Cap-Shaped Electronic Encoder Module for Drug Delivery Device Charging
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Solution Overview
Problem
Pen-type drug delivery devices, especially disposable ones, face challenges in user-friendliness when it comes to charging their electronic modules, particularly for visually and manually impaired patients who may struggle with setting correct doses.
Innovation Solution
An electronic encoder module with a cap-shaped outer shell, rechargeable battery, and PCBA, featuring electrical contacts on its lateral or top surface for easy charging, along with a charging station that ensures proper orientation and connection for reliable and watertight charging, and includes sensors for dose tracking and communication capabilities.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If electrical contacts are provided on the outer shell for charging, then charging simplicity and reliability are improved, but the device becomes more susceptible to external factors like moisture and contamination
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies a waterproof coating or sealant on the outer shell surface, particularly around the electrical contacts, to create a protective barrier against moisture and contamination while maintaining the simplicity of external charging connections
2Volume of moving object
If the electronic module is made compact to fit disposable devices, then device portability is improved, but the battery capacity and charging time are compromised
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements a quick-charge mechanism where the battery can be rapidly recharged in short periodic intervals between device uses, allowing compact battery design while maintaining adequate operational duration through frequent top-up charging sessions
Solution Approach 2:
The charging contacts are pre-positioned on the outer shell surface, allowing the battery to be charged in advance during storage or between uses, ensuring the compact module always has adequate power without requiring large battery capacity
3Ease of operation
If the charging contacts are placed on the lateral surface, then charging accessibility is improved, but the device becomes more vulnerable to damage during handling
Solution Approach 1:
The patent positions the electrical contacts on the lateral surface of the outer shell and protects them with a protective coating or recessed design, making them accessible for charging while shielding them from mechanical damage during normal handling and injection operations
Data Source
AI summary
A method of charging an electronic module of a drug delivery device and a respective charging system. An electronic encoder module may comprise at least one sensor unit, a PCBA with a processor configured to control operation of the at least one sensor unit and to process and/or store signals from the at least one sensor unit, a rechargeable battery connected to the PCBA, and a cap-shaped outer shell at least partially encasing the at least one sensor unit, the PCBA and the battery. The outer shell comprises a lateral surface and a proximally arranged top surface, wherein at least two electrical contacts connected to the battery and/or the PCBA are provided on the lateral surface and/or on the proximally arranged top surface.