Assembly for drug delivery device

Abstract

An assembly for a drug delivery device, the assembly comprising: a body; a delivery member cover (9) disposed on the body and configured to move axially relative to the body from an extended position to a retracted position relative to the body, the delivery member cover (9) being configured to be rotatable relative to the body; and a cap configured to receive a proximal portion (9a) of the delivery member cover (9) extending from the body when the delivery member cover (9) is in the extended position, the cap being removably attached to the body and configured to be rotationally locked relative to the body, the delivery member cover (9) having a first locking structure (9c) configured to engage with the first locking structure (9c) when the delivery member cover (9) is in the extended position to prevent rotation of the delivery member cover (9) relative to the cap in a first rotational direction, thereby maintaining the delivery member cover in the first rotational position relative to the body. The cap has two locking structures, the delivery member cover (9) has a first blocking structure (9d), the main body has a second blocking structure configured to engage with the first blocking structure (9d) when the delivery member cover (9) is in a first rotational position to prevent the delivery member cover (9) from moving axially from the extended position toward the retracted position, and one of the first blocking structure (9d) and the second blocking structure has a cam surface configured to cooperate with the other of the first blocking structure (9d) and the second blocking structure so that when the cap is removed from the main body and the delivery member cover (9) is subjected to a distally directed axial force, the delivery member cover (9) is rotated in a first rotational direction, causing the first blocking structure (9d) and the second blocking structure to disengage and allowing the delivery member cover (9) to move axially from the extended position toward the retracted position.

Description

[Technical field]

[0001] The present disclosure relates generally to drug delivery devices. [Background technology]

[0002] Drug delivery devices, such as syringes, may have a safety shield extending from the device body. The safety shield, usually spring-loaded, may be axially movable relative to the device body. When a user wishes to administer a drug, the device is pushed towards the site of administration. The safety shield is thus moved into the device body and activates a triggering mechanism to release the drug. Additionally, in the case of a syringe, the needle is exposed and enters the skin.

[0003] The drug delivery device may be provided with a cap. The cap fits onto the front end of the device to prevent the safety shield from accidentally moving into the body, exposing the delivery member and / or activating the device. If the drug delivery device is accidentally dropped on the floor, there is a risk that the safety shield will move into the body and activate the device. This risk can be reduced by designing the device with a delivery member cover that has an extended stroke length and / or by selecting a spring with a higher spring constant. However, these design changes make the device less user-friendly. Summary of the Invention [Problem to be solved by the invention]

[0004] It is an object of the present disclosure to provide an assembly for a drug delivery device that solves, or at least alleviates, problems in the prior art. [Means for solving the problem]

[0005] According to a first aspect of the present disclosure, there is provided an assembly for a drug delivery device, the assembly comprising: a body; a delivery member cover disposed within the body and configured to move axially relative to the body from an extended position to a retracted position relative to the body; a rotator configured to be rotatable relative to the body; and a cap configured to receive a portion of the rotator when the delivery member cover is in the extended position, the cap being removably attached to the body and configured to be rotationally locked relative to the body, the rotator having a first locking structure, and the cap having a second locking structure configured to engage the first locking structure when the delivery member cover is in the extended position to prevent rotation of the rotator relative to the cap in a first rotational direction, thereby locking the rotator in the first rotational position relative to the body. The rotating body is maintained, and the delivery member cover has a first blocking structure configured to engage with a second blocking structure axially fixed relative to the body when the rotating body is in a first rotational position to prevent the delivery member cover from moving axially from the extended position toward the retracted position, and when the cap is removed from the body and the delivery member cover is subjected to a distally directed axial force, the rotating body is rotated in a first rotational direction, causing the first blocking structure and the second blocking structure to disengage, and having a cam surface configured for one of the first blocking structure and the second blocking structure to cooperate with the other of the first blocking structure and the second blocking structure to allow the delivery member cover to move axially from the extended position toward the retracted position.

[0006] Thus, when the cap is engaged with the body, the delivery member cover is prevented from axial movement. When the cap is removed, the rotor is free to rotate in a first direction, thereby allowing the delivery member cover to disengage from the body. The delivery member cover is thereby allowed to move from the extended position toward the retracted position.

[0007] The effect obtained therewith is that if a drug delivery device comprising the assembly is subjected to a sudden impact, for example by being dropped, the risk of the delivery member cover moving towards the retracted position is reduced.

[0008] As used herein, the term "proximal end" of a component, assembly, or drug delivery device is the end that faces the site of medical expulsion when the assembly is in use. The "distal end" is the opposite end to the proximal end. "Proximal direction" means the direction from the distal end toward the proximal end. "Distal direction" means the direction from the proximal end toward the distal end. The term "distally" is a relative term meaning that one feature is located closer to the distal end of the component, assembly, or drug delivery device that comprises the assembly than another feature. The term "proximal" means the opposite of "distally."

[0009] Additionally, the terms "longitudinal," "longitudinal," "axially," or "axial" refer to a direction extending from the proximal end to the distal end, generally along the device or a component thereof, in the direction of the greatest extension of the device and / or component.

[0010] Similarly, the terms "lateral," "lateral," and "laterally" refer to a direction generally perpendicular to the longitudinal direction.

[0011] Additionally, the terms "circumferential," "circumferential," "circumferentially," "rotational," "rotational," and "rotationally" refer to a direction extending at least partially around the longitudinal direction, generally perpendicular to the longitudinal direction.

[0012] According to one embodiment, the delivery member cover is a body of revolution, the body includes a second blocking structure, and the cap is configured to receive a proximal portion of the delivery member cover when the delivery member is in the extended position.

[0013] According to one embodiment, one of the first locking structure and the second locking structure includes a recess and the other of the first locking structure and the second locking structure includes a protrusion configured to be received in the recess to prevent rotation of the delivery member cover in a first rotational direction.

[0014] According to one embodiment, the recess is located in a radial plane of the delivery member cover.

[0015] According to one embodiment, the recess extends in a circumferential direction of the delivery member cover.

[0016] According to one embodiment, the protrusion extends in the axial direction of the cap.

[0017] According to one embodiment, the first locking structure comprises a recess and the second locking structure comprises a protrusion.

[0018] According to one embodiment, the rotating body is a separate component from the delivery member cover, the rotating body being provided with a second blocking structure and the rotating body being arranged radially outside and concentric with the delivery member cover. The rotating body is therefore according to this embodiment distinct from the delivery member cover.

[0019] The rotor may then be axially fixed relative to the body.

[0020] According to one embodiment, the first blocking structure comprises a first radial protrusion and the second blocking structure comprises a second radial protrusion configured to be axially aligned with and positioned distally relative to the first radial protrusion in a first rotational position of the delivery member cover to prevent movement of the delivery member cover toward the retracted position.

[0021] According to one embodiment, the delivery member cover comprises a radially extending first ramp structure tapering in a direction from a proximal portion toward a distal end of the delivery member cover, the first ramp structure being offset in a first rotational direction relative to the first radial protrusion and positioned closer to the proximal portion than the first radial protrusion, and the second radial protrusion being configured to move over the first ramp structure when the delivery member cover is moved toward the retracted position.

[0022] According to one embodiment, the first ramp structure has a proximal end portion provided with a radial guide surface extending along a helical direction of the delivery member cover, the radial guide surface being configured to guide the second radial protrusion when the delivery member cover is moved toward the extended position, causing rotation of the delivery member cover in a second rotational direction opposite to the first rotational direction relative to the body.

[0023] According to one embodiment, the delivery member cover has a second ramp structure circumferentially disposed adjacent to the first ramp structure, and the radial guide surface is configured to guide the second radial protrusion toward the second ramp structure when the delivery member cover is moved from the retracted position toward the extended position, the second ramp structure tapering in an opposite direction relative to the tapered portion of the first ramp structure.

[0024] According to one embodiment, the second ramp structure has a snap lock feature configured to prevent the delivery member cover from moving toward the retracted position when the second radial protrusion moves axially beyond the second ramp structure.

[0025] According to one embodiment, the delivery member cover comprises a radial structure axially aligned with and distally disposed relative to the second ramp structure, the radial structure configured to prevent the delivery member cover from moving further proximally when the second radial protrusion moves beyond the second ramp structure.

[0026] According to a second aspect, there is provided a drug delivery device comprising an assembly according to the first aspect.

[0027] According to a third aspect, there is provided an assembly for a drug delivery device comprising: a body; a delivery member cover disposed on the body and configured to move axially relative to the body from an extended position to a retracted position relative to the body, the delivery member cover configured to be rotatable relative to the body; and a cap configured to receive a proximal portion of the delivery member cover extending from the body when the delivery member cover is in the extended position, the cap configured to be removably attached to the body and rotationally locked relative to the body, the delivery member cover having a first locking structure and the cap having a second locking structure configured to engage the first locking structure when the delivery member cover is in the extended position to prevent rotation of the delivery member cover in a first rotational direction relative to the cap, thereby locking the delivery member cover relative to the body. to maintain the delivery member cover in a first rotational position, the delivery member cover having a first blocking structure, the body having a second blocking structure configured to engage with the first blocking structure when the delivery member cover is in the first rotational position to prevent axial movement of the delivery member cover from the extended position toward the retracted position, and a cam surface configured for one of the first blocking structure and the second blocking structure to cooperate with the other of the first blocking structure and the second blocking structure such that when the cap is removed from the body and the delivery member cover is subjected to a distally directed axial force, the delivery member cover is rotated in the first rotational direction causing the first blocking structure and the second blocking structure to disengage and allowing the delivery member cover to move axially from the extended position toward the retracted position.

[0028] Thus, when the cap is engaged with the body, the delivery member cover cannot rotate in a first direction such that the delivery member cover is prevented from axial movement. When the cap is removed, the delivery member cover is free to rotate in the first direction, thereby allowing the delivery member cover to disengage from the body. The delivery member cover is thereby allowed to move from the extended position toward the retracted position.

[0029] In this example, the delivery member cover can be rotated during the assembly process by axial movement of the cap with the cam surface of one of the first blocking structure and the second blocking structure and the other of the cam surface, the first blocking structure and the second blocking structure.

[0030] In a preferred example, the delivery member cover comprises a spinning portion at a proximal end of the delivery member cover, the spinning portion being rotatable relative to the delivery member cover and configured to contact the drug delivery site during a drug delivery operation, thereby preventing unintentional rotation of the delivery member cover during a drug delivery operation.

[0031] The effect obtained therewith is that, if a drug delivery device comprising the assembly is subjected to a sudden impact, for example by being dropped, the risk of the delivery member cover moving towards the retracted position is reduced.

[0032] The first blocking structure may be provided with a cam surface.

[0033] According to one embodiment, one of the first locking structure and the second locking structure includes a recess and the other of the first locking structure and the second locking structure includes a protrusion configured to be received in the recess to prevent rotation of the delivery member cover in a first rotational direction.

[0034] According to one embodiment, the recess is located in a radial plane of the delivery member cover.

[0035] According to one embodiment, the recess extends in a circumferential direction of the delivery member cover.

[0036] According to one embodiment, the protrusion extends in the axial direction of the cap.

[0037] According to one embodiment, the first locking structure comprises a recess and the second locking structure comprises a protrusion.

[0038] Alternatively, the first locking structure comprises a protrusion and the second locking structure comprises a recess.

[0039] According to one embodiment, the first blocking structure comprises a first radial protrusion and the second blocking structure comprises a second radial protrusion configured to be axially aligned with and positioned distally relative to the first radial protrusion in a first rotational position of the delivery member cover to prevent the delivery member cover from moving toward the retracted position.

[0040] According to one embodiment, the delivery member cover comprises a radially extending first ramp structure tapering in a direction from a proximal portion toward a distal end of the delivery member cover, the first ramp structure being offset in a first rotational direction relative to the first radial protrusion and positioned closer to the proximal portion than the first radial protrusion, and the second radial protrusion being configured to move over the first ramp structure when the delivery member cover is moved toward the retracted position.

[0041] According to one embodiment, the first ramp structure has a proximal end portion provided with a radial guide surface extending along a helical direction of the delivery member cover, the radial guide surface being configured to guide the second radial protrusion when the delivery member cover is moved from the retracted position toward the extended position, causing rotation of the delivery member cover in a second rotational direction opposite to the first rotational direction relative to the body.

[0042] The radial guide surface is a second cam surface that translates linear motion of the delivery member cover as the delivery member cover moves toward the extended position into rotational motion of the delivery member cover in the second rotational direction.

[0043] According to one embodiment, the delivery member cover has a second ramp structure circumferentially disposed adjacent to the first ramp structure, and the radial guide surface is configured to guide the second radial protrusion toward the second ramp structure when the delivery member cover is moved toward the extended position, the second ramp structure tapering in an opposite direction relative to the tapered portion of the first ramp structure.

[0044] According to one embodiment, the second ramp structure has a snap lock feature configured to prevent the delivery member cover from moving toward the retracted position when the second radial protrusion moves axially beyond the second ramp structure.

[0045] According to one embodiment, the delivery member cover comprises a radial structure axially aligned with and distally disposed relative to the second ramp structure, the radial structure configured to prevent the delivery member cover from moving further proximally when the second radial protrusion moves beyond the second ramp structure.

[0046] One embodiment includes a resilient member configured to urge the delivery member cover toward the extended position.

[0047] According to a fourth aspect of the present disclosure there is provided a drug delivery device comprising an assembly according to the third aspect.

[0048] According to one embodiment, the drug delivery device is a syringe, such as an autoinjector, or an inhaler.

[0049] In general, all terms used in the claims are to be interpreted according to their ordinary meaning in the art unless expressly defined otherwise herein. All references to "elements, devices, components, means, etc." are to be interpreted straightforwardly as referring to at least one instance of that element, device, component, means, etc., unless expressly stated otherwise.

[0050] Specific embodiments of the present concepts will now be described, by way of example, with reference to the accompanying drawings, in which: [Brief description of the drawings]

[0051] [Figure 1] FIG. 1 is a perspective view of an example of a drug delivery device. [Diagram 2] FIG. 2 shows a drug delivery device with the outer cap member detached from the inner cap member. [Diagram 3] 13A-13C are perspective views of an example of a delivery member cover. [Figure 4] FIG. [Figure 5a] FIG. 4 is a close-up view of the inner cap fitted onto the delivery member cover of FIG. 3. [Figure 5b] FIG. 5b is a cross-sectional view taken along line AA in FIG. 5a. [Figure 5c] FIG. 13 is an enlarged view of the inner cap member partially removed from the delivery member cover. [Figure 6a] 13A-13D illustrate the interaction between the delivery member cover and the body as the delivery member cover is moved from an extended position to a retracted position and back to the extended position. [Figure 6b] 13A-13D illustrate the interaction between the delivery member cover and the body as the delivery member cover is moved from an extended position to a retracted position and back to the extended position. [Figure 6c] 13A-13D illustrate the interaction between the delivery member cover and the body as the delivery member cover is moved from an extended position to a retracted position and back to the extended position. [Figure 6d]13A-13D illustrate the interaction between the delivery member cover and the body as the delivery member cover is moved from an extended position to a retracted position and back to the extended position. [Figure 6e] 13A-13D illustrate the interaction between the delivery member cover and the body as the delivery member cover is moved from an extended position to a retracted position and back to the extended position. [Figure 6f] 13A-13D illustrate the interaction between the delivery member cover and the body as the delivery member cover is moved from an extended position to a retracted position and back to the extended position. [Figure 6g] 13A-13D illustrate the interaction between the delivery member cover and the body as the delivery member cover is moved from an extended position to a retracted position and back to the extended position. [Figure 6h] 13A-13D illustrate the interaction between the delivery member cover and the body as the delivery member cover is moved from an extended position to a retracted position and back to the extended position. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS

[0052] The inventive concepts will now be described more fully hereinafter with reference to the accompanying drawings, in which exemplary embodiments are shown. However, the inventive concepts may be embodied in many different forms and should not be construed as limited to the embodiments set forth herein, but rather these embodiments are provided as examples so that this disclosure will be thorough and complete, and will fully convey the scope of the inventive concepts to those skilled in the art. Like numbers refer to like elements throughout the description.

[0053] 1 shows an example of a drug delivery device 1. The exemplary drug delivery device 1 is a syringe. The syringe may be an autoinjector. The drug delivery device 1 may alternatively be, for example, an inhaler.

[0054] The drug delivery device 1 has a housing 3 which may be formed by one or more parts.

[0055] The drug delivery device 1 comprises a removable cap 5. The cap 5 is configured to be assembled with the housing 3. According to this example, the housing 3 has a proximal portion or body (not shown in FIG. 1 ) that receives the cap 5 when the cap 5 is assembled with the housing 3. The cap 5 is configured to be rotationally locked relative to the housing 3.

[0056] The cap 5 forms the proximal, or proximal, end of the drug delivery device 1. The drug delivery device 1 has a distal end 7. The distal end 7 is the distal end of the drug delivery device 1.

[0057] Referring now to FIG. 2, the drug delivery device 1 is shown with the cap 5 partially removed. According to this example, the cap 5 includes an outer cap member 5a and an inner cap member 5b. The outer cap member 5a is configured to be disposed concentrically with the inner cap member 5b. The outer cap member 5a is configured to be disposed radially outward of the inner cap member 5b. In FIG. 2, the outer cap member 5a has been removed from the inner cap member 5b. The inner cap member 5b is fitted onto the body 3a. As previously mentioned, the body 3a is the proximal portion of the housing 3.

[0058] Alternatively, the cap may be made as a single piece cap, where the inner cap member and the outer cap member are integral.

[0059] The drug delivery device 1 comprises a delivery member cover 9. The delivery member cover 9 may be an elongated structure. The delivery member cover 9 may be a sleeve or tubular structure configured to be placed around the delivery member and / or the drug container.

[0060] According to a first example disclosed herein, the drug delivery cover is a body of rotation because it is configured to be rotatable relative to the main body 3a, as will be explained in more detail below.

[0061] The delivery member cover 9 is configured to be received by the body 3a. The body 3a has a proximal opening through which the delivery member cover 9 extends. The delivery member cover 9 is configured to extend from a proximal end of the body 3a.

[0062] Figure 6a provides a better view of the delivery member cover 9 extending from the body 3a. The delivery member cover 9 is configured to be axially movable relative to the body 3a between an extended position and a retracted position relative to the body 3a. The delivery member cover 9 is configured to move from the extended position to the retracted position and back to the extended position.

[0063] The extended position is a default position of the delivery member cover 9. The drug delivery device 1 may comprise a resilient member, such as a spring, configured to urge the delivery member cover 9 towards the extended position. The delivery member cover 9 is configured to be biased towards the extended position.

[0064] Next, an example of a delivery member cover 9 will be described with reference to FIG.

[0065] The delivery member cover 9 has a proximal portion 9a. The proximal portion 9a may be tubular. The delivery member cover 9 has two legs 9b extending distally from the proximal portion 9a. Thus, the legs 9b extend distally from the proximal portion 9a.

[0066] The proximal portion 9a has an axially extending central through opening 10 configured to receive a delivery member, such as a needle, of the drug delivery device 1. The proximal portion 9a is provided with a first locking structure 9c. The first locking structure 9c comprises recesses. The recesses open from the through opening 10. Each recess is arranged in a radial plane of the delivery member cover 9. Each recess is a radially extending recess. Each recess has a circumferential extension of the delivery member cover 9. Each recess may be arranged opposite one another in the through opening 10.

[0067] According to this example, each recess has a circumferential extension corresponding to less than 90 degrees, such as less than 60 degrees, less than 45 degrees, of the inner circumference of the through opening 10 .

[0068] Each leg 9b is provided with a respective first blocking structure 9d. The first blocking structures 9d are provided on the radially outer surface of the leg 9b. The first blocking structures 9d extend radially outwardly.

[0069] The first blocking structure 9d shown in Fig. 3 comprises a first radial projection 11. According to the example shown in Fig. 3, the first radial projection 11 has a cam surface 11a. The cam surface 11a is at least partially directed towards the distal end of the delivery member cover 9.

[0070] The delivery member cover 9 comprises a radially extending first ramp structure 13 that tapers in a direction from the proximal portion 9a towards the distal end of the delivery member cover 9.

[0071] The first ramp structure 13 is arranged closer to the proximal portion 9 a than the first radial projection 11 .

[0072] The first ramp structure 13 is disposed offset in a first rotational direction relative to the first radial projection 11. The first ramp structure 13 is offset in a circumferential direction of the delivery member cover 9 relative to the first radial projection 11.

[0073] The first ramp structure 13 has a proximal end portion 13a provided with a radial guide surface 13b extending radially outward. The radial guide surface 13b is disposed proximally relative to the tapered portion of the first ramp structure 13. The radial guide surface 13b extends along the helical direction of the delivery member cover 9. The radial guide surface 13b thus intersects with an axial plane extending through the delivery member cover 9. The radial guide surface 13b is a cam surface.

[0074] The delivery member cover 9 has an axial rib 15a extending axially of the delivery member cover 9.

[0075] The delivery member cover 9 has a second ramp structure 17 disposed adjacent to the first ramp structure 13 in a circumferential direction of the delivery member cover 9. The second ramp structure 17 is disposed adjacent to the first ramp structure 13 in a second rotational direction opposite to the first rotational direction.

[0076] The first ramp structure 13 and the second ramp structure 17 may be fully axially aligned. The first ramp structure 13 and the second ramp structure taper in opposite directions. The second ramp structure 17 tapers from the distal end of the delivery member cover 9 toward the proximal portion 9a.

[0077] The radial guide surface 13b is configured to transition into a second ramp structure 17.

[0078] The delivery member cover 9 may comprise a radial structure 18 axially aligned with and distally disposed relative to the second ramp structure 17 .

[0079] 4 shows a proximal perspective view of the body 3a. The body 3a has a proximal opening 19 extending axially through the body 3a. A delivery member cover 9 is configured to be disposed on the body 3a and extends from the proximal opening 19 in the extended position.

[0080] The delivery member cover 9 is configured to be moved axially relative to the body 3a The delivery member cover 9 is configured to be rotatable relative to the body 3a.

[0081] The body 3a has a second blocking structure 21. The second blocking structure 21 may comprise a second radial protrusion. The second blocking structure 21 extends radially inward. The second blocking structure 21 is configured to engage with the first blocking structure 9d when the delivery member cover 9 is in a first rotational position to prevent the delivery member cover 9 from moving axially from the extended position towards the retracted position. The second blocking structure 21 is configured to cooperate with the first radial protrusion 11 and the first ramp structure 13 and thereafter the second ramp structure 17 when the drug delivery device 1 is operated, as described in more detail below.

[0082] In a preferred example, the first ramp structure includes a groove for guiding axial movement of the second blocking structure so that the second blocking structure is not inadvertently positioned axially aligned with the second ramp structure.

[0083] Similarly, the second ramp structure may also have a groove to prevent lateral movement of the second blocking structure. Figure 5a shows a longitudinal cross section of the cap 5 when attached to the body 3a. The cap 5 has a second locking structure 5c configured to mate with the first locking structure 9c of the delivery member cover 9.

[0084] The second locking structure 5c is disposed inside the cap 5. The inner cap member 5b may be provided with the second locking structure 5c.

[0085] The second locking structure 5c comprises a protrusion configured to be received in a recess in the first locking structure 9c to prevent rotation of the delivery member cover 9 in a first rotational direction when the cap 5 is fitted onto the body 3a. The protrusion may extend in the axial direction of the cap 5.

[0086] The second locking structure 5c may comprise several protrusions, each configured to be received in a respective recess in the delivery member cover 9.

[0087] The protrusion bears against at least one circumferential end surface of the recess when the cap is fitted onto the body 3a. Thus, the delivery member cover 9 is prevented from rotating in a first rotational direction when the cap 5 is fitted onto the body 3a.

[0088] Figure 5b shows a cross section along line AA of figure 5a. In figure 5b it can be seen that the protrusions 5c are arranged in respective ones of the recesses of the delivery member cover 9.

[0089] The operation of the delivery member device 1 will now be described with reference to Figures 5c to 6h.

[0090] In Fig. 5c, the cap 5 is being pulled from the body 3a. The cap 5 is thus pulled in a proximal direction as shown by arrow A. The protrusion of the second locking structure 5c is thus moved axially in a forward or proximal direction and out of the recess of the first locking structure 9c. The first locking structure 9c and the second locking structure 5c are thus disengaged. The delivery member cover 9 can thereby be rotated in a first rotational direction.

[0091] Figure 6a shows the drug delivery device 1 when the cap 5 has been removed from the body 3a. The delivery member cover 9 is in an extended position relative to the body 3a.

[0092] FIG. 6b shows the interaction between the delivery member cover 9 and the second blocking structure 21 of the body 3a when the drug delivery device 1 is in the extended position shown by FIG. 6a. The delivery member cover 9 is in a first rotational position. The second blocking structure 21 presses against the first blocking structure 9d of the delivery member cover 9. The second blocking structure 21 presses against the cam surface 11a of the first radial projection 11. The second blocking structure 21 is located distally relative to the first radial projection 11 such that the delivery member cover 9 cannot be moved distally from the extended position towards the retracted position without the delivery member cover 9 being rotated first. However, as can be seen from the above, the delivery member cover 9 can be rotated in a first rotational direction from the first rotational position when the cap 5 is removed from the body 3a.

[0093] In Figure 6c the delivery member cover 9 has been moved distally into the body 3a to a retracted position, as indicated by arrow B. In the case of a syringe this is typically done by pressing the delivery member cover 9 against the site of injection. The delivery member cover 9 is rotated slightly in a first rotational direction C.

[0094] Figure 6d shows that when the delivery member cover 9 is subjected to a distal force F, the delivery member cover 9 rotates in a first rotation direction C. By means of the cam surface 11a, the axial force is translated into a rotation of the delivery member cover 9 relative to the body 3a. The delivery member cover 9 thus rotates in the first rotation direction C.

[0095] When the delivery member cover 9 is rotated in the first rotational direction C, the second blocking structure 21 disengages from the first blocking structure 9d. The delivery member cover 9 is thereby allowed to move further towards the body 3a towards the retracted position.

[0096] The axial rib 15a acts as a guide for the second blocking structure 21 to ensure that the delivery member cover 9 and body 3a are aligned as required when the delivery member cover 9 is returned to the extended position.

[0097] Figure 6e shows how, when the delivery member cover 9 is moved towards the retracted position, the second blocking structure 21 is moved axially over the first ramp structure 13. The first ramp structure 13 may be configured to bend radially inwards to allow the second blocking structure 21 to pass it.

[0098] When the delivery member cover 9 is moved towards the retracted position, actuation of the drug delivery device 1 is initiated. Actuation may be done in a number of ways and will not be described in further detail herein.

[0099] FIG. 6f shows the drug delivery device 1 when the delivery member cover 9 moves from the retracted position back to the extended position, as indicated by the arrow D. When the user removes the drug delivery device 1 from the site of release, the delivery member cover 9 is biased towards the extended position so that the delivery member cover 9 is returned to the extended position. The delivery member cover 9 is rotated slightly in a second rotational direction E, opposite to the first rotational direction C. This is shown in FIG. 6g, where the delivery member cover 9 moves towards the extended position and the second blocking structure 21 is moved towards the radial guide surface 13b, or cam surface, of the first ramp structure 13. The second blocking structure 21 is thereby guided towards the second ramp structure 17. This results in a rotation of the delivery member cover 9 in the second rotational direction E. The second blocking structure 21 is then moved over the second ramp structure 17, which may be bent radially inwards. The second ramp structure 17 may have a snap-lock feature. Once the second blocking structure 21 has cleared the second ramp structure 17, the delivery member cover 9 is prevented from movement towards the retracted position, as shown in Figure 6h.

[0100] The radial structure 18 may be disposed distal to the second blocking structure 21 when the second blocking structure 21 passes the second ramp structure 17. The radial structure 18 acts as a radial barrier that bears against the second blocking structure 21, thus preventing the delivery member cover 9 from being pulled out of the body 3a.

[0101] According to another example of the drug delivery device, the drug delivery device may further comprise a rotating body separate from the delivery member cover, where the delivery member cover is configured to be rotationally locked relative to the body.

[0102] The rotator is disposed concentrically with the delivery member cover and between the delivery member cover and the body. The rotator is rotatably disposed relative to the body. The rotator may be prevented from moving axially distally relative to the body. The rotator and body may thus be interlocked to prevent rearward movement of the rotator.

[0103] The delivery member cover is provided with a first blocking structure exactly as in the first example. The rotor is provided with a second blocking structure. The second blocking structure may be provided on the inner surface of the rotor.

[0104] The rotator is provided with a first locking structure, in this example, configured to mate with a second locking structure of the cap. Thus, when the cap is fitted onto the body, the rotator is prevented from rotating in a first rotational direction. The delivery member cover is thus prevented from moving from the extended position towards the retracted position. When the cap is removed, the rotator is allowed to rotate in the first rotational direction.

[0105] When the cap is removed, a distally directed axial force on the delivery member cover causes interaction between the first blocking structure and the second blocking structure. The rotor is thereby rotated in a first rotational direction, disengaging the first blocking structure from engagement with the second blocking structure. The delivery member cover is thereby movable from the extended position toward the retracted position.

[0106] The inventive concept has been described above primarily with respect to a few examples. However, as will be readily appreciated by those skilled in the art, other embodiments besides those disclosed above may equally be within the scope of the inventive concept as defined by the appended claims. [Explanation of symbols]

[0107] 1. Drug Delivery Devices 3. Housing 3a Main body 5 Cap 5a Outer cap member 5b Inner cap member 5c Secondary locking mechanism 7 Distal end 9 Delivery member cover 9a Proximal part 9b Legs 9c First locking structure 9d First blocking structure 10 Through hole 11 First radial protrusion 13 First Lamp Structure 13a Proximal end portion 13b Radial guide surface 15a Axial rib 17 Second Lamp Structure 18 Radial structure 19 Proximal opening 21 Second Blocking Structure

Claims

1. An assembly for a drug delivery device (1), comprising: A main body (3a); a delivery member cover (9) disposed on said body (3a) and configured to move axially relative to said body (3a) from an extended position relative to said body (3a) to a retracted position; a rotor arranged concentrically with the delivery member cover and between the delivery member cover and the body, the rotor being configured to be rotatable relative to the body (3a); a cap (5) configured to receive a portion of the rotor when the delivery member cover (9) is in an extended position, the cap (5) being removably attached to the body (3a) and configured to be rotationally locked relative to the body (3a); the rotor has a first locking structure (9c), and the cap (5) has a second locking structure (5c) configured to engage with the first locking structure (9c) when the delivery member cover (9) is in the extended position to prevent rotation of the rotor in a first rotational direction relative to the cap (5) and thereby maintain the rotor in a first rotational position relative to the body (3a); the delivery member cover (9) has a first blocking structure (9d) configured to engage with a second blocking structure (21) provided on the rotor, the second blocking structure (21) being axially fixed relative to the body when the rotor is in the first rotational position to prevent the delivery member cover (9) from moving axially from the extended position towards the retracted position; an assembly having a cam surface (11 a) configured to cooperate with the other of the first blocking structure (9d) and the second blocking structure (21) such that when the cap (5) is removed from the body (3 a) and the delivery member cover (9) is subjected to a distally directed axial force, the rotor is rotated in the first rotational direction causing the first blocking structure (9d) and the second blocking structure (21) to disengage and allowing the delivery member cover (9) to move axially from the extended position towards the retracted position.

2. 2. The assembly of claim 1, wherein the delivery member cover (9) is the rotating body, the body (3a) comprises the second blocking structure (21), and the cap (5) is configured to receive a proximal portion (9a) of the delivery member cover (9) when the delivery member cover (9) is in the extended position.

3. 3. The assembly of claim 2, wherein one of the first locking structure (9c) and the second locking structure (5c) comprises a recess, and the other of the first locking structure (9c) and the second locking structure (5c) comprises a protrusion configured to be received in the recess to prevent rotation of the delivery member cover (9) in the first rotational direction.

4. 4. An assembly according to claim 3, wherein the recess is arranged in a radial plane of the delivery member cover (9).

5. 5. An assembly according to claim 3 or 4, wherein said recess extends in the circumferential direction of said delivery member cover (9).

6. 6. An assembly according to any one of claims 3 to 5, wherein the protrusion extends in the axial direction of the cap (5).

7. 7. An assembly according to any one of claims 3 to 6, wherein the first locking structure (9c) comprises the recess and the second locking structure (5c) comprises the protrusion.

8. The assembly of claim 1 , wherein the rotating body is a separate component from the delivery member cover, the rotating body is provided with the second blocking structure, and the rotating body is arranged radially outwardly of and concentric with the delivery member cover.

9. 9. The assembly according to any one of claims 1 to 8, wherein the first blocking structure (9d) comprises a first radial protrusion (11) and the second blocking structure (21) comprises a second radial protrusion configured to be axially aligned with and positioned distally relative to the first radial protrusion (11) in the first rotational position of the delivery member cover (9) to prevent the delivery member cover (9) from moving towards the retracted position.

10. 10. The assembly of claim 9, wherein the delivery member cover (9) comprises a radially extending first ramp structure (13) tapering in a direction from the proximal portion towards a distal end of the delivery member cover (9), the first ramp structure (13) being offset in the first rotational direction relative to the first radial protrusion (11) and positioned closer to the proximal portion (9a) than the first radial protrusion (11), and the second radial protrusion is configured to move over the first ramp structure (13) when the delivery member cover (9) is moved towards the retracted position.

11. The assembly of claim 10, wherein the first ramp structure (13) has a proximal end portion (13a) provided with a radial guide surface (13b) extending along a spiral direction of the delivery member cover (9), and wherein the radial guide surface (13b) is configured to guide the second radial protrusion when the delivery member cover (9) is moved towards the extended position, causing a rotation of the delivery member cover (9) in a second rotational direction opposite to the first rotational direction relative to the body (3a).

12. 12. The assembly of claim 11, wherein the delivery member cover (9) has a second ramp structure (17) arranged adjacent to the first ramp structure (13) in the circumferential direction, and the radial guide surface (13b) is configured to guide the second radial protrusion towards the second ramp structure (17) when the delivery member cover (9) is moved from the retracted position towards the extended position, the second ramp structure (17) tapering in an opposite direction to the tapered portion of the first ramp structure (13).

13. 13. The assembly of claim 12, wherein the second ramp structure (17) has a snap lock feature configured to prevent the delivery member cover (9) from moving towards the retracted position when the second radial protrusion moves axially beyond the second ramp structure (17).

14. 14. The assembly of claim 13, wherein the delivery member cover (9) is axially aligned with the second ramp structure (17) and comprises a radial structure (18) disposed distally relative to the second ramp structure (17), the radial structure (18) configured to prevent the delivery member cover (9) from moving further proximally when the second radial protrusion moves beyond the second ramp structure (17).

15. A drug delivery device (1) comprising an assembly according to any one of claims 1 to 14.

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