Assembly Key for Drug Delivery System Telescoping Stability
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Solution Overview
Problem
Drug delivery systems, such as patch injectors, face issues with telescoping assemblies extending unintentionally during transport due to vibrations, leading to difficulties in assembly and potential user perception of malfunction, which can impact market acceptance and patient adherence.
Innovation Solution
An assembly key with a locking bit and clip system is used to secure the telescoping assembly during transport by interlocking with the cartridge gear and pushing nut screw, preventing unintended rotation and extension, and is removable for normal operation.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If telescoping assembly components are left unsecured during transport, then the device structure remains simple and easy to assemble, but vibrations cause unintended extension and assembly difficulties
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces an assembly key as an intermediary component that temporarily secures the telescoping assembly during transport and assembly. The assembly key includes a locking bit that interfaces with key slots in the cartridge gear and pushing nut screw, acting as a mediator to prevent unintended extension without permanently modifying the device structure
Solution Approach 2:
The assembly key is installed beforehand on the telescoping assembly to prevent vibrations from causing unintended extension during transport and assembly. This preliminary securing action ensures the assembly reaches the user in the correct configuration, and the key is removed only when ready for normal operation
2Reliability
If assembly key is installed to prevent extension, then assembly stability is improved, but assembly and disassembly time increases
Solution Approach 1:
The assembly key system is designed to be dynamically installable and removable rather than permanent. The locking bit engages with key slots that are accessible during assembly, and the entire key can be quickly removed by the user before normal operation, providing temporary security only when needed during transport and assembly phases
Data Source
AI summary
A method of securing an assembly of a drug delivery system, comprising: configuring at least a first component and a second component of the assembly in a closed configuration ready for placement into the drug delivery system; installing an assembly key including a locking element on the assembly to secure the assembly in said configuration; and, transporting the assembly with the assembly key installed.