Injection Device Ergonomic Housing Asymmetry
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional injection devices have symmetrical shapes that make it difficult for users, especially those with limited dexterity or impaired vision, to correctly grasp and hold the device, increasing the risk of mishandling and accidental needle exposure.
Innovation Solution
The injection device features a non-rotationally symmetric cross-section at the proximal end with a hand grip portion and thumb rest, allowing intuitive recognition of the correct gripping orientation and providing a stable hold, along with a moveable discharge nozzle protector and trigger mechanism for safe and efficient drug delivery.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of manufacture
If the housing has a symmetrical cross section, then the device can be manufactured simply and uniformly, but it becomes difficult for users to correctly identify the proximal end and grasp the device in the proper orientation
Solution Approach 1:
The housing cross section is designed to be non-rotationally symmetric at the proximal end, creating distinctive geometric features that allow users to easily identify the correct orientation and grasp the device properly. This asymmetric design breaks the rotational symmetry present in conventional devices, ensuring that only one orientation presents the thumb rest and finger grip portions in their intended positions.
2Productivity
If the discharge nozzle is exposed during injection, then drug delivery is efficient, but the risk of accidental needle exposure and injury increases
Solution Approach 1:
The housing is segmented into distinct functional zones: a thumb rest portion and a finger grip portion. This segmentation provides clear tactile cues for proper device orientation and grasp, reducing the likelihood of accidental needle exposure by ensuring users hold the device in the correct orientation throughout the injection process.
Solution Approach 2:
The non-symmetric housing geometry acts as an intermediary mechanism that mediates between the user's hand and the injection component. By providing specific grip surfaces and orientation cues, it guides proper handling without requiring complex additional safety mechanisms, thus maintaining injection efficiency while reducing accidental exposure risk.
Data Source
AI summary
An injection device comprises a housing having a proximal end, a distal end and a longitudinal axis extending therebetween. The housing has a hand grip portion with a non-rotationally symmetric cross section about the longitudinal axis of the device at the proximal end of the housing.