Injection support pad

Abstract

The present disclosure relates generally to a medication delivery device (110), such as an auto-injector, and more particularly to a pad (100, 200, 300, 400, 500, 600, 700) for attaching a medication delivery device, such as an auto-injector, to an injection site.

Description

[Technical Field]

[0001] FIELD OF THE DISCLOSURE The present disclosure relates generally to medication delivery devices such as auto-injectors, and more particularly to a pad for attaching a medication delivery device such as an auto-injector to an injection site. [Background technology]

[0002] Many medical conditions require injections. Currently, many different injection devices exist, including various types of pen injectors, auto-injectors, and body-worn devices. While many of these devices have enabled significant improvements in the management of many medical conditions, various limitations remain with current technology. Among these are the difficulties faced by patients who require frequent injections and those who must inject highly viscous medications. In considering these issues, applicant recognizes that various developments could be made to help improve medication delivery devices currently on the market, as described in more detail below. Summary of the Invention [Problem to be solved by the invention]

[0003] It is an object of the present disclosure to provide a pad that overcomes or at least alleviates the problems of the prior art. [Means for solving the problem]

[0004] According to a first aspect of the present disclosure, a pad is provided that extends along an axis from a proximal end to a distal end. The proximal end is the end of the pad that is adjacent to an injection site when the pad is in use. The pad includes a mounting portion configured to receive a medication delivery device and a support structure at the proximal end of the mounting portion configured to abut the medication delivery device when in use and when the medication delivery device is disposed on the mounting portion. The support structure is configured to be pushed away from the mounting portion by a force exerted by a cover extension of the medication delivery device when transitioning from a retracted position to an extended position, such that the cover extension can move to the extended position in response to the pad being removed from the injection site while the medication delivery device is present on the mounting portion.

[0005] Embodiments of the present disclosure provide an advantageous pad that, in use, is attached at an injection site. The pad has a mounting portion that, in use, locks the medication delivery device in place until the user removes the medication delivery device. If the user removes the pad from the injection site before the medication delivery device is detached from the mounting portion, it is desirable that the medication delivery member, such as the needle, is not exposed. To address this, embodiments of the present disclosure provide means for ensuring that, if the pad is removed from the injection site before the medication delivery device is detached from the mounting portion, the cover extension transitions to an extended position, protecting the needle.

[0006] In this disclosure, when the term "distal direction" is used, it refers to the direction away from the dose delivery site during use of the drug delivery device. When the term "distal portion / end" is used, it refers to the portion / end of the delivery device, or the portion / end of a component thereof, that is located furthest from the dose delivery site during use of the drug delivery device. Correspondingly, when the term "proximal direction" is used, it refers to the direction towards the dose delivery site during use of the drug delivery device. When the term "proximal portion / end" is used, it refers to the portion / end of the delivery device, or the portion / end of a component thereof, that is located closest to the dose delivery site during use of the drug delivery device.

[0007] Additionally, the terms "longitudinal," "longitudinally," "axially," or "axial" refer to a direction extending along a device or component thereof, typically in the direction of the device's and / or component's greatest elongation, from the proximal end to the distal end.

[0008] Similarly, the terms "lateral," "lateral," and "laterally" refer to a direction generally perpendicular to the longitudinal direction.

[0009] Additionally, the terms "circumferential," "circumferential," and "circumferentially" refer to the circumference or direction of circumference relative to an axis, usually a central axis extending in the direction of the greatest elongation of the device and / or component. Similarly, "radial" or "radially" refers to a direction extending radially relative to an axis, and "rotation," "rotational," and "rotationally" refer to rotation relative to an axis.

[0010] The same directional terms are used to describe other components such as pads, e.g., the proximal end of the pad is the portion of the pad closest to the dose delivery site (injection site) and the distal end of the pad is the portion of the pad furthest from the dose delivery site. In the drawings, the longitudinal direction is along the axis 102, and the corresponding circumferential 31 and radial 32 directions relative to the axis 102 are also shown.

[0011] When the phrases "at the injection site" or "at the dose delivery site" are used in this application, this generally refers to the point where the drug delivery device (e.g., needle) enters the patient, as well as the surrounding area, e.g., the area where the pad is attached.

[0012] According to one embodiment, when the pad is in use, the support structure may be at the proximal end of the pad adjacent the injection site.

[0013] According to one embodiment, the support structure can be configured to allow the cover extension to penetrate through the attachment portion and beyond the plane of the proximal end of the pad. Thus, the support structure is advantageously configured such that the cover extension pushes the support structure to penetrate the pad when the cover extension is moved to the extended position.

[0014] According to one embodiment, the support structure can include at least one flexible arm attached to the pad, the at least one flexible arm being configured to bend under force from the cover extension. The flexible arm is resiliently flexible, i.e., capable of bending back toward its original position after use. When the pad is attached at an injection site with a drug delivery device attached to the attachment portion, the flexible arm is maintained in its original position by a counterforce provided by the user's body surface at the injection site. When the pad is removed, the at least one flexible arm is advantageously pushed proximally by a force from the cover extension, which transitions to an extended position. The at least one flexible arm provides a relatively simple yet reliable method of ensuring that the cover extension transitions to the extended position and protects the needle when the pad is removed from the injection site before the drug delivery device is detached from the attachment portion.

[0015] According to one embodiment, the support structure can include a proximal injection surface configured to be separated from the attachment portion by a force exerted by the cover extension. This separable support structure provides another advantageous configuration of the support structure. In one embodiment, the proximal injection surface can be hingedly attached to a side structure of the pad, thereby allowing the support structure to remain connected to the pad after use and return to its original position after use. The hinge can be, for example, a living hinge.

[0016] According to one embodiment, the proximal injection surface may include a clip configured to hold the support structure including the proximal injection surface in place before being released by a force exerted by the cover extension, thereby ensuring that the proximal injection surface is in the correct position before using the pad. Furthermore, the clip is advantageously configured to hold the proximal injection surface in place with a force adapted to be overcome by the cover extension pressing on the support structure while the medication delivery device is attached to the attachment portion when the pad is removed from the injection site.

[0017] According to one embodiment, the proximal injection surface may be adjacent to the injection site during use of the pad.

[0018] According to one embodiment, the proximal injection surface may extend over at least half of the area of ​​the proximal end of the pad.

[0019] According to one embodiment, the support structure can include a set of clips configured to releasably lock the support structure to the mounting portion, the set of clips being releasable by the cover extension when inserted into the mounting portion. This is yet another advantageous configuration of the support structure provided with clips that lock the support structure to the mounting portion. Thus, the support structure is releasable from the mounting portion. The clips are configured such that when engaged with the mounting portion, a force exerted on them by the housing of the medication delivery device places the clips in a released position in which the support structure is releasable from the mounting portion.

[0020] In one embodiment, the clip can include a flexible arm with a protrusion that extends through a through-hole in a wall of the mounting portion, the protrusion being configured to be pushed out of the through-hole by the cover extension, thereby releasing the support structure from the mounting portion. In one embodiment, the flexible arm can be substantially parallel to the wall of the mounting portion.

[0021] According to one embodiment, the proximal injection surface may include an adhesive that allows the pad to be attached to the injection site.

[0022] According to a second aspect of the present disclosure, there is provided a pad extending along an axis from a proximal end to a distal end. The proximal end is the end of the pad adjacent an injection site when the pad is in use. The pad includes a mounting portion configured to releasably receive a medication delivery device. The mounting portion includes a release mechanism that, when actuated, releases the medication delivery device from the pad, and a release arm configured to act on the release mechanism when the pad is removed from the injection site by transmitting to the release mechanism a force from the pad caused by deformation of the pad during removal from the injection site.

[0023] This embodiment provides similar advantages as those discussed above with respect to the first embodiment.

[0024] According to one embodiment, a release arm may be attached to the pad surface at the distal end of the pad and extend to the distal surface of the release button of the release mechanism, and when the release arm acts on the distal surface of the release button, the release mechanism is activated. In one embodiment, the release arm acts to press the release button toward the surface at the distal end of the pad, thus pushing the release button proximally. The release arm may be hook-shaped to act on the distal surface of the release button. In one example, the release button may be attached to the surface at the distal end of the pad via a link arm.

[0025] According to one embodiment, the release arm may be attached to a removal tab of the pad adapted to be pulled by a user to remove the pad from the injection site. Thus, when the user pulls the removal tab intended to remove the pad from the injection site, the release arm advantageously activates the release mechanism, thereby timely transferring the cover extension to the extended position.

[0026] According to one embodiment, a first end of the release arm can be attached to a proximal surface of the release button of the release mechanism and a second end of the release arm can be adapted to abut a distal surface of the pad, such that when the pad is removed from the injection site, the release arm bends such that the second end moves in a direction toward the distal end of the pad, thereby spatially transporting the release button and causing actuation of the release mechanism.

[0027] According to one embodiment, the release arm can include a first arm portion and a second arm portion forming an acute angle therebetween, the first arm portion including a first end and the second arm portion including a second end, and a joint between the first and second arm portions abutting a stop edge of the pad to prevent the joint from moving toward the mounting portion, whereby bending of the release arm increases the angle between the first and second arm portions, thereby moving the release button away from the mounting portion and thereby actuating the release mechanism.

[0028] In one embodiment, the attachment portion may include a friction lock.

[0029] In general, all terms used in the claims should be interpreted according to their ordinary meaning in the art unless expressly defined otherwise herein. All references to "elements, devices, components, means, etc." should be openly interpreted as referring to at least one instance of an element, device, component, means, etc., unless expressly stated otherwise.

[0030] Specific embodiments of the inventive concept will now be described, by way of example, with reference to the accompanying drawings, in which: [Brief explanation of the drawings]

[0031] [Figure 1] FIG. 1 is a perspective view of a pad and an auto-injector according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 2] FIG. 2 is a side view of the pad and auto-injector of FIG. 1. [Figure 3] FIG. 3 is a perspective view of the pad in FIGS. 1 and 2. [Figure 4] FIG. 3 is a perspective view of the pad in FIGS. 1 and 2. [Figure 5] FIG. 1 is a perspective view of a pad and an auto-injector with a cover extension in a retracted position according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 6] 6 is a perspective view of the pad and auto-injector of FIG. 5 with the support structure pushed away from the mounting portion. FIG. [Figure 7] 1 is a perspective cross-sectional view of a pad according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 8A] 1 is a perspective cross-sectional view of a pad according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 8B] 8B is a perspective cross-sectional view of the pad of FIGS. 7 and 8A with the support structure pushed away from the mounting portion. FIG. [Figure 9] 1 is a perspective cross-sectional view of a pad according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 10] FIG. 10 is a perspective cross-sectional view of the pad in FIG. 9. [Figure 11] FIG. 11 is a side view of the pad and auto-injector of FIG. 10. [Figure 12] 12 is a side view of the pad and auto-injector of FIG. 11 with the support structure pushed away from the mounting portion. FIG. [Figure 13] 13 is a perspective cross-sectional view of a portion of the pad and auto-injector of FIG. 12. FIG. [Figure 14] FIG. 1 is a perspective distal view of a pad according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 15] FIG. 15 is a perspective proximal view of the pad in FIG. 14. [Figure 16] FIG. 1 is a perspective view of a pad according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 17] FIG. 17 is a perspective cross-sectional view of the pad in FIG. 16. [Figure 18] FIG. 1 is a side view of a pad according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 19] FIG. 1 is a perspective view of a pad with a strap according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 20]1 illustrates a pad according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 21] 1 illustrates a pad according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 22] 1 illustrates a pad according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 23] 1 illustrates a pad according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 24] 1 illustrates a pad according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 25] 1 illustrates a pad according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0032] 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; 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 parts throughout the description.

[0033] 1 and 2 show an example of a pad 100 according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. Pad 100 extends along an axis 102 from a proximal end 104 to a distal end 106. Proximal end 104 is the end of the pad that is adjacent an injection site when the pad is in use. The injection site is understood to be the drug delivery site.

[0034] The pad 100 includes a mounting portion 108 configured to receive a medication delivery device 110, such as an auto-injector or pen-type injector.

[0035] 1 and 2 extends from a proximal end 112 to a distal end 114 relative to the shaft 102. The drug delivery device 110 includes a housing 116, a window 118, a needle 120, and a cover extension 122 configured to cover the needle 120. The drug delivery device 110 also includes a mounting portion 124, which is configured to engage with the mounting portion 108 of the pad 100.

[0036] The mounting portion 108 of the pad 100 is equipped with a locking mechanism 126 for releasably locking the medication delivery device 110 to the pad 100. The locking mechanism 126 can be configured in various ways, for example, as a friction lock, in which a movable arm 127 applies a retaining force to the mounting portion 124 of the medication delivery device 110, or as a snap-fit ​​lock, in which a protrusion on the proximal end of the housing 116 of the medication delivery device 110 engages with a corresponding portion on the mounting portion 108 of the pad 100 to lock the medication delivery device 110 in place.

[0037] Additionally, the pad 100 optionally includes a release button 128 configured such that actuation of the release button 128 releases the medication delivery device from the mounting portion 108 .

[0038] 2 shows the medication delivery device 110 attached to the pad 100 at the mounting portion 108. The needle 120 extends out from the proximal end 104 of the pad 100. In this state, the cover extension, sometimes referred to as the needle guard, is in a retracted position, thereby exposing the needle 120. If the pad 100 is removed from the injection site with the medication delivery device 110 attached to the mounting portion 108, it is desirable that the needle 120 not be left in this exposed state.

[0039] To address the problem of exposed needles, pad 100 is provided with a support structure that can be provided in a variety of configurations, as will now be described in more detail.

[0040] Turning now to Figures 3 and 4, which show two perspective views of the pad 100. The pad 100 includes a support structure 130 at the proximal end of the mounting portion 108. The support structure 130 is configured to abut against a medication delivery device in use when the medication delivery device is disposed on the mounting portion 108. The support structure 130 provides a distal support surface for the mounting portion 108. The distal support surface faces distally and is disposed at the proximal end of the mounting portion 108.

[0041] 5 shows the pad 100 with the medication delivery device 110 attached to the pad 100 at the attachment portion 108 and the needle 120 extending out at the proximal end 104 of the pad 100. In this state, the cover extension 122 is in a retracted position. Generally, the cover extension is biased, for example by a spring, towards the extended position that protects the needle 120.

[0042] As shown in FIG. 6, the support structure 130 is configured to be pushed away from the mounting portion 108 by a force exerted by the cover extension 122 of the drug delivery device 110 when transitioning from the retracted position to the extended position, such that the cover extension 122 can move to the extended position in response to the pad 100 being removed from the injection site while the drug delivery device 110 is present in the mounting portion 108.

[0043] During use of the pad, the support structure 130 is at the proximal end of the pad 100 adjacent the injection site. Additionally, the support structure 130 is configured to allow the cover extension 122 to penetrate through the attachment portion 108 and beyond the plane of the proximal end 104 of the pad 100. Thus, when the support structure 130 is removed from the proximal end 104, the cover extension 122 reaches the proximal end of the pad 100.

[0044] In this embodiment, the support structure 130 is a plate-like structure generally parallel to the body 141 of the pad 100. The support structure 130 includes a proximal injection surface 132 configured to be separated from the attachment portion 108 by a force exerted by the spring-loaded cover extension 122. The proximal injection surface 132 is the surface that is attached to the injection site, for example, via an adhesive. Thus, during use of the pad, the proximal injection surface 132 is adjacent to the injection site. Here, the proximal injection surface extends across substantially the entire proximal end 104 of the pad 100.

[0045] In this embodiment, a support structure 130 including a proximal injection surface 132 is hinged to a side structure 134 of the pad 100. Thus, the pad 100 includes a hinge 136 connecting the planar support structure 130 to the main body of the pad 100.

[0046] Opposite the hinge 136, the support structure 130, including the proximal injection surface 132, includes a clip 138 configured to hold the proximal injection surface 132 in place before being released by the force exerted by the cover extension 122. The clip 138 is disposed distally of the support structure and configured to lock into a receiving slot 139 in the body 141 of the pad 100.

[0047] When the support structure 130 is released at the clip and slot connection, the support structure 130 rotates about an axis 140 parallel to a major plane 143 of the body 141 of the pad 100, best seen in FIG. 3, so that a through hole is formed in the mounting portion 108 through which the cover extension 122 can extend.

[0048] As long as the pad 100 is attached to the injection site, the counter force keeps the support structure 130 in place. However, once the pad 100 is removed from the injection site while the medication delivery device 110 is locked to the mounting portion 108, the counter force is no longer applied, causing the force from the cover extension 122 to release the clip 138 and swing open the support structure 130 on the hinge 136. As a result, the cover extension 122 transitions to a retracted state in which the needle 120 is covered.

[0049] 7 and 8A-8B illustrate an embodiment of pad 300 that shares similar components as pad 100, except that the hinge is a living hinge 302. Similar to the function of pad 100, when cover extension 122 presses against distal support surface 133 at the proximal end of mounting portion 108, living hinge 302 swings open and support structure 130, including proximal injection surface 132, moves away from mounting portion 108, best seen in FIG. 8B. Living hinge 302 allows support structure 130, including proximal injection surface 132, to rotate about axis 140, as also discussed in connection with FIG. 3.

[0050] 8A-8B, the proximal end 104 includes a foldable support structure 130 and a non-foldable portion 150 that ensures that the proximal end 104 can lie flat over the injection site. The proximal injection surface 132 of the support structure 130 here extends across at least half of the area of ​​the proximal end 104 of the pad 300.

[0051] Figures 9-13 show another embodiment of the present disclosure. This pad shares similar components with pad 100 shown in Figures 1-8. For example, pad 200 extends along axis 102 from proximal end 104 to distal end 106. Proximal end 104 is the end of the pad that is adjacent the injection site when the pad is in use. The injection site is understood to be the drug delivery site.

[0052] The pad 200 includes a mounting portion 108 configured to receive a medication delivery device 110, such as an auto-injector or pen-type injector. Possible attachment means for the medication delivery device 110 and the mounting portion 108 have been described above and will not be repeated here.

[0053] The pad 200 includes a support structure 230 according to one embodiment of the present disclosure. During use of the pad 200, the support structure 230 is at the proximal end 104 of the pad 200 adjacent the injection site.

[0054] The support structure 230 is configured to abut the medication delivery device 110 in use when the medication delivery device 110 is positioned on the mounting portion 108. The support structure 230 provides a distal support surface 233 for the mounting portion 108. The distal support surface 233 faces distally of the pad 200.

[0055] 10 , which shows a cross-sectional view of the pad 200, the support structure 230 includes a set of clips 235 configured to releasably lock the support structure 230 to the mounting portion 108. The clips 235 are actuated to a releasable state by the medication delivery device 110 when inserted into the mounting portion. The clips 235, when engaged with the mounting portion 108, maintain the support structure 230 in place and provide a distal support surface 233 at the proximal end of the mounting portion 108.

[0056] When the medication delivery device 110 is engaged with the mounting portion 108, the proximal end 112 of the medication delivery device 110 acts on the clips 235, disengaging them from the mounting portion 108 and thereby releasing the support structure 230. However, as long as a counter force is provided from the injection site, the support structure 230 will remain in place.

[0057] 11 shows the pad 200 with the medication delivery device 110 in place on the mounting portion 108 and the needle extending out at the proximal end 104. The cover extension of the medication delivery device 110 is therefore in a retracted position. When transitioning from the retracted position to the extended position, the support structure 230 is configured to be pushed away from the mounting portion 108 by a force exerted by the cover extension 122 of the medication delivery device 110, as shown in FIGS. 12 and 13, such that the cover extension 122 can move to the extended position in response to the pad 200 being removed from the injection site while the medication delivery device 110 is present on the mounting portion 108.

[0058] 10 , the clips 235 each include a flexible arm 237 with a protrusion 239 that extends radially through a through-hole 241 in a wall 243 of the mounting portion 108. The protrusion 239 is configured to be pushed radially out of the through-hole 241 by the drug delivery device 110, thereby releasing the support structure 230 from the mounting portion 108. The flexible arms (only one of which is numbered) are substantially parallel to the wall 243 of the mounting portion 108.

[0059] 13 is a perspective cross-sectional view of the pad 200 when the cover extension 122 pushes the released support structure 230 away from the mounting portion 108. In this position, the support structure 230 is configured to allow the cover extension 122 to penetrate through the mounting portion 108 and beyond the plane of the proximal end 104 of the pad 200. The support structure 230 includes a proximal injection surface 132 and is configured to be separated from the mounting portion 108 by a force exerted by the spring-loaded cover extension 122. The proximal injection surface 132 is the surface that is attached to the injection site, for example, via an adhesive. Thus, during use of the pad, the proximal injection surface 132 is adjacent to the injection site. Here, the proximal injection surface 132 extends over only a portion of the entire proximal end 104 of the pad 100.

[0060] In an initial state shown in Figure 11, the housing 116 presses against the protrusions 239, see Figures 10 or 13, such that the flexible arms 237 are resiliently pushed radially out of their respective through holes 241. The protrusions include inclined surfaces 244 against which the housing 116 is adapted to slide in order to radially push the protrusions 239 out of their engagement positions in the through holes 241.

[0061] 14 and 15 illustrate a pad 400 according to another embodiment. The pad 400 includes similar components to those described with reference to previous figures, which are labeled with the same reference numerals and will not be repeated here. However, the pad 400 includes a support structure 430 that differs from those of the other embodiments. The support structure 430 is provided in the form of flexible arms 431 attached to the pad 400. The flexible arms 431 provide a distal support surface 433 for a medication delivery device when engaged with the mounting portion 108. The flexible arms 431 are configured to be pushed away from the mounting portion 108 by a force exerted by a cover extension of the medication delivery device when transitioning from the retracted position to the extended position, such that the cover extension can move to the extended position in response to the pad 400 being removed from the injection site while the medication delivery device is present in the mounting portion 108. In other words, at least one flexible arm 431 is configured to bend due to a force from the cover extension. The flexible arm 431 is configured so that when the pad 400 is removed from the injection site, the force from the spring-loaded cover extension is sufficient to bend the flexible arm and allow the cover extension to penetrate proximally through the mounting portion beyond the plane of the proximal end of the pad 400.

[0062] In this particular embodiment shown in FIGS. 14 and 15, each flexible arm 431 includes a U-shaped structure 435 and a link arm 436 that connects the U-shaped structure 435 with the mounting portion 108 at the proximal end 104.

[0063] 16-18 show pads 500 and 600 according to a second embodiment. In this second embodiment, pads 500, 600 extend along axis 102 from proximal end 104 to distal end 106. Proximal end 104 is the end of pad 500, 600 that is adjacent the injection site when pad 500, 600 is in use.

[0064] The pad 500,600 includes an attachment portion 108 configured to releasably receive a medication delivery device. The attachment portion includes a release mechanism 501,601 that, when actuated, releases the medication delivery device from the pad 500,600.

[0065] The pads 500, 600 each include a release arm 502, 602 configured to act on the release mechanism 501, 601 when the pads 500, 600 are being removed from the injection site by transmitting to the release mechanism a force from the pad caused by deformation of the pad during removal from the injection site.

[0066] The mounting portion 108 of the pad 500, 600 is equipped with a locking mechanism 126 for releasably locking the medication delivery device 110 to the pad 100. The locking mechanism 126 includes a movable arm 127 that applies a retaining force to the mounting portion 124 of the medication delivery device 110, see for example Figures 2-3. This may be a friction lock.

[0067] Turning now to pad 500 shown in Figures 16 and 17, Figure 16 is a perspective view of pad 500 and Figure 17 is a cross-sectional view.

[0068] In this embodiment, a release arm 502 is attached to a pad surface 504 at the distal end 106 of the pad 500. The release arm 502 extends distally to a position distal to a release button 128 of the release mechanism 126. The release arm 502 is attached to a removal tab 506 of the pad 500 that is adapted to be pulled by a user to remove the pad 500 from the injection site. When the user deforms the pad 500 by pulling on the tab 506, the release arm 502 acts on a distal surface 508 of the release button 128, causing the release mechanism 126 to be activated.

[0069] In this embodiment, the release button 128 is attached to the surface at the distal end 106 of the pad 500 via a link arm 514 .

[0070] In use, when a user pulls the removal tab 506, the hook-like release arm 502 reaches and presses the release button 128 in a proximal direction, as indicated by arrow 510, towards the surface at the distal end 106 of the pad 500. The movable arm 127 is then pulled radially towards the mounting portion 108 on which the medication delivery device is located, see e.g., FIG. 3 , which reduces the force applied by the movable arm 127 to the medication delivery device, thereby releasing the medication delivery device from the mounting portion 108.

[0071] Another pad similar to that in FIGS. 16 and 17 is shown in FIGS. 22-25. In this example, a release arm 502 again acts to activate a release mechanism 126 in the same manner as described for the pad in FIGS. 16 and 17, but the release arm 502 acts on a lever 509 rather than directly on a release button 128. As can be seen particularly in FIG. 25, the lever 509 is attached to the release mechanism 126, which (optionally) includes the release button 128. An optional ridge is provided on the distal surface of the release button 128, which can aid in gripping. An optional ridge is provided on the proximal surface of the removal tab 506, which can aid in gripping. Optional ridges can also be provided in other locations, such as the distal surface of the removal tab 506. An optional cover 511 is also seen, which can protect the adhesive layer on the proximal end of the pad and would typically be removed by the user before using the pad.

[0072] Turning now to FIG. 18 , which illustrates pad 600, in this embodiment, a first end 604 of release arm 602 is attached to a proximal surface 606 of release button 128. A second end 608 of release arm 602 is adapted to abut a distal surface 610 of pad 600. Thus, when pad 600 is removed from the injection site, release arm 602 flexes such that second end 608 moves proximally toward distal end 106 of pad 600, which spatially translates release button 128 and causes actuation of release mechanism 601.

[0073] The release arm 602 is flexible and adapted to be biased proximally to hold it in place, i.e., to prevent the counter force provided by the injection site when the pad 600 is attached to the user from actuating the release mechanism 126. When the pad 600 is removed, the release arm 602 flexes open, causing a radial pulling action on the release button 128, causing the movable arm 127 to release the medication delivery device from the mounting portion 108.

[0074] In this particular embodiment, the release arm 602 includes a first arm portion 611 and a second arm portion 612 that form an acute angle therebetween. The first arm portion 611 includes a first end 604, and the second arm portion 612 includes a second end 608. The junction between the first and second arm portions abuts a stop edge 614 of the pad 600, preventing the junction from moving toward the mounting portion 108. As the release arm 602 bends, the angle between the first arm portion 611 and the second arm portion 612 increases, causing the second arm portion to move along a curved path as indicated by arrow 620, thereby moving the release button 128 away from the mounting portion 108 and thereby actuating the release mechanism 601. The bending movement of the release arm 602 is thus a relative movement between the first arm portion 611 and the second arm portion 612.

[0075] The release button 128 of pad 600 is not attached to the pad distal surface 610 as is the case with pad 500. The release button 128 of pad 600 is connected only to a movable arm 127 that extends into the mounting portion 108 and to the release arm 602. This advantageously allows for an efficient pulling action on the release button by the release arm 602 when the pad 600 is removed from the injection site.

[0076] 19 discloses a pad 700 configured to be attached to an injection site via a strap 702 instead of adhesive. The strap 702 can be attached via attachment points 704 on the pad 700, or the strap 702 can be directly glued or co-molded to the pad 700. The strap 702 can be adjusted with a locking clip. In a possible implementation, a Velcro strap can be used to lock the pad 700 to the body.

[0077] 20 and 21 show another pad 800. This pad includes a proximal portion 811 and a distal portion 813. The proximal portion 811, shown separated in FIG. 20, includes a proximal injection surface 832 proximal to the proximal portion 811. As in other examples herein, the proximal injection surface 832 is a surface that is attached to the injection site, for example, via an adhesive. Thus, during use of the pad, the proximal injection surface 832 is adjacent to the injection site. The proximal injection surface 832 may be simply an adhesive layer proximal to the proximal portion 811 and may include a removable cover 833 that protects the adhesive layer prior to use. Optionally, the proximal injection surface 832 includes a hole 839, which may allow a needle to pass through the hole (alternatively, instead of puncturing the adhesive layer). Similarly, an optional hole 841 in the proximal injection surface 832 may allow a needle to pass through the hole (alternatively, instead of puncturing the proximal injection surface 832).

[0078] Distal portion 813 includes a mounting portion 808. Mounting portion 808 can receive a medication delivery device such as an auto-injector or pen injector, as shown in Figure 21 with an auto-injector. In Figure 21, portions of the auto-injector can be seen, including housing 116, syringe 117 including needle 120, syringe carrier 119, cover extension 122 (needle guard), and cover extension spring 123.

[0079] The mounting portion 808 includes an optional tubular section 809. The tubular section can help align the drug delivery device during insertion into the pad 800.

[0080] The frustoconical design of the pad (and the prominent placement of the button, in this example including optional ribs to improve grip of button 828) is designed so that when attempting to remove the drug delivery device and pad from the injection site after injection, the user will naturally grasp the button, thereby releasing distal portion 813 from proximal portion 811, which can help ensure correct use of the device and pad even if the user does not strictly follow the instructions for use.

[0081] The proximal portion 811 is releasably attached to the distal portion 813. The distal portion 813 includes a release button 828, which includes a flexible arm including an outwardly extending hook 837 that extends from the flexible arm away from the shaft. The proximal portion 811 includes a corresponding recess 835 into which the outwardly extending hook 837 extends (see FIG. 21 ). Two release buttons and two corresponding recesses are provided, or alternatively, one release button and one corresponding recess are provided.

[0082] The proximal portion 811 includes a support structure 830, which in this example is a surface extending perpendicular to the longitudinal axis, that is configured to abut the drug delivery device when the drug delivery device is positioned in the mounting portion, in use, thereby maintaining the cover extension in a retracted position, as can be seen in Figure 21 .

[0083] During use of the pad 800, the pad would typically first be attached to the injection site. A drug delivery device would be inserted into the pad and typically activated by insertion into the pad (e.g., by retracting the cover extension to the position shown in FIG. 21 ) and / or by the user, for example, by pressing a button. The drug delivery device may be held in place (as shown in FIG. 21 ) relative to the pad by, for example, a friction fit or a snap fit. This may allow the user to hold the drug delivery device in the position shown in FIG. 21 (i.e., a position where an injection can be performed) without having to hold the drug delivery device in place at the injection site. Once the injection is complete, the user squeezes the two buttons 828 toward each other to release the hook 837 from the recess 835, thereby detaching the proximal portion 811 from the distal portion 813. As a result, the distal portion 813 can be removed from the injection site together with the drug delivery device, leaving the proximal portion 811 attached to the injection site (which can subsequently be removed from the injection site). Removing proximal portion 811 from distal portion 813 allows cover extension 122 to extend from its retracted position (because proximal portion 811 no longer restricts proximal movement of cover extension 122), thereby covering the needle. In this example, releasing hook 837 from recess 835 would typically result in the cover extension extending, thereby actively pushing distal portion 813 away from proximal portion 811.

[0084] The pads disclosed herein can be made from a transparent material. Additionally, the sidewall of the mounting portion can include an opening that forms a window near the base of the mounting portion adjacent the pad surface. Prior to use, instructions can instruct the patient to check whether the cover extension is fully inserted when using the auto-injector. The window and / or transparent material allows the patient to inspect the condition of the cover extension when using the auto-injector in combination with the injection support pad.

[0085] The pads disclosed herein can include embedded electronics that include different units.

[0086] A sensor unit capable of recognizing injection events such as the auto-injector being inserted into the mounting portion, the injection being started, and the injection being completed.

[0087] A memory unit configured to store data recorded during the injection.

[0088] A connectivity unit configured to transmit stored data directly to a smart device or network.

[0089] A processing unit configured to control the entire system and process data before sending it out.

[0090] A user interface unit configured to provide feedback to the patient, such as a status LED, tactile, and / or audio feedback.

[0091] When the auto-injector is placed in the injection port, sensors inside the support pad can be configured to recognize the event and provide feedback to the patient via tactile / visual or audio elements.

[0092] Once the injection is complete, the sensor can be configured to recognize the event and again provide feedback to the patient. Additionally, the collected data can be stored in the memory unit and transmitted to a smart device / network via the connectivity unit after the injection event is complete.

[0093] The sensor can be one or a combination of the following: a mechanical switch, a Hall effect sensor, and an accelerometer.

[0094] A mechanical switch, a Hall effect sensor, and / or an accelerometer can be used to detect the insertion of an auto-injector into the injection port.

[0095] The accelerometer can be used to detect an injection event.

[0096] Possible wireless communication methods include Bluetooth and cellular networks.

[0097] Bluetooth connectivity typically requires the smart device to transmit stored data to the network and typically requires a pairing operation between the support pad and the smart device before the support pad can be used, however Bluetooth may offer a cheaper alternative and typically requires less space on a PCB (printed circuit board).

[0098] Using a cellular network does not require any pairing process, so it can be used as a plug-and-play device with no prior setup required, however this can be more expensive and generally requires more space on the PCB.

[0099] Depending on the product requirements, either (or both) of these two techniques can be used.

[0100] Such a processing unit may include a logic circuit or control unit including a microprocessor, a microcontroller, a programmable digital signal processor, and / or another programmable device. The processing circuit may also, or instead, include an application specific integrated circuit, a programmable gate array or programmable array logic, a programmable logic device, or a digital signal processor, respectively. When the processing circuit includes a programmable device such as the above-mentioned microprocessor, microcontroller, or programmable digital signal processor, the processor may further include computer-executable code for controlling the operation of the programmable device.

[0101] The inventive concept has been described primarily with reference to a few examples. However, as will be readily understood by those skilled in the art, embodiments other than those disclosed above are equally possible within the scope of the inventive concept as defined by the appended claims.

[0102] Some of the features are summarized in the following sections.

[0103] 1. A pad (100, 200, 300, 400) extending along an axis (102) from a proximal end (104) to a distal end (106), the proximal end being the end of the pad adjacent an injection site when the pad is in use, the pad comprising: a mounting portion (108) configured to receive a medication delivery device (110); a support structure (130, 230, 430) at the proximal end of the mounting portion configured to abut the medication delivery device in use and when the medication delivery device is disposed on the mounting portion; Including, The support structure is configured to be pushed away from the mounting portion by a force exerted by the cover extension (122) of the medication delivery device when transitioning from the retracted position to the extended position, such that the cover extension can move to the extended position in response to the pad being removed from the injection site while the medication delivery device is present in the mounting portion. pad.

[0104] 2. During use of the pad, the support structure is at the proximal end of the pad adjacent to the injection site, pad by node 1.

[0105] 3. A pad according to any one of clauses 1 and 2, wherein the support structure is configured to allow the cover extension to penetrate through the mounting portion and beyond the plane (143) of the proximal end of the pad.

[0106] 4. A pad according to any one of the preceding clauses, wherein the support structure includes at least one flexible arm (237) attached to the pad, the at least one flexible arm being configured to bend due to a force from the cover extension.

[0107] 5. A pad according to any one of clauses 1 and 2, wherein the support structure includes a proximal injection surface (132) configured to be separated from the attachment portion by a force exerted by the cover extension.

[0108] 6. Pad by node 5, the proximal injection surface of which is hinged to the side structure (134) of the pad.

[0109] 7. The hinge is a living hinge (302), padded by section 6.

[0110] 8. A pad according to any one of clauses 6 and 7, wherein the proximal injection surface includes a clip (138) configured to hold the proximal injection surface in place before being released by force exerted by the cover extension.

[0111] 9. Pads according to any one of sections 5 to 8, with the proximal injection surface adjacent to the injection site during pad use.

[0112] 10. A pad according to any one of clauses 5 to 9, wherein the proximal injection surface extends over at least half of the area of ​​the proximal end of the pad.

[0113] 11. The pad according to clause 5, wherein the support structure includes a set of clips (236) configured to releasably lock the support structure to the mounting portion, the set of clips being releasable by the cover extension when inserted into the mounting portion.

[0114] 12. The clip includes a flexible arm (237) with a protrusion (239) that extends through a through-hole (241) in a wall (243) of the mounting portion, the protrusion being configured to be pushed out of the through-hole by the cover extension, thereby releasing the support structure from the mounting portion, pad according to clause 11.

[0115] 13. The flexible arm is substantially parallel to the wall of the mounting portion, the pad being at section 12.

[0116] 14. The proximal injection surface contains adhesive, a pad according to any one of clauses 5 to 13.

[0117] 15. A pad (500, 600) extending along an axis from a proximal end to a distal end, the proximal end being the end of the pad adjacent to an injection site when the pad is in use, the pad comprising: a mounting portion configured to releasably receive a medication delivery device, the mounting portion including a release mechanism (501, 601) that, when actuated, releases the medication delivery device from the pad; a release arm (502, 602) configured to act on the release mechanism when the pad is being removed from the injection site by transmitting to the release mechanism a force from the pad caused by deformation of the pad while being removed from the injection site; Including pads.

[0118] 16. A pad according to clause 15, wherein a release arm is attached to the pad surface (504) at the distal end of the pad and extends to the distal face (508) of the release button (128) of the release mechanism, and when the release arm acts on the distal face of the release button, the release mechanism is activated.

[0119] 17. A pad according to clause 16, wherein the release arm acts towards the surface of the distal end of the pad to press a release button, or the release arm acts towards the surface of the distal end of the pad to push a lever of a release mechanism.

[0120] 18. A pad by either one of the sections 16 and 17, wherein the release arm is hook-shaped to act on the distal surface of the release button.

[0121] 19. A pad according to any one of clauses 16 to 18, wherein the release button is attached to the surface (504) at the distal end of the pad via a link arm (514).

[0122] 20. A pad according to any one of clauses 16 to 19, wherein the release arm is attached to a removal tab (506) of the pad adapted to be pulled by a user to remove the pad from the injection site.

[0123] 21. A pad according to clause 20, wherein deformation of the pad during removal from the injection site is deformation of the removal tab (506).

[0124] 22. A pad according to clause 15, wherein a first end (602) of the release arm is attached to a proximal surface (606) of a release button of the release mechanism and a second end (608) of the release arm is adapted to abut a distal surface (610) of the pad, whereby when the pad is removed from the injection site, the release arm bends such that the second end moves in a direction toward the distal end of the pad, thereby spatially transporting the release button and causing actuation of the release mechanism.

[0125] 23. The release arm includes a first arm portion (611) and a second arm portion (612) forming an acute angle therebetween, the first arm portion including a first end and the second arm portion including a second end, the junction between the first and second arm portions abutting a stop edge (614) of the pad to prevent the junction from moving toward the mounting portion, whereby bending of the release arm increases the angle between the first and second arm portions, thereby moving the release button away from the mounting portion and thereby actuating the release mechanism, pad according to clause 22.

[0126] 24. Pads according to any one of clauses 16 to 23, the mounting part of which includes a friction lock.

[0127] 25. A pad (800) extending along an axis (102) from a proximal end (104) to a distal end (106), the proximal end being the end of the pad adjacent an injection site when the pad is in use, the pad comprising: a distal portion (813), the distal portion including an attachment portion configured to receive a medication delivery device; a proximal portion (811) at the proximal end of the distal portion configured to abut the medication delivery device in use and when the medication delivery device is disposed on the mounting portion; Including, The proximal portion (811) is configured to be removed from the distal portion (813) by movement of a button (828) on the distal portion (813). pad.

[0128] 26. The button (828) includes a flexible arm including an outwardly extending hook (837) extending from the flexible arm away from the axis, and the proximal portion (811) includes a recess (835) into which the hook (837) extends, the pad (800) by the section 25. [Explanation of symbols]

[0129] 100 pads 102 axes 104 proximal end 106 Distal end 108 Mounting part 110 Drug delivery device 112 proximal end 114 Distal end 116 Housing 118 Window 120 needles 122 Cover extension 124 Mounting part 126 Locking mechanism 127 Movable Arm 128 Release Button 130 Support structure 132 Proximal injection surface 133 Distal Support Surface 134 Side structure 136 Hinge 138 clips 139 Acceptance Slots 140 axes 141 Main Unit 143 Principal plane 150 Non-foldable parts 200 pads 230 Support structure 233 Distal Support Surface 235 clips 237 Flexible Arm 239 Protrusion 241 through hole 243 Wall 244 Slope 300 pads 302 Living Hinge 400 pads 430 Support structure 431 Flexible Arm 433 Distal Support Surface 435 U shape structure 436 Link Arm 500 pads 501 Release mechanism 502 Release Arm 504 Pad surface 506 Removal Tab 508 Distal surface 509 Lever 511 Cover 514 Link Arm 600 pads 601 Release mechanism 602 Release Arm 604 first end 606 Proximal surface 608 Second End 610 Distal surface 611 First arm part 612 Second arm part 614 Stop edge 700 pads 702 Strap 704 mounting points 800 pads 808 Mounting part 811 Proximal part 813 Distal part 828 release button 830 Support structure 832 Proximal injection surface 833 Cover 835 recess 837 Outward extending hook 839 holes 841 holes

Claims

1. A pad (100, 200, 300, 400) extending along an axis (102) from a proximal end (104) to a distal end (106), said proximal end being the end of said pad adjacent an injection site when said pad is in use, said pad comprising: a mounting portion (108) configured to receive a medication delivery device (110); a support structure (130, 230, 430) at the proximal end of the mounting portion configured to abut the medication delivery device in use when the medication delivery device is disposed on the mounting portion; Including, The support structure is configured to be pushed away from the mounting portion by a force exerted by the cover extension (122) of the drug delivery device (110) when the cover extension (122) of the drug delivery device (110) moves from a retracted position to an extended position, and is configured so that the cover extension can move to the extended position in response to the pad being removed from the injection site while the drug delivery device is present at the mounting portion.

2. The pad of claim 1 , wherein, during use of the pad, the support structure is at the proximal end of the pad adjacent the injection site.

3. 3. A pad according to claim 1 or 2, wherein the support structure is configured to allow the cover extension to pass through the attachment portion and beyond the plane (143) of the proximal end of the pad.

4. 3. The pad of claim 1, wherein the support structure includes at least one flexible arm (237) attached to the pad, the at least one flexible arm being configured to bend under force from the cover extension.

5. 3. The pad of claim 1, wherein the support structure includes a proximal injection surface (132) configured to be separated from the attachment portion by a force exerted by the cover extension.

6. 6. The pad of claim 5, wherein the proximal injection surface is hingedly attached to a side structure (134) of the pad.

7. 7. The pad of claim 6, wherein the hinge is a living hinge (302).

8. 7. The pad of claim 6, wherein the proximal injection surface includes a clip (138) configured to hold the proximal injection surface in place before being released by a force exerted by the cover extension.

9. 6. The pad of claim 5, wherein the proximal injection surface is adjacent the injection site during use of the pad.

Images