Contoured Autoinjector Base for Skin Stabilization
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current autoinjector devices have a vertical or pen-like construction that does not accommodate the natural contour of the human hand, leading to user discomfort and increased risk of device and needle slippage during injections.
Innovation Solution
The autoinjector device features a base with a flexible layer that conforms to various body contours, forming a vacuum to stabilize the skin, and a cover with ergonomic design elements such as finger-pads and a palm-button for improved grip and operation.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If a vertical or pen-like construction is used for the autoinjector device, then the device structure is simple and compact, but the device does not accommodate the natural contour of the human hand and provides a small contact surface area, leading to user discomfort and increased risk of slippage
Solution Approach 1:
The device transitions from a vertical pen-like shape to a contoured shape with curved surfaces that match the natural contour of the human hand. The contact surface is shaped to conform to the palm and fingers, providing ergonomic comfort and stable gripping during injection operation.
Solution Approach 2:
The device adds dimensional complexity by incorporating contoured surfaces and varying cross-sectional shapes along its length. This transforms the simple cylindrical pen shape into a multi-dimensional form that adapts to the three-dimensional geometry of the human hand, increasing contact surface area and grip stability.
2Ease of operation
If a vertical or pen-like construction is used for the autoinjector device, then the device is compact, but the physical surface area contacting the skin is small, resulting in concentration of compression forces and user discomfort
Solution Approach 1:
The contact surface is designed with curved contours that match the body surface, increasing the effective contact area. This curvature allows the device to distribute compression forces over a larger region of the skin, reducing pressure concentration and improving user comfort during injection.
3Reliability
If a vertical or pen-like construction is used for the autoinjector device, then the device structure is simple, but device and needle slippage or movement on the skin surface occurs during injection
Solution Approach 1:
The contoured contact surface with curved geometry provides better mechanical interlocking with the body surface, preventing device slippage and movement during injection. The shape adaptation to body contours increases friction and stability without requiring complex additional components.
4Ease of operation
If a vertical or pen-like construction is used for the autoinjector device, then the device is compact, but it is difficult to hold stable against the body during injection
Solution Approach 1:
The device profile is transformed from a straight vertical shape to a contoured form with curved surfaces that match the body's natural geometry. This shape adaptation allows the device to conform to body contours, providing stable positioning and easier handling during injection without increasing overall device size.
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 design enhances user comfort and stability during injections, reducing the likelihood of slippage and ensuring consistent drug delivery, while also accommodating a broader range of user populations, including those with dexterity challenges.
Implementation Method 1
the flexible layer forms a vacuum with, the vacuum being formed between the flexible layer and the skin of the patient to draw the skin of the patient into the injection chamber
Implementation Method 2
a flexible layer coupled to the bottom surface of the base that conforms to various body contours of a patient
Data Source
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AI summary
An injector for delivering a therapeutic product may include a base having a flexible surface that conforms to various body contours of a patient and defines one or more an injection chambers. The injector may have a height that is substantially less than its width, thereby defining a low profile, which provides a larger more stable base that can pinch or stretch the skin in a controlled manner. The larger base can also accommodate larger volumes via multiple injection chambers and/or large combined primary containers.