Automated Insertion Assembly for Medical Devices
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing devices for monitoring patient conditions, such as drug delivery systems and blood glucose monitoring systems, require manual insertion of cannulas and probes into the skin, leading to incorrect insertions and discomfort, especially when multiple devices are used.
Innovation Solution
An automated insertion assembly that includes a dermal perforation assembly and an actuation assembly, capable of driving the assembly into the user's skin to specific depths, allowing for the simultaneous and accurate insertion of subdermal devices like cannulas and probes.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Device complexity
If manual insertion of cannulas and probes is used, then device complexity is reduced, but insertion accuracy and user comfort deteriorate
Solution Approach 1:
The insertion device is divided into separate functional modules: a dermal perforation assembly for initial skin penetration and a subdermal device delivery mechanism for inserting the cannula/probe to the required depth. This segmentation allows each module to be optimized independently, with the perforation assembly handling the difficult skin barrier penetration and the delivery mechanism ensuring precise depth control, thereby resolving the contradiction between simplicity and precision.
Solution Approach 2:
An automated actuation assembly serves as an intermediary between the user and the insertion process. This intermediary mechanism automatically controls the insertion depth and force, eliminating the need for users to manually judge and control insertion parameters. The actuation assembly translates simple user activation into precise, controlled insertion movements, improving accuracy without requiring complex user skill.
2Adaptability or versatility
If multiple devices are inserted manually, then device versatility is improved, but user discomfort and insertion errors increase
Solution Approach 1:
The system combines multiple insertion functions into a single integrated automated platform. The actuation assembly can sequentially or simultaneously operate multiple dermal perforation assemblies, each capable of delivering different subdermal devices (cannulas, probes, etc.). This merging approach allows versatile multi-device insertion while maintaining consistent, controlled depth and force for each insertion, reducing user discomfort compared to multiple separate manual insertion actions.
Solution Approach 2:
The dermal perforation assembly performs a preliminary action by creating a controlled opening in the skin before the subdermal device is delivered. This preliminary perforation reduces the resistance and trauma associated with direct insertion of the subdermal device, thereby reducing user discomfort. The automated system executes this preliminary action at the optimal moment and with precise force control, making the overall process more tolerable even when multiple devices are inserted.
3Manufacturing precision
If automated insertion with multiple assemblies is used, then insertion accuracy is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The actuation assembly incorporates self-regulating mechanical features such as depth stops, spring-loaded mechanisms, and automatic release systems. These self-service elements ensure that the insertion reaches the correct depth and then automatically halts or releases, reducing the need for complex electronic sensors and control systems. The mechanical self-regulation maintains precision while limiting the overall system complexity.
Solution Approach 2:
The actuation assembly is designed as a universal platform that can accommodate multiple dermal perforation assemblies with different subdermal devices. Rather than requiring separate specialized mechanisms for each device type, the universal actuation system handles all insertions through standardized interfaces and control pathways, reducing overall system complexity while maintaining the ability to achieve precise insertion depths for various device types.
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 automated insertion assembly reduces user discomfort and improves accuracy by allowing for precise control over the depth of insertion, ensuring that multiple devices can be inserted correctly and efficiently.
Implementation Method 1
The first actuator may be a spring-based actuator
Data Source
AI summary
An automated insertion assembly includes a first dermal perforation assembly configured to releasably engage a first subdermal device. A first actuation assembly is configured to drive the first dermal perforation assembly into a user's skin to a first depth and drive the first subdermal device into the user's skin to a second depth. The second depth is greater than the first depth.