Drug Delivery Cap Locking Mechanism Prevents Reuse
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing drug delivery devices lack a mechanism to prevent re-use after initial use, which is crucial for ensuring tamper evidence and hygiene, particularly in injector devices like auto-injectors.
Innovation Solution
A drug delivery device with a housing and a removable cap featuring a locking mechanism that prevents the cap from being fully replaced once removed, utilizing a resiliently biased locking member that moves into a locking position upon cap removal, ensuring the device cannot be reused.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If the cap is made removable for initial use, then ease of operation is improved, but the device can be reused which compromises tamper evidence and hygiene
Solution Approach 1:
A locking member is pre-configured in a first position that allows cap removal. Upon removal, the locking member automatically transitions to a second position that prevents reattachment, thereby preliminarily establishing the tamper-evident state through the act of removal itself
Solution Approach 2:
The locking mechanism is self-activating through the cap removal action itself. The locking member automatically changes position due to the removal action, eliminating the need for separate locking actions or complex control systems while ensuring the device cannot be reused
2Reliability
If a locking mechanism is added to prevent cap reattachment, then tamper evidence is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The locking function is extracted as a separate, dedicated locking member that operates independently from the cap and housing structures. This modular approach simplifies the overall design by assigning a specific function to a specific component rather than integrating complex interlocking mechanisms into the cap or housing
Solution Approach 2:
The locking member utilizes position as a critical parameter, transitioning between a first position (allowing removal) and a second position (preventing reattachment). This parameter-based approach simplifies the mechanism compared to geometric interlocking, requiring only positional states rather than complex mechanical engagements
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 solution effectively prevents re-use of the device, providing a clear visual indication of prior use and enhancing tamper evidence, thereby ensuring user safety and hygiene.
Implementation Method 1
The locking member may comprise a resiliently biased member
Implementation Method 2
The locking member may comprise a spring. The spring may be mounted in the cap.
Data Source
AI summary
The present disclosure relates to a drug delivery device that has a housing and a cap. The drug delivery device also has a lock that prevents the cap being fully replaced on the housing after the cap has been removed.