Adhesive Module Attachment for Multi-Device Drug Delivery Pens

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing electronic add-on modules for drug delivery devices are typically tailored to fit specific devices, requiring different modules for different devices due to varying dimensions and working principles, especially regarding dose dial and injection user interfaces, and lack suitable features for attaching to the dose button.

Innovation Solution

An attachment mechanism using a pressure-sensitive adhesive tape with distinct adhesion forces on both sides and optional deformable substrate layers, allowing the module to be releasably attached to the dose button of various drug delivery devices, ensuring compatibility across different models.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Reliability

If electronic add-on modules are tailored to fit specific drug delivery devices, then compatibility with each device is ensured, but versatility across different device models is reduced

Engineering Contradiction:

ImprovecompatibilityVSAvoidversatility

Core Design Contradiction:

ReliabilityVSAdaptability or versatility

Solution Approach 1:

The attachment mechanism is designed with a universal interface that can accommodate multiple drug delivery device models. The adhesive attachment member can be configured in different geometries to match various device surfaces, allowing a single module design to work across different device platforms without requiring model-specific customization.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

Solution Approach 2:

The attachment mechanism allows for parameter changes in the adhesive attachment member, such as its geometry, size, and adhesive properties, to adapt to different device surfaces. This enables the same basic module design to be attached to various device models by simply adjusting the attachment member parameters rather than redesigning the entire module.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #35Parameter changes

2Reliability

If the module is attached to the dose dial grip, then attachment is achieved, but the device diameter increases and user hand clearance is reduced

Engineering Contradiction:

ImproveattachmentVSAvoiduser hand clearance

Core Design Contradiction:

ReliabilityVSEase of operation

Solution Approach 1:

The attachment mechanism is segmented into a separate adhesive attachment member that can be independently positioned on the device surface. This allows the module to be attached to the dose button area rather than the dose dial grip, distributing the attachment function to a different location that does not interfere with user hand clearance during operation.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #1Segmentation

3Ease of operation

If the module is attached to the dose button, then user hand clearance is maintained, but mechanical attachment features are insufficient

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveuser hand clearanceVSAvoidattachment mechanism

Core Design Contradiction:

Ease of operationVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The attachment mechanism replaces traditional mechanical attachment features (such as threads, clips, or snap-fits) with an adhesive-based system. The adhesive attachment member provides secure attachment to the dose button surface without requiring complex mechanical interlocking features, simplifying the overall attachment mechanism while maintaining ease of operation.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #28Mechanics substitution (Replace mechanical system)

4Adaptability or versatility

If a reusable module is designed to work with multiple devices, then versatility is improved, but manufacturing complexity increases

Engineering Contradiction:

ImprovereusabilityVSAvoidmanufacturing complexity

Core Design Contradiction:

Adaptability or versatilityVSEase of manufacture

Solution Approach 1:

The module design separates the universal module body from the device-specific adhesive attachment member. The main module components remain standardized and simple to manufacture, while only the attachment member requires customization for different device surfaces. This local quality approach allows the majority of the module to be manufactured using standard processes, minimizing overall manufacturing complexity.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #3Local quality

Applied Scientific Principles

This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.

Function Achieved in This Case

Enables a reusable electronic add-on module to be easily attached and detached from multiple drug delivery devices, maintaining a compact form factor and facilitating data recording and communication without obstructing user operation.

Implementation Method 1

Attachment of a module or the like to a drug delivery device or the like may be effected by means of the distal end surface being an adhesive surface and the proximal end surface being an adhesive surface

Methodology Applied

Scientific EffectAdhesive: Adhesive

Data Source

PatentEP4623956B1Attachment mechanism, module and assembly herewith

Publication Date: 2026.05.13 SANOFI SA(FR)

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AI summary

The present disclosure is generally directed to an attachment mechanism suitable for attaching for example a module (100) to an object, e.g. to a portion (11) of a drug delivery device (1). Further, the disclosure is directed to an electronic system, e.g. an electronic add-on module (100), which is configured to be, e.g. releasably, attached to a drug delivery device (1) as well as an assembly comprising the electronic add-on module as well as the drug delivery device. The attachment mechanism may comprise at least one attachment member (102) with a longitudinal axis (X), an adhesive distal end surface (103) and an opposite adhesive proximal end surface (104).