Graphical Bolus Selection Interface for Drug Delivery Devices

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Solution Overview

Problem

Current insulin pumps require users to arbitrarily program bolus delivery patterns, which is complex and not user-friendly, especially for young children, due to the need for data input involving multiple displays and alpha-numeric parameters.

Innovation Solution

A drug delivery device with a user interface that allows selection of pre-determined bolus configurations based on a multi-dimensional space representing blood glucose levels, carbohydrate load, glycemic index, and other physiological parameters, enabling intuitive selection of bolus doses and delivery patterns.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Measurement precision

If users program bolus delivery patterns using multiple displays and alpha-numeric parameters, then the device provides precise control over insulin delivery, but the operation becomes complex and not user-friendly

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveprecision of bolus delivery controlVSAvoiduser-friendliness of programming
Core Design Contradiction:
Measurement precisionVSEase of operation

Solution Approach 1:

The patent uses graphical icons that visually represent bolus delivery patterns instead of requiring alpha-numeric programming. Each icon is a simplified visual copy or representation of the delivery pattern it signifies, making it intuitive for users to select without complex data input

Inventive Principle:
Principle #26Copying

Solution Approach 2:

The patent replaces the mechanical/data-input-based programming system with a graphical user interface system. Instead of requiring users to input numerical parameters and navigate multiple displays, the system uses visual icons that can be selected directly, substituting complex data entry with simple graphical selection

Inventive Principle:
Principle #28Mechanics substitution (Replace mechanical system)

2Adaptability or versatility

If the device requires data input involving multiple displays and alpha-numeric parameters, then it provides detailed control options, but it becomes difficult for young children to master

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvecontrol options for bolus deliveryVSAvoidease of use for young children
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSEase of operation

Solution Approach 1:

The patent employs different colored icons to represent different bolus delivery patterns. The color coding provides an intuitive visual distinction between various delivery options, making it easier for young children to differentiate and select appropriate patterns without dealing with complex numerical parameters

Inventive Principle:
Principle #32Color changes

Solution Approach 2:

Graphical icons visually represent the bolus delivery patterns in a simplified manner that young children can understand. The icons serve as visual copies or representations of the delivery patterns, eliminating the need for alpha-numeric input while preserving the versatility of control options

Inventive Principle:
Principle #26Copying

3Adaptability or versatility

If users must navigate through several displays to program bolus patterns, then the device offers comprehensive programming capabilities, but the time required for programming increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvecomprehensive programming capabilitiesVSAvoidtime required for bolus programming
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSLoss of time

Solution Approach 1:

The patent segments the bolus programming function into distinct graphical icons, each representing a specific delivery pattern. This segmentation allows users to directly select the desired pattern without navigating through multiple displays or sequential programming steps, significantly reducing the time required while maintaining comprehensive programming capabilities

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The device pre-configures multiple bolus delivery patterns and represents them as ready-to-select graphical icons. This preliminary preparation of programming options eliminates the need for users to perform complex programming actions in real-time, allowing immediate selection and reducing programming time

Inventive Principle:
Principle #10Preliminary action

Data Source

PatentEP2277123B1A method for selecting bolus doses and bolus delivery patterns in a drug delivery device
Publication Date: 2019.08.07 ROCHE DIABETES CARE GMBH
  • EP2277123B1 patent drawingFigure 1~2
  • EP2277123B1 patent drawingFigure 3
  • EP2277123B1 patent drawingFigure 4

AI summary

Embodiments of the present disclosure include methods, systems and devices for selecting a bolus configuration and may include one or more of providing a user interface for selection of one or more user interface elements, where each element corresponds to a bolus configuration of a drug, each element is spatially positioned within a multi-dimensional space corresponding to at least three dimensions and the element's position corresponding to each dimension.