slit 1117 of the column 1110. The carrier slit 1117 and the extended arm guide groove 1324 not only guide the direction of movement of the sensor unit carrier 130 as it moves in the first direction, but also eliminate interference of the column 1110 with the movement of the sensor unit carrier 130 in the first direction.

[0123] A second acceleration latch 1328 may be provided on one surface of the extending arm 1320 facing the sensor unit carrier body 1310, projecting toward the sensor unit carrier body 1310. The second acceleration latch 1328 may have a support surface 1328b formed in a direction substantially parallel to the second direction, and an inclined surface 1328a that is inclined to be adjacent to the one surface of the extending arm 1320, gradually moving toward the one surface of the extending arm 1320 along the first direction from the protruding end of the support surface 1328b. Through interaction with the first acceleration latch 1118 provided on the body housing 110, the second acceleration latch 1328 can prevent arbitrary ejection of the applicator 10 in situations unintended by the user, provide sufficient acceleration conditions to the needle body 1402 when the transcutaneous sensor member 330 is inserted subcutaneously, and prevent the sensor unit carrier 130 from moving in the direction opposite to the first direction after the transcutaneous sensor member 330 has been inserted subcutaneously.

[0124] When the sensor unit carrier 130 is in its initial position, the inclined surface 1119a of the first acceleration latch 1118 and the inclined surface 1328a of the second acceleration latch 1328 are separated from each other while facing each other, or they remain in contact. When the user presses the handle housing 120 in the first direction and the sensor unit carrier 130 moves in the first direction, the inclined surface 1119a of the first acceleration latch 1118 and the inclined surface 1328a of the second acceleration latch 1328 move while rubbing against each other while in contact, and at this time the extending arm 1320 may deform outward. Subsequently, as the sensor unit carrier 130 moves toward the first direction, the inclined surface 1328a of the second acceleration latch 1328 is released from contact with the inclined surface 1119a of the first acceleration latch 1118, and the support surface 1119b of the first acceleration latch 1118 and the support surface 1328b of the second acceleration latch 1328 may switch to a state where they face each other. After the support surfaces 1119b of the first acceleration latch 1118 and the support surface 1328b of the second acceleration latch 1328 switch to a state where they face each other, the transcutaneous sensor member 330 is inserted subcutaneously, and after the subcutaneous insertion of the transcutaneous sensor member 330, the opposing support surfaces 1119b of the first acceleration latch 1118 and 1328b of the second acceleration latch 1328 can restrict the movement of the sensor unit carrier 130 in the direction opposite to the first direction. In relation to the shapes of the first acceleration latch 1118 and the second acceleration latch 1328, a latch structure having a wedge-shaped cross-section including inclined surfaces 1119a, 1328a and support surfaces 1119b, 1328b has been described as an example. However, the shapes of the first acceleration latch 1118 and the second acceleration latch 1328 are not necessarily limited to this. Any structure that can prevent the applicator 10 from being ejected unintentionally by the user through interaction, provide sufficient acceleration conditions to the needle body 1402 when the transcutaneous sensor member 330 is inserted subcutaneously, and prevent the sensor unit carrier 130 from moving in the direction opposite to the first direction after the transcutaneous sensor member 330 has been inserted subcutaneously can be modified and applied in various ways.The first acceleration latch 1118 and the second acceleration latch 1328 may, through interaction, be means to prevent the applicator 10 from being arbitrarily ejected in a situation unintended by the user, means to provide sufficient acceleration conditions to the needle body 1402 when inserting the transcutaneous sensor member 330 into the subcutaneous tissue, or means to prevent the sensor unit carrier 130 from moving in a direction opposite to the first direction after the transcutaneous sensor member 330 has been inserted into the subcutaneous tissue.

[0125] The bridge 1330 may be positioned between the extending arm 1320 and the sensor unit carrier body 1310. The bridge 1330 may be configured to restrict the movement of the sensor unit carrier from its initial position to its insertion position. The bridge 1330 may be configured to break or deform when pressurized by the bridge pressurizing section 1116. One end and the other end of the bridge 1330 may be provided to be connected to one side of the sensor unit carrier body 1310 and to one side of the extending arm 1320 facing the sensor unit carrier body 1310, respectively. Alternatively, only one end of the bridge 1330 may be provided to be connected to one side of the sensor unit carrier body 1310 or to one side of the extending arm 1320 facing the sensor unit carrier body 1310. The bridge 1330 is preferably formed at a position on the column 1110 facing the bridge pressurizing section 1116, and the bridge 1330 may have one or more fragile portions 1332 having a relatively thin thickness or relatively low rigidity. The vulnerable area 1332 may refer to the region that is intended to be severed when the bridge 1330 is pressurized by the bridge pressurizing section 1116.

[0126] An extending arm pushing portion 1326 having an inclined surface 1326a may be provided projecting in the first direction from the end of the extending arm 1320. When the sensor unit carrier 130 moves along the first direction to the insertion position, the extending arm pushing portion 1326 pressurizes the pressed portion 1165 provided on the transmitting unit support hook 1162. The pressurization of the pressed portion 1165 by the extending arm pushing portion 1326 causes the transmitting unit support hook 1162 to deform outward away from the transmitting unit 40, thereby releasing the restriction on the movement of the transmitting unit 40 by the locking portion 1164. The inclined surface 1326a formed on the extending arm pushing portion 1326 and the inclined surface 1165a formed on the pressed portion 1165 are not particularly limited as long as they are shaped to allow the transmitting unit support hook 1162 to deform outward away from the transmitting unit 40 when the pressed portion 1165 is pressed by the extending arm pushing portion 1326. It is preferable that the extended arm pushing portion 1326 is formed in a position where it can pressurize the pushed portion 1165 at the same time as the sensor unit carrier 130 reaches the insertion position, or immediately before the sensor unit carrier 130 reaches the insertion position.

[0127] A sensor unit carrier ring portion 1316, on which an elastic member 150 (described later) is fixedly positioned, may be provided at one end of the second movable space 1312 adjacent to the handle housing 120. On the other hand, a fixing groove 1340 having a shape corresponding to the fixing projection 1137 may be recessed on one surface of the sensor unit carrier body 1310 opposite to the second movable space 1312, and it is preferable that the fixing groove 1340 is recessed at a position corresponding to the fixing projection 1137 when the sensor unit carrier 130 is in its initial position.

[0128] Needle carrier Figure 19 is a perspective view illustrating the coupling relationship of the needle carrier 140, Figure 20 is a perspective view showing an exemplary embodiment of the needle carrier 140, and Figure 21 is a front view illustrating the coupling relationship between the needle carrier 140 and the sensor unit carrier 130.

[0129] The needle carrier 140 may be provided with a needle 1401 for subcutaneous insertion of the transcutaneous sensor member 330, and move along a first direction together with the sensor unit carrier 130 and the sensor unit 30, and after subcutaneous insertion of the transcutaneous sensor member 330, move in the opposite direction to the first direction in a second movement space 1312 to remove the needle body 1402 from the subcutaneous tissue.

[0130] The needle carrier 140 may include a needle 1401 and a needle carrier body 1410. The needle carrier body 1410 may be capable of fixing the needle 1401 and may be configured to move together with the needle 1401. The needle 1401 may include a needle body 1402, one end of which is inserted subcutaneously for subcutaneous insertion of the transcutaneous sensor member 330, and a needle holder 1403 for fixing the needle body 1402. A needle holder insertion groove 1412 may be recessed at one end of the needle carrier body 1410 facing the fourth opening 1312', into which the needle holder 1403 is inserted and fixed. By inserting and fixing the needle holder 1403 into the needle holder insertion groove 1412, the needle 1401 can be fixed to the needle carrier body 1410. When the needle carrier 140 is in the initial position and insertion position, the needle body 1402 may be discharged to the outside through the fourth opening 1312', and when the needle carrier 140 returns to the retracted position, the needle body 1402 may flow in through the fourth opening 1312' and be positioned inside the second movement space 1312.

[0131] A needle guide groove 1415 may be provided on one side of the needle carrier body 1410, having a shape that recesses from the side of the needle carrier body 1410 and extends along the first direction. The tip of the aforementioned needle carrier guide projection 1313 is positioned inside the needle guide groove 1415, and the interaction between the needle carrier guide projection 1313 and the needle guide groove 1415 can guide the direction of movement of the needle carrier 140 so that it moves in a direction opposite to the first direction.

[0132] The needle carrier wing bodies 1430 may be provided in pairs, extending from both ends of the needle carrier body 1410 in a direction opposite to the first direction. The needle carrier wing bodies 1430 may be provided so as to deform when an external force is applied and return to their original state after the external force is removed. The tip of the needle carrier wing body 1430 may be provided with a needle carrier latch 1434 and a trigger 1432. The needle carrier latch 1434 may include a restraining surface 1434b formed in a direction substantially parallel to the second direction, and an inclined surface 1434a that is inclined from one end of the protruding restraining surface 1434b toward the needle carrier wing body 1430 toward the first direction. The trigger 1432 may be provided in a shape that protrudes more outward than the needle carrier latch 1434. The trigger 1432 may be provided with a trigger inclined portion 1433 such that the cross-section of the trigger 1432 decreases along the first direction. The trigger 1432 is preferably positioned outside the second movement space 1312.

[0133] Before the applicator assembly 1 is activated, or when the needle carrier 140 moves along the first direction, the restraining surface 1434b of the needle carrier latch 1434 maintains contact with the detent restraining surface 1318b of the sensor unit carrier detent 1318, thereby restricting the relative movement of the needle carrier 140 with respect to the sensor unit carrier 130. In other words, when the restraining surface 1434b of the needle carrier latch 1434 is in contact with the detent restraining surface 1318b of the sensor unit carrier detent 1318, the needle carrier 140 cannot move independently, and the needle carrier 140 can only move together with the sensor unit carrier 130 when the sensor unit carrier 130 moves while restrained by it. During the subcutaneous insertion process of the transcutaneous sensor member 330, when the needle carrier 140 moves to a position adjacent to the insertion position, the trigger inclined portion 1433 of the trigger 1432 comes into contact with the tip of the partition wall 1112, causing the needle carrier wing body 1430 to deform inward into the second movement space 1312. As the needle carrier wing body 1430 deforms inward into the second movement space 1312, the restraining surface 1434b of the needle carrier latch 1434 can release its contact restraint with the detent restraining surface 1318b of the sensor unit carrier detent 1318. When the restraining surface of the needle carrier latch 1434 is released from contact with the detent restraining surface 1318b of the sensor unit carrier detent 1318, the needle carrier latch 1434 can move over the sensor unit carrier detent 1318, and the elastic force applied from the elastic member 150 allows the needle carrier 140 to move in the opposite direction to the first direction and reach the retracted position. To achieve objectives such as preventing pain due to excessive insertion of the needle body 1402 into body B, it is preferable that the restraining constraint on the sensor unit carrier 130 relative to the needle carrier 140 is released before the sensor unit carrier 130 reaches the insertion position.In this case, even if the needle carrier 140 moves in the direction opposite to the first direction, the sensor unit carrier 130 maintains the state in which it is pressurizing the sensor unit 30 toward the first direction. Therefore, due to the inherent rigidity of the transcutaneous sensor member 330, the transcutaneous sensor member 330 can be accurately inserted into the target subcutaneous position.

[0134] Multiple grip arms 1422 may be provided in a shape that extends along the first direction from the other two ends of the needle carrier body 1410. The tips of the grip arms 1422 are provided with grip portions 1423 that project inward, and the side ends of the sensor unit housing 310 may be gripped by the grip portions 1423. The grip arm projections 1424 may be formed to project from one side of the grip arm 1422 facing the partition wall of the column 1110, and when the needle carrier 140 is in its initial position, the grip arm projections 1424 can be positioned inside the grip arm guide groove 1120 before passing the first stepped inclined surface 1123, or they can pass the first stepped inclined surface 1123 and maintain a state of close contact and pressure by the stepped portion 1121. During the subcutaneous insertion process of the transcutaneous sensor member 330, the grip arm protrusion 1424 passes through the second stepped inclined surface 1124, and the pressure on the grip arm protrusion 1424 by the stepped portion 1121 is released, allowing the sensor unit 30 to transmit to the transmission unit 40 with each grip arm 1422 slightly spread outwards.

[0135] A needle carrier ring portion 1414 is provided at one end of the needle carrier body 1410 facing the sensor unit carrier ring portion 1316, and the other end of an elastic member 150, one end of which is connected to the sensor unit carrier ring portion 1316, may be connected to the needle carrier ring portion 1414. The elastic member 150 can be any means capable of providing a driving force to move the needle carrier 140 in the direction opposite to the first direction, but a tension spring is preferably used.

[0136] cap Figure 22 is an exploded perspective view showing an exemplary embodiment of the cap 50, and Figure 23 is a cross-sectional view of the cap 50 cut along the E-E' direction in Figure 22. Figures 24 to 26 are partially enlarged cross-sectional views showing exemplary embodiments of the applicator assembly 1 to which the cap 50 is applied.

[0137] The cap 50 may be fixedly positioned on one end of the applicator 10 in a releasable manner. Since the applicator assembly 1 includes the cap 50, it can effectively prevent any unintended ejection of the applicator 10 or the inflow of external contaminants or moisture into the applicator assembly 1, which may occur during the manufacturing, distribution, storage, and use of the applicator assembly 1.

[0138] The cap 50 may include a cap housing 501 that forms the outer shape of the cap 50. Inside the cap housing 501, a housing space 503 may be formed that communicates with the outside through a fifth opening 502 formed at one end of the cap housing 501. The inner surface of the end of the cap housing 501 where the fifth opening 502 is formed may be provided with a threaded portion 540 that corresponds in shape to the threaded portion 1240 formed on the handle housing 120. By screw-connecting the threaded portion 1240 formed on the handle housing 120 and the threaded portion 540 formed on the cap housing 501, the cap 50 can be detachably screw-connected to one end of the handle housing 120. The outer surface of the cap housing 501 may be recessed with a plurality of grip grooves 505 to facilitate the work or use of the operator or user.

[0139] On the other hand, although the drawing shows a cup-shaped cap housing 501, the shape of the cap housing 501 of the present invention is not necessarily limited to this, and the shape of the cap housing 501 can be modified in various ways as long as it is a shape that can protect and dehumidify the inside of the applicator 10. The cap housing 501 may also be a means for protecting and dehumidifying the inside of the applicator 10. However, since one end of the cap housing 501 on which the threaded portion 540 is formed is intended to be screw-connected to the threaded portion 1240 formed on the handle housing 120, it is preferable that the end of the cap housing 501 on which the threaded portion 540 is formed is provided in a cylindrical shape corresponding to the end of the handle housing 120.

[0140] A recessed housing groove 504, recessed from the outside toward the housing space 503, may be provided at the other closed end of the cap housing 501 facing the fifth opening 502. Multiple vents 507 connecting the housing groove 504 and the housing space 503 may be formed through the other end of the cap housing 501 that forms the housing groove 504. A first sealing member 510, a desiccant 512, and a second sealing member 514 may be arranged in order in the housing groove 504, moving outward from one side of the vents 507. The first sealing member 510 is preferably made of a material that allows air to pass through but not moisture, and as a non-limiting example, DuPont's Tyvek material can be used. The first sealing member 510 can effectively prevent moisture from flowing into the housing space 503. The desiccant 512 is preferably made of a material having a dehumidifying function applicable to electronic or medical devices. The desiccant 512 can remove moisture that has flowed into the housing space 503. The second sealing member 514 is positioned to seal the containment groove 504 from the outside and may be manufactured using a material that prevents the permeation of moisture and external sources of contamination. In a non-limiting example, the second sealing member 514 may be manufactured using aluminum packaging paper. Because the first sealing member 510, the desiccant 512, and the second sealing member 514 are arranged in order within the containment groove 504 which communicates with the containment space 503 via the vent 507, not only can moisture that has flowed into the containment space 503 be effectively removed, but contaminants or moisture from the outside can also be effectively prevented from flowing into the containment space 503.

[0141] As shown in Figure 26, a pair of ring-shaped sealing members 508a and 508b may be provided at the tip of the cap housing 501, and a caulking member 1243 may be provided protruding from one surface of a locking projection 1242 corresponding to the tip of the cap housing 501. When the threaded portion 540 formed on the cap housing 501 and the threaded portion 1240 formed on the handle housing 120 are screw-connected to each other, and the cap 50 is connected to one end of the handle housing 120, the sealing members 508a and 508b tightly press against the caulking member 1243, effectively preventing external contaminants or moisture from flowing into the space between the handle housing 120 and the cap 50. The caulking member 1243 and the sealing members 508a and 508b may be integrally injection-molded together with the handle housing 120 and the cap housing 501, or they may be manufactured using a self-elastic material such as rubber or silicone.

[0142] The assembly and operation processes of the applicator 10 and applicator assembly 1 will be described in more detail below with reference to Figures 27 to 46.

[0143] Exemplary Embodiments of the Function of the Fixing Part Figure 27 is a partial cross-sectional view showing an exemplary embodiment of the applicator assembly 1 with the sensor unit carrier 130 attached to the body housing 110 during the assembly process, and Figures 28 and 29 are partial cross-sectional views showing exemplary embodiments of the process of attaching the handle housing 120 to the body housing 110 with the sensor unit carrier 130 attached during the assembly process of the applicator assembly 1. Figure 30 is an enlarged cross-sectional view showing an exemplary embodiment of the applicator assembly 1 with the tip of the fixed projection 1137 inserted into the fixed groove 1340 during the assembly process, and Figure 31 is an enlarged cross-sectional view showing an exemplary embodiment of the applicator assembly 1 with the tip of the fixed projection 1137 ejected from the fixed groove 1340 during the assembly process.

[0144] As shown in Figures 27 and 30, during the assembly process of the body housing 110 and the sensor unit carrier 130, the sensor unit carrier body 1310 may be inserted into the column 1110 that forms the first moving space 1111. During the insertion of the sensor unit carrier body 1310 into the column 1110, the fixed projection 1137 contacts one surface of the sensor unit carrier body 1310, and the support base 1134 can maintain an outwardly deformed state. As the sensor unit carrier body 1310 moves along the first direction, the support base 1134 maintains its outwardly deformed state, and as the fixed groove 1340 formed in the sensor unit carrier body 1310 reaches a position corresponding to the fixed projection 1137, the support base 1134 can recover from its deformed state to its original state. That is, as the tip of the fixed projection 1137 flows into the fixed groove 1340, the pressurized moving part 1131 moves toward the sensor unit carrier body 1310, and the support base 1134 can also recover from its deformation.

[0145] The tip of the fixed projection 1137 flows into the fixed groove 1340, thereby restricting the movement of the sensor unit carrier 130 in the first direction. During the assembly process of the applicator assembly 1, the worker can recognize that the tip of the fixed projection 1137 has properly flowed into the fixed groove 1340 by the sound of parts colliding or by the sensation transmitted to their fingertips.

[0146] Subsequently, the worker can perform the task of attaching the handle housing 120 to the body housing 110 to which the sensor unit carrier 130 is attached. When attaching the handle housing 120 to the body housing 110 to which the sensor unit carrier 130 is attached, the sensor unit carrier 130 may be pressurized by the handle housing 120 that enters for assembly, which may cause arbitrary ejection or displacement of the sensor unit carrier 130 from its initial position. However, when assembling the handle housing 120 with the tip of the fixed projection 1137 flowing into the fixed groove 1340, arbitrary ejection of the applicator 10 or displacement of the sensor unit carrier 130 can be effectively prevented.

[0147] As shown in Figures 28, 29, and 31, during the process of connecting the handle housing 120 to the body housing 110 to which the sensor unit carrier 130 is attached, the tip of the push arm 1230 provided on the handle housing 120 moves to a position where it contacts the pressurizing inclined surface 1133a of the pressurizing moving wing portion 1133. As the assembly of the handle housing 120 proceeds, the tip of the push arm 1230 moves in a first direction while in contact with the pressurizing inclined surface 1133a, pressurizing the pressurizing moving wing portion 1133, causing the support base 1134 to deform outward and the pressurizing moving portion 1131 to be pushed away from the sensor unit carrier body 1310. As the pressurizing moving portion 1131 is pushed away from the sensor unit carrier body 1310, the tip of the fixed projection 1137 can be discharged from the fixed groove 1340. As the tip of the fixed projection 1137 is discharged from the fixed groove 1340, the restriction on arbitrary movement of the sensor unit carrier 130 by the fixed part 1130 is released, and the sensor unit carrier 130 can maintain a state in which it can move regardless of the fixed part 1130.

[0148] Exemplary Embodiments for the Operation of a Needle Carrier Figures 32 to 34 are partial cross-sectional views sequentially showing exemplary embodiments of the state in which the sensor unit carrier 130 moves from the initial position to the insertion position during the operation of the applicator assembly 1, and Figure 35 is a partial cross-sectional view showing exemplary embodiments of the state in which the needle carrier 140 moves to the retracted position during the operation of the applicator assembly 1.

[0149] As shown in Figure 32, as the sensor unit carrier 130 moves from its initial position toward the insertion position, the restraining surface 1434b of the needle carrier latch 1434 maintains contact with the detent restraining surface 1318b of the sensor unit carrier detent 1318. This allows the needle carrier 140 to remain restrained by the sensor unit carrier 130 and move together with the sensor unit carrier 130 along the first direction.

[0150] As shown in Figure 33, when the sensor unit carrier 130 reaches a position adjacent to the insertion position, the trigger inclined portion 1433 of the trigger 1432 abuts against the tip of the partition wall 1112. On the other hand, as shown in Figure 34, as the sensor unit carrier 130 continues to move in the first direction, the needle carrier wing body 1430 deforms inward into the second movement space 1312, thereby allowing the restraining surface 1434b of the needle carrier latch 1434 and the detent restraining surface 1318b of the sensor unit carrier detent 1318 to shift away from the position where they abut each other. Therefore, the needle carrier latch 1434 is released from the restraint of the sensor unit carrier detent 1318, and the needle carrier 140 becomes able to move relative to the sensor unit carrier 130. On the other hand, as shown in Figures 33 and 34, the release of the restraint on the movement of the needle carrier 140 by the sensor unit carrier 130 may be performed before the sensor unit carrier 130 reaches the insertion position, thereby effectively preventing the occurrence of side effects due to excessive insertion of the needle body 1402 into body B.

[0151] As shown in Figure 35, after the needle carrier latch 1434 is released from restraint by the sensor unit carrier detent 1318, the needle carrier 140 can move relative to the sensor unit carrier 130, and the driving force applied from the elastic member 150 allows the needle carrier 140 to move in the opposite direction to the first direction and reach the retracted position. When the needle carrier 140 reaches the retracted position, the tip of the needle body 1402 is positioned so that it is completely housed within the first movement space 1111, thereby maintaining a state in which the needle body 1402 is not further exposed or protruding outside the applicator 10.

[0152] Exemplary Embodiments of Bridge Action Figure 36 is a partial cross-sectional view showing an exemplary embodiment of the state before the bridge 1330 is cut during the operation of the applicator assembly 1, and Figure 37 is a partial cross-sectional view showing an exemplary embodiment of the state after the bridge 1330 has been cut during the operation of the applicator assembly 1. Figures 38 and 39 are partial cross-sectional views showing exemplary embodiments of the deformable bridge and bridge pressurizing section.

[0153] The specific configuration of the bridge 1330 and the bridge pressurization section 1116, as well as the interaction between the bridge 1330 and the bridge pressurization section 1116, will be explained in more detail below with reference to Figures 12, 15 to 18, and 36 to 39.

[0154] As shown in Figures 17 and 18, the bridge 1330 may be positioned to connect the extending arm 1320 and the sensor unit carrier body 1310 in the space between the extending arm 1320 and the sensor unit carrier body 1310. That is, one end and the other end of the bridge 1330 may be connected to one side of the sensor unit carrier body 1310 and to one side of the extending arm 1320 facing the sensor unit carrier body 1310, respectively. The bridge 1330 may be positioned between the extending arm connection portion 1322 and the second acceleration latch 1328. During assembly of the applicator assembly 1, one end of the sensor unit carrier body 1310 flows into the first moving space 1111 formed inside the column 1110, and as the sensor unit carrier body 1310 continues to flow into the first moving space 1111, the bridge 1330 may be positioned facing the bridge pressurizing portion 1116 provided in the column 1110. The following explanation will use the example of a case where the bridge 1330 is positioned at a certain distance from the bridge pressurizing section 1116 before the injection of the applicator assembly 1, but it may also include a state in which the bridge 1330 is in contact with the bridge pressurizing section 1116 before the injection of the applicator assembly 1.

[0155] The bridge 1330 may have one or more weak portions 1332 having a relatively thin thickness. The weak portions 1332 are areas where the bridge pressurizing portion 1116 is intended to be cut, and it is preferable that the weak portions 1332 are designed to be cut only when a force is transmitted by the user to press the handle housing 120 for the purpose of subcutaneous insertion of the transcutaneous sensor member 330. Here, the force applied by the user to the handle housing 120 for the purpose of subcutaneous insertion of the transcutaneous sensor member 330 does not mean the level of force normally applied to the handle housing 120 during the assembly and transport of the applicator assembly 1, but rather it is preferable that it is interpreted as the level of force applied by the user of the applicator assembly 1 to the handle housing 120 when intending to eject the transcutaneous sensor member 330. On the other hand, while the above describes a region having a thickness thinner than the average thickness of the bridge 1330 as an example of a weak region 1332, the weak region 1332 is not necessarily limited to a structure with a relatively thin thickness. It may also be interpreted as meaning a region with lower fracture strength compared to the entire bridge 1330, achieved by applying a different material or a weak structure.

[0156] As shown in Figures 12, 15, and 16, a bridge pressurizing section 1116 having one or more inclined surfaces and a shape in which the cross-section decreases toward the tip may be provided at the tip of the partition wall 1112. When the applicator assembly 1 is assembled, the sensor unit carrier body 1310 flows into the first moving space 1111, so that at least one end of the carrier guide projection 1310a is positioned inside the carrier guide groove 1114, thereby allowing the bridge 1330 to be positioned opposite the bridge pressurizing section 1116. On the other hand, the partition wall 1112 on which the bridge pressurizing section 1116 is located is provided with a carrier slit 1117 formed by cutting along the first direction at a position adjacent to the bridge pressurizing section 1116, and the extending arm connection section 1322 located between the sensor unit carrier body 1310 and the extending arm 1320 has an extending arm guide groove 1324 that is recessed to a shape corresponding to the carrier slit 1117 and extends along the first direction, so that the bridge 1330 can be effectively prevented from detaching from the position corresponding to the bridge pressurizing section 1116 during the process of pressurizing the bridge 1330 by the bridge pressurizing section 1116. In other words, as the sensor unit carrier 130 moves along the first direction, at least one end of the extending arm guide groove 1324 flows into the interior of the carrier slit 1117 and guides the movement of the sensor unit carrier body 1310 in the first direction, so that the bridge 1330 can be effectively prevented from detaching from the tip of the bridge pressurizing section 1116 during the subcutaneous insertion process of the transcutaneous sensor member 330.

[0157] Figures 12, 15 to 18 illustrate a case in which, as the sensor unit carrier 130 moves along a first direction, the bridge 1330 is positioned so that at least one end of the extending arm guide groove 1324 flows into the carrier slit 1117, after the pressurization of the bridge 1330 by the bridge pressurization unit 1116 has been disclosed. However, it may also include a case in which the bridge 1330 is positioned so that at least one end of the extending arm guide groove 1324 can flow into the carrier slit 1117 immediately before or simultaneously with the pressurization of the bridge 1330 by the bridge pressurization unit 1116.

[0158] As shown in Figure 36, when the sensor unit carrier 130 is in its initial position, the bridge 1330 may be in contact with the bridge pressurizing section 1116, or it may be positioned at a certain distance away from the bridge pressurizing section 1116.

[0159] As shown in Figure 37, when the sensor unit carrier 130 moves in the first direction for subcutaneous insertion of the transcutaneous sensor member 330, the bridge 1330 moves to a position where it abuts against and is pressurized by the bridge pressurizing portion 1116, and the bridge 1330 may break only if a force greater than the designed breaking strength is applied to the bridge 1330. In other words, the transcutaneous sensor member 330 is injected only when a force greater than the designed breaking strength of the bridge 1330 is applied to the handle housing 120, so that the needle body 1402 can be inserted subcutaneously together with the transcutaneous sensor member 330 under sufficient acceleration conditions.

[0160] On the other hand, if the bridge 1330 does not break despite the movement of the sensor unit carrier 130 in the first direction, the bridge 1330 remains caught in the bridge pressurizing section 1116, preventing the sensor unit carrier 130 from moving any further in the first direction. In other words, the bridge 1330 and the bridge pressurizing section 1116 allow subcutaneous insertion of the transcutaneous sensor member 330 only when a force exceeding a certain level is applied to the handle housing 120. Thus, through the interaction of the bridge 1330 and the bridge pressurizing section 1116, it is possible to effectively prevent the user from unintentionally ejecting the transcutaneous sensor member 330.

[0161] As shown in Figures 36 and 37, the bridge 1330 may be provided with a first vulnerable portion 1332' and a second vulnerable portion 1332'' that are spaced apart from each other. Between the first vulnerable portion 1332' and the second vulnerable portion 1332'', there may be a contact portion 1333 which is intended to come into contact with the tip of the bridge pressurizing portion 1116 as the sensor unit carrier 130 moves in a first direction. When the sensor unit carrier 130 moves in a first direction, the bridge 1330 may deform after the tip of the bridge pressurizing portion 1116 comes into contact with a specific region of the bridge 1330, and the tip of the bridge pressurizing portion 1116 may come into contact with multiple regions of the bridge 1330, but the contact portion 1333 may mean the region in which the tip of the bridge pressurizing portion 1116 first comes into contact with the bridge 1330 as the sensor unit carrier 130 moves in a first direction.

[0162] The first weak point 1332' and the second weak point 1332'' may have an average thickness that is relatively thin with respect to the average thickness of the bridge 1330. The first weak point 1332' may have an even thinner thickness than the second weak point 1332''. The first direction thickness of the first weak point 1332' may be even thinner than the first direction thickness of the second weak point 1332''. The second direction thickness of the first weak point 1332' may be even thinner than the second direction thickness of the second weak point 1332''. Because the first weak point 1332' is provided to have a thinner thickness than the second weak point 1332'', when the tip of the bridge pressurizing portion 1116 pressurizes the contact portion 1333, fracture may occur at the first weak point 1332' and bending may occur at the second weak point 1332''. Depending on the thickness difference between the first weak point 1332' and the second weak point 1332'', and the formation positions of the first weak point 1332' and the second weak point 1332'', the boundary value of the force that must be applied to the applicator assembly 1 to move the sensor unit carrier 130 from the initial position to the insertion position can be variably adjusted.

[0163] The first weak part 1332' may be arranged relatively adjacent to the sensor unit carrier body 1310 compared to the second weak part 1332'', and the contact part 1333 may be arranged more adjacent by the first weak part 1332' compared to the second weak part 1332'' (da < db). When the tip of the bridge pressing part 1116 presses the contact part 1333 and a break occurs in the first weak part 1332', the contact part 1333 is pushed out in the direction opposite to the first direction compared to the first weak part 1332' and the second weak part 1332'', and thereby, the bridge pressing part 1116 and the second weak part 1332'' may be arranged outside the partition wall 1112. When the first weak part 1332' is broken, since the contact part 1333 is arranged in the outer region of the partition wall 1112, it is possible to effectively prevent the fragments generated in the cutting process of the bridge 1330 from falling to the sensor unit 30 or the transmitter unit 40 side. That is, it is possible to more effectively prevent the occurrence of a connection failure or a malfunction of the wearable unit 20 that may occur when the fragments of the bridge 1330 formed in the subcutaneous insertion process of the transcutaneous sensor member 330 flow into the connection part of the sensor unit 30 and the transmitter unit 40.

[0164] Hereinafter, exemplary embodiments and modifications of the bridge 1330 and the bridge pressing part 1116 will be described more specifically with reference to FIGS. 38 and 39.

[0165] Fig. 38(a) is a partial cross-sectional view showing an enlarged view of the bridge 1330 and the bridge pressing portion 1116 in the portion indicated by the dotted line in Fig. 36. As shown in Fig. 38(a), the fragile portion 1332 is preferably arranged closer to the sensor unit carrier body 1310 than the tip of the bridge pressing portion 1116. That is, the distance d1 from one surface of the sensor unit carrier body 1310 to the fragile portion 1332 where the bridge 1330 is connected may be shorter than the distance d2 from one surface of the sensor unit carrier body 1310 to the tip of the bridge pressing portion 1116 where the bridge 1330 is connected. When the sensor unit carrier 130 moves in the first direction, the bridge 1330 is cut, and the fragments of the cut bridge 1330 flow into the first moving space 1111, which may inhibit the subcutaneous insertion of the normal transcutaneous sensor member 330 or the body discharge of the needle body 1402, causing serious safety problems. When the fragile portion 1332 is formed at a position closer to one surface of the sensor unit carrier body 1310 than the tip of the bridge pressing portion 1116 (d1 < d2), even if the breakage occurs at the fragile portion 1332, the bridge 1330 connected to the extending arm 1320 can maintain the state of being arranged outside the column 1110, so that a safety accident that may occur due to the fragments of the cut bridge 1330 flowing into the first moving space 1111 can be prevented in advance. On the other hand, in the process of the sensor unit carrier 130 moving along the first direction, at least one end of the extending arm guide groove 1324 flows into the carrier slit 1117 formed on one side of the bridge pressing portion 1116 to partially close the carrier slit 1117, so that the fragments of the cut bridge 1330 can be more effectively prevented from flowing into the first moving space 1111 through the carrier slit 1117.

[0166] As shown in Figure 38(b), one or more bridge pressurizing sections 1116a, 1116b may be positioned opposite the bridge 1330. By providing one or more bridge pressurizing sections 1116a, 1116b, it is possible to increase the pressurizing force applied to the bridge 1330, and even if one of the bridge pressurizing sections 1116a, 1116b fails to function properly due to negligence during the distribution and use of the applicator assembly 1, the other bridge pressurizing sections 1116a, 1116b can still properly pressurize the bridge 1330.

[0167] As shown in Figure 38(c), one or more bridge pressurizing sections 1116a, 1116b may be positioned opposite the bridge 1330, and these one or more bridge pressurizing sections 1116a, 1116b may be provided to have different tip heights Δh1. It is more preferable that the bridge pressurizing section 1116a adjacent to the sensor unit carrier body 1310 is positioned so that its tip is closer to the bridge 1330 than the bridge pressurizing section 1116b adjacent to the extending arm 1320. By positioning one or more bridge pressurizing sections 1116a, 1116b opposite the bridge 1330, not only can the pressurizing force applied to the bridge 1330 be effectively increased and assisted, but by providing a different tip height △h1 such that the tip of the bridge pressurizing section 1116a adjacent to the sensor unit carrier body 1310 is positioned closer to the bridge 1330 than the bridge pressurizing section 1116b adjacent to the extending arm 1320, it is possible to more effectively prevent fragments of the severed bridge 1330 from flowing into the first moving space 1111.

[0168] As shown in Figure 39(a), one or more bridges 1330a, 1330b may be positioned opposite the bridge pressurizing section 1116 in order to provide sufficient acceleration conditions and prevent arbitrary injection. As shown in Figures 39(b) and (c), one or more bridge pressurizing sections 1116a, 1116b may be positioned opposite the bridges 1330a, 1330b, or these one or more bridge pressurizing sections 1116a, 1116b may be provided so as to have different tip heights Δh2, from the viewpoint of increasing and assisting the pressurizing force and preventing fragments of the severed bridge 1330 from flowing into the first moving space 1111.

[0169] As shown in Figure 39(d), the system includes one or more bridges 1330a, 1330b, and one or more bridge pressurizing units 1116a, 1116b positioned at the locations corresponding to each of the bridges 1330a, 1330b, but may also include cases where these bridges 1330a, 1330b and bridge pressurizing units 1116a, 1116b are located in different regions. In other words, the first bridge 1330a is positioned opposite the first bridge pressurizing section 1116a, and the second bridge 1330b is positioned opposite the second bridge pressurizing section 1116b. However, the first bridge 1330a and the second bridge 1330b are positioned in different regions, and during the process of the sensor unit carrier 130 moving in the first direction, the first bridge pressurizing section 1116a pressurizes only the first bridge 1330a independently of the second bridge 1330b, and the second bridge pressurizing section 1116b pressurizes only the second bridge 1330b independently of the first bridge 1330a. In this case, multiple bridges 1330a, 1330b and multiple bridge pressurizing units 1116a, 1116b are arranged inside the applicator assembly 1. However, since the bridges 1330a, 1330b and bridge pressurizing units 1116a, 1116b that form pairs with each other are placed in different regions, not only is spatiality ensured, but by adjusting the distance between the corresponding bridges 1330a, 1330b and bridge pressurizing units 1116a, 1116b, it is possible to apply gradual acceleration conditions or create a more stringent injection suppression environment.

[0170] On the other hand, although the above explanation has used the example of a case where the bridge 1330 is arranged on the sensor unit carrier 130 and the bridge pressurizing section 1116 is arranged on the body housing 110, it may also include a case where the bridge pressurizing section is arranged on the sensor unit carrier 130 and a corresponding bridge is provided on the body housing 110.

[0171] Exemplary Embodiments of the Interaction between the First Movement Restriction Unit and the Second Movement Restriction Unit Figure 40 is a cross-sectional view and a partially enlarged cross-sectional view illustrating an exemplary embodiment of the positional relationship between the first movement limiting portion 1220 and the second movement limiting portion 1150 in the state before operation of the applicator assembly 1, and Figures 41(a) to (c) are partially enlarged cross-sectional views sequentially illustrating an exemplary embodiment of the positional relationship between the first movement limiting portion 1220 and the second movement limiting portion 1150 during the operation of the applicator assembly 1.

[0172] As shown in Figures 40 and 41(a), in the pre-operation state of the applicator assembly 1, the support surface 1222 of the first movement limiting portion 1220 and the first support surface 1153b of the first movement limiting latch 1152 may be positioned to face each other. Therefore, even if a force is applied to the handle housing 120 in a direction opposite to the first direction, the support surface 1222 of the first movement limiting portion 1220 and the first support surface 1153b of the first movement limiting latch 1152 will contact and support each other, preventing the handle housing 120 from moving any further in the direction opposite to the first direction. This effectively prevents the handle housing 120 from detaching from the body housing 110 at will.

[0173] On the other hand, as shown in Figures 41(b) and (c), during the injection process of the applicator assembly 1, the inclined surface 1221 of the first movement limiting portion 1220 moves to a position adjacent to the second inclined surface 1155a of the second movement limiting latch 1154. Subsequently, with the inclined surface 1221 of the first movement limiting portion 1220 and the second inclined surface 1155a of the second movement limiting latch 1154 in contact, the handle housing 120 moves in the first direction, the other end of the movement limiting body 1151 deforms toward the second internal space 1102, and the first movement limiting portion 1220 passes through the second movement limiting latch 1154. After the first movement limiting portion 1220 passes through the second movement limiting latch 1154, the movement limiting body 1151 returns to its pre-deformation state, and the support surface 1222 of the first movement limiting portion 1220 and the second support surface 1155b of the second movement limiting latch 1154 are placed facing each other. The interaction between the support surface 1222 of the first movement limiting section 1220 and the second support surface 1155b of the second movement limiting latch 1154 restricts the handle housing 120 from moving in the direction opposite to the first direction, thereby strictly limiting the reuse of the applicator 10 after the transcutaneous sensor member 330 has been injected.

[0174] Exemplary Embodiment of the Action of the Grip Arm Protrusion Figures 42 to 44 are cross-sectional views illustrating exemplary embodiments of pressurization and depressurization of the grip arm projection 1424 during the operation of the applicator assembly 1.

[0175] Figure 42 shows the applicator assembly 1 before operation, and the grip arm projection 1424 may be positioned so that it does not pass through the first stepped inclined surface 1123. That is, in order to maintain a state in which the grip arm projection 1424 is not pressurized by the stepped portion 1121, the grip arm 1422 can grip the sensor unit 30 in a somewhat loose manner. On the other hand, unlike in Figure 42, the grip arm projection 1424 may be positioned so that it has passed through the first stepped inclined surface 1123 before operation of the applicator assembly 1. In this case, the grip arm projection 1424 is pressurized by the stepped portion 1121, and the grip arm 1422 can maintain a state in which it firmly grips the sensor unit 30.

[0176] When the handle housing 120 is pressed in the first direction by the user, as shown in Figure 43, the grip arm projection 1424 moves in the first direction while maintaining pressure on the stepped portion 1121, and in this process, the sensor unit 30 can move toward the transmission unit 40 while maintaining a firm grip on the grip arm 1422.

[0177] Subsequently, as shown in Figure 44, the grip arm projection 1424 passes through the second stepped inclined surface 1124, the pressure on the grip arm projection 1424 by the stepped portion 1121 is released, and the grip arm 1422 can grasp the sensor unit 30 in a slightly loose state and transmit the sensor unit 30 to the transmitting unit 40. During the subcutaneous insertion process of the transcutaneous sensor member 330, the sensor unit 30 is continuously subjected to force in the first direction by the sensor unit housing 310. Therefore, even if the grip arm 1422 grasps the sensor unit 30 in a slightly loose state and transmits the sensor unit 30 to the transmitting unit 40, the sensor unit 30 can be accurately transmitted to the anchoring groove 412. On the other hand, since the grip arm 1422 grasps the sensor unit 30 in a slightly loose state and transmits the sensor unit 30 to the anchoring groove 412 of the transmission unit 40, operational errors that occur when the sensor unit 30 is pulled along by the needle carrier 140 during the process of the needle carrier 140 returning to its retracted position can be effectively prevented.

[0178] Exemplary Embodiments for the Operation of the Transmitter Unit Support Figures 45 and 46 are cross-sectional views illustrating exemplary embodiments of the movement constraint and release of the transmission unit 40 by the transmission unit support 1160 during the operation of the applicator assembly 1.

[0179] As shown in Figure 45, in the pre-operation state of the applicator assembly 1, the tip of the locking portion 1164 provided on the transmitting unit support hook 1162 is positioned inside the transmitting unit housing groove 417 of the transmitting unit housing 410, thereby effectively preventing the transmitting unit 40 from detaching arbitrarily from the transmitting unit housing 1104. In this case, the extended arm pushing portion 1326 provided on the sensor unit carrier 130 can maintain a state separated from the pressed portion 1165 of the transmitting unit support hook 1162. Since the transmitting unit 40 can be prevented from detaching arbitrarily from the transmitting unit housing 1104 by the transmitting unit support hook 1162 before the applicator assembly 1 is operated or during the subcutaneous insertion process of the transcutaneous sensor member 330, the economy and operational accuracy of the applicator assembly 1 can be effectively improved.

[0180] On the other hand, as shown in Figure 46, when the applicator assembly 1 is activated and the sensor unit carrier 130 moves to the insertion position, the extended arm pushing portion 1326 pressurizes the inclined surface 1165a formed on the pushed portion 1165, causing the transmitting unit support hook 1162 to deform and move away from the transmitting unit 40. This causes the tip of the locking portion 1164 to detach from the transmitting unit housing groove 417, thereby releasing the constraint on the movement of the transmitting unit 40 by the transmitting unit support hook 1162. The transmitting unit support portion 1160, through interaction with the extended arm pushing portion 1326, releases the constraint on the movement of the transmitting unit 40 by the transmitting unit support hook 1162 during the process in which the transcutaneous sensor member 330 is inserted subcutaneously. Therefore, in the process of separating the applicator 10 and the wearable unit 20 after the subcutaneous insertion of the transcutaneous sensor member 330 is complete, the wearable unit 20 can be effectively prevented from being pulled along by the applicator 10.

[0181] Although the present invention has been described in detail above with reference to embodiments, other forms of embodiments are also possible. Therefore, the technical idea and scope of the claims described below are not limited to these embodiments. [Explanation of symbols]

[0182] 1: Applicator Assembly 5: External terminals 10: Applicator 20: Wearable Unit 30: Sensor Unit 40: Transmitter Unit 50: Cap 110: Body Housing 120: Handle housing 130: Sensor Unit Carrier 140: Needle Carrier 150: Elastic member

Claims

1. A body housing with a movable space formed inside, A sensor unit carrier is provided so as to be movable in the aforementioned moving space, A bridge pressurizing section is provided in either the body housing or the sensor unit carrier, The bridge is provided on either the body housing or the sensor unit carrier and is positioned at a location corresponding to the bridge pressurization section, The bridge is an applicator that restricts the movement of the sensor unit carrier from its initial position to the insertion position by contacting the bridge pressurizing portion and preventing its movement.

2. The body housing is arranged to form the moving space inside the body housing and includes a column having the bridge pressurization portion at its end. The aforementioned sensor unit carrier is A sensor unit carrier body is provided, at least a portion of which is housed in the aforementioned moving space and which is configured to move along the aforementioned moving space, An extending arm extending from the side end of the sensor unit carrier body and positioned outside the column, The applicator according to claim 1, comprising: a bridge having one end connected to the sensor unit carrier body and the other end connected to the extending arm, and positioned opposite the bridge pressurizing portion.

3. The applicator according to claim 1, wherein when the sensor unit carrier is in the initial position, the bridge is in contact with the bridge pressurizing portion or is located at a position away from the bridge pressurizing portion.

4. The sensor unit carrier moves along the first direction from the initial position to the insertion position in the moving space. The applicator according to claim 1, wherein when the sensor unit carrier is located in the insertion position, at least a portion of the bridge is located in a position that overlaps with at least a portion of the bridge pressurizing portion.

5. A body housing in which a movable space is formed inside along a first direction, A sensor unit carrier is provided in the aforementioned moving space so as to be movable relative to the body housing, A bridge pressurizing section is provided in either the body housing or the sensor unit carrier, The bridge includes a bridge positioned in the body housing and the sensor unit carrier, which is in a position to contact the bridge pressurizing portion, so as to restrict the movement of the bridge pressurizing portion. An applicator in which the restriction on the movement of the sensor unit carrier in the first direction is released by the deformation of the bridge shape due to the pressurization of the bridge pressurization section.

6. The applicator according to claim 5, wherein the bridge has a weak area where shape deformation is concentrated compared to other areas when pressure is applied by the bridge pressurizing section.

7. The body housing is arranged to form the moving space inside the body housing and includes a column having the bridge pressurization portion at its end. The aforementioned sensor unit carrier is A sensor unit carrier body is provided, at least a portion of which is housed in the aforementioned moving space and which is configured to move along the aforementioned moving space, An extending arm extending from the side end of the sensor unit carrier body and positioned outside the column, The bridge includes, which has one end connected to the sensor unit carrier body and the other end connected to the extending arm, and is positioned opposite the bridge pressurizing portion. The applicator according to claim 6, wherein the vulnerable portion is formed closer to one surface of the sensor unit carrier body to which the bridge is connected than to the tip of the bridge pressurizing portion.

8. A carrier slit is provided at the tip of the column adjacent to the bridge pressurization section, which is formed by cutting along the first direction. On one surface of the extending arm connection portion, which is positioned between the sensor unit carrier body and the extending arm, an extending arm guide groove having a shape corresponding to the carrier slit is recessed along the first direction. The applicator according to claim 7, wherein the sensor unit carrier moves along a first direction, causing the extending arm guide groove to flow into the carrier slit, thereby guiding the movement of the sensor unit carrier in the first direction.

9. The applicator according to claim 6, wherein the vulnerable portion is formed to have a thinner thickness than the bridge.

10. The applicator according to claim 7, wherein the bridge pressurizing portion has at least one inclined surface and is positioned at the end of the column in a shape in which the cross-section decreases toward the bridge.

11. The bridge is arranged in a direction intersecting the first direction, The applicator according to claim 6, wherein the bridge pressurizing portion is arranged along the first direction.

12. The applicator according to claim 11, wherein the tip of the bridge pressurizing portion has a shape in which the cross-section decreases in the direction opposite to the first direction.

13. The applicator according to claim 5, wherein the restriction on the movement of the sensor unit carrier in the first direction is released by cutting the bridge.

14. The applicator further includes a handle housing connected to the body housing such that one end contacts the sensor unit carrier and moves together with the sensor unit carrier. The applicator according to claim 5, wherein the restriction on the movement of the handle housing in the first direction is released only when a pressure exceeding a reference pressure is applied to the handle housing and the bridge deforms.

15. A transmitting unit intended to transmit information to a sensing location on the skin, The transmitting unit is detachably fixed to one end of a body housing in which a movable space is formed along a first direction, A sensor unit carrier is provided to move along the aforementioned moving space, A sensor unit is provided which includes a transcutaneous sensor member capable of sensing biological information beneath the skin of the body, and which moves together with the sensor unit carrier along a first direction within the moving space and is coupled to the transmitting unit, A bridge pressurizing section is provided in either the body housing or the sensor unit carrier, The bridge includes, positioned in the body housing and the sensor unit carrier at a location corresponding to the bridge pressurizing portion, so as to restrict the movement of the bridge pressurizing portion, and provided to be disconnected only when the pressure applied from the bridge pressurizing portion exceeds a reference pressure, An applicator assembly in which the restriction on the movement of the sensor unit carrier in the first direction is released by cutting the bridge.

16. The bridge is provided in a shape that extends along a direction intersecting the first direction, The applicator assembly according to claim 15, wherein the bridge pressurizing portion is arranged along a direction parallel to the first direction.

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