Injection device with an improved mechanism for generating an audible feedback

Abstract

The invention relates to an injection device comprising a housing (3), an actuation member (20), an injection drive mechanism (25) for driving a plunger (9) within a medicament container (5), the injection drive mechanism including o a plunger rod (31) axially movable for driving the plunger (9); and o an injection compression spring (34) having coils (36) and arranged for biasing the plunger rod (31) to its distal position, the compression spring moving the plunger rod (31) distally as it axially expands. The device (1) further includes a clicking member (38) for generating an audible signal as the injection progresses, said clicking member comprising, fixed within the housing (3), a flexible blade bearing on the coils (36) of the compression spring (34) to produce the audible signal as the compression spring expands.

Description

[0001] INJECTION DEVICE WITH AN IMPROVED MECHANISM FOR GENERATING AN AUDIBLE FEEDBACK

[0002] Technical field

[0003] The present invention relates to injection devices for injecting pharmaceutical products, including an injection drive mechanism wherein a piston rod is driven by a compression spring that expands once released upon actuation of the device by a user. Such devices may be referred to as auto-injectors.

[0004] The invention is in particular, but not only, applicable to so-called “needle guard-activated” auto-injectors that can be fired by the user by pressing the device on the injection site. This type of auto-injectors is often preferred for injecting drugs to be administered in emergency conditions. In particular, emergency devices are required to be not only robust and reliable, but also easy to use with a minimal number of steps.

[0005] Background of the invention

[0006] Some injection devices known in the field are provided with features generating an audible signal at the start and / or at the end of the injection.

[0007] In other prior art devices, e g., as disclosed in WO 2015 / 132234, the audible signal is generated by a clicker mechanism during delivery, whereby the user can perceive the progress of the injection as it actually occurs.

[0008] While the perception of the injection phase may be improved with such “pseudo- continuous” signals, the existing clicker mechanisms generally require modifications to a plurality of components of the device.

[0009] It can however be desirable to design a device platform that may optionally include the features for generating such audible signals, wherein the incorporation of such features would only require the addition of a specific component and no (or minimal) modification to the other components, as compared to a version of the device without the clicker mechanism.

[0010] Summary of the Invention

[0011] According to the present invention, it is provided an injection device comprising

[0012] - an elongated housing extending along a longitudinal axis and configured to receive a medicament container provided with a barrel containing the medicament, a needle attached thereto and a plunger displaceable within the barrel to expel the medicament through the needle;

[0013] - an actuation member mounted onto the housing and displaceable by the user for actuating the device and thus expelling the medicament;

[0014] - an injection drive mechanism for driving the plunger within the barrel upon actuation of the device, the injection drive mechanism including o a plunger rod axially movable within the housing, between a proximal position and a distal position, for driving the plunger within the barrel; and o an injection compression spring having coils and arranged for biasing the plunger rod to its distal position, the compression spring moving the plunger rod distally within the barrel as it axially expands, wherein the device further includes a clicking member for generating an audible signal as the injection progresses, said clicking member being fixed within the housing and comprising a flexible blade bearing on the coils of the compression spring to produce the audible signal as the compression spring expands.

[0015] With this design, the clicking member can be formed as a simple add-on component or accessory, that can be included in the device without any change to the other components of the device and without the need of any other additional component for achieving the clicking function.

[0016] Preferred embodiments may include one or several of the following features:

[0017] - the clicking member includes a base part attached to the housing, the flexible blade projecting from the base part and having a free end bearing on the coils;

[0018] - the clicking member is integrally made from metal;

[0019] - the clicking member is made from stamped metal;

[0020] - the injection drive mechanism further includes o a retaining member fixed within the housing for, in an initial state of the injection device, retaining the plunger rod in its proximal position against the biasing action of the injection compression spring, the retaining member and the plunger rod having corresponding latching features including a stop surface and a corresponding radially deflectable resilient arm formed with a protrusion, whereby the plunger rod is retained in its proximal position by the engagement of the protrusion with the stop surface; and o a trigger member comprising a blocking feature, and being axially displaceable by the actuation member when moving from its extended position to its retracted position, from a blocking position, wherein the blocking feature prevents the radial deflection of the resilient arm thus preventing the disengagement of the protrusion from the corresponding stop surface, to a release position wherein the resilient arm is free to radially deflect whereby the protrusion is disengaged from the corresponding stop surface under the biasing action of the injection compression spring, and the trigger member and the housing comprise corresponding locking features in mutual releasable engagement for maintaining the trigger member in its blocking position, and wherein said locking features are designed to be released by the actuation member when moving from its extended position to its retracted position, whereby the retraction of the actuation member causes the release of the locking features, the release of the latching features and thus the firing of the injection device;

[0021] - the retaining member has a substantially cylindrical hollow body provided for housing the injection compression spring;

[0022] - the clicking member is attached into the cylindrical body of the retaining member;

[0023] - the actuation member is a needle guard telescopically mounted in the housing and axially movable between an extended position, wherein the needle guard distally protrudes from the housing and surrounds the needle, and a retracted position proximally spaced from the extended position corresponding to the condition of pressing the device against an injection site for firing the injection device;

[0024] - the needle guard has a sheath portion for surrounding the needle in the extended position, the sheath portion having a through hole at the distal end for the passage of the needle when the needle guard is retracted, and a leg axially and proximally projecting from the sheath portion, said leg having a free end for engaging and displace the trigger member when the needle guard is retracted; - the leg has a notch distally spaced from the free end of the leg and forming a transverse edge that defines a stop surface for, in a final state of the injection device after the injection, preventing the needle guard from being proximally retracted;

[0025] - the leg has an axial edge with a section extending between the sheath portion and the notch, that defines a guiding element slidingly cooperating with a corresponding guiding element of the retaining member during axial displacement of the needle guard;

[0026] - the latching features include a pair of resilient arms formed on the plunger rod at the proximal end thereof and extending axially, respective protrusions being formed at the free end of each resilient arm;

[0027] - the retaining member comprises a radial wall having an axial bore with a circumferential rim defining the stop surface of the latching features;

[0028] - the protrusions are radially and outwardly protruding from the respective resilient arms, the resilient arms axially projecting from the radial wall through the bore, with the protrusions and the stop surface mutually engaged, when the plunger rod is in its proximal position; and

[0029] - the blocking feature includes an axial pin that, in the blocking position of the trigger member, prevents the inward deflection of the resilient arms and hence disengagement of the protrusions from the stop surface.

[0030] Brief Description of the Drawings

[0031] A preferred embodiment of the invention will now be described in more details, with reference to the following drawings wherein:

[0032] - FIG.1 is an exploded perspective view of an injection device according to a preferred embodiment of the invention;

[0033] - FIG.2 is a cross-sectional view, in a first axial plane, of the device of FIG.1 as assembled in a storage configuration, before use;

[0034] - FIG.2A is a cross-sectional view of the device in the configuration of FIG.2, in a perpendicular axial plane;

[0035] - FIG.3 is an elevation view of the front housing alone of the device of FIG.1 ;

[0036] - FIG.3A and 3B are, respectively, a side view in direction 3A and a cross section view in the axial plane 3B-3B from FIG.3;

[0037] - FIG.4 is a perspective view of the needle guard alone of the device of FIG.1 ;

[0038] - FIG.5 is a top view of the retaining member alone of the device of FIG.1 ;

[0039] - FIG.6 is a top view of the trigger member alone of the device of FIG.1 ; - FIG.6A is a cross section view in the axial plane 6A-6A from FIG.6;

[0040] - FIG.7 is a perspective view of the clicking member alone of the device of FIG.1 ;

[0041] - FIG.8 is an enlarged view of detail D of FIG.2A, showing the flexible blade of the clicking member bearing on the injection spring;

[0042] - FIG.9 is a cross-sectional view, in the plane of FIG.2, of the device of FIG.1 in a first step of triggering the device, wherein the needle guard is partially retracted, corresponding to the user starting to press the device against the injection site. The clicking member is not represented on this view;

[0043] - FIG.9A and 9B are partially broken away views without the housing, respectively elevation and top views, of the device in the configuration of FIG.9;

[0044] - FIG.10 is a cross-sectional view, in the plane of FIG.2, of the device of FIG.1 in a second step of triggering the device, wherein the needle guard is fully retracted, corresponding to the full insertion of the needle in the injection site. The clicking member is not represented on this view;

[0045] - FIG.10A and 10B are partially broken away views without the housing, respectively elevation and top views, of the device in the configuration of FIG.10;

[0046] - FIG.11 is a cross-sectional view, in the plane of FIG.2, of the device of FIG.1 in a first lock out step of the device, wherein the needle guard is returned to a partially extended position, corresponding to the user starting to withdraw the device from the injection site. The clicking member is not represented on this view;

[0047] - FIG.11 A and 11 B are partially broken away views without the housing, respectively elevation and top views, of the device in the configuration of FIG.11 ;

[0048] - FIG.12 is a cross-sectional view, in the plane of FIG.2, of the device of FIG.1 in a final lock out configuration of the device, wherein the needle guard is returned to its fully extended position, corresponding to the final after-use configuration of the device. The clicking member is not represented on this view;

[0049] - FIG.12A and 12B are partially broken away views without the housing, respectively elevation and top views, of the device in the configuration of FIG.12.

[0050] Detailed Description of a Preferred Embodiment

[0051] Definitions

[0052] The following definitions will be used in the present description and claims: - the term “auto-injector” designates an injection device, wherein the force for expelling the medicament from the medicament container is provided by an energy source of the device that is triggered by the user, as opposed to a device using manual force from the user to expel the medicament. In the present description, the term auto-injector encompasses the injectors having a stationary needle as well as those having an auto-penetration feature, wherein the needle is moved and inserted into the injection site by an energy source of the device before the medicament is expelled;

[0053] - the term “distal” refers to a location or direction that is close to, or oriented toward, the outlet port for the content of the medicament cartridge when received in the injection device. The “distal” location and direction may also be referred to as, respectively, the “front” location and the “forward” direction; and

[0054] - the term “proximal” refers to a location or direction opposing to the distal location or direction, and / or that is close to, or oriented toward, the prehension part of the injection device. The “proximal” location and direction may also be referred to as, respectively, the “rear” location and the “rearward” direction.

[0055] The invention will now be further illustrated by the following preferred embodiment shown on the figures (FIG.1 -10).

[0056] The injection device depicted on the figures is a single use auto-injector.

[0057] With reference to FIG.1 , 2 and 2A, the injection device 1 comprises an elongated housing 3 extending along a longitudinal axis X and configured to receive a medicament container 5. In the illustrated embodiment, the housing 3 is made in two parts including a front housing 3a and a rear housing 3b, which are coaxially and fixedly attached. However, in other embodiments, the housing 3 may be integrally made as a one-piece component.

[0058] In the illustrated embodiment, the medicament container s is a pre-filled syringe provided with a barrel 6 containing the medicament 7, a needle 8 attached thereto and a plunger 9 displaceable within the barrel 6 to expel the medicament through the needle. The barrel 6 is formed with a flange 10 at its proximal end, a tip at its distal end connected to the needle 8 presenting a reduced diameter and thereby forming a front shoulder 11. The barrel 6 is made from glass but, in other embodiments, could be made from plastic material. The syringe 5 is further provided with a removable protecting sheath 15 surrounding the needle 8 and comprising an enlarged base portion 17 at its proximal end. The sheath 15 is typically made, at least partially, from an elastomeric material such as rubber. As will be detailed in the following, the syringe 5 is fixedly mounted within the front housing 3a.

[0059] The device 1 further comprises an actuation member mounted onto the housing 3 and displaceable by the user for actuating the device and thus expelling the medicament. In the illustrated embodiment, the actuation member is in the form of a needle guard 20 telescopically mounted in the housing 3 and axially movable between an extended position and a retracted position. In the extended position, the needle guard 3 distally protrudes from the distal end of the housing 3 and surrounds the needle 8, whereby the needle is concealed from the user’s sight and protected. The retracted position is proximally spaced from the extended position and corresponds to the condition of pressing the device against an injection site for firing the device.

[0060] In the context of the invention, other embodiments (not illustrated) may include button- actuated devices as opposed to needle guard-actuated devices. In such cases, the actuation member would be a button, commonly provided on the top (proximal end) of the device or on a side portion.

[0061] In association with the needle guard 20, the device incudes a needle guard spring 21 , which is in this embodiment a helical compression spring, axially arranged between the housing 3 and the needle guard 20 for biasing the needle guard in the distal direction.

[0062] The device 1 further comprises a cap 22 detachably mountable onto a distal portion of the housing 3 for covering the needle guard 20 and limiting the axial movements thereof. As will be seen in the following, the cap 22 is also provided with gripping features for the needle sheath 15 to be removed when the cap 22 is detached from the housing 3.

[0063] For driving the plunger 9 within the barrel 6 upon actuation of the device and thus expelling the medicament 7 through the needle 8, the device 1 further comprises, arranged within the housing 3, an injection drive mechanism 25.

[0064] The injection drive mechanism 25 includes a plunger rod 31 axially movable within the housing 3 for driving the plunger 9 within the barrel 6, a retaining member 33 fixed within the housing 3, an injection spring 34 and a trigger member 35 axially movable within the housing 3 for triggering an injection phase when moved rearwardly. The injection spring 34 is a helical compression spring having coils 36 and axially arranged between the retaining member 33 and the plunger rod 31 for forwardly biasing the plunger rod 31 . The compression spring 34 thus moves the plunger rod 31 distally within the barrel 6 as it axially expands.

[0065] Furthermore, the device 1 comprises a trigger spring 37 in the form of a helical compression spring axially arranged between the housing 3 and the trigger member 35 for distally biasing the trigger member 35.

[0066] The device 1 further includes a clicking member (or ‘clicker’) 38 for generating an audible signal as the injection progresses, said clicking member being fixed within the housing 3. The expression “as the injection progresses” means the whole phase during which the plunger rod 31 is moved distally by the compression spring 34. In the illustrated embodiment, this phase corresponds to the delivery of the medicament through the needle 8. In alternative embodiments (not represented), wherein the medicament container is movable within the housing and the needle insertable within the injection site under the action of the plunger rod, said phase may include not only the delivery of the medicament through the needle but also the prior phase of needle insertion.

[0067] The clicking member 38 will be described below with reference to FIG.7 and 8.

[0068] With reference to FIG.3, 3A and 3B, it will be seen that the front housing 3a has an elongated cylindrical external wall 41 , a coaxial cylindrical internal wall 42 forming a receptacle for the syringe barrel 6 and a coaxial front-end sleeve 43 for detachable connection with the cap 22. The front housing is further provided with radial connecting ribs 44, four in number in the illustrated embodiment, rigidly connecting the external wall 41 to the internal wall 42 and regularly distributed about the longitudinal axis X.

[0069] The external wall 41 has, in the represented embodiment, an overall oval shape in crosssection, whereby the device is prevented from rolling on a flat surface. It comprises, in a rear portion, a pair of opposing bores 45 for rigid attachment of the rear housing 3b to the front housing 3a. On its inner surface, the external wall 41 is formed with a stop surface 46 for engagement by a complementary feature of the needle guard 20 for limiting the displacement of the needle guard 20 in the distal direction. The external wall 41 is also provided, on an outer surface of a front portion thereof, with ridges 47 or corrugations for enhanced handling by the user.

[0070] The internal wall 42 is generally circular in cross-section, dimensioned for matching the external dimensions of the syringe barrel 6, and is provided at the front with a stop portion 48 of smaller diameter. The stop portion 48 is provided for engagement with the shoulder 11 of the syringe barrel 6, whereby the syringe 5 can be coaxially inserted into the front housing 41 , received in the cavity defined by the internal wall 42 and held in axial position against forward movement by the stop portion 48.

[0071] The front-end sleeve 43, which defines the distal end of the housing 3, has a rib thread section 49 for cooperating with a complementary feature of the cap 22, those connecting features being designed such that the cap 22 can be detached from the front housing 41 by rotating the cap by a fraction of a turn and then axially removing it.

[0072] Preferably, the front housing 41 is made integral by molding of a synthetic material.

[0073] Referring now more particularly to FIG.1 and 4, the needle guard 20 has a sheath portion 50 with a front annular rim 51 for, in its extended position, surrounding the needle 8, and a pair of opposing legs 52 axially and proximally projecting from the sheath portion 50.

[0074] The sheath portion 50 is formed as a cylinder having, delimited by the rim 51 , a through hole 53 at its distal end for the passage of the needle 8 when the needle guard 20 is retracted into the housing 3. The sheath portion 50 is also provided, at its distal end, with a pair of diametrically opposed radial projections 54 designed for engagement with complementary features of the cap 22 for limiting the axial movement of the needle guard 20 when the cap 22 is attached to the housing 3. This arrangement aims to prevent accidental triggering of the device, for example in case of a shock.

[0075] Each leg 52 has a free end 55 for, as will be described in the following, engaging and displacing the trigger member 35 when the needle guard 20 is retracted into the housing 3. Each leg 52 is formed with a notch, distally spaced from the free end 55 and forming a transverse edge 56, and an axial edge having a section 57 extending between the sheath portion 50 and the notch. The transverse edge 56 defines a stop surface for, in a final state of the injection device after the injection, preventing the needle guard 20 from being proximally retracted. The section 57 of the axial edge defines a guiding element for engagement with a corresponding feature of the retaining member 33 during the axial displacement of the needle guard 20.

[0076] Each leg 52 is further provided with a flexible deflectable flap 58 having a radially projecting front flap edge 59 for engagement with the corresponding stop surface 46 of the external wall 41 , as visible on FIG.2. The engagement of the flap 58 with the stop surface 46 defines the extended position of the needle guard 20 with respect to the housing 3, with the needle guard 20 being prevented from further distal relative displacement.

[0077] As visible on FIG.2 and 2A, the needle guard spring 21 , arranged between the needle guard 20 and the housing 3, bears at the proximal end on the stop portion 48 of the front housing 3a and at the distal end on the annular rim 51 .

[0078] Referring now to more particularly FIG.1 , 2 and 2A, the cap 22 includes a substantially cylindrical wall 61 designed to fit over the front end sleeve 43 of the front housing 2a and a front end annular wall 63 partially closing the cylindrical wall 61 at the front. The inner surface of the cylindrical wall 61 is formed with a recess 64, forming the complementary feature of the rib thread section 49 for threaded connection therewith.

[0079] The cap 22 further comprises, rearwardly extending from the front end wall 61 , a coaxial grip sleeve 65 for engaging the needle sheath 15. At the free end (proximal end), the grip sleeve 65 is formed with a pair of opposing jaws 67 engaging a rear annular surface of the enlarged base 17 of the needle sheath 15 when the cap 22 is attached to the housing 3 (FIG.2), whereby the sheath 15 is removed from the syringe 5 when the cap 22 is detached from the housing 3.

[0080] On the outer surface of the cylindrical wall 61 , the cap 22 is provided with a main rib 68 extending from the front end to the rear end of the cylindrical wall 61 , said rib 68 being continuously formed with a substantially axial portion and a substantially helical portion, and a ridged surface 69. The main rib 68 and the ridged surface 69 are designed to enhance handling by the user, in particular to make it easier for the user to rotate the cap 22 by a fraction of a turn (for example % turn) corresponding to the threaded connection between the cap 22 and the housing 3, and then axially draw the cap 22 for detaching the cap from the housing. The ridged surface 69, in conjunction with the ridges 47 of the front housing 3a, may also define a visual indicator of the angular position of the cap 22 with respect to the housing 3.

[0081] In the illustrated embodiment, the cap 22 is made as an integral molded piece from a synthetic material. In particular, the grip sleeve 65 is made integral with the rest of the cap 22. However, in other embodiments, the grip sleeve 65 may be a separate component from the rest of the cap and attached thereto. The grip sleeve may also be made in a different material, such as metal.

[0082] The inner surface of the cylindrical 61 is formed with a constriction 70 defining a stop surface for engagement by the radial projections 54 of the needle guard for preventing retraction of the needle guard 20 when the cap 22 is attached to the housing 3. In this configuration, the axial displacement of the needle guard is thus limited to a small distance between the constriction 70 and the front end annular wall 63 (FIG.2A).

[0083] Still referring to FIG.1 , 2 and 2A, the rear housing 3b is formed as a plug for closing the internal volume defined by the front housing 3a at the rear end thereof. It mainly comprises a generally cylindrical body 71 fitting in the external wall 41 of the front housing 3a and, at a proximal end thereof, a radial closing wall 73. The outer surface of the cylindrical body 71 is formed with a pair of opposed radial latches 75 for engagement with the respective bores 45 and rigid attachment of the rear housing 3b to the front housing 3a.

[0084] The inner surface of the cylindrical body 71 of the rear housing 3b is formed with opposed recesses 77 provided to be engaged by complementary features of the retaining member 33 for rigid attachment thereof to the rear housing 3b. The inner surface of the body 71 of the rear housing 3b is further formed with diametrically opposed recesses defining radial stops 79 for engagement by features of the trigger member 35, as will be seen in the following. Still referring to FIG.1 , 2 and 2A, the plunger rod 31 is formed as an integral part that has a main elongated solid body 81 provided with a radial plate 83 at its distal end, and a pair of parallel resilient arms 85 axially and proximally extending from the solid body 81 . The plate 85 is designed to engage the plunger 9 and transfer thereto the expelling force of the injection spring 34.

[0085] The arms 85 are spaced one from the other, thus defining a gap 87, and are flexible such that they can be inwardly deflected in a radial direction. Each arm 85 is formed, at its free proximal end, with a protrusion 89 for engagement with a stop surface of the retaining member 33. The protrusion 89 radially and outwardly protrudes from the respective resilient arm 85. The resilient arms 85 define latching features for axially retaining the plunger rod 31 against the biasing action of the injection spring 34.

[0086] Particular reference is now made to FIG.1 , 2, 2A and 5. The retaining member 33 comprises a substantially cylindrical hollow body 101 and, at the proximal end thereof, a radial wall formed with a central axial bore 102 with a circumferential rim 103. The rim 103 defines a stop surface for engagement by the protrusions 89 (as visible on FIG.2) and thus defines a corresponding latching feature.

[0087] The cylindrical hollow body 101 is designed for housing the injection spring 34, the radial wall defining a seat for the injection spring 34. As visible on FIG.2, the injection spring 34, which is compressed in the initial state illustrated on this figure, bears at its distal end on the plate 83 of the plunger rod 31 and, at its proximal end, on the radial wall of the hollow body 101.

[0088] The injection spring 34 and the latching features, defined on the one hand by the resilient arms 85 and the protrusions 89 and on the other end by the rim 103, are designed such that the force imparted by the injection spring 34 to the plunger rod 31 , in its proximal position (same position as FIG.2), overcomes the retention force of the latching features when in mutual engagement if the resilient arms 85 are not prevented from inwardly deflecting.

[0089] The cylindrical hollow body 101 is formed with a prong 105 radially and outwardly projecting therefrom, the prong 105 defining a cam follower for engagement with a corresponding feature of the trigger member 35. The retaining member 33 further comprises a pair of opposed fixing latches 107 that extend radially from the hollow body 101 and engage with the corresponding recesses 77 (as shown on FIG.2A), for securing the retaining member 33 to the rear housing 3a.

[0090] The retaining member 33 also includes a pair of parallel branches 108 that axially project from the hollow body 101 in the distal direction and are symmetrically spaced from the central axis X. Each branch is provided, at its free distal end, with an inclined edge 109 designed to bear and press on the syringe flange 10. The branches 108 and the respective inclined edges 109 provide some degree of elasticity that absorb potential residual play between the syringe and the device components due to manufacturing tolerances. The branches 108 and edges 109 are also designed to absorb shocks in the event of dropping the device in the “needle up” orientation and minimize impact forces on the glass constituting the syringe barrel 6. The branches 108 are each formed with a recess 110 having a front internal surface 110a on the distal side of the recess.

[0091] Furthermore, the retaining member 33 has an annular bearing flange 111 radially extending from the hollow body 101 for slidably bearing the legs 52 of the needle guard 20 and, further outwardly projecting from the bearing flange 111 , two opposing pairs of guiding walls 113 each pair defining a passage for a respective leg 52. The guiding walls 113 are configured to slidingly cooperate with the corresponding leg 52 so as to allow the needle guard 20 to axially slide and prevent relative rotation.

[0092] Referring now to FIG.1 , 2, 2A, 6 and 6A, it will be seen that the trigger member 35 comprises a hollow sleeve body 131 that is open at its distal end and closed at its proximal end by a proximal closing wall 133. The sleeve body 131 fits over the cylindrical hollow body 101 of the retaining member 33, with the sleeve body 131 being able, depending on the axial displacement and position of the needle guard 20, to slide or rotate with respect to the cylindrical hollow body 101. Movements of the trigger member 35 relative to the retaining member 33 will be explained in the following.

[0093] The trigger member 35 includes an axial pin 135 distally protruding from the closing wall 133 such that, in the initial configuration illustrated on FIG.2 and 2A, the pin 135 is inserted in the gap 87 between the resilient arms 85 of the plunger rod 31 , thus preventing inward radial deflection of the resilient arms 85 and hence disengagement of the protrusions from the stop surface of the rim 103.

[0094] The pin 135 thus defines a blocking feature that is axially displaceable with the trigger member 35 by the needle guard 20 when moving from its extended position to its retracted position. When the trigger member 35 is proximally moved from the blocking position wherein the pin 135 blocks the inward deflection of the arms 85, the pin 135 is removed from the gap 87 whereby it no longer interferes with the arms 85 and no longer blocks the deflection of the arms. This corresponds to a release position of the trigger member 35, wherein the resilient arms 85 are free to radially deflect. The protrusions are thus disengaged from the corresponding stop surface formed by the rim 103 under the biasing action of the injection spring 34.

[0095] The trigger member 35 further comprises, outwardly projecting from the sleeve body 131 , a pair of opposed cantilever flexible arms 137, each provided with a radial tab 139 at the free end thereof. The tabs 139 are provided for releasable engagement with the respective radial stops 79 formed by recesses of the rear housing 3b (FIG.2).

[0096] Each tab 139 is biased by the respective flexible arm 137 into engagement within the corresponding recess, the arm 137 being inwardly deflectable by the needle guard 20 for the release of the tab 139 from the recess. Each cantilever flexible arm 137 comprises a ramp 141 for engagement with a corresponding leg 52 of the needle guard 20. The profile of the ramp 141 determines an inward deflection of the cantilever flexible arm 137 caused by an axial displacement of the needle guard 20, when the needle guard is moved in the proximal direction.

[0097] The tabs 139 and the corresponding radial stops 79 define locking features in mutual releasable engagement. These locking features are designed to maintain the trigger member 35 in its blocking position, and to be releasable by the needle guard 20 when moved from its extended position to its retracted position. The retraction of the needle guard 20 causes the release of the locking features 79, 139, the release of the latching features 89, 103 and thus the firing of the injection device.

[0098] The trigger member 35 further includes, radially and outwardly projecting from the sleeve body 131 , a first rib 143 and, distally spaced therefrom, a second rib 145. In the illustrated embodiment, the trigger member 35 includes a pair of such first ribs 143, which are diametrically opposed, and a pair of such second ribs 145, which are also diametrically opposed.

[0099] The first rib 143 is provided for engagement with the corresponding free end 55 of the leg 52 when the needle guard 20 is retracted, whereby the trigger member 35 is caused to be proximally displaced.

[0100] The first rib has a stop surface for engagement by the free end 55 of the leg 52 at an axial location corresponding to the apex of the ramp 141 , slightly distally spaced from the tab 139, such that the retraction of the needle guard 20 sequentially causes the deflection of the cantilever arm 137 and the engagement of the free end 55 of the leg 52 without contacting the tab 139.

[0101] The second rib 145 is provided for, during the retraction of the needle guard 20 toward its retracted position, engaging the corresponding guiding element defined by the axial edge 57 of the leg 52 and, in the final state of the injection device after the injection, engage the transverse edge 56 of the corresponding leg 52 and thus prevent the needle guard 20 from being proximally retracted.

[0102] The second rib 145 therefore provides a stop feature selectively engaging the needle guard 20 for, in a first phase of the operation of the device, allowing axial displacement of the needle guard 20 and, in a final state of the device, preventing the needle guard 20 from being proximally retracted. This will be further explained in the following.

[0103] The sleeve body 131 of the trigger member 35 is also provided, on an inner surface thereof, with a cam track 150 for receiving the prong 105 of the retaining member 33. The cam track 150 has, proximally extending from an open distal end 151 , an axial channel 151 and a transversally oriented dead-end channel 155 connected with axial channel 151 . As visible o FIG.6A, an internal rear wall of the dead-end channel 155 is inclined with respect to the main axis X while an internal front wall is perpendicular to the main axis X.

[0104] The cam system constituted by the prong 105 and the cam track 150 define lockout features of a lockout mechanism for locking the needle guard 20 in an extended position corresponding to the final state of the device after the injection i.e. for preventing retraction of the needle guard 20 once the device has been fired and once the needle guard 20 has been returned to its extended position by the needle guard spring 21 .

[0105] Furthermore, the sleeve body 131 is provided, radially projecting therefrom in a proximal region, with a stop member in the form of a collar 160 that defines a seat for the trigger spring 37.

[0106] As visible on FIG.2 and 2A, the trigger spring 37, arranged between the needle guard 20 and the housing 3, bears at the proximal end on the closing wall 73 of the rear housing 3b and at the distal end on the collar 160.

[0107] With reference to FIG.7 and 8, the clicking member 38 includes a base part having a generally cylindrical sleeve 201 and a pair of opposing U-shaped flaps 203 radially and outwardly projecting from a distal edge 205 of the sleeve 201.

[0108] The clicking member 38 further includes, radially and inwardly projecting the central branch of each U-shaped flap 203, a flexible blade 207 slightly inclined or curved in the distal direction. Each blade 207 has a free end 209 and is designed such that the free end 209 bears on the coils 36 of the compression spring 34 and, as illustrated on FIG.8, is biased to remain in contact with the compression spring 34.

[0109] The clicking member 38 is further provided, at the proximal end of the sleeve 201 , with a plurality (four in the illustrated embodiment) of radial tabs 211 defining axial stops in the proximal direction and, at the distal end of the sleeve 201 , with a pair of diametrically opposing latching fingers 213 defining axial stops in the distal direction.

[0110] Preferably, the clicking member 38 is integrally made from stamped metal. Alternatively, the clicking member may be made from another rigid material.

[0111] As represented on FIG.2 and 2A, the clicking member 38 is attached into the cylindrical body 101 of the retaining member 33 and thus fixed within the housing 3. For attaching the clicking member 38 into the retaining member 33, the clicking member 38 is axially inserted into the retaining member 33 until the radial tabs 211 engage the flange 111 , thus preventing further proximal insertion. The latching fingers 213, after inward deflection to reach this position, elastically flex back outwardly and engage the front internal surface 110a of the recess 110, whereby the clicking member 38 is also stopped axially in the distal direction.

[0112] When the device is triggered and the compression spring 34 released to drive the plunger rod 31 distally, the flexible blade 207 successively bears on a coil 36 and then hits the subsequent coil, and so on, thereby producing the audible signal, as the compression spring 34 expands.

[0113] Starting from the initial configuration of the injection device 10 (device as stored) illustrated on FIG. 2 and 2A, the main steps for operating the device will now be described with reference to FIG.9-11 .

[0114] In the initial configuration of FIG.2, 2A, it will be noted that the plunger rod 31 is retained in its proximal position by the engagement of the protrusions 89 with the stop surface of the rim 103 against the biasing action of the pre-compressed injection spring 34. The resilient arms 85 axially project through the bore 102, with the protrusions 89 and the stop surface of the rim 103 being in mutual engagement, and are prevented from inwardly deflecting by the engagement of the pin 135 between the resilient arms 85.

[0115] In this initial configuration, the trigger spring 37 is compressed between the rear housing 3b and the trigger member 35, whereby the trigger member 35 is biased to its blocking position wherein the pin 135 engages the gap 87 between the resilient arms 85.

[0116] The trigger member 35 is retained in this blocking position by the mutual releasable engagement of the locking features constituted by the tabs 139 and the radial stops 79, which in this position prevent the trigger member 35 from axial displacement in the proximal direction. Obviously, the trigger member 35 is also prevented from distally moving by the arms 85 stopping the wall 73 of the trigger member 35.

[0117] In this initial configuration, the needle guard 20 is prevented from moving distally by the flap edge 59 engaging the stop surface 46. The needle guard 20 has also a limited ability of proximal displacement against the biasing action of the needle guard spring 21 due to the interaction of the projections 54 with the constriction 70 of the cap 22. Prior to using the device 1 , the user needs to remove the cap 22 by twisting the cap 22 for releasing the threaded connection 49, 64 between the cap 22 and the front housing 3a, and then axially detach the cap 22 from the front housing 3a. In doing so, the user removes the sheath 15 from the needle 8, the sheath 15 being retained in the grip sleeve 65 of the cap. The needle 8 remains protected by the needle guard 20, which is then in its fully extended position, and unexposed.

[0118] The device is then ready to proceed with an injection. When uncapped, the device is in the same configuration as the one shown on FIG.2, 2A, with only the cap 22 and the sheath 15 removed and the needle guard 20 free to move further proximally.

[0119] For triggering the device 1 and injecting the medicament 7 contained in the medicament container 5 (syringe), the user needs to press the distal end of the device, i.e. the tip constituted by the annular rim 51 of the needle guard 20, on the injection site. When pressed against the action of the needle guard spring 21 , the needle guard 20 starts to be partially retracted within the housing 3.

[0120] In the configuration illustrated on FIG.9, 9A, 9B, the needle guard is partially retracted in the housing 3 thus exposing the tip of the needle 8 that penetrates the tissue of the user.

[0121] The legs 52 are axially guided between the guiding walls 113 with the axial edges 57 sliding on the respective second rib 145 of the trigger member 35. During this phase, the legs 52 slide over the respective ramps 141 of the cantilever arms 137, thus inwardly deflecting the arms 37 and releasing the tabs 139 from the corresponding radial stops 79 of the housing 3. In this configuration, the trigger member 35 has not moved with respect to the initial configuration, either axially or rotationally. The prong 105 is engaged in the cam track 150 and positioned in the rearmost portion of the axial channel 153.

[0122] In this partially retracted configuration, it will be noted with reference to FIG.9 that, while the locking features 79, 139 are released, the trigger member 35 is still in its axial blocking position wherein the pin 135 is inserted in the gap 87 and prevents inward deflection of the resilient arms 85, thus preventing the disengagement of the protrusions 89 from the stop surface of the rim 103. The trigger member 35 is maintained in its blocking position under the biasing action of the trigger spring 37. By continued pressured applied to the device 1 against the injection site, the needle guard is further retracted into the housing until it reaches its fully retracted position, thereby exposing the whole length of the needle to be inserted in the user’s tissue.

[0123] This configuration is represented on FIG.10, 10A, 10B.

[0124] To reach this configuration, the needle guard 20 is retracted such that the free end 55 of the legs 52 bears on the respective first rib 143 and thus in turn pushes the trigger member 35 in the proximal direction against the action of the trigger spring 37. The pin 135 is therefore disengaged from the gap 87 in the fully retracted position of the needle guard 20 (as shown on FIG.10, 10A, 10B), whereby the latching features 89, 103 are released.

[0125] This configuration corresponds to the release position of the trigger member 35, wherein the resilient arms 85 are free to inwardly deflect and wherein, under the action of the injection spring 34, the protrusions 89 are disengaged from the stop surface of the rim 103.

[0126] During that phase of operation, the trigger member 35 is still prevented from rotating over the retaining member 33 due to the engagement of the prong 105 in the axial channel 153. In the fully retracted position of the trigger member 35, the prong 105 is located at the open end 151 of the cam track 150, at least partially within the axial channel 153, thus still preventing rotation of the trigger member 35 relative to the retaining member 33.

[0127] As the latching features are released, the plunger rod 31 can be driven forward to its distal position (as shown on FIG.11 ) under the action of the injection spring 34, thus pushing the plunger 9 forward in the medicament container and expelling the medicament.

[0128] It will thus be appreciated that the retraction of the needle guard 20 sequentially causes the release of the blocking features 79, 139 and then, upon further retraction, the axial displacement of the trigger member 35 from its blocking position to its release position. This in turn causes the latching features 89, 103 to be released and the firing of the injection device, wherein the injection spring 34 drives the plunger rod 31 to its distal position, thereby injecting the medicament. The presence of the trigger spring 37 ensures that, after the blocking features 79, 139 are released, the free end 55 of the leg 52 and the first rib 143 stay mutually engaged. This ensures that the release of the latching features 89, 103 - and thus the activation of the device - occurs at the appropriate needle insertion depth, corresponding to the fully retracted position of the needle guard 20.

[0129] Throughout the whole phase of displacement of the plunger rod 31 , between the positions illustrated on FIG.9 and FIG.11 , i.e. the whole phase of expansion of the compression spring 34, a plurality of coils 36 of the compression spring 34 pass through the clicking member 38, which is stationary within the housing, and successively contact the blades 207. The audible signal is thus produced throughout this phase as discrete repeated ‘clicks’ that provide a ‘pseudo-continuous’ signal from the start to the end of the injection phase.

[0130] The configuration illustrated on FIG.11 , 11 A, 11 B corresponds to the user starting to release the pressure on the device once the injection has been completed. The plunger rod 31 is in its distal position and the needle guard 20 is returned to a partially extended position under the action of the needle guard spring 21 .

[0131] To reach that configuration, the legs 52 slide back distally over the ramps 141 thereby releasing the cantilever arms 137 that can flex back outward to their initial position as the trigger member 35 is biased in the distal direction by the trigger spring 37. Under the action of the trigger spring 37, the trigger 35 is thus moved axially forward, whereby the axial channel 153 is moved so as to receive prong 105. In this relative motion, the prong 105 is brought in engagement at the end portion of the axial channel 153 with a transverse surface of the dead-end channel 155 (as visible on FIG.11 B).

[0132] Under the action of the trigger spring 37, the mutual engagement of the prong 105 with the cam track 150 causes the prong 105 to be biased toward the dead-end channel 155. However, the relative rotation of the trigger member 35 and the retaining member 33 is prevented as the second rib 145 bears on the axial edge 57 of the leg 52. The relative rotation is prevented until the needle guard 20 is returned to its fully extended position, corresponding to the second rib 145 reaching the proximal end of the edge 57. In the final state of the device after the injection and once the user has fully withdrawn the device from the injection site and fully released the pressure on the device, the needle guard 20 is returned to its fully extended position, also corresponding to its position of FIG.2, wherein it fully covers the needle 8.

[0133] This final configuration is illustrated on FIG.12, 12A, 12B.

[0134] To reach this configuration, the needle guard 20 has distally moved over a distance such that the axial edge 52, after sliding on the second rib 145, reaches a position wherein the notch 56 is located in correspondence with the second rib 145, thus allowing the trigger member 35 to rotate.

[0135] Under the action of the trigger spring 37 and the mutual engagement of the cam follower (the prong 105) in the cam track 150, the trigger member 35 is caused to rotate with the inclined rear wall of the dead-end channel 155 being forced to slide on the prong 105. The second rib 145 then engages the corresponding transverse edge formed by the notch 56, thereby locking out the needle guard 20 in its fully extended position. This prevents the needle guard 20 from being retracted again and, as a safety measure, the needle to be exposed for avoiding risks of injuries.

[0136] It will be appreciated that the cam system 105, 150 allows or prevents relative displacements, whether axial or rotational, of the trigger member 35 relative to the retaining member 33 depending on the axial displacement and position of the needle guard 20.

[0137] The trigger member 35 is preventing from rotating by the prong 105 riding within the axial channel 153. In both the blocking and release positions of the trigger member 35, the prong 105 is engaged within the axial channel 153, preventing relative rotation.

[0138] In order to enable the rotation of the trigger member 35 during lockout, the trigger member 35 must move distally, under action from the trigger spring 37, until the prong 105 is completely free from the axial channel 153. This state, shown in Figure 11 B, can only be realized once the plunger rod 31 is released. Once the arms 85 can no longer interfere with the trigger member 35, the trigger member 35 will be able to move distally beyond the initial position thereof (as shown on FIG.2), and the prong 105 will eventually exit the axial channel 153. This happens just before the prong 105 makes contact with the deadend channel 155. Once the prong 105 exits the axial channel 153 and contacts the deadend channel 155, the second rib 145 will make contact with the axial edge 57 of the needle guard 20, preventing rotation of the trigger member 35 until the needle guard has returned to its fully extended state.

[0139] If the user pushes on the needle guard 20 in this state of the device, the transverse edge 56 of the needle guard 20 contacts the second rib 145 and the front wall of the dead-end channel 155 then pushes against the prong 105, which is rigidly fixed to the housing 3. The front wall of the dead-end channel 155 is oriented such that no relative rotation can be caused by the front wall of the dead-end channel 155 axially pressing on the prong 105. In the illustrated embodiment, this is achieved by the front wall of the dead-end channel being perpendicular to the main axis X.

[0140] In alternative embodiments (not shown), the cam system may be inverted, with the cam follower being provided on the trigger member and the cam track being provided on the retaining member. In that configuration, the cam follower may be in the form of a prong that radially and inwardly projects from the sleeve body of the trigger member. The illustrated embodiment is preferred though as the components are easier to manufacture with conventional injection molding methods.

[0141] In further alternative embodiments (not shown), the locking features corresponding to the radial stops 79 and the tabs 139 may be provided in a different arrangement, wherein the radial stops are formed by recesses in the retaining member and the tabs are formed on cantilever arms radially projecting inward from the sleeve body of the trigger member. In such embodiments, the legs of the needle guard are slidably engaged radially between the retaining member and the trigger member. The retraction of the needle guard, in that case, causes an outward deflection of the cantilever arms (as opposed to an inward deflection in the illustrated preferred embodiment) and the release of the locking features. Also, in such embodiments, the first and second ribs corresponding to the ribs 143, 145 project radially inward from the sleeve body of the trigger member.

[0142] The device described in the foregoing includes safety features, such as preventing unintentional firing, that are achieved by relatively simple means eliminating the need for additional components and handling steps. Such design provides a high degree of robustness and reliability that is particularly essential for emergency devices that are used in combination with life-saving drugs.

[0143] It will be appreciated that the clicking member is designed as an optional add-on component having no (or minimal) impact on the design of the other components. In other words, the clicking member itself would be the only differentiating element between a version of the device provided with the ‘clicker’ function and a version deprived of this function. The assembling process for both versions would also be essentially the same.

Claims

CLAIMS1 . Injection device comprising- an elongated housing (3) extending along a longitudinal axis (X) and configured to receive a medicament container (5) provided with a barrel (6) containing the medicament (7), a needle (8) attached thereto and a plunger (9) displaceable within the barrel to expel the medicament through the needle;- an actuation member (20) mounted onto the housing (3) and displaceable by the user for actuating the device (1 ) and thus expelling the medicament (7);- an injection drive mechanism (25) for driving the plunger (9) within the barrel (6) upon actuation of the device, the injection drive mechanism including o a plunger rod (31 ) axially movable within the housing (3), between a proximal position and a distal position, for driving the plunger (9) within the barrel (6); and o an injection compression spring (34) having coils (36) and arranged for biasing the plunger rod (31 ) to its distal position, the compression spring (34) moving the plunger rod (31 ) distally within the barrel (6) as it axially expands, wherein the device (1 ) further includes a clicking member (38) for generating an audible signal as the injection progresses, said clicking member being fixed within the housing (3) and comprising a flexible blade (207) bearing on the coils (36) of the compression spring (34) to produce the audible signal as the compression spring expands.

2. Injection device according to claim 1 , wherein the clicking member (38) includes a base part (201 , 203) attached to the housing (3), the flexible blade (207) projecting from the base part and having a free end (209) bearing on the coils (36).

3. Injection device according to claim 1 or 2, wherein the clicking member (38) is integrally made from metal.

4. Injection device according to claim 3, wherein the clicking member (38) is made from stamped metal.

5. Injection device according to any one of claims 1 to 4, wherein the injection drive mechanism (25) further includeso a retaining member (33) fixed within the housing (3) for, in an initial state of the injection device, retaining the plunger rod (31 ) in its proximal position against the biasing action of the injection compression spring (34), the retaining member (33) and the plunger rod (31 ) having corresponding latching features (85, 89, 103) including a stop surface (103) and a corresponding radially deflectable resilient arm (85) formed with a protrusion (89), whereby the plunger rod (31 ) is retained in its proximal position by the engagement of the protrusion (89) with the stop surface (103); and o a trigger member (35) comprising a blocking feature (135), and being axially displaceable by the actuation member (20) when moving from its extended position to its retracted position, from a blocking position, wherein the blocking feature (135) prevents the radial deflection of the resilient arm (85) thus preventing the disengagement of the protrusion (89) from the corresponding stop surface (103), to a release position wherein the resilient arm (85) is free to radially deflect whereby the protrusion (89) is disengaged from the corresponding stop surface (103) under the biasing action of the injection compression spring (34), wherein the trigger member (35) and the housing (3) comprise corresponding locking features (79, 139) in mutual releasable engagement for maintaining the trigger member (35) in its blocking position, and wherein said locking features (79, 139) are designed to be released by the actuation member (20) when moving from its extended position to its retracted position, whereby the retraction of the actuation member (20) causes the release of the locking features (79, 139), the release of the latching features (85, 89, 103) and thus the firing of the injection device.

6. Injection device according to claim 5, wherein the retaining member (33) has a substantially cylindrical hollow body (101 ) provided for housing the injection compression spring (34).

7. Injection device according to claim 6, wherein the clicking member (38) is attached into the cylindrical body (101 ) of the retaining member (33).

8. Injection device according to any one of claims 1 to 7, wherein the actuation member is a needle guard (20) telescopically mounted in the housing (3) and axially movable between an extended position, wherein the needle guard (20) distally protrudes from the housing (3) and surrounds the needle (8), and a retracted position proximallyspaced from the extended position corresponding to the condition of pressing the device (1 ) against an injection site for firing the injection device.

9. Injection device according to claim 8, wherein the needle guard (20) has a sheath portion (50) for surrounding the needle (8) in the extended position, the sheath portion (50) having a through hole (53) at the distal end for the passage of the needle (8) when the needle guard (20) is retracted, and a leg (52) axially and proximally projecting from the sheath portion (50), said leg having a free end (55) for engaging and displace the trigger member (35) when the needle guard (20) is retracted.

10. Injection device according to claim 9, wherein the leg (52) has a notch (56) distally spaced from the free end (55) of the leg and forming a transverse edge that defines a stop surface for, in a final state of the injection device after the injection, preventing the needle guard (20) from being proximally retracted.11 . Injection device according to claim 10, wherein the leg (52) has an axial edge (57) with a section extending between the sheath portion (50) and the notch (56), that defines a guiding element slidingly cooperating with a corresponding guiding element (113) of the retaining member (33) during axial displacement of the needle guard (20).

12. Injection device according to any one of claims 1 to 11 , wherein the latching features (85, 89, 103) include a pair of resilient arms (85) formed on the plunger rod (31 ) at the proximal end thereof and extending axially, respective protrusions (89) being formed at the free end of each resilient arm (85).

13. Injection device according to claim 12, wherein the retaining member (33) comprises a radial wall having an axial bore (102) with a circumferential rim (103) defining the stop surface of the latching features.

14. Injection device according to claim 13, wherein the protrusions (89) are radially and outwardly protruding from the respective resilient arms (85), the resilient arms axially projecting from the radial wall through the bore (102), with the protrusions and the stop surface mutually engaged, when the plunger rod (31 ) is in its proximal position.

15. Injection device according to claim 14, wherein the blocking feature includes an axial pin (135) that, in the blocking position of the trigger member (35), prevents the inward deflection of the resilient arms (85) and hence disengagement of the protrusions (89) from the stop surface (103).

Images