Autoinjector Cap Assembly for Needle Shield Removal
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Solution Overview
Problem
Autoinjectors face challenges due to limited space and the use of multiple flimsy components in their design, particularly in removing the needle shield, which can be improved by simplifying the cap structure.
Innovation Solution
A single-piece cap with integrated arms that engage the syringe holder's flange to facilitate the removal of the needle shield, reducing the number of components and materials while ensuring easy assembly and operation.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If multiple components are used in the cap structure to grip and remove the needle shield, then the functionality is improved, but the device complexity and number of components increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines multiple cap components (tubular housing, arms, protrusions) into a single integrated cap structure. The cap includes a tubular housing with arms extending from it, where the arms have protrusions that engage with the needle shield. This merging eliminates the need for separate components while maintaining the gripping and removal functionality.
Solution Approach 2:
The cap is designed as a multi-functional component that simultaneously provides structural protection, gripping mechanism, and removal function. The tubular housing protects the needle shield, while the arms with protrusions provide gripping and leverage for removal. This universal design consolidates multiple functions into one component.
2Ease of operation
If multiple materials are used in the cap structure, then the functional requirements are better met, but the manufacturing complexity and cost increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent specifies that the cap is made from a single material throughout its structure. The tubular housing, arms, and protrusions are all formed from the same material, which simplifies manufacturing processes such as injection molding. This homogeneous material approach eliminates the need for complex multi-material assembly while maintaining the required mechanical properties for gripping and removal.
3Volume of moving object
If the cap components are made small to fit limited space, then the device compactness is improved, but the structural strength and reliability decreases
Solution Approach 1:
The arms of the cap are designed with flexibility to adapt to the needle shield during engagement. The arms can deform elastically to grip the protrusions on the needle shield, providing both strength and adaptability in the limited space. This dynamic design allows the cap to maintain structural integrity while fitting within the compact autoinjector housing.
Data Source
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Figure 3
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AI summary
The invention concerns an autoinjector sub-assembly extending along an axis (20) in an axial direction (22) from a proximal end to a distal end, the autoinjector-sub-assembly comprising a cap (50) comprising a tubular housing (60) extending from a proximal closed end to a distal open end and an arm (52) attached to the tubular housing (60), wherein the arm (52) extends in the axial direction (22) from the distal open end, a syringe holder (30) comprising a tubular body extending from a proximal end to a distal end and a tubular flange (32) attached to the proximal end of the tubular body, the tubular flange comprising an inner surface (33) facing towards the axis (20), wherein the arm (52) of the cap (50) is between the axis (20) and the inner surface (33) of the flange (32) of the syringe holder (30), wherein the arm (52) of the cap (50) comprises a protrusion (56) extending in the radial direction (26) away from the axis (20), and wherein the arm (52) of the cap (50) comprises a protrusion (54) extending in the radial direction (26) towards the axis (20).