Cartridge Insertion Expanding Assembly Alignment
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current drug delivery devices face challenges in efficiently interfacing with cylindrical drug reservoirs, particularly in creating a secure and controlled flow path for drug administration, especially when integrating with skin contact surfaces and requiring precise alignment and expansion mechanisms.
Innovation Solution
The proposed solution involves a cartridge insertion assembly with a coupler and expanding assembly that connects a cylindrical reservoir to a drug delivery device, featuring a telescoping screw and movable mount to align the reservoir coaxially with the expansion axis, allowing for the piercing of a seal and formation of a fluid path, and includes a method for loading the reservoir into a patch injector with a skin contact surface.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Manufacturing precision
If a traditional fixed coupling mechanism is used to connect the reservoir to the delivery device, then the structure is simple, but the alignment precision and secure connection are insufficient
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs a dynamic expanding assembly that transitions from a compact state during insertion to an expanded state for secure connection. The expanding mechanism allows the coupling structure to adapt its dimensions, providing both ease of insertion and secure alignment without requiring overly complex pre-configured structures.
Solution Approach 2:
The telescoping screw mechanism utilizes a nested structure where one component fits within another, allowing for compact storage during insertion and extended configuration during operation. This nested design achieves precise alignment and secure connection while maintaining structural simplicity during the insertion phase.
2Reliability
If an expanding assembly is introduced to secure the reservoir, then the connection reliability improves, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The expanding assembly is designed to be actuated by the insertion process itself or by a simple triggering mechanism, rather than requiring complex external control systems. The mechanism automatically transitions to the expanded secure state once the reservoir is in position, providing reliable connection without adding significant operational complexity.
3Measurement precision
If a telescoping screw mechanism is used for alignment, then the positioning precision is improved, but the ease of operation is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The telescoping screw mechanism is pre-configured to engage with the reservoir and delivery device structures during the insertion process itself. The alignment action is performed automatically as part of the insertion sequence, eliminating the need for separate manual alignment operations and maintaining ease of use.
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
This solution enables secure and controlled drug delivery by ensuring proper alignment and expansion of the reservoir, facilitating the discharge of the drug through a formed flow path, enhancing the efficiency and precision of the drug administration process.
Implementation Method 1
an expanding assembly attached to the drug delivery device independent of the cylindrical reservoir and expanding along an axis parallel to the skin contact surface
Implementation Method 2
the coupler sized and shaped to form a flow path between a distal opening of the cylindrical reservoir and a fluid path of the drug delivery device
Data Source
AI summary
A drug delivery device includes a compartment sized to receive a cartridge. The compartment includes a cartridge bay that opens so that a cartridge may be inserted into the cartridge bay and that closes when the cartridge is received by the compartment. The drug delivery device also includes a housing including an expanding assembly. The expanding assembly includes a driver supported from a distal end by a linear stabilizer that includes a bearing configured to push against the housing. The driver is rotated by a motor. The expanding assembly also includes two mid screws threadedly connected to the driver, a plunger driver threadedly connected to the two mid screws, and an anti-rotational guide that prevents rotation of the plunger driver.