Elastic-Driven Drug Mixing Device for Remicade Reconstitution
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current drug mixing devices for reconstitution prior to administration are prone to user error, require high dexterity, and pose hazards due to manual manipulation, leading to incomplete mixing and potential wastage, especially for drugs like Remicade, which necessitate a safer, quicker, and more efficient method for mixing and administration.
Innovation Solution
A drug mixing device with a movable actuator driven by an elastic member, such as a spring, that automatically mixes components by transitioning from an extended to a non-extended state, utilizing a fluid driver and transfer members to ensure complete mixing without manual intervention, and is designed for compactness and compatibility with conventional administration devices.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Device complexity
If manual manipulation is used for drug mixing, then the device complexity is reduced, but the ease of operation deteriorates and user error increases
Solution Approach 1:
The device uses a self-contained elastic member (spring) that automatically drives the mixing process without requiring continuous manual manipulation. The user simply loads the components and activates the mechanism, after which the elastic member autonomously performs the mixing action, reducing both complexity and improving ease of operation
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces complex manual manipulation mechanisms with a simpler elastic potential energy storage system. The elastic member stores energy in an extended state and releases it to drive mixing, substituting complicated mechanical controls with a more intuitive and easier-to-operate spring-based system
2Productivity
If quick administration is prioritized, then the productivity increases, but the mixing completeness deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The device performs preliminary mixing actions through the elastic member-driven mechanism that automatically agitates and combines the drug components before administration. This preliminary automated mixing ensures completeness is achieved quickly, allowing rapid subsequent administration without compromising mixing quality
Solution Approach 2:
The elastic member provides continuous mixing action as it transitions from the extended state to the retracted state, ensuring the drug components are thoroughly mixed throughout the entire activation cycle. This continuous automated mixing maintains completeness while enabling quick overall process completion
3Reliability
If skilled practitioners are required for operation, then the reliability of proper mixing improves, but the ease of operation deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The device performs the complex mixing task automatically through its self-contained elastic member mechanism, eliminating the need for skilled practitioner intervention. The system self-regulates the mixing process, maintaining reliability while making operation accessible to users without specialized training
Solution Approach 2:
The device separates the complex mixing function from the simple activation function. The elastic member and mixing mechanism are pre-configured and sealed, requiring only simple user activation. This segmentation maintains reliable automated mixing while dramatically improving ease of operation
4Volume of moving object
If compact design is implemented, then the volume is reduced, but the space for elastic member expansion deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The elastic member is positioned and configured within the housing structure in a nested arrangement, where the expansion path of the elastic member is integrated into the existing device geometry. The mixing chamber and elastic member share space efficiently, allowing compact overall volume while providing sufficient expansion space for the elastic element
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 device ensures complete and efficient mixing of drugs, minimizing wastage and user risk, while being user-friendly and adaptable for various drug formulations, including Remicade, ensuring consistent and effective administration.
Implementation Method 1
an elastic member coupled to the actuator, the elastic member configured upon release to transition from an extended state to a non-extended state, the elastic member storing energy in the extended state. The movement of the actuator is driven by the release of the stored energy
Data Source
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AI summary
A drug mixing device is disclosed. The drug mixing device comprises a movable actuator, wherein movement of the actuator causes mixing of a drug within the drug mixing device; and an elastic member coupled to the actuator. The elastic member is configured upon release to transition from an extended state to a non-extended state, the elastic member storing energy in the extended state. The movement of the actuator is driven by the release of the stored energy as the elastic member transitions from the extended state towards the non-extended state.