Electronic Module for Drug Delivery Device with Optical Dose Detection
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing drug delivery devices face challenges in efficient production and assembly, particularly in ensuring correct module attachment and power management for electronic components, which affects their functionality and user experience.
Innovation Solution
The electronic module for drug delivery devices incorporates a chassis component with integrated functions such as a lockout mechanism for secure attachment, a power source, and efficient power management, including a method to wake the module only when necessary to minimize power consumption, along with a sensor arrangement and wireless communication interface for data transfer.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If an electronic module with multiple functions (processor, sensor arrangement, communication unit, user feedback generator, memory, power source) is integrated into a drug delivery device, then the functionality and user experience are improved, but the device complexity and production难度 increase
Solution Approach 1:
The electronic module is designed as a separable component that can be attached to or removed from the drug delivery device. This segmentation allows the electronic functionality to be developed, tested, and produced independently while maintaining the ability to integrate with the mechanical dosing mechanism, thus improving functionality without permanently increasing overall device complexity
Solution Approach 2:
The electronic module integrates multiple functions (detection, processing, communication, feedback, and power management) into a single compact unit. This multi-functionality approach reduces the number of separate components needed, simplifying the overall device architecture while providing enhanced capabilities for dose monitoring, data transfer, and user interaction
2Ease of operation
If a self-contained device design is used without external power connection, then the device portability and ease of use are improved, but the power management becomes more critical and limiting
Solution Approach 1:
The processor is designed to operate in periodic wake-sleep cycles rather than continuously. The system wakes up to perform detection, processing, and communication tasks, then returns to a low-power sleep state. This periodic operation dramatically reduces average power consumption while maintaining full functionality when needed, enabling the self-contained design to be practical
Solution Approach 2:
The electronic module includes an integrated power source that automatically manages its own energy resources. The system monitors power levels and autonomously transitions between operational states, managing its own power consumption without requiring external power connections or user intervention, thus maintaining ease of use while solving the power management challenge
3Measurement precision
If an encoder system with light pipes and optical sensors is used for dose detection, then the measurement precision is improved, but the manufacturing precision requirements and production costs increase
Solution Approach 1:
The system uses optical encoding where light patterns serve as information carriers for dose detection. Instead of relying on precise mechanical positioning of multiple components, the encoder uses optical copies or representations of dose information that can be read by the sensor arrangement, reducing sensitivity to manufacturing tolerances while maintaining high measurement precision
Solution Approach 2:
The optical detection system replaces traditional mechanical sensing methods. By using light pipes and optical sensors instead of mechanical contacts or position sensors, the system achieves high measurement precision while reducing the need for precise mechanical alignment and assembly, thereby lowering manufacturing precision requirements and production costs
4Ease of repair
If a detachable electronic module design is used, then the ease of repair and replacement are improved, but the reliability of connection and data transfer may be affected
Solution Approach 1:
The electronic module is designed to nest within or attach to the drug delivery device housing, creating a compact integrated appearance while maintaining separability. The nesting design includes aligned engagement features that ensure proper positioning and connection when attached, providing both ease of replacement and reliable connection without requiring complex external linkages
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 enhances production efficiency, ensures correct module attachment to specific devices, and optimizes power usage, thereby improving the functionality and user experience of drug delivery devices while maintaining low production costs.
Implementation Method 1
Light, e.g. IR light, emitted by the transmitting portion of the sensor is guided through a light pipe which extends from a chassis portion of the module to the vicinity of a ring of teeth formed on a proximal end of a rotatable number sleeve of the drug delivery device. The light exits the light pipe at the end opposite the sensor and, depending on the rotational position of the teeth with respect to the light pipe, may be reflected by a tooth of the number sleeve back into the light pipe which guides the reflected light beam to the receiving portion of the sensor.
Data Source
AI summary
An electronic module for releasable attachment to a drug delivery device is disclosed. The module may comprise at least one module lockout form adapted for mating abutment with a corresponding device lockout form of the drug delivery device. The module may comprise at least one attachment element for releasable attachment of the module on the drug delivery device. The module may comprise at least one light pipe for guiding a light beam from a light source to a reflective surface of the drug delivery device and from the reflective surface to a light detector sensor. The module may comprise at least one light guide for guiding a light beam from a light source to a user feedback surface adapted to emit light. The module may comprise at least one elastically deformable switch arm. The component may be a unitary component part injection molded from a polycarbonate material.