Anti-Rotation Needle Hub for Stable On-Skin Sensor Insertion
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional methods for applying transcutaneous analyte sensors, such as those used by diabetics to monitor glucose levels, are uncomfortable and inconvenient, leading to infrequent measurements that can result in delayed detection of hyperglycemic or hypoglycemic conditions.
Innovation Solution
An applicator system with a needle carrier assembly, drive assembly, and various spring mechanisms to facilitate the controlled insertion and retraction of on-skin sensor assemblies, ensuring secure attachment and efficient data transmission.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If conventional finger pricking methods are used for glucose monitoring, then the measurement process is simple, but the comfort and convenience are poor leading to infrequent measurements
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces the mechanical finger pricking system with a transcutaneous sensor system that uses a flexible printed circuit board and adhesive mounting. This substitution eliminates the painful mechanical puncture while maintaining measurement capability, thereby improving comfort and enabling more frequent measurements.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent changes the measurement interface from invasive (needle-based finger pricking) to non-invasive (transcutaneous sensor). This parameter change in the measurement approach fundamentally improves user comfort while allowing continuous or frequent monitoring without the discomfort that limited measurement frequency in conventional methods.
2Measurement precision
If transcutaneous sensor assembly is used for continuous monitoring, then measurement frequency and accuracy are improved, but the application process complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent divides the sensor system into separable components: a sensor assembly that can be pre-assembled and tested, and an applicator device that handles the insertion and deployment. This segmentation simplifies the application process by allowing the complex sensor to be prepared in advance and applied as a unit, reducing the complexity burden on the user during application.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements preliminary assembly and testing of the sensor components before application. The flexible printed circuit board, sensor elements, and adhesive backing are pre-integrated and verified, so that during application, the user only needs to perform the simple act of placing and activating the pre-assembled unit, thereby reducing application complexity.
3Reliability
If the sensor assembly is securely attached to the skin, then measurement reliability is improved, but the ease of removal and replacement decreases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent extracts the sensor from a permanent or difficult-to-remove mounting system and implements it with a removable adhesive-backed design. The sensor assembly can be detached and replaced by simply peeling off the adhesive backing, providing easy removal while maintaining secure attachment during use through the adhesive bond.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements a dynamic attachment system using adhesive that provides strong bonding during wear for reliable measurements, but allows easy removal when needed. The adhesive creates a reversible connection that is secure during the monitoring period but can be cleanly removed and reapplied for replacement, balancing reliability with ease of operation.
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
The applicator system provides a user-friendly and efficient method for applying transcutaneous analyte sensors, enabling more frequent and accurate glucose level monitoring, reducing the risk of dangerous conditions.
Implementation Method 1
a first spring configured to exert a force between a holder and a deployment sleeve
Implementation Method 2
a second spring configured to exert a force between a holder and a deployment sleeve
Implementation Method 3
a second body releasably coupled to the first body by a frictional engagement
Data Source
Figure 1
Figure 2A~2B
Figure 3A~4
AI summary
The present embodiments relate generally to applicators of on-skin sensor assemblies for measuring an analyte in a host, as well as their method of use and manufacture. In some aspects, an applicator for applying an on-skin sensor assembly to a skin of a host is provided. The applicator includes an applicator housing, a needle carrier assembly comprising an insertion element configured to insert a sensor of the on-skin sensor assembly into the skin of the host, a holder releasably coupled to the needle carrier assembly and configured to guide the on-skin sensor assembly while coupled to the needle carrier assembly, and a drive assembly configured to drive the insertion element from a proximal starting position to a distal insertion position, and from the distal insertion position to a proximal retraction position.