Auxiliary Module Retaining Mechanism for One-Movement Injector Connection
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing connection mechanisms for auxiliary modules in medical injection devices require multiple steps and lack secure locking, making them cumbersome and difficult to use.
Innovation Solution
An auxiliary module with a retaining device and receiving unit that allows a single adjustment movement to securely connect and disconnect an injector, utilizing a retaining element that engages with the injector through a linear displacement or rotation, ensuring quick and reliable attachment and detachment.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a securing ring with threaded connection is used to fasten the auxiliary module on the injector, then the connection is secure and reliable, but the user must perform multiple steps (sliding on and tightly screwing on) making the operation complex and time-consuming
Solution Approach 1:
The connection mechanism is divided into two functional parts: a receiving unit with securing arms that can be moved between retracted and extended positions, and a retaining device with cam-shaped surfaces that guides the movement. This segmentation allows the complex securing action to be broken down into simple linear movements.
Solution Approach 2:
The securing arms are pre-positioned in a retracted state within the receiving unit, ready to engage with the injector. The retaining device is pre-configured with cam-shaped surfaces that automatically guide the securing arms into the correct engagement position during the connection process, eliminating the need for manual positioning or multiple adjustment steps.
2Adaptability or versatility
If the auxiliary module is designed with a detachable connection mechanism, then the module can be reused and connected to different injectors, but the connection and disconnection processes become complex requiring multiple steps and precise orientation
Solution Approach 1:
The receiving unit with movable securing arms serves multiple functions: it guides the injector during insertion, secures the injector in place through automatic engagement, and releases the injector when activated. The retaining device with cam-shaped surfaces provides universal guidance for different injector types, making the auxiliary module compatible with various injectors without requiring complex adjustment mechanisms.
Solution Approach 2:
The securing arms are designed to be movable rather than fixed, allowing them to dynamically adjust their position during connection and disconnection. The arms can be held in a retracted position during normal operation and automatically extend to engage the injector, or be released to disengage when needed. This dynamic behavior simplifies the user interface while maintaining secure connection.
3Reliability
If the securing arms are held in a retracted position by a retaining device, then the connection is secure during use, but the disconnection process becomes complex requiring activation of the retaining device
Solution Approach 1:
Instead of requiring the user to actively engage the securing arms during connection, the design inverts the approach: the securing arms are passively held retracted by the retaining device and automatically engage when the injector is inserted. For disconnection, instead of requiring complex manipulation of the securing arms, the system provides a release mechanism that allows the retaining device to automatically release the arms, simplifying the user action to a single activation movement.
Data Source
AI summary
An auxiliary module for connecting to an injector for dispensing a medical substance comprises a housing having a retaining device, and a receiving unit having a retaining element, wherein the receiving unit is movable relative to the housing. The auxiliary module includes a retaining configuration, in which the receiving unit is immovably retained in the housing by the retaining device, and in which the retaining element can cooperate with the injector in such a way that the injector is retained by the receiving unit and the retaining element is locked by the housing. The auxiliary module also includes a release configuration, in which the receiving unit is released from the retaining device and the injector is released from the retaining element. The auxiliary module can be adjusted from the retaining configuration into the release configuration, and back again, by an adjustment movement of the receiving unit.