Autoinjector Safety Shield Position Indicator Mechanism
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Solution Overview
Problem
Self-injection devices face challenges in ensuring correct positioning on the skin before needle insertion, as users may struggle to determine if the device is applied with sufficient force, leading to potential misuse and incorrect injection depth.
Innovation Solution
A device with controlling means that provides feedback when the outer housing is pushed with sufficient force, using a safety shield and spring mechanisms to ensure correct positioning and prevent accidental activation, featuring a push button and radially flexible legs for audible and tactile confirmation.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If the device requires the outer housing to be pushed with sufficient force to activate needle insertion, then injection safety is improved, but user ability to determine correct positioning deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements feedback mechanisms including visual indicators (transparent window showing piston position), tactile feedback (click sensation when safety shield reaches correct position), and auditory feedback (click sound from engaging features). These feedback mechanisms inform the user when the device is correctly positioned and ready for activation, resolving the contradiction between safety requirements and user ability to determine correct positioning.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces intermediate elements between the user and the injection mechanism, specifically the safety shield and indicator window, which mediate the interaction. The safety shield acts as an intermediary that must be moved to a specific position before activation is possible, while the indicator window provides intermediary visual information about piston position. These intermediaries enable safe operation while providing clear user feedback.
2Ease of operation
If the needle remains exposed before and after use, then ease of handling is improved, but risk of accidental needlestick injury increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs nested protective structures where the needle is contained within the container, which is in turn protected by the safety shield, and the entire assembly is housed within the outer housing. The safety shield can be moved to expose or cover the needle as needed. This nested arrangement allows the needle to remain protected during storage and transport while being easily accessible during use, resolving the contradiction between ease of handling and safety.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements preliminary protective actions by pre-positioning the safety shield in a closed position that covers the needle before use. The shield is designed to be moved to an open position only when needed for injection, and automatically or manually returns to a protective closed position after use. This preliminary protection eliminates accidental needlestick risks while maintaining ease of handling during the injection process.
3Device complexity
If the device allows activation without clear positioning feedback, then device complexity is reduced, but manufacturing precision requirements increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements self-service mechanisms where the device automatically indicates its own positioning status through the transparent window showing piston position and the safety shield position indicators. The engaging features between the safety shield and outer housing automatically provide tactile and auditory feedback when correct positioning is achieved. These self-indicating features reduce the need for complex external feedback systems while maintaining clear user information about positioning accuracy.
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 device ensures safe and correct needle insertion depth and complete injection by providing user feedback on proper positioning, preventing misuse and ensuring the needle is safely covered post-use, reducing the risk of accidental needlestick injuries.
Implementation Method 1
first biasing means coupled to said housing for biasing the container toward said insertion position, said first biasing means being in one of a compressed state, in which the container is in its initial position, and an extended condition, in which the container is in its insertion position
Implementation Method 2
said second retaining means comprising a radially flexible leg provided on an outer sleeve partially receiving said distal end of said push button, said distal end of said push button being blocked in axial and distal translation by said radially flexible leg
Data Source
Figure 1
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AI summary
The invention relates to an automatic injection device (1) for a product contained in a container (50), comprising: - a housing (8, 19) receiving the container (50), the container being movable between an initial position and an insertion position, - triggering means (23) for initiating the movement of said container (50) from its initial position to its insertion position, said triggering means (23) being in one of a passive state, in which application of a force on said triggering means does not initiate movement of said container (50), and an active state, in which application of said force on said triggering means does initiate said movement, and - a safety shield (10) movable with respect to said housing (8, 19) between a first position and a second position, movement of said safety shield (10) from its first position to its second position placing said triggering means (23) in its active state, characterized in that said device comprises: an indicator (19c, 13) that provides an indication to a user of the device (1) that the safety shield (10) has reached its second position.