Dual-Dose Autoinjector Cam Mechanism
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current autoinjector devices for medicament administration are complex and require manual operation for second doses, posing user safety risks and manufacturing challenges for automatic dual-dose delivery.
Innovation Solution
A device that employs a combination of rotational and translational movements, using cam and guide mechanisms to automatically deliver two doses from a single syringe, with a needle protection feature and simplified user interaction, minimizing steps required for dose delivery.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If manual operation is required for second dose administration, then device complexity is reduced, but ease of operation deteriorates and user safety risks increase
Solution Approach 1:
The device enables a single automated injection mechanism to perform multiple functions: it can automatically administer both the first and second doses without requiring manual intervention between doses. The syringe assembly and drive mechanism remain engaged throughout, allowing the same automated system to deliver two separate doses at different time points, thereby improving ease of operation while maintaining consistent automated control.
Solution Approach 2:
The device is pre-configured with a syringe containing two separate doses and an automated drive mechanism that is primed to deliver both doses automatically. The locking mechanism and drive assembly are designed in advance to accommodate sequential dose delivery, eliminating the need for manual reconfiguration between doses and reducing operational complexity for the user.
2Productivity
If automatic delivery of two doses is implemented, then productivity is improved, but device complexity increases and manufacturing becomes more challenging
Solution Approach 1:
The syringe is divided into two separate dose chambers or compartments within a single syringe assembly, with each dose separated by a barrier or partition. This segmentation allows the automated drive mechanism to deliver the first dose, then automatically reset or advance to deliver the second dose without requiring complete disassembly or manual intervention, thereby improving productivity while managing manufacturing complexity through modular design.
Solution Approach 2:
The device incorporates a dynamic locking mechanism that can transition between locked and unlocked states automatically during the dose delivery sequence. The drive assembly is designed to automatically advance through different operational phases: first dose delivery, intermediate resetting, and second dose delivery, allowing the system to adapt its configuration dynamically without manual intervention and improving productivity.
3Ease of manufacture
If the device structure is simplified for automatic dual-dose delivery, then ease of manufacture is improved, but reliability may deteriorate
Solution Approach 1:
The device employs a nested structure where the syringe assembly is housed within a protective outer casing that contains the drive mechanism. The plunger rod and drive assembly are nested within the syringe barrel, and the entire assembly fits within the outer housing. This nested design allows for simplified manufacturing through modular assembly while maintaining reliability through protective enclosures and precise mechanical interfaces between nested components.
Solution Approach 2:
The locking mechanism and drive assembly are merged into a single integrated unit that performs both functions simultaneously. The drive assembly incorporates the locking feature that engages with the syringe plunger to prevent premature activation, while also providing the driving force for dose delivery. This merging reduces the number of separate components, simplifying manufacturing while maintaining reliability through integrated design.
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 user-friendly, automatic delivery of two successive doses with enhanced safety and reduced manufacturing complexity, ensuring accurate and efficient medicament administration.
Implementation Method 1
means for propelling axially the plunger rod of the syringe group to deliver a dose of the medicament comprising a first elastic means
Implementation Method 2
second elastic means for restoring the initial needle covering condition of the slide when the pressure action ceases
Data Source
Figure 1~2
Figure 3
Figure 4~5
AI summary
A device for the automatic injection of doses of a drug is disclosed, comprising a slide (30) and cam means (23, 28, 36), a syringe unit (6) with a piston (8), and guide means (26) thereof; the axial movement of the slide initiated by the user by depressing its front end against the injection site, causes the angular displacement of the cam means that, in cooperation with the guide means, controls the movement of the syringe piston and therefore the administration of a drug dose.