Autoinjector Torsional Mechanism for Multi-Dose Delivery
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current autoinjectors lack the ability to deliver multiple doses without the need for multiple devices, are uncomfortable due to visible needle exposure, and do not provide adequate dose control, which can lead to inadequate treatment in emergency situations.
Innovation Solution
A portable autoinjector design that allows for the administration of one or two doses with reduced needle visibility, featuring a torsional mechanism for multiple stage operations, dose control, and a retraction spring for penetration depth management, enabling single device use for varying medication needs.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Quantity of substance
If a single autoinjector is designed to deliver multiple doses, then the quantity of medicine delivered is improved, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The autoinjector is divided into separate functional modules: a reusable body containing the drive mechanism and multiple disposable cartridges, each holding a single dose. This segmentation allows the complex multi-dose functionality to be achieved while keeping individual cartridge design simple and manageable.
Solution Approach 2:
The reusable autoinjector body is designed as a universal platform that can accommodate multiple different cartridge types through standardized interfaces. This multi-functionality allows a single device to deliver multiple doses of different medications, reducing the need for multiple specialized injectors.
2Ease of operation
If the needle is visible to the patient, then the administration process is straightforward, but the patient comfort deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The needle is extracted from the visible field by enclosing it within a protective shield that covers the needle throughout the administration process. The shield is automatically retracted only at the moment of skin penetration, keeping the needle hidden from the patient's view while maintaining straightforward administration.
Solution Approach 2:
A protective shield acts as an intermediary between the needle and the patient's visual field. This shield mediates the contradiction by blocking the needle from view during approach and positioning, while allowing automatic revelation only when actual penetration occurs, thus maintaining both ease of operation and patient comfort.
3Manufacturing precision
If the penetration depth is fixed, then the manufacturing precision is improved, but the adaptability to different patients deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The penetration depth mechanism transitions from a fixed static design to a dynamic adjustable system. The drive mechanism incorporates variable stroke length capability, allowing the penetration depth to be adjusted based on patient anatomy and injection site requirements, while maintaining precise control through engineered stop positions and depth markers.
Solution Approach 2:
The penetration depth parameter is made variable rather than fixed. The device allows changing the penetration depth parameter to accommodate different patient sizes, injection sites, and medication requirements, while maintaining manufacturing precision through precisely engineered adjustment mechanisms and depth indication systems.
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 autoinjector effectively administers multiple doses with reduced user discomfort and improved accuracy, addressing the limitations of existing devices by providing controlled dose delivery and minimizing needle fear through reduced visibility and adjustable penetration depth.
Implementation Method 1
a retraction spring for penetration depth management
Implementation Method 2
featuring a torsional mechanism for multiple stage operations
Data Source
AI summary
Medicine injection apparatuses having multiple chambers. The chambers may be in lateral relationship. A torsional part is adapted to turn and be repositioned angularly relative to a main body to allow different chambers to be used to receive an injection assembly. The medicine injector can be constructed to administer multiple doses. The apparatuses may also have a storage chamber for storing the injection assembly after use. Plural drivers may be used to administer multiple doses, such as at the different angular positions of the torsional part. The apparatuses may allow multiple automatic injections from different angular positions and storage of an injector after use. Needle fright is reduced by minimizing exposure of an injection needle prior to injection.