Infusion Device Locking Mechanism for Movement Disorders
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Solution Overview
Problem
Modular wearable infusion devices pose challenges for patients with movement disorders, such as Parkinson's disease, due to complex locking and unlocking mechanisms required to swap out reservoirs, which can be difficult to manage with limited dexterity.
Innovation Solution
The development of multicomponent infusion device assemblies with unidirectional locking and unlocking mechanisms, featuring inwardly deflectable elements and tapered engagement/disengagement components, allowing for simpler and more accessible component swapping, including the use of a disengagement tool for easy separation of components.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If traditional locking mechanisms are used in modular infusion devices, then component security is improved, but ease of operation deteriorates for patients with movement disorders
Solution Approach 1:
The locking mechanism is segmented into distinct functional elements: an inwardly deflectable element that can be independently actuated, and a tapered engagement element that provides the locking action. This segmentation allows the deflectable element to be manipulated separately through the deflectable access feature, simplifying operation for patients with movement disorders while maintaining secure component attachment
Solution Approach 2:
The inwardly deflectable element serves as an intermediary mechanism between the user's simple external action and the internal locking structure. By providing a deflectable access feature that allows external manipulation of the deflectable element, the system mediates between ease of operation and secure engagement, enabling patients to lock components without requiring complex dexterous movements
2Reliability
If secure locking mechanisms are implemented, then device reliability is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The complex internal locking mechanism is extracted and replaced with a simpler system based on tapered engagement and elastic deflection. The inwardly deflectable element and tapered engagement element work together to provide secure locking without requiring complex springs, cam mechanisms, or multiple moving parts, thereby reducing overall device complexity while maintaining reliability
Solution Approach 2:
The locking mechanism utilizes self-service principles through the inherent elastic properties of the inwardly deflectable element and the self-aligning nature of the tapered engagement element. When components are assembled, the tapered portion automatically guides and secures the deflectable element into the locked position without requiring additional actuators, sensors, or control systems, thus reducing device complexity
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
Enables patients with movement disorders to easily lock and unlock infusion device components, improving usability and reducing the complexity of swapping reservoirs, thereby enhancing the device's accessibility and safety for various patient populations.
Implementation Method 1
an engagement element comprising (i) a tapered portion configured to cause the inwardly deflectable element of the first component to deflect inwardly as the second component is advanced about the first component
Implementation Method 2
The inwardly deflectable element of the first component is configured to deflect outwardly after the shoulder passes the inwardly deflectable element as the second component is advanced about the first component
Implementation Method 3
a disengagement element comprising a tapered portion configured to cause the inwardly deflectable element of the first component to deflect inwardly as the disengagement component is advanced about the first component
Data Source
AI summary
Multicomponent infusion device assemblies include locking and unlocking mechanisms that allow for locking and unlocking of components via actions capable of being carried out by at least some patients suffering from movement disorders. Tools or disengagement components may be used to unlock or disengage the components.