Injection Device Spring Tensioning via Ampoule Insertion
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing injection devices for self-administration of substances are complex to handle, requiring manual needle fitting and intricate dosing mechanisms, which can complicate the process of administering a measured dose from an ampoule.
Innovation Solution
An injection device with a plunger rod, a container for the substance, and a dispensing spring that is tensioned upon ampoule insertion, using a coupling element to drive the plunger rod and facilitate automatic dispensing through a trigger-activated mechanism, simplifying the handling and dosing process.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If manual needle fitting and intricate dosing mechanisms are used, then the device can administer precise doses, but the device becomes complex to handle
Solution Approach 1:
The spring mechanism is pre-loaded and the device is pre-prepared with all components in place before use. The ampoule is pre-positioned in the holder, and the spring is already tensioned, so that upon activation the dosing action occurs automatically without requiring manual manipulation during administration.
Solution Approach 2:
The device is designed to automatically perform dosing and injection functions once activated. The spring-driven mechanism self-regulates the plunger movement to deliver the precise dose without requiring the user to manually control the dosing process, making the device handle itself after simple activation.
2Extent of automation
If a spring mechanism is used for automatic dispensing, then the dispensing process is automated, but the device requires additional components like coupling elements
Solution Approach 1:
The coupling element serves multiple functions simultaneously: it connects the ampoule holder to the spring mechanism, transmits the tensioning force from spring relaxation to the plunger rod, and provides structural support for the entire dispensing assembly. This multi-functionality reduces the need for separate dedicated components.
Solution Approach 2:
The spring mechanism is designed to perform multiple roles: it provides the driving force for plunger movement, maintains tension on the coupling elements during ampoule insertion, and can be reset or replaced as a single unit. The coupling element similarly serves as both a mechanical connector and a force transmission element.
3Extent of automation
If the spring is tensioned during ampoule insertion, then the device is prepared for automatic injection, but the insertion process must be controlled
Solution Approach 1:
The device is designed so that the spring tensioning occurs automatically during the normal ampoule insertion process. The coupling elements are positioned and dimensioned such that they engage with the spring at predetermined points during insertion, ensuring the spring is tensioned to the correct amount without requiring the user to perform separate tensioning actions.
Solution Approach 2:
The coupling elements act as intermediaries between the ampoule holder and the spring mechanism. They translate the simple linear insertion motion into the appropriate spring tensioning action, mediating the interaction between the user's simple insertion movement and the complex internal spring-loading mechanism.
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 simplifies the handling and administration of substances by automating the tensioning and dispensing process, ensuring accurate dosing and user-friendly operation, with the spring mechanism allowing for easy mixing of substances in double-chamber ampoules and secure locking after use.
Implementation Method 1
a dispensing spring supported on a part of the injection device, and a coupling element for coupling the container with the dispensing spring so that the spring is tensioned when the container is inserted, the tensioned spring acting on the plunger rod to cause an amount of the substance to be dispensed
Data Source
AI summary
An injection device including a receiving device movable in an insertion movement relative to the injection device, a tensioning element, e.g. a spring, which bears on a part of the injection device, and a coupling element for coupling the receiving device to the spring such that, during an insertion movement of the receiving device the spring is tensioned. In some embodiments, the invention encompasses a method for preparing an injection device for dispensing a substance from an ampoule, wherein a discharging spring of the injection device is tensioned by introduction of the ampoule into the injection device.