Injector having an indicator of dose status

Abstract

An injector includes a housing having a longitudinal axis extending between a proximal end and a distal end, a latch assembly disposed within the housing, the latch assembly including a latch body extending along the longitudinal axis, a rod disposed within the latch body and moveable between an initial position where a proximal end of the rod contacts the proximal end of the housing and a retracted position where the proximal end of the rod is spaced apart from the proximal end of the housing; and a latch spring configured to urge the rod toward the initial position. A ram disposed within the housing and moveable relative to the latch body between a pre-firing position and a fired position. An energy source configured to move the ram from the pre-firing position to the fired position.

Description

TITLE

[0001] Injector Having an Indicator of Dose StatusCROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

[0002] This application claims the benefit of U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 63 / 766,620 filed March 4, 2025 entitled “Injector Having an Indicator of Dose Status”, and U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 63 / 664,600 filed June 26, 2024 entitled “Injector Having an Indicator for Dose Status”, each of which is incorporated by reference herein in its entirety.TECHNICAL FIELD

[0003] The present disclosure generally relates to inj ectors having an indicator for dose status and, in some embodiments, to an auto-injector having an audio and / or haptic indicator for indicating the status of the medicament dose.SUMMARY

[0004] In one embodiment, there is an injector including a housing having a longitudinal axis extending between a proximal end and a distal end, a latch assembly disposed within the housing, the latch assembly including, a latch body extending along the longitudinal axis, a rod disposed within the latch body and moveable between an initial position where a proximal end of the rod contacts the proximal end of the housing and a retracted position where the proximal end of the rod is spaced apart from the proximal end of the housing, and a latch spring configured to urge the rod toward the initial position, a ram disposed within the housing and moveable relative to the latch body between a prefiring position and a fired position, and an energy source configured to move the ram from the prefiring position to the fired position. In some embodiments, the ram temporarily engages the rod to move the rod into the retracted position as the ram is moved from the pre-firing position to the fired position. In some embodiments, the ram disengages the rod when the rod is in the retracted position, thereby allowing the latch spring to move the rod into the initial position. In some embodiments, the proximal end of the rod contacts the proximal end of the housing when moved from the retracted position to the initial position.

[0005] In some embodiments, the rod includes a protrusion extending radially outward from a second end thereof. In some embodiments, the ram includes a flexible engagement member extending radially inward from a proximal end thereof configured to temporarily engage the protrusion as the ram is moved from the pre-firing position to the fired position.

[0006] In some embodiments, the proximal end of the rod is prevented from moving distally beyond the retracted position by the latch spring. In some embodiments, the flexible engagement member flexes radially around the protrusion when the rod is in the retracted position and the ram is moving to the fired position. In some embodiments, disengagement of the flexible engagement member and the protrusion allows the latch spring to move the rod from the retracted position to the initial position, and where contact of the proximal end of the rod and the proximal end of the housing generates an audible indication. In some embodiments, the flexible engagement member disengages the protrusion when the ram is moved at least 90% toward the fired position.

[0007] In some embodiments, the ram includes a ram body extending along the longitudinal axis, and a ram insert disposed at least partially within the ram body. In some embodiments, the ram insert is rotatable about the longitudinal axis relative to the ram body. In some embodiments, the energy source engages a distal end of the ram insert. In some embodiments, the ram body is prevented from rotating about the longitudinal axis relative to the latch. In some embodiments, the latch body includes a rib extending radially along the longitudinal axis and where the ram body includes a slot extending along the longitudinal axis, the slot configured to receive at least a portion of the rib therein.

[0008] In some embodiments, the injector further includes a trigger operable by a user and moveable between a locked position and a triggering position, where the trigger prevents the energy source from moving the ram in the locked position and allows the energy source to move the ram in the triggering position. In some embodiments, the injector further includes a medicament container disposed at least partially within the housing and containing a volume of a medicament, and the medicament. In some embodiments, at least a portion of the ram is configured to move within the medicament container to expel the medicament from a distal end thereof.

[0009] In some embodiments, the latch assembly is fixed relative to the housing. In some embodiments, the proximal end of the rod is generally flush with a proximal end of the latch assembly in the initial position. In some embodiments, the proximal end of the rod extends proximally beyond a proximal end of the latch assembly in the initial position.

[0010] In another embodiment, there is an injector including a housing having a longitudinal axis extending between a proximal end and a distal end, a latch assembly disposed within the housing, the latch assembly including, a latch body extending along the longitudinal axis, a rod disposed within the latch body and moveable between an initial position where a proximal end of the rod contacts the proximal end of the housing and a retracted position where the proximal end of therod is spaced apart from the proximal end of the housing, and a latch spring configured to urge the rod toward the initial position, a ram disposed within the housing and moveable relative to the latch body between a pre-firing position and a fired position, and an energy source configured to move the ram from the pre-firing position to the fired position. In some embodiments, the rod includes a protrusion extending radially outward from a second end thereof. In some embodiments, the ram includes a flexible engagement member extending radially inward from a proximal end thereof configured to engage the protrusion as the ram is moved from the pre-firing position to the fired position. In some embodiments, the ram moves the rod into the retracted position as the ram is moved from the pre-firing position to the fired position. In some embodiments, the proximal end of the rod is prevented from moving distally beyond the retracted position by the latch spring. In some embodiments, the ram disengages the rod, thereby allowing the latch spring to move the rod into the initial position. In some embodiments, the rod contacts the proximal end of the housing when moved from the retracted position to the initial position.

[0011] In some embodiments, the flexible engagement member flexes radially around the protrusion when the rod is in the retracted position and the ram is moving to the fired position. In some embodiments, disengagement of the flexible engagement member and the protrusion allows the latch spring to move the rod from the retracted position to the initial position, and where contact of the proximal end of the rod and the proximal end of the housing generates an audible indication.

[0012] In another embodiment, an injector including a housing having a longitudinal axis extending between a proximal end and a distal end, a latch assembly disposed within the housing, the latch assembly including a latch body extending along the longitudinal axis, and a clicker including a projection extending radially therefrom, a ram disposed within the housing and moveable relative to the latch between a pre-firing position and a fired position, the ram including one or more ridges extending radially therefrom, and an energy source configured to move the ram from the pre-firing position to the fired position. In some embodiments, the projection engages the one or more ridges to produce a dose status indication as the ram is moved from the pre-firing position to the fired position.BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0013] The foregoing summary, as well as the following detailed description of embodiments of the injector having an indicator for dose status, will be better understood when read in conjunction with the appended drawings of an exemplary embodiment. It should be understood, however, that the invention is not limited to the precise arrangements and instrumentalities shown.

[0014] In the drawings:

[0015] Fig. 1 is a side cross-sectional view of an injector in accordance with an exemplary embodiment of the present invention shown in an initial state;

[0016] Fig. 2 is a side cross-sectional view of the injector of Fig. 1 shown shortly after beginning of dose delivery;

[0017] Fig. 3 is a side cross-sectional view of the injector of Fig. 1 shown near the end of dose delivery;

[0018] Fig. 4 is a side cross-sectional view of the injector of Fig. 1 shown after the dose has been delivered and the dose delivery indicator has been activated;

[0019] Fig. 5 is a side cross-sectional view of an injector in accordance with a second exemplary embodiment of the present invention shown with a clicker;

[0020] Fig. 6 is a side cross-sectional view of a ram of the injector of Fig. 5 showing the clicker coupled to the ram;

[0021] Fig. 7 is a perspective view of the clicker of the injector of Fig. 5;

[0022] Fig. 8 is a side cross-sectional view of a latch of the injector in accordance with a third exemplary embodiment of the present invention shown with an integrated clicker;

[0023] Fig. 9 is a perspective view of the latch and ram of the injector of Fig. 8 shown with a transparent latch to illustrate the ram recess of the ram disposed therein; and

[0024] Fig. 10 is a side cross-sectional view of an injector in accordance with a fourth exemplary embodiment of the present invention shown with an inter-ram clicker.DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0025] The present disclosure generally relates to injectors, or autoinjectors, that are used in the delivery of injectable fluid, such as medicament for sub skin-surface penetration (e.g., subcutaneous and intramuscular injections). Delivery times of the injectable fluid may vary greatly from a few seconds to multiple minutes. The range of injector applications is incredibly broad and recent advancements have enabled delivery of substantial fluid volumes. These high-volume injectors can take longer to administer the full dose; however, it may be burdensome or uncomfortable to continually view the injector to monitor the dose status.

[0026] Referring to the drawings in detail, wherein like reference numerals indicate like elements throughout, there is shown in Figs. 1-4 an injector, generally designated 100, in accordance with an exemplary embodiment of the present invention. As shown in Figs. 1-4, the injector 100 may comprise a housing 102, a latch assembly 104, a ram 106 and an energy source 108. Interaction ofthe latch assembly 104, the ram 106 and the energy source 108 may produce a dose status indication to signal a dose status (e.g., dose completion) to a user, as described in more detail below. The housing 102 may have a proximal end and a distal end extending along a longitudinal axis AL and may be configured for allowing a user to grip or handle the injector 100. The housing 102 may be shaped and sized to fit into a user’s hand for single-handed function. The housing 102 may have a generally circular cross-section. In some embodiments, the housing 102 has a generally ovular cross-section to help position the injector 100 in the user’s hand. The housing 102 may substantially house the latch assembly 104, the ram 106 and the energy source 108.

[0027] As shown in Figs. 1-4, the latch assembly 104 may be disposed within the housing 102. The latch assembly 104 may be fixed relative to the housing 102 proximate the proximal end of the housing 102. The latch assembly 104 may include a latch body 112 extending along the longitudinal axis AL, a rod 114 disposed within the latch body 112 and a latch spring 116 configured to move the rod 114 relative to the latch body 112. The rod 114 may be pulled distally relative to the housing 102 and then released, resulting in the proximal end of the rod 114 contacting the proximal end of the housing 102. The contact between the proximal end of the rod 114 and the proximal end of the housing 102 may generate an audible or haptic indication, as described in more detail below. The rod 114 may be biased proximally by the latch spring 116. The latch spring 116 may be generally co-axial with the energy source 108. The latch spring 116 and the energy source 108 may generate forces in opposite directions along the longitudinal axis. The latch spring 116 may bias the rod 114 from the retracted position not the initial position after the ram 106 pulls the rod 114 distally relative to the housing 102 and releases the rod 114.

[0028] The rod 114 may be moveable between an initial position where the proximal end of the rod 114 is biased against the proximal end of the housing 102 by the latch spring and a retracted position where the proximal end of the rod 114 is spaced apart from the proximal end of the housing 102. In some embodiments, the proximal end of the rod 114 may be spaced apart from the proximal end of the housing 102 in the initial position.

[0029] As shown in Fig. 4, the proximal end of the rod 114 may be spaced a distance D from the proximal end of the housing 102 in the retracted position. The proximal end of the rod 114 may be spaced approximately 8 mm from the proximal end of the housing 102 in the retracted position. In some embodiments, the proximal end of the rod 114 is spaced approximately 6 mm, approximately 6.2 mm, approximately 6.4 mm, approximately 6.6 mm, approximately 6.8 mm, approximately 7 mm, approximately 7.2 mm, approximately 7.4 mm, approximately 7.6 mm, approximately 7.8 mm, approximately 8 mm, approximately 8.2 mm, approximately 8.4 mm, approximately 8.6 mm,approximately 8.8 mm, approximately 9 mm, approximately 9.2 mm, approximately 9.4 mm, approximately 9.6 mm, or approximately 9.8 mm, approximately 10 mm from the proximal end of the housing 102 in the retracted position. In some embodiments, the proximal end of the rod 114 is spaced at least 6 mm, at least 6.2 mm, at least 6.4 mm, at least 6.6 mm, at least 6.8 mm, at least 7 mm, at least 7.2 mm, at least 7.4 mm, at least 7.6 mm, at least 7.8 mm, at least 8 mm, at least 8.2 mm, at least 8.4 mm, at least 8.6 mm, at least 8.8 mm, at least 9 mm, at least 9.2 mm, at least 9.4 mm, at least 9.6 mm, or at least 9.8 mm, at least 10 mm from the proximal end of the housing 102 in the retracted position. In some embodiments, the proximal end of the rod 114 is spaced between approximately 6 mm and 10 mm, between approximately 6.2 mm and 9.8 mm, between approximately 6.4 mm and 9.6 mm, between approximately 6.6 mm and 9.4 mm, between approximately 6.8 mm and 9.2 mm, between approximately 7 mm and 9 mm, between approximately 7.2 mm and 8.8 mm, between approximately 7.4 mm and 8.6 mm, between approximately 7.6 mm and 8.4 mm, or between approximately 7.8 mm and 8.2 mm from the proximal end of the housing 102 in the retracted position.

[0030] As shown in Figs. 1-4, the rod 114 may be a generally elongate member that extends along the longitudinal axis AL. The rod 114 may have a cylindrical cross-section. In some embodiments, the rod 114 may have a hexagonal or non-cylindrical cross-section. As shown in Figs. 1-4, the rod 114 may include a proximal protrusion 118 disposed on its proximal end and may include a distal protrusion 120 disposed on its distal end. In some embodiments, the proximal protrusion 118 and / or the distal protrusion 120 are spaced apart from the proximal end and the distal end of the rod 114, respectively.

[0031] As shown in Figs. 1-4, the distal protrusion 120 may be a generally spherical member. The distal protrusion 120 may have a cross-sectional diameter that is greater than a cross-sectional diameter of the rod 114. The distal protrusion 120 may have a distal protrusion body 128 that extends radially outward from the distal end of the rod 114. The distal protrusion 120 may be a bulb shape such that the cross-sectional diameter increases from a proximal end to a central portion of the distal protrusion 120. In some embodiments, the distal protrusion body 128 has a cross-sectional area that increases linearly from a proximal end to a central portion. The shape of the distal protrusion may urge the flexible engagement members 140 of the ram insert 138 to flex radially outward as they are dragged distally along the distal protrusion 120 as the ram 106 is moved from the pre-firing position to the fired position.

[0032] As shown in Figs. 1-4, the proximal protrusion 118 may be a generally spherical member. The proximal protrusion 118 may be bulb shaped. The proximal protrusion 118 may have a cross sectional diameter that is greater than a cross sectional diameter of the rod 114. The proximalprotrusion 118 may have a generally cylindrical proximal protrusion body 122 with a rounded proximal protrusion head 124 extending from the proximal end. The proximal protrusion head 124 may be shaped and sized to produce an intended audible indication and / or a haptic indication when contacting the housing 102, as described in more detail below. In some embodiments, the proximal protrusion head 124 may be flat.

[0033] As shown in Figs. 1-4, the proximal protrusion body 122 may have a collar 126 or other extension extending radially therefrom. The collar 126 may extend around at least a portion of the proximal protrusion body 122 and may be configured to engage the latch spring 116 to prevent the latch spring 116 from passing proximally past the proximal protrusion 118. The latch spring 116 may engage the proximal protrusion 118 to urge the rod 114 proximally toward the initial position. The latch spring 116 may engage the collar 126 to urge the rod 114 proximally toward the initial position.

[0034] The proximal protrusion body 122 may be disposed within at least a portion of the latch spring 116 and may provide support to prevent the latch spring 116 from buckling during compression. The proximal protrusion body 122 may have a cross sectional diameter substantially similar to that of the latch spring 116. In some embodiments, the rob 114 has a cross sectional diameter substantially similar to that of the latch spring 116.

[0035] As shown in Figs. 1-4, the latch assembly 104 may have a spring chamber 130 defined therein. The spring chamber 130 may extend distally from the proximal end of the latch body 112 and may be shaped and sized to receive the latch spring 116. The spring chamber 130 may have an aperture 132 extending through the distal end thereof. The aperture 132 may be shaped and sized to allow the rod 114 to pass therethrough. The rod 114 may be able to move freely through the aperture 132. The spring chamber 130 may have an open proximal end that enables the proximal protrusion 118 to pass therethrough.

[0036] The proximal protrusion 118 may engage the latch spring 116 and may be prevented from moving distally beyond the retracted position by the latch spring 116. The latch spring 116 may be fully compressed when the rod 114 is in the retracted position. In some embodiments, the latch spring 116 is partially compressed when the rod 114 is in the retracted position. The latch spring 116 may generate a biasing force capable of causing the flexible engagement members 140 of the ram 106 to move from the neutral position to the flexed position, as described in more detail below. The latch spring 116 may be compressed between the proximal protrusion 118 and the distal end of the spring chamber 130 when the rod 114 is in the retracted position. The proximal protrusion 118 may contact the proximal end of the housing 102 when the rod 114 is in the initial position. The proximal protrusion head 124 may be generally flush with the proximal end of the latch assembly 104 when therod 114 is in the initial position. In some embodiments, the proximal protrusion head 124 may extend proximally past the proximal end of the latch assembly 104 when the rod 114 is in the initial position.

[0037] As shown in Figs. 1 -4, the ram 106 may be disposed within the housing 102 and may be moveable relative to the latch assembly 104 between a pre-firing position and a fired position. The ram 106 may a generally cylindrical member that is configured to move distally relative to the housing 102 to expel medicament from a medicament container 134, as described in more detail below. The proximal end of the ram 106 may be positioned proximally of the distal protrusion 120 of the rod 114 when the ram 106 is in the pre-firing position. The proximal end of the ram 106 may be positioned distally of the distal protrusion 120 when the ram 106 is in the fired position.

[0038] The medicament container 134 containing a medicament may be disposed within the housing 102. The medicament container 134 may be fixed relative to the housing 102. As used herein, the medicament may comprise drugs, biologies, solutions, gels, suspensions or other substances that may be delivered via a syringe or needle, and such terms may be used interchangeably as appearing in the specification and claims. The medicament container 134 may be a prefilled syringe. In some embodiments, the medicament container 134 may be an insertable medicament cartridge. In some embodiments, the medicament container 134 may be filled using a vial-and-needle or other appropriate filling method. In one embodiment, the medicament container 134 is one of a prefilled cartridge, prefilled staked needle syringe, vial, or other injectable fluid containing vessel. The medicament container 134 has a distal portion and a proximal portion opposite the distal portion. At least a portion of the ram 106 may be disposed within the proximal portion of the medicament container 134 when the ram 106 is in the fired position. The medicament container 134 may include a plunger 146 disposed therein. The ram 106 may be configured to move the plunger 146 within the medicament container 134 to expel the medicament from the distal portion thereof.

[0039] While examples of volumes, viscosities and delivery times may be provided herein, it should be appreciated that the components of injector 100 may be used with any injection apparatus. The medicament container 134 may have a volume of at least 10 mL. In one embodiment, the medicament container 134 has a volume selected from approximately: a) 3 mL, 3.5 mL, 4 mL, 4.5 mL, 5.5 mL, 6 mL, 6.5 mL, 7 mL, 7.5 mL, 8 mL, 8.5 mL, 9 mL, 9.5 mL, 10 mL, 10.5 mL, 11 mL, 11.5 mL, 12 mL, 12.5 mL, 13 mL, 13.5 mL, 14 mL, 14.5 mL, 15 mL, 15.5 mL, 16 mL, 16.5 mL, 17 mL, 17.5 mL, 18 mL, 18.5 mL, 19 mL, 19.5 mL, 20 mL. 25 mL, 30 mL, 35 mL, 40 mL, 45 mL, and 50 mL; b) 3 mL to 5 mL, 3 mL to 10 mL, 3 mL to 15 mL, 3 mL to 20 mL, 3 mL to 25 mL, 3 ml to 30 mL, 3 mL to 35 mL, 3 mL to 40 mL, 3 mL to 45 mL, 3 mL to 50 mL, 5 mL to 10 mL,5 mL to 15 mL, 5 mL to 20 mL, 5 mL to 25 mL, 5 mL to 30 mL, 5 mL to 35 mL, 5 mL to 40 mL; 5 mL to 45 mL, 5 mL to 50 mL, 10 mL to 15 mL; 10 mL to 20 mL; 10 mL to 25 mL; 10 mL to 30 mL; 10 mL to 35 mL; 10 mL to 40 mL, 10 mL to 50 mL; c) approximately 3 mL to approximately 5 mL, approximately 3 mL to approximately 10 mL, approximately 3 mL to approximately 15 mL, approximately 3 mL to approximately 20 mL, approximately 3 mL to approximately 25 mL, approximately 3 ml to approximately 30 mL, approximately 3 mL to approximately 35 mL, approximately 3 mL to approximately 40 mL, approximately 3 mL to approximately 45 mL, approximately 3 mL to approximately 50 mL, approximately 5 mL to approximately 10 mL, approximately 5 mL to approximately 15 mL, approximately 5 mL to approximately 20 mL, approximately 5 mL to approximately 25 mL, approximately 5 mL to approximately 30 mL, approximately 5 mL to approximately 35 mL, approximately 5 mL to approximately 40 mL; approximately 5 mL to approximately 45 mL, approximately 5 mL to approximately 50 mL, approximately 10 mL to approximately 15 mL; approximately 10 mL to approximately 20 mL; approximately 10 mL to approximately 25 mL; approximately 10 mL to approximately 30 mL; approximately 10 mL to approximately 35 mL; approximately 10 mL to approximately 40 mL, approximately 10 mL to approximately 50 mL; d) at least approximately 3 mL, at least approximately 3.5 mL, at least approximately 4 mL, at least approximately 4.5 mL, at least approximately 5.5 mL, at least approximately 6 mL, at least approximately 6.5 mL, at least approximately 7 mL, at least approximately 7.5 mL, at least approximately 8 mL, at least approximately 8.5 mL, at least approximately 9 mL, at least approximately 9.5 mL, at least approximately 10 mL, at least approximately 10.5 mL, at least approximately 11 mL, at least approximately 11.5 mL, at least approximately 12 mL, at least approximately 12.5 mL, at least approximately 13 mL, at least approximately 13.5 mL, at least approximately 14 mL, at least approximately 14.5 mL, at least approximately 15 mL, at least approximately 15.5 mL, at least approximately 16 mL, at least approximately 16.5 mL, at least approximately 17 mL, at least approximately 17.5 mL, at least approximately 18 mL, at least approximately 18.5 mL, at least approximately 19 mL, at least approximately 19.5 mL, at least approximately 20 mL, at least approximately 25 mL, at least approximately 30 mL, at least approximately 35 mL, at least approximately 40 mL, at least approximately 45 mL, at least approximately 50 mL; and e) at least 3 mL, at least 3.5 mL, at least 4 mL, at least 4.5 mL, at least 5.5 mL, at least6 mL, at least 6.5 mL, at least 7 mL, at least 7.5 mL, at least 8 mL, at least 8.5 mL, at least 9mL, at least 9.5 mL, at least 10 mL, at least 10.5 mL, at least 11 mL, at least 11.5 mL, at least12 mL, at least 12.5 mL, at least 13 mL, at least 13.5 mL, at least 14 mL, at least 14.5 mL, at least 15 mL, at least 15.5 mL, at least 16 mL, at least 16.5 mL, at least 17 mL, at least 17.5 mL, at least 18 mL, at least 18.5 mL, at least 19 mL, at least 19.5 mL, at least 20 mL, at least 25 mL, at least 30 mL, at least 35 mL, at least 40 mL, at least 45 mL, at least 50 mL.

[0040] The viscosity of the medicament may be between 1-20 cP. In one embodiment, the medicament may have a viscosity of: a) approximately 1 cP, approximately 2 cP, approximately 3 cP, approximately 4 cP, approximately 5 cP, approximately 6 cP, approximately 7 cP, approximately 8 cP, approximately 9 cP, approximately 10 cP, approximately 11 cP, approximately 12 cP, approximately 13 cP, approximately 14 cP, approximately 15 cP, approximately 16 cP, approximately 17 cP, approximately 18 cP, approximately 19 cP, approximately 20 cP; and b) between approximately 1-20 cP, between approximately 2-19 cP, between approximately 3-18 cP, between approximately 4-17 cP, between approximately 5-16 cP, between approximately 6-15 cP, between approximately 7-14 cP, between approximately 8-13 cP, between approximately 9-12 cP, between approximately 10-1 1 cP.

[0041] Flow rate of the injector 100 is heavily dependent on the viscosity and volume of the medicament. However, the injector 100 may deliver the full volume of the medicament in approximately 30 seconds. In some embodiments, the injector delivers the full volume of the medicament in: a) 10 seconds, 15 seconds, 20 seconds, 25 seconds, 30 seconds, 35 seconds, 40 seconds, 45 seconds, 50 seconds, 55 seconds, 60 seconds, 70 seconds, 80 seconds, 90 seconds, 100 seconds, 110 seconds, 120 seconds, 130 seconds, 140 seconds, 150 seconds, 160 seconds, 170 seconds, 180 seconds, 4 minutes, 5 minutes, 6 minutes, 7 minutes, 8 minutes, 9 minutes, 10 minutes; b) less than 10 seconds, less than 15 seconds, less than 20 seconds, less than 25 seconds, less than 30 seconds, less than 35 seconds, less than 40 seconds, less than 45 seconds, less than 50 seconds, less than 55 seconds, less than 60 seconds, less than 70 seconds, less than 80 seconds, less than 90 seconds, less than 100 seconds, less than 110 seconds, less than 120 seconds, less than 130 seconds, less than 140 seconds, less than 150 seconds, less than 160 seconds, less than 170 seconds, less than 180 seconds, less than 4 minutes, less than 5 minutes, less than 6 minutes, less than 7 minutes, less than 8 minutes, less than 9 minutes, less than 10 minutes; andc) between approximately 10 minutes and 10 seconds, between approximately 15 seconds and 9 minutes, between approximately 20 seconds and 8 minutes, between approximately 25 seconds and 7 minutes, between approximately 30 seconds and 6 minutes, between approximately 35 seconds and 5 minutes, between approximately 40 seconds and 4 minutes, between approximately 45 seconds and 180 seconds, between approximately 50 seconds and 170 seconds, between approximately 55 seconds and 160 seconds, between approximately 60 seconds and 150 seconds, between approximately 70 seconds and 140 seconds, between approximately 80 seconds and 130 seconds, between approximately 90 seconds and 120 seconds; between approximately 100 seconds and 110 seconds.

[0042] The ram 106 may include a ram body 136 extending along the longitudinal axis AL and a ram insert 138 disposed at least partially within the ram body 136. The ram body 136 may be a generally cylindrical member and may have a closed distal end and an open proximal end. The ram body 136 may be shaped and sized to fit within the medicament container 134. The ram body 136 may be shaped and sized to receive the energy source 108 therein. The ram insert 138 may shaped and sized to fit within the ram body 136. The ram insert 138 may have a cross-sectional diameter that is less than a cross-sectional diameter of the ram body 136. The energy source 108 may be disposed between the ram body 136 and the ram insert 138.

[0043] As shown in Figs. 1-4, the ram insert 138 may be a generally cylindrical member extending along the longitudinal axis AL. The ram insert 138 may have a circular cross section shaped and sized to allow the distal protrusion 120 to be disposed therein. In some embodiments, the ram insert 138 includes an elongate body having a protrusion on the proximal end that is disposed within a cylindrical rod 114 that extends from the latch assembly 104. The ram insert 138 may include a flexible engagement member 140 extending radially inward therefrom. In an embodiment where the ram insert 138 is disposed within the rod 114 the flexible engagement members 140 may be disposed on the rod 114. The flexible engagement member 140 may be located proximate to the proximal end of the ram insert 138 and may be configured to temporarily engage the distal protrusion 120 as the ram 106 is moved from the pre-firing position to the fired position, as described in more detail below. The ram insert 138 may include a plurality of flexible engagement member 140 extending radially inward and spaced apart around the circumference of the proximal end. The flexible engagement member 140 may be moveable between a neutral position where the flexible engagement member 140 is generally flush with the ram insert 138 and a flexed position where the flexible engagement member 140 is flexed radially outward from the ram insert 138.

[0044] The ram body 136 may be prevented from rotating about the longitudinal axis AL relative to the latch assembly 104. Rotation of the ram body 136 may impact the functionality of the injector 100 by, for example, preventing the latch assembly 104 from locking out the ram 106. The latch body 112 may include a rib 146 extending radially along the longitudinal axis AL. The rib 146 may extend along at least a portion of the latch body 112. In some embodiments, the rib 146 extends along the entire length of the latch body 112. The ram body 136 may include a slot 144 extending along the longitudinal axis AL. The slot 144 may extend along at least a portion of the ram body 136. In some embodiments, the slot 144 extends along the entire length of the ram body 136. The slot 144 may be configured to receive at least a portion of the rib 146 therein. The rib 146 may be moveable relative to the slot 144 as the ram 106 is moved from the pre-firing to the fired position. The rib 146 being received in the slot 144 may prevent rotation of the ram 106 relative to the housing 102. In some embodiments, the ram body 136 may include the rib 146 and the latch body 112 includes the slot 144.

[0045] The ram insert 138 may be rotatable relative about the longitudinal axis AL relative to the ram body 136. The ram insert 138 may include a flange 142 extending radially around the circumference of the distal end of the ram insert 138. The flange 142 may extend around the entire circumference of the ram insert 138. In some embodiments, the flange 142 extends around only a portion of the ram insert 138. The flange 142 may be engaged by the energy source 108. The energy source 108 may be configured to move the ram 106 from the pre-firing position to the fired position. As the energy source urges the ram from the pre-firing position to the fired position, the ram insert 138 may be rotated about the longitudinal axis AL relative to the ram body 136 by the energy source. In an exemplary embodiment, the energy source 108 includes a compression spring; however, other suitable energy sources can be used, such as an electric pump, elastomer or compressed-gas spring, or a gas generator, or other suitable energy storage members.

[0046] The energy source 108 may be a compression spring. The energy source 108 may have a 5 mm diameter. The energy source 108 may have a 6 mm diameter. The energy source 108 may have a 7 mm diameter. The energy source 108 may have an 8 mm diameter. The energy source 108 may have a 9 mm diameter. The energy source 108 may have a 10 mm diameter. The energy source 108 may have a l l mm diameter. The energy source 108 may have a 12 mm diameter. The energy source 108 may have a 13 mm diameter. The energy source 108 may have a 14 mm diameter. The energy source 108 may have a 15 mm diameter. The energy source 108 may have a 0.75 mm wire diameter. The energy source 108 may have a 1 mm wire diameter. The energy source 108 may have a 1.25 mm wire diameter. The energy source 108 may have a 1.5 mm wire diameter. The energy source 108 may have a 1 .75 mm wire diameter. The energy source 108 may have a 2 mm wire diameter.

[0047] The energy source 108 may produce at least 8 Ibf of force, at least 9 Ibf of force, at least 10 Ibf of force, at least 11 Ibf of force, at least 12 Ibf of force, at least 13 Ibf of force, at least 14 Ibf of force, at least 15 Ibf of force, at least 16 Ibf of force, at least 17 Ibf of force, at least 18 Ibf of force, at least 19 Ibf of force, at least 20 Ibf of force, at least 21 Ibf of force, at least 22 Ibf of force, at least 23 Ibf of force, at least 24 Ibf of force, at least 25 Ibf of force, at least 26 Ibf of force, at least 27 Ibf of force, at least 28 Ibf of force, at least 29 Ibf of force, or at least 30 Ibf of force. The energy source 108 may produce between 8-30 Ibf of force, between 9-29 Ibf of force, between 10-28 Ibf of force, between 11-27 Ibf of force, between 12-26 Ibf of force, between 13-25 Ibf of force, between 14-24 Ibf of force, between 15-23 Ibf of force, between 16-22 Ibf of force, between 17-21 Ibf of force, or between 18-20 Ibf of force.

[0048] The energy source 108 may generate up to 15 Ibf of force prior to a triggering event. The energy source 108 may generate up to 17.5 Ibf of force prior to a triggering event. The energy source 108 may generate up to 20 Ibf of force prior to a triggering event. The energy source 108 may generate up to 22.5 Ibf of force prior to a triggering event. The energy source 108 may generate up to 25 Ibf of force prior to a triggering event. The energy source 108 may generate up to 27.5 Ibf of force prior to a triggering event. The energy source 108 may generate up to 30 Ibf of force prior to a triggering event.

[0049] The injector 100 may further include a trigger 110 disposed within the housing 102. The trigger 110 may be operable by a user. A shown in Figs 1-4, the trigger 110 may be a retractable needle guard. The trigger 110 may be urged distally be a trigger spring 160 disposed between the housing 102 and the trigger 110. The trigger spring 160 may prevent unintended proximal movement of the trigger 1 10 to avoid accidental or premature firing of the injector 100. In some embodiments, the trigger 110 may be a button or other appropriate firing initiation component. The trigger 110 may be moveable between a locked position where the trigger 110 prevents the energy source 108 from moving the ram 106 and a triggering position where the trigger 110 allows the energy source 108 to move the ram 106. When the trigger 110 is moved to the triggering position, the latch assembly 104 may disengage the ram 106, thereby allowing the energy source 108 to move the ram 106 from the pre-firing position to the fired position.

[0050] As shown in Figs. 1-2, during movement of the ram 106 from the pre-firing position to the fired position, the ram 106 may temporarily engage the rod 114. The flexible engagement member 140 of the ram insert 138 may engage the distal protrusion 120 of the rod 114 to move the rod 114 from the initial position into the retracted position. When the rod 114 is in the retracted position, and as the energy source 108 continues to urge the ram 106 toward the fired position, the force producedby the energy source 108 overcomes the forces produced by the flexible engagement member 140 and the flexible engagement member 140 flexes radially from the neutral position to the flexed position around the distal protrusion 120 as the ram 106 is moved distally. The force produced by the flexible engagement member 140 may be large enough to engage and pull the rod 114 from the initial position to the retracted position, but may be small enough so as to not impact the movement of the ram 106 or the delivery rate of the medicament. When the flexible engagement member 140 is spaced distally from the distal protrusion 120 it may return from the flexed position to the neutral position.

[0051] The flexible engagement member 140 may disengage the distal protrusion 120 when the ram 106 is moved at least 90% toward the fired position. In some embodiments, the flexible engagement member 140 disengages the distal protrusion 120 when the ram 106 is moved approximately 50%, approximately 55%, approximately 60%, approximately 65%, approximately 70%, approximately 75%, approximately 80%, approximately 85%, approximately 90%, approximately 95% or approximately 99% toward the fired position. In some embodiments, the flexible engagement member 140 disengages the distal protrusion 120 when the ram 106 is moved at least 50%, at least 55%, at least 60%, at least 65%, at least 70%, at least 75%, at least 80%, at least 85%, at least 90%, at least 95% or at least 99% toward the fired position. In some embodiments, the flexible engagement member 140 disengages the distal protrusion 120 when the ram 106 is moved between approximately 50% and 99%, between approximately 55% and 95%, between approximately 60% and 90%, between approximately 65% and 85% or between approximately 70% and 80%.

[0052] Implementation of an indicator for dose status or completion can enable healthcare providers and patients to be aware of dose progress and / or confirm when the full dose has been delivered. Integrating a noise indicator and / or a haptic indicator into the injector 100 can provide an audible signal or a haptic signal to the user to indicate the status or completion of the dose, thereby providing a fully automated, hands-free indication of the dose status to the user.

[0053] As shown in Figs. 3-4, the ram 106 disengaging the rod 114 may allow the latch spring 116 to move the rod 114 into the initial position. The latch spring 116 may cause proximal acceleration of the proximal protrusion 118 as the rod 114 is moved from the retracted position to the initial position. The acceleration and momentum generated by the latch spring 116 may cause the proximal protrusion 118 to contact the proximal end of the housing 102 when the rod 114 is moved from the retracted position to the initial position. Contact of the proximal protrusion 118 and the proximal end of the housing 102 may generate an audible indication (e.g., a click or chime) and / or a haptic indication (e.g., vibration). The audible and / or haptic indication may alert the user that the volume of the medicament has been delivered.

[0054] The rod 114 may be made from various materials, including metals, polymers, composites, or a combination thereof. The choice of material may affect the rod’s durability, weight, and the type of feedback provided. The housing 102 may also be made from various materials. The entire housing 102 or, in some embodiments, only the area that is contacted by the rod 114 may be constructed from metals, polymers, composites, or a combination thereof. The choice of material of the rod 114 and housing 102 may influence the noise indication and / or haptic indication. A metal rod 114 contacting a metal housing 102 may result in a clear, high-pitched sound when the rod 114 strikes the housing 102. This may also produce a strong haptic indication due to the rigidity and weight of the materials. On the other hand, contact between a rod 114 and a housing 102 made of polymers or composites may produce a more muted audible indication due to the flexibility and lower density of the materials compared to the metals.

[0055] In some embodiments, the housing 102 may include an integral noise generator 150 (e.g., a bell or bell-like structure). The noise generator 150 may be located between the latch assembly 104 and the proximal end of the housing 102 and may be contacted by the rod 114 when the rod 114 is moved from the retracted position to the initial position by the latch spring 116. The noise generator 150 may resonate when struck by the rod 114 to amplify the sound, making the auditory feedback more noticeable to a user. Implementation of a noise generator 150 may enable lighter or less dense materials to be used in the housing 102 and rod 114 while balancing the need to produce a noticeable audible indication.

[0056] In some embodiments, the housing may incorporate a visual indicator 152 to display the status of the injector 100 to the user. The visual indicator 152 may be located between the latch assembly 104 and the proximal end of the housing 102 and may be contacted by the rod 114 when the rod 114 is moved from the retracted position to the initial position by the latch spring 116. The visual indicator 152 may include a window that is configured to change color (e.g., flipping from red to green) upon completion of a dose delivery. Implementation of the visual indicator 152 may provide an additional source of dose status indication. The visual indicator 152 may be a useful alternative for a hearing impaired user.

[0057] Referring to Figs. 5-7, there is shown an injector, generally designated 1100, in accordance with a second exemplary embodiment of the present invention. The injector 1100 may be generally the same as injector 100 discussed above, except the injector 1100 includes a clicker 1148 disposed therein, the clicker 1148 configured to generate an audible indication (e.g., a click or chime) and / or a haptic indication (e.g., vibration). The clicker 1148 may be disposed around a ram 1106. In some embodiments, the clicker 1148 is located between a ram body 1136 and a medicament container 1134.The clicker 1148 may be fixed relative to the housing 1102. As the ram 1106 is moved relative to the housing 1102 from the pre-firing position to the fired position, the clicker 1148 may stay fixed relative to the ram 1106.

[0058] To prevent movement of the medicament container 1134 relative to the housing 1102 during delivery of the medicament, a clicker 1148 may be included. Referring to Fig. 7, the clicker 1148 may be disposed between the medicament container 1134 and the latch assembly 1104. The clicker 1148 may be configured to bias the medicament container 1134 proximally and the latch assembly 1104 distally relative to the housing 1102. The clicker 1148 may be a generally cylindrical member shaped and sized to allow the ram 1106 to pass therethrough. In some embodiments, the clicker 1148 includes a spring element 1154 coupled thereto. In some embodiments, the clicker includes a plurality of spring elements 1154 coupled thereto. The spring elements 1154 may be integrally formed on the clicker 1148. The spring element 1154 may be a wave spring or other biasing member configured to oppose a force acting thereon. The spring element 1154 may be moveable relative to the clicker 1148 in response to a force. Spring element 1154 may urge the medicament container 1134 proximally to prevent or reduce movement of the medicament container relative to the housing 1102 during use.

[0059] Referring to Fig. 7, the clicker 1148 may include a projection 1153 extending therefrom. In some embodiments, the clicker 1148 includes a plurality of projections 1153 extending therefrom. The projection 1153 may extend radially inward from the clicker 1148 and may be configured to engage the ram 1106 as the ram 1106 is moved relative to the housing 1102 from the pre-firing position to the fired position. The projection 1153 may be a pointed member. The projection 1153 may extend from a flexible clicker arm 1149 that is moveable relative to the clicker 1148 in response to a radial force. The flexible clicker arm 1149 may be configured to flex and return to an initial position such that the projection 1153 remains in contact with the ram 1106.

[0060] Referring to Fig. 7, in some embodiments, the ram 1106 includes one or more ridges 1150 defined thereon. The ridges 1150 may extend at least partially circumferentially around an exterior surface of the ram 1106. As the ram 1106 is moved relative to the housing 1102 from the pre-firing position to the fired position, the one or more projections 1153 of the clicker 1148 may contact the one or more ridges 1150 to generate an audible and / or a haptic indication. For example, the proj ection 1153 may contact the one or more ridges 1150 as the ram 1106 is urged by the energy source 1108 from the pre-firing position to the fired position. The one or more projections 1153 contacting the one or more ridges 1150 may generate a repeated click sound. In some embodiments, the one or more ridges 1150 are positioned such that they are offset from one another at even intervals to produce arhythmic audible indication throughout delivery of a dose. In some embodiments, the one or more ridges 1150 may be spaced apart on the ram 1106 such that the time between audible indication increases or decreases during delivery of the dose. The one or more ridges 1150 may extend varying lengths radially from the ram 1106 to produce varying tones or volumes.

[0061] Referring to Figs. 8-9, there is shown an injector, generally designated 2100, in accordance with a third exemplary embodiment of the present invention. The injector 2100 may be generally the same as injector 1100 discussed above, except the injector 2100 includes a clicker 2148 that is integrated with the latch body 2112. The latch body 2112 may include a projection 2153 extending radially inward therefrom. In some embodiments, the clicker 2156 is a projection that is integrally formed within the latch body 2112. In some embodiments, the clicker 2148 includes a plurality of projections 2153 extending therefrom. The projection 2153 may extend radially inward from the latch body 2112 and may be configured to engage the ram 2106 as the ram 2106 is moved relative to the housing 2102 from the pre-firing position to the fired position. The projection 2153 may be a pointed member. The projection 2153 may extend from a flexible clicker arm 2149 that is moveable relative to the latch body 2112 in response to a radial force. The flexible clicker arm 2149 may be configured to flex and return to an initial position such that the projection 2153 remains in contact with the ram 2106.

[0062] Referring to Fig. 9, the ram 2106 may include one or more ram recesses 2157. The ram 2106 may have ram recesses 2157 defined on the ram body 2136. The ram recess 2157 may extend along the longitudinal axis AL and may be shaped and sized to receive at least a portion of the clicker 2148 therein. The ram recess 2157 may extend longitudinally along a length of the ram body 2136. In some embodiments, the ram recess 2157 extends longitudinally along a portion of the ram body 2136. The clicker 2148 being received in the ram recess 2157 may prevent rotation of the ram 2106 relative to the latch body 2112. The ram recess 2157 may include one or more ridge 2150 defined thereon. The projection 2153 may extend radially from the ram recess 2157 and may be configured to engage the projection 2153 of the clicker 2148 as the ram 2106 is moved relative to the housing 2102 from the pre-firing position to the fired position. The one or more projections 2153 contacting the one or more ridges 2150 may generate a repeated click sound. As shown in Fig. 9, the one or more ridges 2150 may be spaced apart on the ram 2106 such that the time between audible indication increases or decreases during delivery of the dose. The one or more ridges 2150 may extend varying lengths radially from the ram 2106 to produce varying tones or volumes. In some embodiments, the one or more ridges 2150 are positioned such that they are offset from one another at even intervals to produce a rhythmic audible indication throughout delivery of a dose.

[0063] Referring to Fig. 10, there is shown an injector, generally designated 3100 in accordance with a fourth exemplary embodiment of the present invention. The injector 3100 may be generally the same as injector 100 discussed above, except injector 3100 includes rod 3114 that is at least partially disposed within the ram insert 3138 of ram 3106. The rod 3114 may be fixed relative to the housing 3102 and may extend proximally from the distal end of the housing 3102. The rod 3114 may include a rod base 3115 extending radially from a distal end thereof. The rod base 3115 may extend circumferentially. In some embodiments, the rod base 3115 comprises one or more features that extend radially from the rod 3114. The rod base 3115 may be disposed between the latch body 3112 and the housing 3102 to prevent axial movement of the rod 3114 relative to the housing 3102 during delivery of a dose. In some embodiments, the rod 3114 is allowed to move a predetermined axial distance during delivery of a dose. Upon completion of a dose, the rod base 3115 may contact the housing 3102 to produce an audible or haptic indication.

[0064] Referring to Fig. 10, the rod 3114 may include a plurality of ridges 3150 extending therefrom. The plurality of ridges 3150 may extend radially outward from the rod 3114. The plurality of ridges 3150 may be a pointed member. In some embodiments, the plurality of ridges 3150 are spaced apart on the clicker 3148 such that the time between audible indication increases or decreases during delivery of the dose. The plurality of ridges 3150 may extend varying lengths radially from the rod 3114 to produce varying tones or volumes. In some embodiments, the plurality of ridges 3150 are positioned such that they are offset from one another at even intervals to produce a rhythmic audible indication throughout delivery of a dose.

[0065] Referring to Fig. 10, the ram insert 3138 may include one or more projections 3153 extending radially inward therefrom. The one or more projections 3153 may be configured to engage the rod 3114 as the ram insert 3138 and ram 3106 are moved relative to the housing 3102 from the pre-firing position to the fired position. The ram insert 3138 may be rotatable relative to the ram 3106 during delivery of a dose. In some embodiments, the ram insert 3138 is fixed relative to the ram 3106. The one or more projections 3153 contacting the plurality of ridges 3150 may generate a an audible or haptic indication of dose status to a user during delivery of a dose.

[0066] The term “about” or “approximately” is used herein to provide literal support for the exact number that it precedes, as well as a number that is near to or approximately the number that the term precedes. In determining whether a number is near to or approximately a specifically recited number, the near or approximating unrecited number may be a number, which, in the context in which it is presented, provides the substantial equivalent of the specifically recited number. It should be appreciated that all numerical values and ranges disclosed herein are approximate values and ranges,whether or not “about” is used in conjunction therewith. It should also be appreciated that the term “about,” as used herein, in conjunction with a numeral refers to a value that may be ±0.01% (inclusive), ±0.1% (inclusive), ±0.5% (inclusive), ±1% (inclusive) of that numeral, ±2% (inclusive) of that numeral, ±3% (inclusive) of that numeral, ±5% (inclusive) of that numeral, ±10% (inclusive) of that numeral, or ±15% (inclusive) of that numeral. It should further be appreciated that when a numerical range is disclosed herein, any numerical value falling within the range is also specifically disclosed.

[0067] It will be appreciated by those skilled in the art that changes could be made to the exemplary embodiments shown and described above without departing from the broad inventive concepts thereof. It is to be understood that the embodiments and claims disclosed herein are not limited in their application to the details of construction and arrangement of the components set forth in the description and illustrated in the drawings. Rather, the description and the drawings provide examples of the embodiments envisioned. The embodiments and claims disclosed herein are further capable of other embodiments and of being practiced and carried out in various ways.

[0068] Specific features of the exemplary embodiments may or may not be part of the claimed invention and various features of the disclosed embodiments may be combined. Unless specifically set forth herein, the terms “a”, “an” and “the” are not limited to one element but instead should be read as meaning “at least one”. Finally, unless specifically set forth herein, a disclosed or claimed method should not be limited to the performance of their steps in the order written, and one skilled in the art can readily appreciate that the steps may be performed in any practical order.

Claims

CLAIMSWhat is claimed is:

1. An injector comprising: a housing having a longitudinal axis extending between a proximal end and a distal end; a latch assembly disposed within the housing, the latch assembly including: a latch body extending along the longitudinal axis; a rod disposed within the latch body and moveable between an initial position where a proximal end of the rod contacts the proximal end of the housing and a retracted position where the proximal end of the rod is spaced apart from the proximal end of the housing; and a latch spring configured to urge the rod toward the initial position; a ram disposed within the housing and moveable relative to the latch body between a prefiring position and a fired position; and an energy source configured to move the ram from the pre-firing position to the fired position, wherein the ram temporarily engages the rod to move the rod into the retracted position as the ram is moved from the pre-firing position to the fired position, wherein the ram disengages the rod when the rod is in the retracted position, thereby allowing the latch spring to move the rod into the initial position, and wherein the proximal end of the rod contacts the proximal end of the housing when moved from the retracted position to the initial position.

2. The injector of claim 1, wherein the rod includes a protrusion extending radially outward from a second end thereof; and wherein the ram includes a flexible engagement member extending radially inward from a proximal end thereof configured to temporarily engage the protrusion as the ram is moved from the pre-firing position to the fired position.

3. The injector of claim 2, wherein the proximal end of the rod is prevented from moving distally beyond the retracted position by the latch spring.

4. The injector of claim 3, wherein the flexible engagement member flexes radially around the protrusion when the rod is in the retracted position and the ram is moving to the fired position.

5. The injector of claim 4, wherein disengagement of the flexible engagement member and the protrusion allows the latch spring to move the rod from the retracted position to the initial position, and where contact of the proximal end of the rod and the proximal end of the housing generates an audible indication.

6. The injector of claim 4, wherein the flexible engagement member disengages the protrusion when the ram is moved at least 90% toward the fired position.

7. The injector of claim 1, wherein the ram comprises: a ram body extending along the longitudinal axis; and a ram insert disposed at least partially within the ram body.

8. The injector of claim 7, wherein the ram insert is rotatable about the longitudinal axis relative to the ram body.

9. The injector of claim 8, wherein the energy source engages a distal end of the ram insert.

10. The injector of claim 7, wherein the ram body is prevented from rotating about the longitudinal axis relative to the latch.11 . The injector of claim 10, wherein the latch body includes a rib extending radially along the longitudinal axis and where the ram body includes a slot extending along the longitudinal axis, the slot configured to receive at least a portion of the rib therein.

12. The injector of claim 1, further comprising: a trigger operable by a user and moveable between a locked position and a triggering position, where the trigger prevents the energy source from moving the ram in the locked position and allows the energy source to move the ram in the triggering position.

13. The injector of claim 1, further comprising: a medicament container disposed at least partially within the housing and containing a volume of a medicament; andthe medicament, wherein at least a portion of the ram is configured to move within the medicament container to expel the medicament from a distal end thereof.

14. The injector of claim 1, wherein the latch assembly is fixed relative to the housing.

15. The injector of claim 1, wherein the proximal end of the rod is generally flush with a proximal end of the latch assembly in the initial position.

16. The injector of claim 1, wherein the proximal end of the rod extends proximally beyond a proximal end of the latch assembly in the initial position.

17. An injector comprising: a housing having a longitudinal axis extending between a proximal end and a distal end; a latch assembly disposed within the housing, the latch assembly including: a latch body extending along the longitudinal axis; a rod disposed within the latch body and moveable between an initial position where a proximal end of the rod contacts the proximal end of the housing and a retracted position where the proximal end of the rod is spaced apart from the proximal end of the housing; and a latch spring configured to urge the rod toward the initial position; a ram disposed within the housing and moveable relative to the latch body between a prefiring position and a fired position; and an energy source configured to move the ram from the pre-firing position to the fired position, wherein the rod includes a protrusion extending radially outward from a second end thereof, wherein the ram includes a flexible engagement member extending radially inward from a proximal end thereof configured to engage the protrusion as the ram is moved from the pre-firing position to the fired position, wherein the ram moves the rod into the retracted position as the ram is moved from the prefiring position to the fired position, wherein the proximal end of the rod is prevented from moving distally beyond the retracted position by the latch spring,wherein the ram disengages the rod, thereby allowing the latch spring to move the rod into the initial position, and wherein the rod contacts the proximal end of the housing when moved from the retracted position to the initial position.

18. The injector of claim 17, wherein the flexible engagement member flexes radially around the protrusion when the rod is in the retracted position and the ram is moving to the fired position.

19. The injector of claim 18, wherein disengagement of the flexible engagement member and the protrusion allows the latch spring to move the rod from the retracted position to the initial position, and where contact of the proximal end of the rod and the proximal end of the housing generates an audible indication.

20. An injector comprising: a housing having a longitudinal axis extending between a proximal end and a distal end; a latch assembly disposed within the housing, the latch assembly including: a latch body extending along the longitudinal axis; and a clicker including a projection extending radially therefrom; a ram disposed within the housing and moveable relative to the latch between a pre-firing position and a fired position, the ram including one or more ridges extending radially therefrom; and an energy source configured to move the ram from the pre-firing position to the fired position, wherein the projection engages the one or more ridges to produce a dose status indication as the ram is moved from the pre-firing position to the fired position.

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