Drug Delivery Sensor Axial Tracking for Dose Precision
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing drug delivery devices lack reliable and efficient mechanisms for capturing and recording drug delivery dose data, often relying on manual logs that are prone to errors and inconsistencies.
Innovation Solution
A drug delivery assembly that incorporates a sensor system capable of measuring the rotational movement of an indicator, which is axially movable, allowing for precise determination of drug doses expelled during use.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Device complexity
If manual logging is used to record injection data, then device complexity is reduced, but measurement precision and reliability of dose data are worsened
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces manual mechanical logging with an automated sensor system that uses optical or electromagnetic sensors to detect the rotational position of the indicator. This substitution eliminates human error in recording while maintaining relatively simple device architecture through the use of straightforward sensing mechanisms.
2Device complexity
If a stationary sensor system is used to measure indicator rotation, then device complexity is reduced, but measurement precision is worsened when the indicator moves axially
Solution Approach 1:
The patent transitions from a stationary sensor system to a dynamic sensor system where the sensor component moves axially in synchronization with the indicator. This dynamic adjustment maintains a constant measurement distance and angle, ensuring high measurement precision throughout the indicator's axial travel range without requiring complex mechanical linkages.
Solution Approach 2:
The sensor component acts as an intermediary between the rotating indicator and the measurement system. By coupling the sensor to the release assembly, it mediates the measurement process, translating the indicator's rotational and axial movements into accurate dose data while isolating the complexity of the measurement mechanism from the rest of the device.
3Measurement precision
If the sensor component moves axially with the release assembly, then measurement precision is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges the sensor component with the release assembly, combining two functional elements into a single integrated unit. This merging allows the sensor to move axially with the release assembly without requiring separate actuation mechanisms, thereby improving measurement precision while minimizing the increase in device complexity.
Solution Approach 2:
The release assembly serves dual functions: it controls the drug delivery mechanism and simultaneously positions the sensor component for accurate measurements. This multi-functionality reduces the need for additional components dedicated solely to sensor positioning, balancing measurement precision with device simplicity.
4Reliability
If automated data acquisition is implemented, then reliability of dose data is improved, but device complexity and cost are worsened
Solution Approach 1:
The sensor system automatically detects and records dose data without requiring external intervention or complex processing systems. The sensor component self-adjusts its position with the release assembly and autonomously captures measurement data, providing reliable dose information while keeping the overall system relatively simple and cost-effective.
Data Source
AI summary
A drug delivery assembly comprising a magnetic indicator and a sensor system is provided. The indicator is arranged to rotate and move axially relative to a housing component and corresponding to a reference axis, the amount of rotation being indicative of the size of an expelled dose amount. The sensor system comprises a sensor component adapted to measure a property of the indicator indicative of a rotational position and/or a rotational movement of the indicator. The sensor component forms part of release assembly adapted to be moved into engagement with a release member to release a set dose, and subsequently to move axially together with indicator.