Syringe valve
Patent Information
- Authority / Receiving Office
- WO · WO
- Patent Type
- Applications
- Current Assignee / Owner
- Filing Date
- 2026-02-04
- Publication Date
- 2026-08-13
Smart Images
Figure GB2026050148_13082026_PF_FP_ABST
Abstract
Description
[0001] 11910 / 9487 / P / GBB
[0002] 1
[0003] Title - Syringe valve
[0004] The present invention relates to a valve for a syringe, and in particular for valves which allow sequential dispensing of fluids from a syringe.
[0005] Syringes incorporating valves, although not currently commercially available, are increasingly being investigated to sequentially administer two separate drugs in a single injection of a patient. For example, in treating diabetes and obesity, a glucose-like-peptide (GLP-1) is often administered in combination with either insulin or a muscle preserver. Sequential injection of liquid drugs is also particularly useful where co-formulation of a combination of drugs is not possible but there is a benefit in combining the drugs, e.g. a cell replication enzymeinhibitor and a monoclonal antibody for the treatment of a cancer. Additionally, where drugs are administered via a cannula, the cannula is often subsequently flushed using a saline solution, which can benefit from sequential administration.
[0006] Administering drugs using a single syringe incorporating a valve, rather than two separate syringes is beneficial in saving time, reducing the risk of contamination, and reducing the number of syringes used.
[0007] Due to these advantages, there exist in the prior art valves for sequential administration of fluids by a syringe. Such prior art valves are placed within the barrel of the syringe, forming front and rear chambers within the syringe. The contents of the front chamber are dispensed, and opening the valve subsequently releases the contents of the rear chamber.
[0008] For example, W02024042068 discloses a valve for a syringe comprising an annular part and a plug. A conduit of the annular part is blocked by the plug in a closed position of the valve. The valve opens when the annular part is restrained, either by the end of syringe or by a clamp narrowing the syringe, and fluid pressure continues to move the plug in the direction of the plunger being depressed.11910 / 9487 / P / GBB
[0009] 2
[0010] LIS20180093040 discloses a valve for a syringe, in which the valve comprises a valve piston and a stem. The valve piston comprises a through-hole, which is blocked by a bulbous section of the stem. The valve is opened by impact of the stem with a front surface of the syringe barrel displacing the bulbous section from the through hole and opening a pathway. The valve acts as a check valve, with another bulbous section of the stem preventing backwards fluid flow. When a fluid pressure on one side of the valve is greater than fluid pressure on another side, the valve is opened again, allowing fluid flow through the valve by a pumping action of the plunger rod of the syringe.
[0011] WO2021185810 discloses a valve stopper for a syringe, allowing sequential injection. In one embodiment, the stopper comprises a gasket, insert, and a holder. The holder and insert are arranged within the gasket, with the insert being moveable axially with respect to the holder and gasket. The valve is opened by the engagement of protrusions of the insert with the inner surface of the end of the syringe barrel. In a similar embodiment, the holder is omitted such that the valve only comprises a gasket and insert.
[0012] However, the valves of the prior art present a number of drawbacks. In particular, many prior art valves have complex designs which can have a significant number of parts and / or be difficult, and therefore expensive, to manufacture. Furthermore, many complex designs introduce multiple points of failure and may be difficult to repair in the event of failure.
[0013] The valves of the prior art also typically require a large force in order to open and allow sequential administration of fluids. A large force may be used to prevent failures and accidental openings, which are more likely to occur with a lower valve opening force. However, the need for such a large force can be undesirable for users, particularly for self-administration, and some may choose to use individual syringes as a result, foregoing the benefits of a single syringe.
[0014] It is an aim of the present invention to provide a valve which overcomes or mitigates at least one of the above problems.11910 / 9487 / P / GBB
[0015] 3
[0016] According to a first aspect of the invention there is provided a valve for use in a syringe, the valve comprising: a valve body having a conduit extending from a first side of the valve body to a second side of the valve body; and a valve pin located within the conduit, wherein the valve pin is moveable relative to the valve body between a first position in which the valve pin forms an interference fit with the conduit and in which fluid flow through the conduit is thereby prevented, and a second position which permits fluid flow through the conduit, and wherein, in use, the valve is configured to be retained within the barrel of a syringe, movement of the valve pin from the first position to the second position being caused by engagement of the valve pin with a surface of the syringe.
[0017] By forming an interference fit with the conduit, the valve pin may be able to reliably seal the valve with a minimised or no risk of an accidental opening of the valve. The interference fit may provide a sufficiently strong seal to prevent accidental opening or leaking of the valve, while not providing an excessive resistance to deliberate openings by a user. Additionally, by the valve pin engaging with a surface of the syringe to open the valve, the force required for deliberate opening of the valve may be further minimised and / or the valve may be openable by standard operation of the syringe.
[0018] The syringe may comprise a barrel and a plunger, the plunger being received within the barrel and slidably moveable within it. The syringe may comprise any suitable volume, e.g. for the administering of medication. For example, the syringe may comprise a volume of at least 0.2ml, 0.5ml, or 1 ml, and / or may comprise a volume of up to 3ml, 5ml, 10ml, 60ml, or 150ml. The syringe may typically comprise a volume of between 0.5ml and 10ml, or between 0.5ml and 5ml, or of about 1ml or about 2.25ml. The syringe may further comprise a nozzle, needle, or tip, from which medication is expelled. During use, force applied to the plunger causes it to slide within the barrel, forcing liquid contained within the barrel to exit the nozzle, needle, or tip.11910 / 9487 / P / GBB
[0019] 4
[0020] The barrel typically comprises a hollow volume. The barrel may have any suitable cross sectional shape, but may typically have a circular cross sectional shape. The barrel may extend between a first barrel end and a second barrel end. The nozzle, needle, or tip may be located at the first barrel end, and the second barrel end may comprise an opening for receiving the plunger. The barrel may further comprise an internal surface configured such that, in use, the valve pin engages with the internal surface, moving the valve position from the first position to the second position. The internal surface may comprise an end surface, e.g. located at the first barrel end. The end surface may comprise a surface, or a section of a surface, surrounding or partially surrounding the nozzle, needle, or tip. The surface of the syringe with which the valve pin engages in use may comprise the internal surface and / or end surface. The surface of the syringe may comprise a surface which is perpendicular or substantially perpendicular to an axis of the valve, valve body, valve pin, syringe, and / or syringe barrel.
[0021] The barrel is further configured to receive and retain the valve of the current invention, e.g. between the first and second barrel ends. In use, the valve may divide the barrel of the syringe such that there is a plurality of chambers within the barrel. The plurality of chambers may comprise a first chamber located between the first side of the valve body and the first barrel end, and a second chamber located between the second side of the valve body and the plunger and / or second barrel end. The first chamber may therefore comprise a front chamber, and the second chamber may comprise a rear chamber.
[0022] The plunger is slidably moveable along the barrel, e.g. from the second end to the first end and / or vice versa, and standard operation of the syringe may comprise depressing the plunger into the barrel to expel the contents of the syringe.
[0023] Depressing the plunger may move the plunger from the second end of the barrel towards the first end. Depressing the plunger in use may increase a pressure within the rear chamber, which may consequently apply a force to the front chamber via the valve to empty the front chamber via the nozzle, needle, or tip. Following the emptying of the front chamber, continued application of the force and / or continued depressing of the plunger may engage the valve pin with the11910 / 9487 / P / GBB
[0024] 5
[0025] surface of the syringe and subsequently move the valve pin from the first position to the second position. Further depressing of the plunger may then empty the rear chamber. Standard operation of the syringe may therefore sequentially empty the syringe by first emptying the front chamber and subsequently opening the valve before emptying the rear chamber. Additionally, standard operation of the syringe by a user may comprise only (i.e. consist of) depressing the plunger to empty the contents of all chambers and open the valve.
[0026] Movement of the valve within the syringe barrel may enable the engagement of the valve pin with the surface of the syringe. The valve body may therefore be moveable, e.g. slidable, within the barrel of the syringe. The force applied to the valve as the plunger is depressed into the barrel may therefore move the valve body and / or valve along the barrel, e.g. towards the first end.
[0027] The valve may be retrofitted to any existing syringe. The valve may therefore comprise a size and shape suitable to be received by the barrel of an existing syringe. The valve may be manufactured in a variety of sizes to accommodate retrofitting to a variety of existing syringe sizes. Alternatively, the valve may comprise a bespoke valve, such that the valve is intended to fit a specific syringe, or such that a syringe is designed to accommodate the valve.
[0028] The valve body comprises a body having a first side and a second side, with a conduit extending therebetween. Typically, the first side of the valve body form a first face, and the second side of the valve body forms a second face, the first face being located at one end of the body and the second face being located at an opposing end of the body. The first and second faces may be spaced apart and face away from each other along a longitudinal axis. The valve body may further comprise at least one sidewall, which extends between the first and second sides.
[0029] The valve body may comprise a shape and / or diameter which corresponds to an internal shape and / or diameter of the syringe barrel. At least a portion of the valve body may have a diameter corresponding to an internal diameter of the syringe barrel. The valve body may therefore be configured to form a close fit and / or fluid-11910 / 9487 / P / GBB
[0030] 6
[0031] tight seal with the internal wall of the syringe barrel, and as such may be configured to prevent fluid flow between the valve body and the syringe walls.
[0032] The sidewall of the valve body may comprise a plurality of annular ridges, or annular rings, about its circumference. The annular rings may be configured to ensure a close fit and / or fluid-tight seal with the syringe barrel. The plurality of ridges may additionally be configured to ensure a correct alignment of the valve to the syringe, e.g. to prevent the valve being inserted askew, which may break the fluid-tight seal. The valve body may thus comprise one or more annular rings, for example it may comprise two, or three, or four or more annular rings, at least one of the annular rings engaging with and forming a seal with an internal wall of the syringe, forming a fluid tight seal between the first and second chambers. Two, or more annular rings may engage with and form a seal with an internal wall of the syringe barrel, preventing twisting of the valve body within the syringe.
[0033] The valve body may be configured to elastically deform or flex in order to facilitate formation of the seal. The valve body may therefore comprise a flexible material, e.g. an elastomeric material. The elastomeric nature of the valve body may also assist in insertion and retention of the valve pin. The valve body may be manufactured via any suitable method known in the art, such as injection moulding.
[0034] The valve body comprises a conduit extending from a first side of the valve body to a second side of the valve body. The first side of the valve body may comprise a first face which, in use, faces the first end of the syringe. The second side of the valve body may comprise a second face which, in use, faces the second end of the syringe. The conduit extends through the valve body from the first side of the valve body to the second side of the valve body and is configured to receive the valve pin. The conduit may comprise a passage or channel through the valve body, configured to allow fluid flow therethrough. The conduit and / or at least a section of the conduit may be arranged such that it is concentric with the valve body.11910 / 9487 / P / GBB
[0035] 7
[0036] The conduit may comprise an internal diameter, which may be constant or variable along its length. At least a portion of the conduit may have a diameter which corresponds to a diameter of the valve pin and / or a section of the valve pin. The conduit may comprise a constant internal diameter along its length, the internal diameter corresponding to a diameter of at least a portion of the valve pin. The diameter of the conduit, e.g. the internal diameter, may have a dimension of or about 1 ,8mm. For example, the first conduit diameter may be 1.2-2.4mm, or preferably 1.6-2.0mm. The conduit may comprise a cross-sectional shape, which may be constant or variable along its length. At least a portion of the conduit may have a cross-sectional shape which corresponds to a cross-sectional shape of the valve pin and / or a section of the valve pin.
[0037] The conduit may have an internal diameter which varies along its length. In particular, the conduit may comprise a narrow section and a wide section. The narrow section may comprise first and second ends, having a length extending therebetween and which extends along a portion of the length of the conduit. The wide section may comprise first and second ends, having a length extending therebetween, and which extends along a second portion of the length of the conduit. The narrow section has a smaller internal diameter than the wide section. The narrow section may comprise a first conduit diameter, which may be constant along its length. The first conduit diameter may have a dimension of, or about, 1 ,8mm. For example, the first conduit diameter may be 1.2-2.4mm, or preferably 1.6-2.0mm. The narrow section may comprise a cross-sectional shape, such as a circular shape. The narrow section may therefore comprise a cylindrical shape. The internal diameter of the narrow section may correspond to a diameter of at least a portion of the valve pin. The valve pin may be configured such that it forms an interference fit with the internal walls of the narrow section.
[0038] The wide section comprises an internal diameter larger than the internal diameter of the narrow section. The internal diameter of the wide section may be constant along its length. The wide section may be located adjacent to the narrow section. The wide section may comprise a first end and a second end, the first end being located adjacent to the narrow section, and the second end being located at an11910 / 9487 / P / GBB
[0039] 8
[0040] end of the conduit, that is at a side of the valve body, and more preferably at the second side of the valve body. The wide section typically has an internal diameter such that it does not form an interference fit with the valve pin.
[0041] The conduit may further comprise a tapered section. The tapered section may be located adjacent to the narrow section. The tapered section may have a tapered or conical shape, such that its internal diameter increases along its length. The tapered section may be orientated such that its smallest internal diameter is located adjacent to the narrow section, while its largest internal diameter is located at a point distal to the narrow section. The largest internal diameter of the tapered section may be located at an end of the conduit, that is, at a side of the valve body, and more preferably at the first side of the valve body. The tapered section typically has an internal diameter such that it does not form an interference fit with the valve pin.
[0042] The conduit may comprise a tapered section, narrow section and wide section as previously described, the narrow section being located intermediate of the tapered and wide sections, and forming an interference fit with at least a portion of the valve pin when the valve pin is in the first position, and fluid flow through the conduit is prevented.
[0043] The valve pin is located within the conduit, and retained in the conduit by an interference fit. The valve pin may typically comprise an elongate member having a proximal end and a distal end. In use, the proximal end of the valve pin may be positioned at or adjacent to the second side of the valve body, the distal end being positioned at or adjacent to the first side of the valve body. The length of the valve pin may typically be equal to or longer than the length of the conduit. The length of the valve pin may be greater than the length of the conduit, such that at least a portion of the valve pin protrudes from the conduit. The valve pin may comprise a constant diameter, a constant cross-section, and / or a constant shape along its length. The valve pin diameter may have a dimension of, or about, 2mm. For example, the valve pin diameter may be 1.5-2.5mm, or preferably 1.8-2.2mm. Alternatively, the valve pin may comprise a change in its diameter, cross-section,11910 / 9487 / P / GBB
[0044] 9
[0045] and / or shape along its length, which may be a continuous or a distinct change. The valve pin may comprise a least two different diameters, cross-sections, and / or shapes along its length, such that a diameter, cross-section, and / or shape at a distance along the length is different from another diameter, cross-section, and / or shape at a different distance.
[0046] The valve pin may comprise any suitably rigid material, such as a metal or plastic material. Ideally, the material of the valve pin is more rigid than the material of the valve body. The valve pin may therefore not deform when inserted into the valve body. The valve pin may be manufactured using injection moulding, 3D-printing, machining, or any other suitable manufacturing technique.
[0047] The valve pin may comprise a sealing section and an open section. The sealing section may extend along a portion of the length of the valve pin. The valve pin may comprise a distal end and a proximal end, with the sealing section extending from the distal end to a point intermediate between the distal and proximal ends. For example, the sealing section may extend between 2-70%, 5-50%, 7-40%, 10-35%, or 15-30% of the length of the valve pin. The sealing section may be configured to form an interference fit with the conduit, which may comprise a friction fit and / or close fit, retaining the valve pin within the conduit. The sealing section may further be configured to prevent fluid flow through the conduit. Fluid flow may be prevented by a seal formed between the sealing section and the conduit, for example through close contact between the sealing section and the internal wall of the conduit, such as through the interference fit.
[0048] The sealing section may comprise a first diameter. The first diameter may have a dimension of or about 2mm. For example, the first diameter may be 1.5-2.5mm, or preferably 1.8-2.2mm. The first diameter may be constant along the length of the sealing section. The sealing section may comprise a first cross-sectional shape. The first cross-sectional shape may be constant along the length of the sealing section. The first cross-sectional shape may be any suitable shape which forms a close fit with the conduit. The first cross-sectional shape may comprise a shape corresponding to a cross-sectional shape of the conduit. For example, the first11910 / 9487 / P / GBB
[0049] 10
[0050] cross-sectional shape may be circular, with the sealing portion comprising a cylindrical shape. The diameter of the first cross-sectional shape may comprise the first diameter.
[0051] The sealing section may comprise a cylindrical shape of constant diameter, that is, the diameter of the sealing section may remain constant along its length. The sealing section having a constant diameter along its length may reduce or minimise the force required to move the valve pin from the first position to the second position. The constant diameter of the sealing section may mean that only the frictional force provided by the interference fit needs to be overcome to move the valve pin and thereby open and / or close the valve. The sealing section having a constant diameter and / or constant cross-section may be particularly advantageous in ensuring that no transition, increase, decrease, and / or discontinuity between diameters and / or cross-sections need to be overcome to open and / or close the valve. As such, the valve body, conduit and / or valve pin may not need to be deformed in order to open the valve. The sealing section having a constant diameter and / or cross-section may therefore enable deliberate opening of the valve while requiring less force than prior art valves.
[0052] The valve pin may further comprise an open section. The open section may extend along a portion of the length of the valve pin. The open section may extend from the proximal end of the valve pin to a point intermediate the proximal and distal ends. The open section may extend from the end of the valve pin which engages with the surface of the syringe to the intermediate point. The sealing section and open section may meet at the intermediate point, i.e. the sealing section may be connected to the open section. The open section may therefore extend along a portion of the length of the valve pin such that the sum of the length of the open section and the length of the sealing section is the total length of the valve pin. The open section may extend along a length of the valve pin being at least as long as the valve body (i.e. between the first and second sides), the conduit, and / or at least a section of the conduit. In particular, where present, the open section may extend along a length at least as long as the narrow section of the conduit.11910 / 9487 / P / GBB
[0053] 11
[0054] The open section may comprise a fluid flow formation, configured to allow the passage of fluid. In use, when in the valve pin is in the second position, the fluid flow formation may be brought into alignment with the conduit, or with the narrow section of the conduit, permitting the passage of fluid through the conduit. The open section may be configured to allow fluid flow through the conduit. The open section may be configured to allow fluid communication across opposing sides of the valve and / or conduit. The open section may therefore comprise a fluid flow formation configured to allow fluid to flow therethrough.
[0055] The open section may comprise a second cross-sectional shape of the valve pin, which may be different from the first cross-sectional shape. The second cross-sectional shape may comprise a second diameter, which may be the same as or different from the first diameter of the first cross-sectional shape. The second cross-sectional shape may additionally comprise a third diameter. The third diameter may be different from the first and / or second diameter(s), e.g. third diameter may be smaller than the first and / or second diameter(s). The second diameter may comprise an outer diameter of the second cross-sectional shape, e.g. such that the second diameter is a maximum diameter of the second cross-sectional shape. The third diameter may comprise an inner diameter, such that the third diameter is a minimum diameter of the second cross-sectional shape.
[0056] The second and / or third diameter(s) may be constant along a length of the open section. The second cross-sectional shape may be constant along the length of the open section. The second diameter may correspond to an internal diameter of the conduit, and may be the same as the first diameter.
[0057] The fluid flow formation comprises a structure which permits the passage of fluid. The fluid flow formation may comprise one or more channels, grooves, conduits, bores, flutes, helices, pores, or other formations within the elongate structure of the valve pin which permit the passage of fluid. The fluid flow formation may comprise at least one groove and / or flute, e.g. a plurality of grooves and / or flutes, through which fluid can flow. The grooves and / or flutes may comprise peaks11910 / 9487 / P / GBB
[0058] 12
[0059] and / or troughs arranged about the circumference of the open section, with peaks extending to the distance of the second diameter and troughs descending to the distance of the third diameter. The grooves and / or flutes may extend along the length of the open section. The fluid flow may comprise any suitable number of grooves and / or flutes, e.g. 3, 4, 5, or more grooves and / or flutes. The grooves and / or flutes may be angularly spaced, e.g. about the second and / or third diameters and / or about a longitudinal axis of the valve pin. The grooves and / or flutes may be regularly angularly spaced, e.g. where there are 4 flutes, there may be 90° between adjacent flutes. Thus, the open section may have a cross-sectional shape substantially in the form of a cross.
[0060] The valve of the invention is configured such that, when the valve is in the second position, the open section is brought into alignment with the conduit and the fluid flow formation allows fluid to pass through the conduit.
[0061] Where the second diameter of the open section is the same as the first diameter of the sealing section, the second diameter may be configured to form an interference, close, and / or friction fit with the conduit. Despite this close fit, the fluid flow formation permits the passage of fluid through the open section. The open section may therefore be configured to engage with the conduit and / or form such an interference, close, and / or friction fit, while still allowing fluid flow through the conduit.
[0062] The interference fit formed between the sealing section and the conduit and / or the friction fit formed between the open section and the conduit may provide a retaining force, such as a frictional force, to retain the valve pin in the conduit. The valve pin may therefore comprise a self-retaining valve pin.
[0063] Additionally or alternatively, the valve pin may be a captive valve pin due to the presence of one or more end formations preventing removal of the valve pin from the valve body.11910 / 9487 / P / GBB
[0064] 13
[0065] The valve pin may comprise an end formation located at at least one end of the valve pin, e.g. at the distal end and / or the proximal end . The at least one end formation may be configured to retain the valve pin in the valve body, and / or conduit, e.g. such that a relative movement of the valve pin thereto is limited or restricted, or to prevent the valve pin from being removed from the valve body. The at least one end formation may be configured to prevent the distal and / or proximal end of the valve pin from entering the conduit, thus preventing the valve pin from being removed from the valve body. The at least one end formation may comprise a shoulder or flange having a diameter which is larger than the diameter of the conduit.
[0066] When in the first, closed, position, the sealing section of the valve pin may be at least partially housed within the conduit, the sealing section forming an interference fit with an internal wall of the conduit and preventing fluid flow therethrough. Where present, the sealing section may be at least partially housed within the narrow section of the conduit. A portion of the open section may also be housed within the conduit when in the first position.
[0067] Typically, when in the second, open, position, the sealing section of the valve pin does not form an interference fit with the conduit, thus removing the seal and allowing fluid flow through the open section. The sealing section may be retained externally of the conduit or, where present, the sealing section may be housed within the wide or tapered section of the conduit. When in the second position, the open section may be housed within the conduit. The length of the conduit may be entirely occupied by at least a portion of the open section. Alternatively, where present, the length of the narrow section of the conduit may be entirely occupied by at least a portion of the open section. The fluid flow formation(s) in the open section thus allow fluid to flow through the conduit from a rear chamber of a syringe to a front chamber, to be expelled from the syringe. Fluid may be forced through the conduit by pressure within the syringe generated when force is applied to the plunger.
[0068] The end formation may be configured to engage with the surface of the syringe.11910 / 9487 / P / GBB
[0069] 14
[0070] An end formation at the end of the open section, i.e. located at the proximal end of the valve pin, may be configured to allow fluid flow therethrough. The end formation at the proximal end may therefore comprise any structure which permits the passage of fluid, which may be the same as or different from the structure of the fluid flow formation. For example, where the valve pin comprises an end formation at the proximal end, the fluid flow formation may extend along the length of the open section and the end formation at the proximal end. The end formation may therefore comprise one or more channels, conduits, flutes or grooves spaced about its circumference, to permit the flow of fluid. The channels, conduits, flutes or grooves of the end formation may align with the corresponding features of the open section, permitting fluid to flow therethrough.
[0071] The valve pin is located in the conduit in use. The conduit is therefore configured to receive the valve pin. Typically, when in the first, closed position, at least a portion of the valve pin protrudes from the first side of the valve body, that is, from the side of the valve body which, in use, faces the first barrel end. Where present, the conduit may be configured such that the narrow section of the conduit may receive at least a portion of the sealing section when in the first position, and receive the open section when in the second position. When in the second position, the sealing section may not be housed within the narrow section of the conduit. The length of the narrow section of the conduit may therefore be less than the length of the open section of the valve pin, to enable the passage of fluid when the valve pin is in the second position. Where the conduit is of constant diameter, the conduit may be configured to receive at least a portion of the sealing section when in the first position. The sealing section may not be housed within the conduit when in the second position.
[0072] When in the first (closed) position, an interference fit may be formed between at least a portion of the sealing section of the valve pin and at least a portion of the conduit. The internal diameter of the conduit may therefore correspond with the diameter of the sealing section of the valve pin, such that a close or interference fit is formed between the valve pin and the conduit. Typically, the first conduit11910 / 9487 / P / GBB
[0073] 15
[0074] diameter may be equal to or less than the diameter of the sealing section of the valve pin. Additionally, the cross-sectional shape of at least a portion of the conduit (e.g. the narrow section) and the sealing section of the valve pin may correspond, e.g. such that they are the same shape. At least a portion of the conduit and the sealing section may therefore comprise corresponding cross-sectional shapes, for example circular or ovular.
[0075] The conduit may comprise first and second end sections, configured to receive at least one end formation of the valve pin.
[0076] The first end section may be configured to receive an end formation of the valve pin located at the proximal end of the valve pin. The first end section may comprise a receiving formation, configured to receive an end formation of the valve pin, such that the end formation of the valve pin is wholly retained within the receiving formation. Typically, the end formation does not protrude from the receiving formation. The receiving formation may comprise a recess or, where present, may comprise a tapered section or wide section of the conduit. Typically, the receiving formation comprises the tapered section of the conduit, such that the end formation of the valve pin may be wholly retained within the tapered section. This allows, in use, for the valve body to abut the surface of the syringe facilitating complete or near complete dispensing of a fluid from the syringe.
[0077] A corresponding receiving formation may be located at the second end section of the conduit, to receive an end formation of the valve pin located at the distal end of the valve pin.
[0078] The valve pin may be configured such that an axial movement of the valve pin relative to the valve body moves the valve pin from its first, closed position, to its second, open position. Thus, the valve may be configured such that a relative movement of the valve pin to the valve body will open and / or close the valve.
[0079] In use, the valve body is retained in the barrel of a syringe, with the valve in the first, closed position. The valve divides the syringe into two chambers, a front11910 / 9487 / P / GBB
[0080] 16
[0081] chamber and a rear chamber, and both chambers may contain a fluid. When pressure is applied to the plunger, fluid is expelled from the front chamber and the valve is forced towards the first end of the syringe. When the valve reaches the first end of the syringe barrel, the protruding valve pin is brought into contact with an internal surface of the syringe. Continued force applied to the valve causes relative axial movement of the valve pin through the conduit, moving the valve pin from the first position to the second position, thereby opening the valve.
[0082] The valve pin may be configured such that at least one end, e.g. the proximal and / or distal end, of the valve pin may extend or protrude outside the valve body when the valve pin is in the first position. Typically, the proximal end of the valve pin extends or protrudes from the conduit when in the first position. Typically, the proximal end of the valve pin protrudes from the first side of the valve body, that is, from the side of the valve body which, in use, faces the first barrel end. The protrusion of the valve pin may be in the axial direction and the valve may be arranged such that the valve pin contacts and / or engages a surface of the syringe before the valve body. Engagement of the valve pin with the surface may therefore prevent further movement of the valve pin in the axial direction. Continued force applied to the valve may continue to move the valve body in the axial direction while the valve pin remains stationary, resulting in the relative axial movement. As such the movement of the valve pin from the first position to the second position may be the result of an absolute movement of the valve body and / or conduit.
[0083] The engagement of the valve pin with the surface of the syringe may therefore move the valve pin in an axial direction and / or along its length, relative to the valve body and / or conduit. The engagement of the valve pin with the surface of the syringe may displace the sealing section of the valve pin from the valve body, conduit, and / or a section of the conduit. The engagement of the valve pin with the surface of the syringe may align the open section of the valve pin with the valve body, conduit, and / or a section of the conduit.11910 / 9487 / P / GBB
[0084] 17
[0085] The engagement of the valve pin with the surface of the syringe may move the valve to the open condition, i.e. the opening of the valve may move the valve to the open condition from the closed condition.
[0086] When the valve is in the second position, such that fluid flow through the conduit is permitted, the valve pin may be entirely contained within the valve body.
[0087] Alternatively, a portion of the valve pin may protrude or extend from the valve body: typically, the distal end of the valve pin may protrude from the second side of the valve body. In this configuration, the open section of the valve pin may extend throughout the entire length of the conduit, or through at least a section of the conduit . The sealing section of the valve pin may not be contained within the conduit, or may only be retained within a portion of the conduit with which it does not form an interference fit.
[0088] When the valve is in the first position, such that fluid flow through the valve is prevented, typically at least an end formation and / or a portion of the length of the valve pin extends from the valve body and / or conduit. Typically, at least a portion of the open section of the valve pin extends from the valve body and / or conduit. The portion of the valve pin which extends from the valve body and / or conduit typically extends in a direction towards the nozzle of the syringe, i.e. towards the first barrel end. The length by which the valve pin extends may be greater than the length of the sealing section of the valve pin.
[0089] At least two, any, or all of the valve, valve body, conduit, valve pin, syringe, syringe barrel, syringe surface, nozzle, and / or plunger may be arranged in a concentric arrangement. At least two, any, or all of the valve, valve body, conduit, valve pin, syringe, syringe barrel, syringe surface, nozzle, and / or plunger may be axially aligned. At least two, any, or all of the valve, valve body, conduit, valve pin, syringe, syringe barrel, syringe surface, nozzle, and / or plunger may be coaxial, i.e. both concentric and axially aligned. For example, an axis, e.g. a longitudinal axis, of the valve may coincide with an axis of the syringe. The valve pin being received by the conduit may consequently be coaxial with the conduit. The conduit allowing fluid flow from the second chamber of the syringe to the first chamber may11910 / 9487 / P / GBB
[0090] 18
[0091] therefore be axially aligned with the syringe. In a preferred embodiment, the valve pin, conduit, valve body, nozzle, syringe barrel, and plunger are coaxial.
[0092] According to another aspect of the invention there is provided a syringe, the syringe having a barrel and a plunger, wherein a valve according to the first aspect of the invention is housed within the barrel.
[0093] The syringe may comprise a first chamber between the first end of the syringe barrel and the first side of the valve body.
[0094] The syringe may comprise a second chamber between the second side of the valve body and the second end of the syringe barrel.
[0095] The first chamber may contain a drug or other medicament. The drug or medicament may be in the form of a liquid, e.g. a liquid drug. Alternatively, the drug or medicament may be in the form of a solid to be dissolved, such as a freeze-dried lyophilised drug. Alternatively, the first chamber may be empty, i.e. may not contain a drug or medicament but may contain air or a sterile gas.
[0096] The second chamber may contain a drug or medicament, similar to the first chamber. Alternatively, the second chamber may contain a flushing medium, e.g. a flushing fluid such as saline solution.
[0097] The syringe may be supplied prefilled, or may be filled by the user prior to administration. The syringe may be supplied with a prefilled first chamber and / or a prefilled second chamber.
[0098] The syringe may be configured to dispense / administer (e.g. via the nozzle) the contents of the first chamber and second chamber sequentially. The syringe may be configured to dispense the contents of the first chamber before the contents of the second chamber. The syringe may be configured to open the valve after dispensing the contents of the first chamber and / or before dispensing the contents of the second chamber.11910 / 9487 / P / GBB
[0099] 19
[0100] The syringe may comprise one or more additional valves, such that syringe may comprise more than two chambers and / or such that the syringe may be configured to sequentially dispense more than two fluids. Where the syringe comprises one or more additional valve, the syringe may comprise first chamber between the first end of the syringe barrel and the first valve, and a second chamber between the first valve and a second valve. The first valve may open after emptying of the first chamber, e.g. as previously described. In emptying the second chamber, the second valve may move towards the first end and after emptying the second chamber, the valve pin of the second valve may engage with first valve, e.g. with an end of the first valve pin, thereby displacing the second valve pin and opening the second valve. A third chamber may then be emptied and any subsequent valves may be opened and any corresponding chambers emptied similarly.
[0101] The syringe may be configured such that the valve will open when a plunger of the syringe is depressed into the syringe barrel, e.g. as described in relation to the first aspect.
[0102] The syringe may be configured such that the valve will not open when the plunger is withdrawn from the syringe barrel. Withdrawing the plunger from the barrel may decrease the pressure in the rear chamber, applying a negative pressure force to the valve, i.e. the valve body and valve pin. The syringe and / or valve may therefore be configured such that in withdrawing the plunger, the valve may not move, or alternatively, if the valve does move, neither the valve body nor valve pin will engage a syringe surface to open the valve. Furthermore, the syringe and / or valve may be configured such that any difference in the negative pressure force experience by the valve body and valve pin is of insufficient strength to overcome a retaining force provided by the interference fit.
[0103] The syringe may comprise a plunger stop configured to limit the distance by which the plunger can be depressed into the syringe barrel, and the plunger stop may thereby prevent the opening of the valve unless the plunger stop is removed. The plunger stop may comprise an additional component configured to removably11910 / 9487 / P / GBB
[0104] 20
[0105] attach to the plunger and / or second end of the syringe. The plunger stop may, for example, be a clip configured to clip to the plunger, e.g. at a point along its length. The clip may therefore prevent the plunger from being depressed into the barrel further than the point of the clip. The plunger stop / clip may comprise an elongate form. The plunger stop may comprise a length longer than a length of the plunger exposed from the barrel when the valve pin engages the syringe surface. The plunger stop may comprise first and second ends separated by its length. The first end of the plunger stop may configured to abut the second end of the syringe. The second end of the plunger stop may be configured to abut a flange of the plunger. The plunger stop may be configured to abut a finger hold and / or a thumb hold of the syringe and / or plunger. The abutting of the plunger stop may prevent the plunger from being depressed further into the barrel.
[0106] Detailed Description
[0107] Example embodiments of the invention will now be described with reference to the drawings, of which:
[0108] Figure 1 shows an isometric view of a valve pin;
[0109] Figure 2 shows an isometric view of a valve body;
[0110] Figure 3 shows an exploded view of an arrangement of the valve;
[0111] Figure 4A shows an isometric view of a valve in a closed condition;
[0112] Figure 4B shows a cross-section view of a valve in a closed condition;
[0113] Figure 5A shows an isometric view of a valve in an open condition;
[0114] Figure 5B shows a cross-section view of a valve in an open condition;
[0115] Figures 6A-6C show a valve in use in a pre-filled syringe;
[0116] Figures 7A-7C show a valve in use in a syringe with an unfilled chamber;
[0117] Figures 8A-8C show a valve in use in a syringe containing a drug in a solid form; and
[0118] Figure 9 shows an isometric view of another valve pin.
[0119] The invention provides a valve comprising a valve pin 1 and a valve body 2, for use in a syringe. The valve pin 1 comprises a rigid material, such as a plastic, and can be manufactured via any suitable means, e.g. injection moulding or in some11910 / 9487 / P / GBB
[0120] 21
[0121] cases 3D printing. The valve pin 1 is shown in Figure 1 and comprises an elongate body having a first end formation 1a, comprising an engagement face 3 configured to engage and / or interact with a surface of a chamber or syringe, e.g. an inner and / or end surface of a syringe. The first end formation 1a also comprises a plurality of protrusions 5 extending in a radial direction from the elongate body, and angularly spaced about its longitudinal axis A (see Figure 3). The elongate body has an inner diameter, which is concentric to the central axis A, and the first end formation 1 a has an outer diameter which is larger than the inner diameter. Each protrusion 5 extends a length from the inner diameter, , to the outer diameter of the first end formation 1a. In the embodiment shown in Figure 1, the engagement face 3 is located at an end of the valve pin 1 , i.e. comprises an end surface thereof, and comprises a face of each protrusion 5.
[0122] As shown in Figure 9, in some embodiments, the first end formation 1a comprises an annular ring 6 connecting the protrusions 5 at and / or near the outer diameter of the first end formation 1a, and the engagement face 3 comprises a face of the annular ring 6. The first end formation 1a of this example also comprises a recess or hollow 7 located centrally of the first end formation 1a, i.e. along and / or concentric to the longitudinal axis A, such that a length of the valve pin excluding the first end formation 1a along the axis A does not extend beyond a plane of the engagement face 3.
[0123] The elongate body of the valve pin 1 comprises an open section 1 b and a sealing section 1c. The open section 1b is configured to allow fluid flow through the valve, when the valve and / or valve pin 1 is in an open condition. The open section 1b comprises a cylindrical body having four cut-out sections equally spaced about its circumference, such that it forms a cross shape in cross-section. The cross shape comprises four arms corresponding to the four cut-outs. Each arm extends from a respective protrusion 5 of the first end formation 1a along the axis A, forming a plurality of flutes 9 angularly spaced about the cylindrical body and / or the axis A, with each of the four cut-out sections forming a groove in the open section 1 b between adjacent flutes 9 along its length. The flutes 9 comprise a narrowing from11910 / 9487 / P / GBB
[0124] 22
[0125] the first end formation 1a, such that an outer diameter of the cylindrical body is less than the outer diameter of the first end formation 1a.
[0126] In the embodiment shown in Figure 1 , the first end formation 1 a and open section 1 b are formed such that the grooves of the flutes 9 form the space between the protrusions 5 of the first end formation 1a. As such, the valve pin 1 comprises an equal number of protrusions 5 and flutes 9, and the angular spacing of the protrusions 5 and of the flutes 9 is the same, e.g. the protrusions 5 are angularly spaced by 90° and the flutes 9 are also angularly spaced by 90°. However, the skilled person will appreciate that other forms of the first end formation 1a and the open section 1a are possible, e.g. having more or less flutes 9 and / or protrusions 5, and / or having an unequal number of flutes 9 and protrusions 5.
[0127] The valve pin 1 comprises a sealing section 1c configured to prevent fluid flow through the valve, when the valve is in a closed condition. The sealing section 1c is configured to form an interference fit with a receiving section of the valve body 2. The sealing section 1c extends a length from the open section 1b and comprises a cylindrical section, i.e. having a constant outer diameter along its length which, in the example of Figure 1 , is the same as the outer diameter of the open section 1b, although the skilled person will appreciate that this need not be the case for all embodiments of the valve pin 1. The outer diameter of the sealing section 1c is less than the outer diameter of the first end section 1a. The skilled person will also appreciate that in some embodiments, the sealing section 1c may comprise a section other than a cylindrical section, e.g. cuboidal, prism, and / or any other shape having a constant outer shape and / or diameter along its length. In any embodiment, the shape of the sealing section 1c is determined by the shape of the corresponding conduit 12 which will receive the valve pin 1. Specifically, in order to seal the valve by the formation of an interference fit, the sealing section 1c must have the same cross-sectional shape as the conduit 12 and / or a narrowest point of the conduit 12. Additionally, the sealing section 1c must have a size, i.e. diameter, equal to or slightly larger than that of the conduit 12 in order to form the interference fit.11910 / 9487 / P / GBB
[0128] 23
[0129] The valve pin 1 also comprises a second end formation 1d at a second end. The second end formation 1d comprises an outer diameter which is larger than the outer diameter of the open section 1 b and / or the sealing section 1 c, and in the example of Figure 1 , is equal to the outer diameter of the first end section 1 a. The second end formation 1d and / or first end formation 1a is therefore configured to retain the valve pin 1 , e.g. captive within the valve body 2 and / or within a receiving section of the valve body 2, and / or prevent the valve pin 1 from being removed from the valve body 2. The second end formation 1d comprises a chamfered or radiused shape at the second end of the valve pin 1.
[0130] The valve body 2 comprises an elastomeric material and is configured to elastically deform. The valve body 2 is configured to be inserted into a chamber and / or syringe and comprises an outer shape and diameter corresponding to an internal shape and diameter of the chamber and / or syringe. In the embodiment shown in the figures, the valve body 2 comprises a generally cylindrical outer shape having three annular ridges 11a, 11b, 11c about its circumference, with the diameter of the ridges 11a-11c configured to correspond to the diameter of the chamber and / or syringe in which the valve will be inserted. The third annular ridge 11c is located towards an end of the valve body 2 and has a greater length (i.e. dimension parallel to the axis A) than the first and second annular ridges 11a, 11b. The valve body 2 is configured to fit within the chamber and / or syringe via a close and / or friction fit, such that the valve body 2 is configured to prevent fluid flow between its outer shape and inner walls of the chamber and / or syringe.
[0131] The valve body 2 comprises a conduit 12, configured to allow fluid flow through the valve. The conduit 12 is also configured to receive the valve pin 1 via an interference fit. The conduit 12 therefore comprises a narrow section 12a, as best shown in the cross-sections of Figures 4B and 5B, which has a cylindrical shape corresponding to the cylindrical shape of the sealing section 1c of the valve pin 1 , and extending a length shorter than the length of the open section 1 b of the valve pin 1. The diameter of the narrow section 12a is equal to or slightly smaller than the diameter of the sealing section 1 c of the valve pin 1 and is therefore configured to form an interference fit with the sealing section 1c. The conduit 12 also11910 / 9487 / P / GBB
[0132] 24
[0133] comprises a chamfer or tapered section 12b at one end connected to the narrow section 12a, configured to receive an end section of the valve pin 1 and to facilitate easy assembly of the valve by allowing easier insertion of the valve pin 1 into the valve body 2. The conduit 12 comprises a wide section 12c at another end, comprising a diameter larger than the outer diameter of the first 1a and / or second 1d end section of the valve pin 1, and connected to the narrow section 12a via a step and a surface 12d which is perpendicular to a direction of fluid flow through the conduit 12 and / or to the axis A.
[0134] The arrangement of the valve, i.e. the valve pin 1 and the valve body 2, is shown in Figures 3-5B. The valve is arranged with the valve pin 1 positioned in the conduit 12 of the valve body 2, held in place by an interference fit between the narrow section 12a of the conduit 12 and the sealing section 1c of the valve pin 1 , and / or by the first 1a and second 1c end formations. The valve pin 1 and valve body 2 are arranged such that the valve pin 1 is concentric with the conduit 12 and / or valve body 2, e.g. as shown in the figures each is concentric with the other and / or with the axis A. The valve pin 1 is arranged such that the first end section 1a is at the end of the conduit 12 at which the tapered section 12b is located, and the second end section 1d is located in the wide section 12c. The narrow section 12a of the conduit 12 having the same or smaller diameter as the sealing section 1 c of the valve pin 1 is therefore of a smaller diameter than the outer diameters of the first and second end sections 1a, 1d of the valve pin 1. Consequently, the first 1a and second 1d end sections of the valve pin 1 arranged at respective ends of the narrow section 12a of the conduit 12 retain the valve pin 1 in the valve body 2.
[0135] The skilled person will appreciate, however, that the first and second end sections 1a, 1d of the valve pin 1 are not necessary for the valve to function and in some embodiments may therefore be omitted. For example, in a simplified embodiment, the valve comprises a valve pin 1 comprising only the open section 1b and the sealing section 1c, and a valve body 2 comprising a conduit 12 formed of only the narrow section 12a. Such a simplified valve would still allow the movement of the valve pin 1 in the conduit 12 to open and close the valve.11910 / 9487 / P / GBB
[0136] 25
[0137] The valve pin 1 and valve body 2 are formed separately in manufacturing the valve, by any appropriate means e.g. injection moulding, and then assembled to form the valve. In assembling the valve, the pin 1 is inserted into the valve body 2 by aligning the second end section 1d of the valve pin 1 with the tapered section 12b of the valve body 12 and subsequently applying a force to the valve pin 1 at the first end section 1 a in an axial direction along the length of the pin 1 , i.e. along the longitudinal axis A. The valve body 2 elastically deforms around the second end section 1d such that the diameter of the narrow section 12a of the conduit 12 is temporarily increased, allowing the second end section 12a to pass therethrough. When the second end section 1d exits the narrow section 12a of the conduit 12, the valve body 2 returns to its non-deformed shape and the interference fit between the valve pin 1 and the conduit 12 is formed. The valve is then ready for subsequent insertion into a chamber and / or syringe for use.
[0138] Figures 4A and 4B show the valve in a closed condition, with the valve pin 1 in a first position where the sealing section 1c of the valve pin 1 forms an interference fit with the narrow section 12a of the conduit 12. In the example shown Figure 4B, the second end formation 1d also abuts the surface 12d. The interference fit formed in the closed condition is at least a liquid-tight fit, and therefore the valve is configured to prevent fluid flow when in the closed condition. In the closed condition, the first end section 1a of the pin 1 extends outside the valve body 2, such that a total length of the valve comprises the length of the valve body 2 plus the exposed / extended length of the valve pin 1.
[0139] Figures 5A and 5B show the valve in an open condition, with the valve pin in a second position where the open section 1 b of the valve pin 1 is aligned with the narrow section 12a of the conduit. In the open condition, the flutes 9 of the open section 1 b of the valve pin 1 form channels within the narrow section 12a of the conduit 12, such that the tapered section 12b and the wide section 12c are in fluid communication and allowing fluid flow through the narrow section 12a. Therefore, the valve is configured to allow fluid flow through the conduit 12 when in the open condition. In the example open condition shown, the valve pin 1 is contained entirely within the valve body 2 such that the total length of the valve is the length11910 / 9487 / P / GBB
[0140] 26
[0141] of the valve body 2, i.e. there is no extension of the valve pin 1 outside the valve body 2.
[0142] An example of the valve in use in a syringe is shown in Figures 6A-6C. The syringe comprises a syringe barrel 14, in which the valve is inserted. The valve is inserted in the syringe in the closed condition, oriented with the first end section 1a of the valve pin 1 and the tapered section 12b of the valve body 2 towards a nozzle 13 end of the syringe and the second end section 1d of the valve pin 1 and the wide section 12c of the valve body 2 towards a plunger 17 end of the syringe.
[0143] The syringe comprises a first chamber 15, formed between the nozzle 13 end of the syringe and a first side of the valve located within the syringe. Additionally, the syringe comprises a second chamber 16, at a second side of the valve, between the valve and a plunger 17 of the syringe.
[0144] In this example, the syringe is pre-filled, with the first 15 and second 16 chambers containing first 15a and second 16a fluids, respectively. Typically, the first fluid 15a will be a liquid drug to be administered to a patient and the second fluid 16a will be a flushing medium such as saline solution, but in some embodiments is a second liquid drug. Liquid drugs are commonly administered in amounts ranging between 0.5ml and 3ml, and the syringes used will therefore be appropriately sized for the liquid drug dose, e.g. having a volume of less than 10ml, less than 6ml, and / or between 1ml and 5ml. However, larger and smaller volume syringes are also envisaged, e.g. for administering larger and smaller doses of liquid drug, for non-pre-filled syringes, and / or for different use cases. For example, the syringe may have a volume of less than 0.2ml, between 0.2ml and 60ml, or greater than 60ml. Consequently, the valve, i.e. the valve pin 1 and / or valve body 2, will be differently sized for different sizes / dimensions of the syringe.
[0145] Figure 6A shows the pre-filled syringe before use, with a nozzle cap 13a fitted to prevent leaking of the fluids 15a, 16a from the syringe. Before use, the nozzle cap 13a is removed and any suitable nozzle device, e.g. a cannula or needle, can be attached to the nozzle 13. The nozzle 13 will typically comprise any suitable11910 / 9487 / P / GBB
[0146] 27
[0147] connection or fitting, as may be known to the skilled person, for fitting the nozzle cap 13a and / or nozzle device, e.g. a Luer lock fitting. Alternatively, the nozzle 13 may comprise a fixed nozzle device.
[0148] Subsequently, in use, liquid is ejected from the syringe by the application of a force to the end of the plunger 17, in an axial direction towards the nozzle 13, as shown in Figure 6B. Such a force causes an increase in fluid pressure in the second fluid 16a, which in turn applies a fluid pressure force to the valve. The fluid pressure force applied to the valve causes the valve to move towards the nozzle 13 end of the syringe, thereby reducing the size of the first chamber 15 and transferring the applied force into the first liquid 15a which subsequently exits the syringe via the nozzle 13.
[0149] The fluid pressure force in the embodiment shown is applied to both the valve body 2 and the valve pin 1 , and as such, the fluid pressure force does not displace the valve from the closed condition. In particular, any difference in the fluid pressure forces applied to the valve pin and valve body is insufficient to overcome the retaining force provided by the interference fit and / or at least one of the end formations 1a, 1d.
[0150] Continued application of the force causes the valve to reach the end of the syringe barrel 14, shown in Figure 6C, at which point the first end formation 1a interacts with an internal face of the nozzle 13 end of the syringe barrel 14, preventing further movement of the valve pin 1. In the example shown, the valve pin 1 is concentric with an internal diameter of the nozzle 13 and therefore, the first end formation 1a of the valve pin 1 is configured such that an opening of the nozzle 13 internal of the syringe is not blocked by its engagement with the internal face of the syringe. In particular, the outer diameter of the first end formation 1a is larger than the diameter of the nozzle 13 opening and the inner diameter of the first end formation 1a is less than the diameter of the nozzle 13 opening. As such, the protrusions 5 bridge across the nozzle 13 opening, allowing the nozzle 13 to be in fluid communication with the valve and / or syringe via the grooves formed by the flutes 9.11910 / 9487 / P / GBB
[0151] 28
[0152] As the valve pin 1 extends from the valve body 2, after interaction of the valve pin 1 with the internal surface of the syringe, and with continued application of the force the valve body 2 continues to move, resulting in a relative movement of the valve pin 1 to the valve body 2. Consequently, the valve is displaced from the closed condition to the open condition by movement of the valve pin 1 from the first position to the second position, allowing fluid communication between the second chamber 16 and the first chamber 15. The second fluid 16a then flows through the valve via the conduit 12 and out of the syringe via the nozzle 13.
[0153] In the open condition, the first end formation 1a of the valve pin 1 is received by the tapered section 12b of the conduit 12, allowing the valve body 2 to move to reach the nozzle 13 end of the syringe, thereby reducing / minimising the amount of fluid left in the syringe.
[0154] Another example of a syringe in which the valve is used is shown in Figures 7A-7C. In this example, the first chamber 15 does not contain a liquid, i.e. is filled with air or a gas, and the second chamber 16 contains a liquid 18 such as a flushing liquid, e.g. 0.9% saline solution. This arrangement in a syringe allows for a desired liquid drug to be drawn into the first chamber 15 when needed. The valve is provided in the closed condition to prevent the fluid 18 in the second chamber 16 entering the first chamber 15. In addition, the syringe comprises a plunger stop 19 affixed to the plunger 17 to prevent accidental opening of the valve, e.g. when the syringe is in storage and / or when drawing a liquid into the syringe.
[0155] In storage, the syringe is positioned such that the valve is a distance away from the nozzle 13, i.e. such that the plunger stop 19 is not engaged, as shown in Figure 7A. Such a positioning allows the frictional force between the valve body 2 and syringe barrel 14 to be more easily overcome when using the syringe following storing, particularly where the frictional force is higher, e.g. due to partial adherence of any syringe components.11910 / 9487 / P / GBB
[0156] 29
[0157] The plunger stop 19 is removably attached to the plunger 17 and is configured to allow movement of the plunger 17 up to the point just before the valve pin 1 would interact with the internal surface of the syringe and open the valve. As such, the plunger stop 19 is of a length slightly longer than an exposed length of the plunger 17 at the point where the valve pin 1 engages the internal surface of the syringe.
[0158] In using the syringe in this example, the nozzle cap 13a is removed and the plunger 17 depressed to the point where the plunger stop 19 prevents further movement. The nozzle 13 can then be placed in a liquid, such as a liquid drug 20, and the plunger 17 withdrawn to draw the liquid 20 into the first chamber 15.
[0159] Withdrawing the plunger 17 reduces the fluid pressure in the fluid 18 which applies a withdrawing force to the valve, moving the valve away from the nozzle 13 end of the syringe. The pressure in the first chamber 15 is subsequently reduced, thereby drawing in the liquid 20. In withdrawing the plunger 17, the withdrawing force applied to the valve is applied to at least one of the valve body 2 and / or the valve pin 1 , with any difference in the forces applied to the valve body 2 and valve pin 1 being insufficient to overcome a retaining force provided by the interference fit. Consequently, the valve remains in the closed condition during the withdrawing of the plunger 17.
[0160] Once a desired amount of the liquid 20 is drawn into the first chamber 15, withdrawing of the plunger 17 is stopped and the plunger stop 19 is removed. The syringe is then ready for use to administer the liquid drug 20 and flushing liquid 18, in a similar manner as described in relation to the example of Figures 6A-6C.
[0161] A further example of a syringe in which the valve can be used is shown in Figures 8A-8C. In this example, the second chamber 16 is filled with a flushing liquid 18, much like in the example of Figures 7A-7C. However, the first chamber 15 contains a drug 22 in a solid form, such as a freeze-dried lyophilised drug. As in the Figure 7A-7C example, liquid is drawn into the first chamber 15 by operating the syringe. The liquid in this example is a diluent 23, rather than the liquid drug 20. The solid drug 22 is subsequently dissolved by the diluent 23 in the syringe,11910 / 9487 / P / GBB
[0162] 30
[0163] ready for administration following the steps described in relation to the example of Figures 6A-6C.
Claims
11910 / 9487 / P / GBB31Claims1. A valve for use in a syringe, the valve comprising:a valve body having a conduit extending from a first side of the valve body to a second side of the valve body; anda valve pin located within the conduit, wherein the valve pin is moveable relative to the valve body between a first position in which the valve pin forms an interference fit with the conduit and in which fluid flow through the conduit is prevented, and a second position which permits fluid flow through the conduit, and wherein, in use, the valve is configured to be retained within the barrel of a syringe, movement of the valve pin from the first position to the second position being caused by engagement of the valve pin with a surface of the syringe.
2. A valve according to Claim 1 , wherein the interference fit between the sealing section and the conduit forms a seal which prevents the passage of fluid.
3. A valve according to Claim or Claim 2, wherein the valve pin comprises an elongate body having a sealing section, the sealing section being configured to form an interference fit with at least a portion of the conduit.
4. A valve according to Claim 3, wherein the cross-sectional shape of the sealing section corresponds to the cross-sectional shape of at least a portion of the conduit.
5. A valve according to Claim 3 or Claim 4, wherein the diameter of the sealing section corresponds to the diameter of at least a portion of the conduit.
6. A valve according to any of Claims 3 to 5, wherein the sealing section comprises a constant diameter along the length of the sealing section.
7. A valve according to any of Claims 3 to 6, wherein the sealing section iscylindrical.11910 / 9487 / P / GBB328. A valve according to any of Claims 3 to 7 wherein the valve pin further comprises an open section, the open section comprising at least one fluid flow formation.
9. A valve according to Claim 8, wherein the valve pin comprises a distal end and a proximal end, the open section extending from the proximal end to a point intermediate the distal and proximal ends.
10. A valve according to Claim 8 or 9, wherein the fluid flow formation comprises one or more channels, grooves, conduits, bores, flutes, helices, pores, or other formation which permits the passage of fluid.
11. A valve according to any of Claims 8 to 10, wherein the length of the open section is at least as long as the conduit.
12. A valve according to any of Claims 8 to 11 , wherein the open section forms an interference fit with at least a portion of the conduit, and being configured such that fluid is permitted to pass through the fluid flow formation.13 A valve according to any of Claims 8 to 11 wherein, when the valve pin is in the first position, at least a portion of the open section of the valve pin extends outside the conduit.
14. A valve according to any of Claims 3 to 12, when the valve pin is in the second position, the sealing section does not form an interference fit with the conduit.
15. A valve according to any of Claims 3 to 13, wherein the conduit comprises a narrow section and a wide section, the narrow section comprising a first length of the conduit and the wide section comprising a second length of the conduit, the narrow section having an internal diameter which is less than the internal diameter of the wide section, and being configured such that, when the valve is in the first position, an interference fit is formed between the sealing section of the valve pin and the narrow section.11910 / 9487 / P / GBB3316. A valve according to Claim 14, wherein the valve pin comprises an open section configured to permit fluid flow, the open section being at least as long as the narrow section of the conduit and being configured such that, in the second position, at least a portion of the open section of the valve pin is located in the narrow section of the conduit.
17. A valve according to any preceding claim, wherein the valve pin comprises one or more end formations configured to prevent removal of the valve pin from the valve body.
18. A valve according to any preceding claim, wherein, in use, relative axial movement of the valve pin relative to the valve body causes the valve to move from the first position to the second position.
19. A syringe, the syringe having a barrel and a plunger, wherein a valve according to any preceding claim is housed within the barrel.
20. A syringe according to claim 19, wherein the syringe comprises a first chamber between a first end of the barrel and a first side of the valve, and a second chamber between a second end of the barrel and a second side of the valve.
21. A syringe according to claim 19 or 20, wherein the first chamber and / or the second chamber is prefilled.