Biosensor Inserter Pivot Latch for Low-Cost Reliable Insertion
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing inserter designs for continuous glucose monitors are complicated and costly to manufacture.
Innovation Solution
A biosensor inserter with a push member, contact member, transmitter carrier, pivot member, and insertion device that uses a pivot mechanism to drive the insertion and retraction of a biosensor, allowing for a cost-effective manufacturing process.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of manufacture
If traditional inserter designs are used, then reliable biosensor insertion is achieved, but manufacturing complexity and cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
The inserter device is divided into distinct functional modules: a push member for actuation, a contact member with latch mechanism for engagement, a transmitter carrier for holding the biosensor, a pivot member for motion conversion, and an insertion device for actual insertion. This segmentation allows each component to be manufactured separately using simpler, more cost-effective processes while maintaining overall device reliability.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent employs a latch mechanism that engages and disengages in reverse sequence compared to traditional designs. The latch on the contact member engages with the pivot member during insertion, then releases to enable retraction. This inverted engagement sequence simplifies the manufacturing of the latch components while ensuring reliable operation throughout the insertion and retraction cycle.
2Ease of manufacture
If a pivot mechanism is used to drive insertion and retraction, then manufacturing cost is reduced, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The pivot member serves as a dynamic element that converts the linear motion of the push member into the required insertion and retraction movements. During the first portion of the stroke, the pivot member drives axial movement for insertion; during the second portion, it pivots to enable retraction. This dynamic motion conversion eliminates the need for complex separate mechanisms for insertion and retraction, reducing overall manufacturing cost despite the added pivot component.
Solution Approach 2:
The pivot member acts as an intermediary between the push member and the insertion device. It receives the driving force from the push member and translates it into the appropriate motions for both insertion and retraction. This intermediary role simplifies the force transmission path and reduces the need for multiple complex mechanical components, making the overall mechanism more manufacturable.
3Reliability
If a latch mechanism is used for retraction, then operational reliability is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The latch mechanism is merged into the contact member, which itself is an integral part of the push assembly. The latch on the contact member works in conjunction with the pivot member to control both insertion and retraction phases. This merging eliminates the need for separate latch components and simplifies the overall structure while maintaining reliable engagement and disengagement during operation.
Solution Approach 2:
The latch mechanism is designed to automatically engage and disengage based on the motion of the push member and pivot member. During the first portion of the stroke, the latch engages to secure the insertion device; during the second portion, the pivot motion automatically releases the latch to enable retraction. This self-service operation eliminates the need for additional control mechanisms, reducing device complexity while ensuring reliable operation.
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 inserter design enables efficient and cost-effective insertion of biosensors, reducing manufacturing complexity and costs while ensuring reliable operation.
Implementation Method 1
the pivot member is pivotably coupled to the transmitter carrier and to the insertion device, wherein the insertion device is drivable by the push element interfacing with the pivot member to insert the biosensor and to retract the insertion device
Implementation Method 2
the contact member comprises a latch and the pivot member comprise a latch end, wherein during the second portion of the insertion stroke the latch end of the pivot member moves past the latch of the contact member, the latch thereby releasing the latch end of the pivot member
Data Source
Figure 1A
Figure 1B
Figure 1C
AI summary
A biosensor inserter includes a push member with a push element, a contact member including a latch, a transmitter carrier supporting a transmitter and sensor assembly, and a pivot member having a latch end, the pivot member supporting an insertion device during biosensor insertion. In operation, the push member is telescoped axially by the user relative to the contact member, which is provided in contact with a user's skin. This pushes the push element against the pivot member and translates the transmitter carrier during insertion of the biosensor. During a first portion of a stroke of the insertion device, insertion of the biosensor is accomplished, and the pivot member is prevented from pivoting. In a second portion of the stroke, after latch end moves past the latch, the pivot member is allowed to pivot and the insertion device is retracted. Other system and method embodiments are provided.