Auto-injector with charger safety

Abstract

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

Description

[Technical field]

[0001] The present disclosure relates to auto-injectors, such as electronic auto-injectors, and systems that include auto-injectors. [Background technology]

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

[0014] The auto-injector further comprises a blocking member coupled to the ejector member. The blocking member is configured to move between a blocking position where it blocks the connector opening and a non-blocking position where the connector opening is not blocked. When the ejector member is in the second ejector position, the blocking member is in the blocking position. When the ejector member is in the first ejector position, the blocking member is in the non-blocking position.

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

[0016] An advantage of the present disclosure is that when the cartridge is received in the auto-injector, connection to an external power source, such as a power grid, is prevented by blocking the connector opening.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

[0028] The cartridge may comprise a first stopper movable within the cartridge chamber, e.g., in a first stopper direction, e.g., towards the first cartridge end, such that, for example, medicament may be expelled through the cartridge outlet when the first stopper is moved, e.g., in the first stopper direction.

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

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

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

[0032] The ejector member can have an ejector abutment surface. The ejector abutment surface can be configured to abut a surface of the cartridge, such as a cartridge rear face. The cartridge rear face can abut against the ejector abutment surface upon insertion of the cartridge into the cartridge receiver. Insertion of the cartridge into the cartridge receiver can move the ejector member, e.g., in the receiving direction, toward a second ejector position, e.g., by movement of the cartridge rear face in the receiving direction causing movement of the ejector abutment surface in the receiving direction.

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

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

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

[0036] The auto-injector includes a blocking member. The blocking member can be configured to close and / or block the connector opening. The blocking member is configured to move between a blocking position and an unblocking position. In the blocking position, the connector opening is blocked and access to the first electrical connector, e.g., the second electrical connector, is prevented and / or limited, and in the unblocking position, the connector opening is unblocked and access to the first electrical connector, e.g., the second electrical connector, is allowed and / or is not prevented and / or is not limited.

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

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

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

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

[0041] The blocking member may comprise a first blocking coupling member. The ejector member may comprise a second blocking coupling member. The first blocking coupling member and the second blocking coupling member may be engaged to transmit movement of the ejector member to the blocking member. The first blocking coupling member may comprise a slot and / or a protrusion. The second blocking coupling member may comprise a protrusion and / or a slot. The second blocking coupling member and the first blocking coupling member may be movably connected. The second blocking coupling member and / or the first blocking coupling member may allow a degree of clearance such that only a portion of the ejector movement is translated into movement of the blocking member.

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

[0043] Alternatively or additionally, movement of the ejector member from the fourth ejector position to the first ejector position moves the blocking member from the blocking position to the non-blocking position. The fourth ejector position may be between the first and second ejector positions. The fourth ejector position may be the third ejector position. For example, the ejector member may move from the second ejector position towards the first ejector position, for example upon removal of the cartridge from the cartridge receiver, and from the fourth ejector position, which is between the first and second ejector positions, the movement of the ejector member is transmitted to the blocking member, which moves towards the non-blocking position.

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

[0045] The blocking member and / or the first blocking coupling member of the blocking member can comprise a first blocking member stopper and a second blocking member stopper. For example, the first blocking coupling member can comprise a slot comprising a first blocking member stopper and a second blocking member stopper. The second blocking coupling member can comprise a protrusion arranged to capture the first blocking member stopper by movement in one direction along the longitudinal axis and to capture the second blocking member stopper by movement in another direction along the longitudinal axis. For example, the second blocking coupling member can capture the first blocking member stopper when the ejector member moves towards the first ejector position, such as during removal of the cartridge from the cartridge receiver. The second blocking coupling member can capture the second blocking member stopper when the ejector member moves towards the second ejector position, such as during insertion of the cartridge into the cartridge receiver.

[0046] Alternatively or additionally, the ejector member and / or the second blocking coupling member of the ejector member can comprise a first blocking member stopper and a second blocking member stopper. For example, the second blocking coupling member can comprise a slot comprising a first blocking member stopper and a second blocking member stopper. The first blocking coupling member can comprise a protrusion arranged to capture the first blocking member stopper upon movement in one direction along the longitudinal axis and to capture the second blocking member stopper upon movement in another direction along the longitudinal axis. For example, the first blocking coupling member can capture the first blocking member stopper when the ejector member moves towards a first ejector position, such as during removal of the cartridge from the cartridge receiver. The first blocking coupling member can capture the second blocking member stopper when the ejector member moves towards a second ejector position, such as during insertion of the cartridge into the cartridge receiver.

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

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

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

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

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

[0052] Below, a more detailed description continues with reference to the drawings. [Brief description of the drawings]

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

[0054] Various embodiments will be described below with reference to the drawings. Similar reference numerals refer to similar elements throughout. Thus, similar elements will not be described in detail with respect to the description of each figure. It should also be noted that the drawings are intended only to facilitate the description of the embodiments. They are not intended to exhaustively describe the invention described in the claims, nor are they intended to limit the scope of the invention described in the claims. In addition, an illustrated embodiment does not necessarily have to have all of the aspects or advantages shown. An aspect or advantage described in connection with a particular embodiment is not necessarily limited to that embodiment, and may be implemented in any other embodiment, even if not so illustrated or specified.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

[0076] In the non-blocking position, as shown in Fig. 4a, the second electrical connector 18 can be connected to the first electrical connector 12. In the blocking position, the blocking member 100 is located in front of the first electrical connector 12. This makes it impossible to connect the second electrical connector 18 to the first electrical connector 12 when the blocking member 100 is in the blocking position.

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

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

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

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

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

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

[0083] Also shown in Figures 5a-d is a cartridge assembly 600 comprising a cartridge 700. The cartridge 700 comprises a cartridge chamber 702. The cartridge chamber 702 may contain or be configured to contain a medicament. The cartridge comprises a cartridge rear face 716 configured to abut against the ejector abutment surface 204 of the ejector member 202.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

[0096] The blocking member 100 comprises a first blocking member stopper 104 and a second blocking member stopper 106. The first blocking coupling member 102 is formed as a slot comprising the first blocking member stopper 104 and the second blocking member stopper 106. The second blocking coupling member 208 is arranged to capture the second blocking member stopper 106 with movement in one direction, e.g., in the cartridge receiving direction 304, and to capture the first blocking member stopper 104 with movement in the opposite direction, e.g., the direction opposite to the cartridge receiving direction 304.

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

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

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

[0100] FIG. 6d shows a fourth situation in which the ejector member 202 is in a position in which the second coupling member 208 is not in contact with either the first blocking member stopper 104 or the second blocking member stopper 106. For example, such a position may be between the second ejector position and the third ejector position and / or the fourth ejector position. For example, the ejector member 202 may be in such a position after the cartridge is received in the cartridge receiver. In the situation shown, for example with the ejector member 202 in the position shown, the movement of the ejector member 202 is not immediately translated into the movement of the blocking member. The engagement of the first blocking coupling member 102 and the second blocking coupling member 208 allows a blind distance between the movement of the ejector member 202 and the blocking member 100.

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

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

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

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

[0105] Figure 7b shows the blocking member 100' in a blocking position. The connection of the second electrical connector to the first electrical connector 12 is prevented by the blocking member 100'. Compared to Figure 7a, the blocking member 100' has been rotated in a rotational direction DR to the blocking position.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Claims

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

9. The automatic injector according to any one of claims 1 to 8, wherein the ejector member is located in the first ejector position when a cartridge is not received in the cartridge receiver, and the ejector member is located in the second ejector position when a cartridge is received in the cartridge receiver.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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