Automatic drug injection device having auditory feedback element

Abstract

An embodiment provides an automatic drug injection device having an auditory feedback element, the device comprising: a housing forming the exterior thereof; a drug container fixed to the housing and comprising a drug storage unit for storing drug and an injection needle capable of penetrating the skin and injecting the drug stored in the drug storage unit; a plunger for pressurizing the drug that slides into the drug container; an activation member slidably installed along the tubular housing and having a proximal end protruding out of the housing in the initial position; a first elastic member for pressurizing the activation member in the proximal direction; a second elastic member for pressurizing the plunger in the proximal direction; a trigger housing for locking the plunger when the activation member is in the initial position and unlocking from the plunger by means of a movement of the activation member; a trigger module for unlocking the plunger and the trigger by means of a movement of the activation member; a feedback generation member which is locked to the outer circumference of the trigger housing and which is unlocked from the trigger housing if the plunger moves to the final position; and a feedback spring for pressurizing the feedback generation member in the proximal direction. If drug injection is finished, the feedback generation member is moved by the feedback spring and collides with an adjacent component, thereby generating auditory feedback.

Description

Automatic drug injection device with auditory feedback element

[0001] The embodiment relates to an automatic drug injection device having an auditory feedback element.

[0002] In cases of chronic diseases requiring continuous management, such as diabetes, or acute attacks requiring immediate response, such as anaphylactic shock in allergy patients, autoinjectors that allow users to inject themselves without visiting a hospital are widely used.

[0003] An auto-injector in the form of a pen needle has been developed and is widely used. It can be carried around and inserted into an injection site that suits the conditions, automatically inserting the needle into the muscle and automatically injecting the injection liquid by a device such as a spring.

[0004] However, conventional auto-injectors had the disadvantage of being unable to detect whether the drug injection had begun or was complete. Furthermore, when the injection was completed and the device was withdrawn from the user's body, the auto-injector needle remained exposed.

[0005] To solve this problem, many auto injectors have been developed that have a structure that locks the injection needle after injection of the injection solution is completed, or a feedback structure that can inform the injection status of the injection solution.

[0006] Korean Patent No. 10-2059765 discloses a drug injection device having an automatic feedback mechanism.

[0007] Referring to FIG. 1, a drug delivery device (1) according to the prior art comprises a plunger rod (11) arranged to be biased toward the proximal end (3a), a plunger (13), a first elastic member, i.e., an energy accumulation member (15), which may be, for example, a spring, arranged to bias the plunger rod (11) in the proximal direction, a second elastic member or energy accumulation member (9) arranged to bias the drug delivery member cover (7) in the proximal direction, a tubular rotor (17) arranged to receive the plunger rod (11) and the first energy accumulation member (15), a tubular extension member (5) fixed axially and rotationally to the housing (3), a tubular actuating member (17) arranged to receive a portion of a rear end cap (7) and the plunger rod (11) and referred to as a tubular rotor (17) hereinafter, and arranged to receive the first energy accumulation member (15). It further comprises a rod (19) and a signal generating member (21) hereinafter exemplified as a U-shaped bracket, hereinafter referred to as a "U-bracket". The illustrated drug delivery device (1) further comprises a drug container (25) provided with a drug container holder (23) and a needle (25a). The plunger (13) is arranged to travel within the drug container (25) by linear displacement of the plunger rod (11) and to discharge the drug through the needle (25a).

[0008] The plunger rod (11), the tubular extension member (5), the tubular actuating member (17), the energy accumulating member (15) and the signal generating member (21) form an automatic feedback mechanism (12) or simply a feedback mechanism for the drug delivery device (1). The feedback mechanism (12) is arranged to notify the user of the start of the discharge of the drug from the drug container (25).

[0009] Prior to use, the plunger rod is axially fixed and positioned in its initial position. When the drug delivery device is actuated, i.e., when the user initiates drug delivery, the plunger rod is released from its initial position and is proximally urged by the energy accumulating member. When the plunger rod is displaced by a distance corresponding to the distance required to initiate drug release, contact between the first section of the plunger rod and the signal generating member will cease. Accordingly, the plunger rod and the signal generating member are designed such that the axial overlap of the first section and the signal generating member at the initial position of the plunger rod is equal to or substantially equal to the distance required to initiate drug release. Accordingly, the first section only supports the signal generating member during the axial displacement of the plunger rod by a distance corresponding to the distance required to initiate drug release. When the plunger rod is displaced by this distance, the signal generating member will bend radially inward without being biased in its radial direction. This will cause the signal generating member to separate from the tubular extension member. Therefore, the signal generating element, which is biased distally by the first energy accumulating element, is no longer retained by the tubular extension element and will therefore be thrown toward the distal inner surface of the tubular extension element. This results in an audible "click" sound and also a tactile sensation to the user.

[0010] However, in the case of conventional automatic drug injection devices, there were disadvantages in that the number of parts increased and assembly was complicated because the operating member for unlocking and operating the plunger rod, the member for locking the drug container holder after drug injection was completed, and the member for generating feedback were each separately provided.

[0011] Therefore, there is a need to develop an automatic drug injection device that is simple in structure, reduces the number of parts, is easy to assemble, and has locking and feedback capabilities.

[0012] The invention aims to provide an automatic drug injection device having an auditory feedback element.

[0013] An embodiment comprises: a housing forming an exterior; a drug container having a drug reservoir fixed to the housing for storing a drug and an injection needle capable of piercing the skin to inject the drug stored in the drug reservoir; a plunger for pressing a drug that slides into the drug container; an activating member slidably installed along the tubular housing and having a proximal end protruding out of the housing at an initial position; a first elastic member for pressing the activating member in a proximal direction; a second elastic member for pressing the plunger in a proximal direction; a trigger housing for locking the plunger when the activating member is in an initial position and unlocking the plunger and the trigger by movement of the activating member; a trigger module for unlocking the plunger and the trigger by movement of the activating member; a feedback generating member that is locked to an outer periphery of the trigger housing and unlocks the trigger housing when the plunger moves to a final position; And a feedback spring that pressurizes a feedback generating member; and when drug injection is completed, the feedback generating member moves by the feedback spring and collides with an adjacent part to generate an auditory feedback. An automatic drug injection device is provided having an auditory feedback element.

[0014] In another aspect of the invention, an automatic drug injection device is provided having an audible feedback element, wherein the trigger housing has a spring support surface extending radially outwardly to support a distal end of a feedback spring, the feedback spring presses a feedback generating member proximally.

[0015] In another aspect of the present invention, an automatic drug injection device having an auditory feedback element is provided, characterized in that the feedback generating member has a flexible element including a flange portion that supports a proximal end of a feedback spring and is installed parallel to a spring support surface, a guide surface that extends distally from the flange portion and contacts an outer surface of a trigger housing, and a hook that extends distally from the flange portion and is formed at a circumferential distance from the guide surface and protrudes outward from the distal end.

[0016] In another aspect of the invention, an automatic drug injection device is provided having an auditory feedback element, wherein the trigger housing has a slit extending from a proximal end to a more distal end than a spring support surface, and a hook of the feedback generating member in an initial position penetrates the slit and engages the spring support surface.

[0017] In another aspect of the present invention, an automatic drug injection device is provided, wherein the feedback generating member has an auditory feedback element that is moved proximally by a feedback spring to collide with a drug container, thereby generating auditory feedback.

[0018] In another aspect of the present invention, an automatic drug injection device is provided having an auditory feedback element, wherein the trigger housing has an impact element protruding radially outwardly at a proximal end, and a feedback generating member moves proximally by a feedback spring to collide with the impact element, thereby generating an auditory feedback.

[0019] In another aspect of the present invention, there is provided an automatic drug injection device having an auditory feedback element, characterized in that it further includes an impact member coupled to a proximal portion of a trigger housing and striking a feedback generating member to generate auditory feedback.

[0020] In another aspect of the invention, an automatic drug injection device is provided having an audible feedback element, wherein the trigger housing has a spring support member extending radially outwardly to support a proximal end of a feedback spring, and a feedback generating member extending radially outwardly at a predetermined distance distally from the spring support member, wherein the feedback spring presses the feedback generating member distally.

[0021] In another aspect of the present invention, an automatic drug injection device having an auditory feedback element is provided, characterized in that the feedback generating member has a flange portion supporting a distal end of a feedback spring, a guide surface formed to extend proximally from the flange portion and contacting an outer surface of a trigger housing, and a flexible element formed to extend proximally from the flange portion and spaced circumferentially from the guide surface, and having a hook protruding outward from the proximal end.

[0022] In another aspect of the present invention, an automatic drug injection device is provided having an auditory feedback element, characterized in that the feedback generating member protrudes further distally than the flange and has a striking portion that strikes the feedback generating unit.

[0023] As another aspect of the embodiment, an automatic drug injection device is provided having an auditory feedback element characterized in that the protrusion height and thickness of the striking portion are adjustable as needed.

[0024] In another aspect of the invention, an automatic drug injection device is provided having an auditory feedback element, wherein the trigger housing has a slit extending from a proximal end through a spring support end to a feedback generating end.

[0025] In another aspect of the present invention, an automatic drug injection device is provided having an audible feedback element, characterized in that the spring support member is manufactured separately from the body of the trigger housing and assembled to the proximal end of the trigger housing.

[0026] The drug injection device provided by the embodiment has the advantage of reducing the number of parts and simplifying the structure while providing visual, tactile, and auditory feedback.

[0027] Figure 1 is a cross-sectional view of an automatic drug injection device according to the prior art;

[0028] Figure 2 is an exploded view of an automatic drug injection device having an auditory feedback element according to the first embodiment;

[0029] FIG. 3 is a cross-sectional view showing an initial appearance of an automatic drug injection device having an auditory feedback element according to the first embodiment;

[0030] FIG. 4 is a perspective view illustrating an auditory feedback member of an automatic drug injection device having an auditory feedback element according to the first embodiment;

[0031] FIG. 5 is a perspective view showing the assembled state of the trigger housing and the auditory feedback element of the automatic drug injection device having the auditory feedback element according to the first embodiment;

[0032] FIG. 6 is a cross-sectional view showing the assembled state of the trigger housing and the auditory feedback element of the automatic drug injection device having the auditory feedback element according to the first embodiment;

[0033] FIG. 7 is a perspective view showing a plunger assembled to a trigger housing of an automatic drug injection device having an auditory feedback element according to a first embodiment and locking the auditory feedback member;

[0034] FIG. 8 is a cross-sectional view showing a plunger assembled in a trigger housing of an automatic drug injection device having an auditory feedback element according to a first embodiment and locking the auditory feedback member;

[0035] FIG. 9 is a drawing showing an activation member of an automatic drug injection device having an auditory feedback element according to the first embodiment moving distally to release the trigger;

[0036] FIG. 10 is a drawing showing a plunger of an automatic drug injection device having an auditory feedback element according to the first embodiment moving in a proximal direction to inject a drug;

[0037] FIG. 11 is a drawing showing a plunger of an automatic drug injection device having an auditory feedback element according to the first embodiment, when the drug injection is completed and the locking of the auditory feedback member is released to generate auditory feedback.

[0038] FIG. 12 is a perspective view illustrating an auditory feedback element of an automatic drug injection device having an auditory feedback element according to a second embodiment;

[0039] FIG. 13 is a cross-sectional view showing an auditory feedback element of an automatic drug injection device having an auditory feedback element according to a second embodiment;

[0040] FIG. 14 is a perspective view illustrating an auditory feedback element of an automatic drug injection device having an auditory feedback element according to a third embodiment;

[0041] FIG. 15 is a perspective view showing an impact member of an automatic drug injection device having an auditory feedback element according to a third embodiment;

[0042] FIG. 16 is a perspective view showing the combination of the impact member and the trigger housing of an automatic drug injection device having an auditory feedback element according to the third embodiment;

[0043] FIG. 17 is a perspective view showing an impact member of an automatic drug injection device having an auditory feedback element according to a fourth embodiment;

[0044] Fig. 18 is a perspective view showing the combination of the impact member and the trigger housing of an automatic drug injection device having an auditory feedback element according to the fourth embodiment;

[0045] Fig. 19 is a cross-sectional view of an automatic drug injection device according to the fifth embodiment;

[0046] Fig. 20 is a perspective view of a trigger housing provided in an automatic drug injection device according to the fifth embodiment;

[0047] Fig. 21 is a perspective view showing a feedback element provided in an automatic drug injection device according to the fifth embodiment;

[0048] Fig. 22 is a partial cross-sectional view showing the initial state of the feedback element of the automatic drug injection device according to the fifth embodiment;

[0049] Fig. 23 is a cross-sectional view showing the appearance of the drug termination sound generation of the feedback element of the automatic drug injection device according to the fifth embodiment.

[0050] Fig. 24 is a drawing showing an example of adjusting the contact area of ​​the feedback element of the automatic drug injection device according to the fifth embodiment;

[0051] Fig. 25 is a drawing showing an example of adjusting the movement distance of the feedback element of the automatic drug injection device according to the fifth embodiment;

[0052] Fig. 26 is a perspective view of a trigger housing provided in an automatic drug injection device according to the sixth embodiment.

[0053] Hereinafter, embodiments will be described in more detail with reference to the drawings. However, the concept of the present invention may be implemented in many different forms and should not be limited to the embodiments disclosed herein. Rather, these embodiments are provided by way of example so that this disclosure will be thorough and complete and sufficiently convey the scope of the concept of the present invention to those skilled in the art.

[0054] As used herein, the term "proximal end" refers to that end of a drug delivery device from which drug release can be provided. Thus, it is that end of the drug delivery device that is pointed toward an injection or release site. This definition also extends to any internal or external component of the drug delivery device, i.e., the proximal end of any component is the end closest to the proximal end of the drug delivery device. The "distal end" is the end opposite the proximal end.

[0055] "Proximal direction" means the direction from the distal end to the proximal end along the central axis of the drug delivery device. "Distal direction" means the direction opposite to "proximal direction."

[0056] Additionally, the term "tubular" means having an overall tubular or cylindrical shape, and includes slits, holes, grooves, cutouts, etc. formed in a portion of the tube or cylinder, or including projections, protrusions, and flange shapes.

[0057] FIG. 2 is an exploded view of an automatic drug injection device having an auditory feedback element according to the first embodiment, and FIG. 3 is a cross-sectional view showing an initial appearance of an automatic drug injection device having an auditory feedback element according to the first embodiment.

[0058] An automatic drug injection device according to an embodiment comprises a drug storage unit (710) for storing a drug within a tubular housing (100) forming an exterior, and a drug container having an injection needle (720) capable of injecting the drug stored in the drug storage unit (710) by piercing the skin, and the drug container is fixed by a drug holder (730). In addition, a syringe cap (740) covering the injection needle (720) is coupled to a proximal end of the drug storage unit (710) to prevent an accident of being pricked by the injection needle (720) during installation. An activation member (200) and a first elastic member (300) for pressing the activation member (200) in a proximal direction are installed on a proximal side of the drug container within the tubular housing (100). The distal end of the tubular housing (100) is closed by a distal cap (130) and the proximal end is open, and the proximal end (210) of the activating member (200) is exposed outside the proximal end (110) of the tubular housing (100) before drug injection. Meanwhile, a proximal cap (140) is coupled to the proximal end (210) of the activating member (200) to prevent the activating member (200) from being unintentionally operated. A plunger (410) for pressurizing the drug and a trigger module (420, 500, 600, 800) for deactivating the plunger (410) and activating it by movement of the activating member (200) are installed on the distal side of the drug container. In the initial state, the plunger (410, 430) is locked and deactivated by the trigger module (420, 500, 600, 800), and when the trigger of the trigger module (420, 500, 600, 800) is released by the movement of the activation member (200), the plunger (410, 430) is activated and slides within the drug storage unit (710) to pressurize the drug.

[0059] The plunger (400) has a plunger rod (410) that slides into a drug container (710) to inject a drug solution, a plurality of trigger arms (420) extending distally from a distal end of the plunger rod (410), and a plunger pipe (430) spaced apart from the plunger rod (410). The plunger pipe (430) serves to prevent buckling of the second elastic member (600). The trigger arm (420) constitutes a part of the trigger module (420, 500, 600, 800) as described above. A trigger protrusion (422) that protrudes outward is formed at the distal end of the trigger arm (420).

[0060] The trigger module (420, 500, 600, 800) is composed of a trigger housing (500), a trigger arm (420), a second elastic member (600) that is compressed and installed between the trigger housing (500) and the trigger rod (400), and a safety pin module (800) that keeps the trigger arm (420) engaged with the trigger housing (500).

[0061] The proximal end of the second elastic member (600) is supported by the plunger rod (410), the distal end is supported by the trigger housing (500), and the second elastic member (600) is installed in a compressed state so as to be able to urge the plunger (410) in the proximal direction. When the trigger of the trigger module (420, 500, 600, 800) is released, the second elastic member (600) urges the trigger rod (400) in the proximal direction.

[0062] The plunger rod (410) is locked by the trigger module (420, 500, 600, 800) so that it does not move in the proximal direction even when the pressure of the second elastic member (600) is applied until the activation member (200) slides distally to release the trigger of the trigger module.

[0063] The proximal end of the activation member (200) is tubular and has a contact surface at the end of the proximal end that contacts the user's skin. A hole is provided in the center of the contact surface so that the injection needle (720) is exposed through the hole when the activation member (200) is retracted.

[0064] The activation member (200) further includes an activation arm (220) extending distally from the proximal end (210). When the activation arm (220) moves distally, it pushes the safety pin module (800) distally, and when the safety pin module (800) moves distally, the locking of the trigger module (420, 500, 600, 800) is released, and the plunger (410, 430) is activated. In one embodiment, the activation member (220) is additionally provided with an activation sleeve (850) in the distal direction, and the activation arm (220) pushes the activation sleeve (280), and the activation sleeve (280) pushes the safety pin module (800). The activation sleeve (850) is slidably coupled to the outer surface of the trigger housing (500). However, it is also possible to omit the activation sleeve (250) and have the activation arm (220) directly push the safety pin module (800).

[0065] The trigger housing (500) has a tubular body (510), and an annular catch is formed along the inner surface of the body (510) at the distal end. The distal end of the trigger arm (420) passes through the trigger housing (500) through a hollow space in the center of the catch.

[0066] A safety pin module (800) is coupled to the distal end of a tubular housing (100). The safety pin module (800) has a tubular body, a head portion formed at the distal end of the tubular body, and a safety pin protruding proximally from the head portion and inserted into a gap between trigger arms (420).

[0067] When the safety pin of the safety pin module (800) is inserted, the trigger protrusion (422) of the trigger arm (420) is radially spread outward, and is locked with the catch of the trigger housing (500). The locking of the trigger housing (500) and the trigger arm (420) is not released unless the safety pin of the safety pin module (800) is removed from the cavity between the trigger arms (420). At this time, it is preferable that the trigger arm (420) be elastically movable in the radial direction, and when the safety pin is not inserted into the middle of the trigger arms (420), it is preferable that the protruding radius of the trigger protrusion (422) is smaller than the inner diameter of the catch of the trigger housing (500). Accordingly, when the safety pin is removed, the trigger arm (420) moves to its original position, and the locking of the catch and the trigger protrusion (422) is easily released.

[0068] The plunger (410, 430) is forced proximally by the second elastic member (600) to move within the drug storage unit (710), and the drug stored within the drug storage unit (710) is injected into the body through the injection needle (720). At this time, a packing unit is installed at the proximal end of the drug storage unit (710) to prevent the stored drug from leaking, and the proximal end of the plunger rod (410) moves while pressing the packing unit, and the packing unit moves while pressing the drug, so that the pressurized drug is introduced into the body through the injection needle (720).

[0069] When the plunger (410, 430) moves to the most proximal position within the drug storage unit (710), i.e., when drug injection is completed, the plunger pipe (430) unlocks the feedback generating member (900) that was locked to the trigger housing (500), and the feedback generating member (900) moves by the feedback spring (950) and collides with the flange formed at the distal end of the drug storage unit (710) to generate an auditory feedback.

[0070] FIG. 4 is a perspective view illustrating an auditory feedback member of an automatic drug injection device having an auditory feedback element according to a first embodiment.

[0071] The feedback generating member (900) includes a flange portion (910) that supports the proximal end of a feedback spring (950; see FIG. 3), a guide surface (920) that extends distally from the flange portion (910) and contacts the outer surface of a trigger housing (500; see FIG. 3), and a flexible element (930) that extends distally from the flange portion (910) and is formed at a predetermined distance from the guide surface (920) in the circumferential direction. The flexible element (930) has a hook (932) formed to protrude radially outward at the distal end for locking with the trigger housing (500). In addition, to increase interference between the hook (932) and the trigger housing (500), i.e., to increase the locking reliability of the hook (932) and the trigger housing (500), an inwardly protruding protrusion (934) may be formed at the distal end of the flexible element (930).

[0072] FIG. 5 is a perspective view showing an assembled state of a trigger housing and an auditory feedback element of an automatic drug injection device having an auditory feedback element according to the first embodiment, and FIG. 6 is a cross-sectional view showing an assembled state of a trigger housing and an auditory feedback element of an automatic drug injection device having an auditory feedback element according to the first embodiment.

[0073] The trigger housing (500) has a spring support surface (520) extending radially outwardly near the proximal end. The spring support surface (520) supports the distal end of the feedback spring (950). That is, the distal end of the feedback spring (950) is supported by the spring support surface (520) of the trigger housing (500), and the proximal end of the feedback spring (950) is supported by the flange portion (910) of the feedback member (900).

[0074] The trigger housing (500) has a slit (530) that allows the flexible element (930) of the feedback generating member (900) to move radially inward and outward. The slit (530) has a distal end that extends more distally than the spring support surface (520), and a proximal end that extends to the proximal end of the trigger housing (500) and is open. Therefore, in the initial position, the hook (932) of the feedback generating member (900) can pass through the slit (530) and be caught on the spring support surface (520).

[0075] A feedback spring (950) is fitted from the proximal end of the trigger housing (500), and the distal movement of the feedback spring (950) is restricted by the spring support surface (520). In this state, a feedback generating member (900) is fitted from the proximal end of the trigger housing (500). The guide surface (920) has a shape corresponding to the outer circumferential surface of the trigger housing (500) so as to guide the movement of the feedback generating member (900) and allow it to slide. At this time, the flexible element (930) is positioned within the slit (530), and when the flexible element (930) moves to the distal end, the hook (932) of the feedback generating member (900) is positioned further distally than the spring support surface (520).

[0076] FIG. 7 is a perspective view showing a plunger assembled into a trigger housing of an automatic drug injection device having an auditory feedback element according to a first embodiment and locking an auditory feedback member, and FIG. 8 is a cross-sectional view showing a plunger assembled into a trigger housing of an automatic drug injection device having an auditory feedback element according to a first embodiment and locking an auditory feedback member.

[0077] When the plunger (410, 430) is inserted into the trigger housing (500) and assembled, the flexible element (930) of the feedback generating member (900) comes into contact with the outer surface of the plunger pipe (430). When the protrusion (934) formed on the inner side of the distal end of the flexible element (930) and the outer surface of the plunger pipe (430) come into contact, the flexible element (930) moves radially outward. The hook (932) formed on the outer side of the distal end of the flexible element (930) interferes with the spring support surface (520) of the trigger housing, thereby locking. If the plunger pipe (430) slides in the proximal direction and the contact between the flexible element (930) and the plunger pipe (430) is not released, the locking of the feedback generating member (900) and the trigger housing (500) is also not released.

[0078] FIG. 9 is a drawing showing an activation member of an automatic drug injection device having an auditory feedback element according to the first embodiment moving distally to release the trigger.

[0079] As described above, when the activating member (200) slides distally, the activating member (200) pushes the activating sleeve (850) distally, and the activating sleeve (850) pushes the safety pin module (800) distally. When the safety pin module (800) is removed from the trigger arm (420), the locking between the trigger arm (420) and the trigger housing (500) is released.

[0080] FIG. 10 is a drawing illustrating a plunger of an automatic drug injection device having an auditory feedback element according to a first embodiment moving proximally to inject a drug. When the locking between the trigger arm (420) and the trigger housing (500) is released, the plunger (410, 430) slides proximally to push the drug within the drug reservoir and inject it into the body.

[0081] FIG. 11 is a drawing illustrating a plunger of an automatic drug injection device having an auditory feedback element according to a first embodiment, in which drug injection is completed and the locking of the auditory feedback member is released to generate auditory feedback.

[0082] When the plunger (410, 430) moves to the proximal end and the drug injection is completed, the distal end of the plunger pipe (430) is positioned more proximal than the protrusion (934) of the flexible element (930). That is, the contact between the protrusion (934) of the flexible element (930) and the plunger pipe (430) is released. Accordingly, the flexible element (930) moves inward in the proximal direction, and the locking between the hook (932) and the spring support surface (520) of the trigger housing (500) is released. Accordingly, the feedback member (900) moves proximally by the restoring force of the compressed feedback spring (950).

[0083] In the first embodiment, the flange portion (910) of the feedback member (900) and the distal end of the drug storage portion (710) collide to generate auditory feedback.

[0084]

[0085] FIG. 12 is a perspective view illustrating an auditory feedback element of an automatic drug injection device having an auditory feedback element according to a second embodiment, and FIG. 13 is a cross-sectional view illustrating an auditory feedback element of an automatic drug injection device having an auditory feedback element according to a second embodiment.

[0086] In a second embodiment, the object that the auditory feedback member (500a) strikes is not a drug storage unit, but a part of the trigger housing (500a). The trigger housing (500a) has an impact element (540a) at its proximal end that can strike the feedback member (500a) to generate auditory feedback. The impact element (540a) is in the form of a protrusion that protrudes radially outward.

[0087] Meanwhile, since the feedback member (900a) is assembled by being fitted from the proximal end of the trigger housing (500a), an escape portion (912a) is formed in the flange portion (910a) to escape the impact element (540a) during assembly. It is preferable that the escape portion (912a) and the impact element (540a) are formed in staggered positions after assembly is completed. This allows the flange portion (910a) of the feedback member to collide with the impact element (540a) to generate auditory feedback.

[0088] FIG. 14 is a perspective view illustrating an auditory feedback element of an automatic drug injection device having an auditory feedback element according to a third embodiment, FIG. 15 is a perspective view illustrating an impact member of an automatic drug injection device having an auditory feedback element according to a third embodiment, and FIG. 16 is a perspective view illustrating a combination of an impact member and a trigger housing of an automatic drug injection device having an auditory feedback element according to a third embodiment.

[0089] In the third embodiment, an impact member (550) capable of generating auditory feedback by colliding with the flange portion (910) of the feedback member is manufactured as a separate member and assembled to the proximal end of the trigger housing (500).

[0090] The impact member (550) has a hole (554) into which the proximal end of the trigger housing (500) is inserted in a plate shape. Meanwhile, it has a protrusion (556) that is inserted into a slit (530) formed in the trigger housing (500). The protrusion (556) and the trigger housing (500) are combined to form a circular hole (558).

[0091] FIG. 17 is a perspective view showing an impact member of an automatic drug injection device having an auditory feedback element according to the fourth embodiment, and FIG. 18 is a perspective view showing a combination of an impact member and a trigger housing of an automatic drug injection device having an auditory feedback element according to the fourth embodiment.

[0092] In the fourth embodiment, similar to the third embodiment, an impact member (550a) capable of generating auditory feedback by colliding with a flange portion (910) of a feedback member is manufactured as a separate member and assembled to the proximal end of the trigger housing (500). A protrusion (556a) extends distally and has a predetermined height, and the protrusion (556a) is inserted into a slit (530) to form a pipe structure (558a) together with the trigger housing (500).

[0093] Fig. 19 is a cross-sectional view of an automatic drug injection device according to the fifth embodiment.

[0094] An automatic drug injection device according to an embodiment comprises a drug container having a drug storage section (710) for storing a drug in a tubular housing (100) forming an exterior and an injection needle (720) capable of injecting the drug stored in the drug storage section (710) by piercing the skin, and the drug container is fixed by a drug holder (730). An activation member (200) and a first elastic member (300) for pressing the activation member (200) in a proximal direction are installed on the proximal side of the drug container in the tubular housing (100). The proximal end (210) of the activation member (200) is exposed outside the proximal end of the tubular housing (100) before drug injection, and is utilized as a structure for preventing exposure of the needle. If necessary, a proximal cap (not shown) is coupled to the proximal end (210) of the activating member (200), and the distal end of the proximal cap (not shown) and the proximal end of the housing (100) come into contact to prevent the activating member (200) from being pressed. A distal cap (120) is installed at the distal end of the housing (100) to close the distal end of the housing (100) after assembling the components within the housing (100).

[0095] On the distal side of the drug container, a plunger (400) for pressurizing the drug and a trigger module (420, 500b, 800, 850) for deactivating the plunger (400) and then activating it by movement of the activating member (200) are installed. In the initial state, the plunger (400) is locked and deactivated by the trigger module (420, 500b, 800, 850), and when the trigger of the trigger module (420, 500b, 800, 850) is released by movement of the activating member (200), the plunger (400) is activated and slides within the drug storage unit (710) to pressurize the drug.

[0096] The plunger (400) is composed of a plunger rod (410) and a trigger arm (420) extending distally from the plunger (410), and the trigger arm (420) forms part of a trigger module (420, 500b, 800, 850). If necessary, a trigger protrusion may be provided at the end of the trigger arm (420) to ensure more secure locking.

[0097] The trigger module (420, 500b, 800, 850) is composed of a trigger housing (500b), a trigger arm (420), a safety pin (800) that keeps the trigger housing (500b) and the trigger arm (420) locked to the trigger housing (500b), and a locking pin (850) that prevents the safety pin (800) from coming off.

[0098] The proximal end of the second elastic member (600) is supported by the plunger (400), the distal end is supported by the trigger housing (500b), and the second elastic member (600) is installed in a compressed state so as to pressurize the plunger (400) in the proximal direction. When the trigger of the trigger module (420, 500b, 800, 850) is released, the second elastic member (600) presses the plunger (400) in the proximal direction. At this time, a plunger tube (430) that surrounds the second elastic member (600) may be further provided between the second elastic member (600) and the trigger housing (500b). The proximal end of the plunger tube (430) is coupled with the plunger rod (410) and moves together with the plunger rod (410). The plunger tube (430) can prevent a buckling phenomenon that may occur during compression and extension of the second elastic member (600).

[0099] According to one embodiment, a trigger housing (500b) surrounds the plunger (400) and engages with the plunger arm (420) to limit movement of the plunger (400).

[0100] The plunger (400) is locked by the trigger module (420, 500b, 800, 850) so that it does not move in the proximal direction even when the pressure of the second elastic member (600) is applied until the activation member (200) slides distally to release the trigger of the trigger module.

[0101] The proximal end (210) of the activating member (200) is tubular and has a contact surface at the end of the proximal end (210) that comes into contact with the user's skin. A hole is provided in the center of the contact surface so that when the activating member (200) is retracted, the injection needle (720) is exposed through the hole.

[0102] The activation member (200) further includes an activation arm (220) extending distally from the proximal end (210). When the activation arm (220) moves distally, the activation arm (220) pushes the locking pin (850) distally, and the locking pin (850) pushes the safety pin module (800) distally. When the safety pin module (800) moves distally, the locking of the trigger modules (420, 500b, 800, 850) is released, and the plunger (400) is activated. The plunger (400) is forced proximally by the second elastic member (600) to move within the drug storage unit (710), and the drug stored within the drug storage unit (710) is injected into the body through the injection needle (720).

[0103] Fig. 20 is a perspective view of a trigger housing provided in an automatic drug injection device according to the fifth embodiment.

[0104] A trigger housing (500b) is coupled with a feedback generating member (900b) that generates a drug termination sound. The trigger housing (500b) is provided with a spring support member (520b) extending radially outward at a proximal end of a tubular trigger body (510b). In addition, the trigger housing (500b) is provided with a feedback generating member (540b) extending radially outward at a predetermined distance from the spring support member (520b) in a distal direction. In addition, the trigger housing (500b) is provided with a slit (530b) that extends from the proximal end of the trigger housing (500b) through the spring support member (520b) toward the feedback generating member (540).

[0105] Fig. 21 is a perspective view illustrating a feedback element provided in an automatic drug injection device according to the fifth embodiment.

[0106] The feedback generating member (900b) includes a pipe-shaped striking member (910b) that contacts the outer surface of the trigger housing (500b; see Fig. 19), a flange member (920b) that extends radially outward from the striking member (910b) and supports a distal end of a feedback spring (950b; see Fig. 19), a guide surface (930b) that extends proximally from the flange member (920b) and guides movement of the feedback generating member (900b), and a flexible element (940b) that is formed at a predetermined distance in the circumferential direction from the guide surface (930b). The flexible element (940b) includes a hook (942b) that protrudes radially outward at the distal end for locking with the trigger housing (500b).

[0107] Fig. 22 is a partial cross-sectional view showing the initial state of the feedback element of the automatic drug injection device according to the fifth embodiment.

[0108] The trigger housing (500b) has a spring support member (520b) extending radially outward near the proximal end. The spring support member (520b) supports the proximal end of the feedback spring (950b). That is, the proximal end of the feedback spring (950b) is supported by the spring support member (520b) of the trigger housing (500b), and the distal end of the feedback spring (950b) is supported by the flange portion (920b) of the feedback generating member (900b).

[0109] The trigger housing (500b) has a slit (530b) that allows the flexible element (940b) of the feedback generating member (900b) to move radially inward and outward. The slit (530b) has a proximal end that extends more proximally than the spring support end (520b), and the proximal end extends to the proximal end of the trigger housing (500b) and is open. Therefore, in the initial position, the hook (942b) of the feedback generating member (900b) can pass through the slit (530b) and be caught by the spring support end (520b).

[0110] The distal movement of the feedback spring (950b) is limited by the flange portion (920b). The guide surface (930b) guides the movement of the feedback generating member (900b) and has a shape corresponding to the outer surface of the trigger housing (500b) so that it can slide.

[0111] When the plunger tube (430) is inserted into the trigger housing (500b) and assembled, the flexible element (940b) of the feedback generating member (900b) comes into contact with the outer surface of the plunger tube (430). As the flexible element (940b) comes into contact with the outer surface of the plunger tube (430), the flexible element (940b) moves radially outward. A hook (942b) formed on the outer side of the proximal end of the flexible element (940b) interferes with the spring support end (520b) of the trigger housing, thereby locking. If the plunger pipe (430) slides in the proximal direction and the contact between the flexible element (940b) and the plunger pipe (430) is not released, the locking of the feedback generating member (900b) and the trigger housing (500b) is also not released.

[0112] Fig. 23 is a cross-sectional view showing the appearance of the drug termination sound generation of the feedback element of the automatic drug injection device according to the fifth embodiment.

[0113] When the plunger (4000) moves to the proximal end and the drug injection is completed, the distal end of the plunger tube (430) is positioned proximal to the hook (942b) of the flexible element (940b). That is, the contact between the flexible element (940b) and the plunger plunger tube (430) is released. Accordingly, the flexible element (940b) moves inward in the proximal direction, and the locking between the hook (942b) and the spring support surface (520b) of the trigger housing (500b) is released. Accordingly, the feedback generating member (900b) moves distally by the restoring force of the compressed feedback spring (950b).

[0114] In the first embodiment, the striking portion (910b) of the feedback generating member (900b) and the feedback generating section (540) of the trigger housing (500b) collide to generate auditory feedback.

[0115] Fig. 24 is a drawing showing an example of adjusting the contact area of ​​a feedback element of an automatic drug injection device according to the fifth embodiment.

[0116] The thickness of the striking part of the feedback generating absence can be adjusted to be thick or thin, and accordingly, the volume of the auditory feedback sound can be adjusted.

[0117] Fig. 25 is a drawing illustrating an example of adjusting the movement distance of a feedback element of an automatic drug injection device according to the fifth embodiment.

[0118] The length of the striking part of the absence of feedback generation can be adjusted to be longer or shorter, and accordingly, the volume of the auditory feedback sound can be adjusted.

[0119] Fig. 26 is a perspective view of a trigger housing provided in an automatic drug injection device according to the sixth embodiment.

[0120] In the sixth embodiment, a spring support member (520bc) for supporting a feedback spring (950b) is manufactured separately from the body (510bc) of the trigger housing (500bc) and assembled to the proximal end.

Claims

1. Housing forming the exterior; A drug container having a drug storage compartment fixed to a housing and storing a drug and an injection needle capable of penetrating the skin to inject the drug stored in the drug storage compartment; A plunger that pressurizes the drug to slide into the drug container; An activating member slidably installed along a tubular housing, the proximal end of which protrudes outside the housing in the initial position; A first elastic member for pressing the activation member in a proximal direction; A second elastic member for pressing the plunger in a proximal direction; A trigger housing that locks the plunger when the activating member is in the initial position, and the plunger and lock are released by movement of the activating member; A trigger module that unlocks the plunger and trigger by movement of the activation member; A feedback generating member that is locked to the outer periphery of the trigger housing and is unlocked from the trigger housing when the plunger moves to the final position; and A feedback spring for pressurizing a feedback generating member; An automatic drug injection device having an auditory feedback element characterized in that when drug injection is completed, a feedback generating member moves by a feedback spring and collides with an adjacent part to generate auditory feedback.

2. In paragraph 1, The trigger housing has a spring support surface extending radially outwardly to support the distal end of the feedback spring; An automatic drug injection device having an auditory feedback element characterized in that the feedback spring presses the feedback generating member in a proximal direction.

3. In paragraph 2, An automatic drug injection device having an auditory feedback element, characterized in that the feedback generating member has a flexible element including a flange portion that supports a proximal end of a feedback spring, a guide surface that extends distally from the flange portion and contacts an outer surface of a trigger housing, and a hook that extends distally from the flange portion and is formed at a circumferential distance from the guide surface and protrudes outward from the distal end.

4. In paragraph 3, The trigger housing has a slit extending from the proximal end to a distance more distal than the spring support surface, An automatic drug injection device having an auditory feedback element, wherein the hook of the feedback generating member in the initial position penetrates the slit and is caught on the spring support surface.

5. In paragraph 1, An automatic drug injection device having an auditory feedback element characterized in that the feedback generating member generates auditory feedback by moving in a proximal direction by a feedback spring and colliding with a drug container.

6. In paragraph 1, The trigger housing has a radially outwardly protruding impact element at the proximal end, An automatic drug injection device having an auditory feedback element characterized in that the feedback generating member is moved proximally by a feedback spring and collides with an impact element to generate auditory feedback.

7. In paragraph 1, An automatic drug injection device having an auditory feedback element, characterized in that it further includes an impact member coupled to a proximal portion of the trigger housing and striking the feedback generating member to generate auditory feedback.

8. In paragraph 1, The trigger housing has a spring support end that extends radially outward and supports the proximal end of the feedback spring, It has a feedback generating unit that extends radially outward at a predetermined distance from the spring support unit in the distal direction, An automatic drug injection device having an auditory feedback element characterized in that the feedback spring urges the feedback generating member in a distal direction.

9. In paragraph 8, An automatic drug injection device having an auditory feedback element, characterized in that the feedback generating member has a flexible element including a flange portion that supports a distal end of a feedback spring, a guide surface that extends proximally from the flange portion and contacts an outer surface of a trigger housing, and a hook that extends proximally from the flange portion and is formed at a circumferential distance from the guide surface and protrudes outward from the proximal end.

10. In paragraph 9, An automatic drug injection device having an auditory feedback element, characterized in that the feedback generating member protrudes further distally than the flange and has a striking portion that strikes the feedback generating unit.

11. In paragraph 10, An automatic drug injection device having an auditory feedback element, wherein the protrusion height and thickness of the striking portion are adjustable as needed.

12. In paragraph 8, An automatic drug injection device having an auditory feedback element, characterized in that the trigger housing has a slit formed extending from the proximal end through the spring support end to the feedback generating end.

13. In paragraph 8, An automatic drug injection device having an audible feedback element, wherein the spring support member is manufactured separately from the body of the trigger housing and assembled to the proximal end of the trigger housing.

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