Supplementary Device for Auto-Injectors with Alignment and Monitoring
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Solution Overview
Problem
Manual injection devices pose challenges due to high injection forces, long plunger extension, and user dexterity issues, while auto-injectors may fail in monitoring medication administration schedules, leading to underdoses or needle clogging due to user forgetfulness or improper handling.
Innovation Solution
A reusable supplementary device that attaches to auto-injectors, featuring alignment features, a non-contact sensor system, and a processor for monitoring injection history, dose administration, and providing reminders, to ensure correct and timely medication delivery.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Device complexity
If manual injection devices are used, then the device structure is simple, but the injection force required is high and user dexterity is compromised
Solution Approach 1:
The injection device is divided into two functional parts: a simple manual trigger mechanism and a separate auto-injection module containing the spring-driven plunger. The trigger releases the spring mechanism which then automatically executes the injection, separating the user interaction function from the high-force delivery function.
Solution Approach 2:
A spring mechanism acts as an intermediary between the user's trigger action and the plunger movement. The spring stores energy during a loading phase and releases it automatically to provide the high injection force, mediating between the low-force user input and the high-force injection requirement.
2Device complexity
If manual injection devices are used, then the device structure is simple, but the plunger extension is long causing user inconvenience
Solution Approach 1:
The plunger mechanism is segmented into a compact retracted state and an extended injection state. The spring-loaded design allows the plunger to remain compact during handling and only extend during the automatic injection phase, reducing the effective length during user interaction.
Solution Approach 2:
The plunger is pre-loaded in a retracted position during device assembly and handling. The extension action is prepared in advance by compressing the spring during the loading phase, so that when triggered, the plunger extends automatically without requiring the user to manually extend a long plunger.
3Ease of operation
If auto-injectors are used, then injection force and button extension are reduced, but monitoring of medication administration is insufficient
Solution Approach 1:
The device incorporates sensors that detect injection parameters (force, duration, completion) and provide feedback to both the user through indicators and to healthcare providers through data transmission. This closed-loop feedback system ensures proper administration and creates a monitoring record.
Solution Approach 2:
The auto-injector automatically monitors and records its own injection parameters without requiring external observation. The embedded sensors and processors enable the device to self-monitor injection force, duration, and completion status, and automatically transmit this information.
4Ease of operation
If auto-injectors are used, then injection force and button extension are reduced, but user compliance with medication schedules is poor
Solution Approach 1:
The device provides real-time feedback through visual and audible indicators confirming injection completion and status. This immediate feedback helps users understand whether the injection was successful, reducing uncertainty and improving compliance with follow-up dosing schedules.
Solution Approach 2:
Mechanical reminder systems are replaced with electronic monitoring and communication systems. The device uses processors, memory, and wireless communication to track administration schedules, provide digital reminders, and communicate with healthcare providers to ensure compliance.
Data Source
Figure 1A~1B
Figure 2
Figure 3
AI summary
A supplementary device (2) configured to be releasably attached to a drug delivery device (10). The supplementary device comprises a housing (20) having a channel (33) configured to slidably receive the drug delivery device; a first alignment feature (34) to ensure a specific alignment of the supplementary device relative to the drug delivery device and restrict rotational movement of the supplementary device around a drug delivery device; and a second alignment feature to prevent sliding movement of the supplementary device relative to the delivery device once attached thereto. The second alignment feature comprises a moveable securing member (39) biased towards the drug delivery device, and a release member (43) operable to move the securing member out of engagement with the drug delivery device.