Pen Injector End-of-Dose Switch Trigger Mechanism
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current drug delivery devices lack a reliable and cost-effective method for detecting and logging dose data, leading to inaccurate records of insulin injections, which can mislead medical decisions in diabetes management.
Innovation Solution
A drug delivery device that utilizes a rotational movement generated by a spring-energized actuation mechanism to detect the end-of-dose condition, incorporating an end-of-dose switch and electronic circuitry to log and store dose data, including time and dose size, with features like rotary sensors and display for user feedback.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If automated dose logging is implemented, then measurement precision and reliability of dose records are improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The device automatically detects end-of-dose conditions and logs dose data without requiring patient intervention. The trigger member and end-of-dose switch work together to self-record injection events, eliminating the need for manual logging by patients while ensuring accurate dose measurement and timing records.
2Reliability
If end-of-dose detection mechanism is added, then reliability of dose recording is improved, but manufacturing cost increases
Solution Approach 1:
The end-of-dose switch is integrated into the existing trigger mechanism. The trigger member serves dual purposes: it activates the dose delivery mechanism and simultaneously triggers the end-of-dose detection. This merging of functions reduces the number of separate components needed, thereby lowering manufacturing costs while maintaining reliable dose recording.
3Device complexity
If manual logging by patient is used, then device complexity is minimized, but loss of information increases due to missed or erroneous records
Solution Approach 1:
The device provides automatic feedback recording of dose administration events through the end-of-dose switch and electronic logging system. When the trigger member actuates the end-of-dose switch, the system immediately records the dose information, eliminating reliance on patient memory and manual logging. This ensures complete and accurate injection history without increasing overall system 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 accurate and automated logging of dose data, ensuring reliable records for effective diabetes management by detecting end-of-dose conditions and storing relevant information for medical decision-making.
Implementation Method 1
a rotational movement is used to generate an axial movement, the axial movement being driven by a spring energized during actuation of the actuation member
Data Source
Figure 1~2
Figure 3A~3C
Figure 3D~3E
AI summary
A drug delivery device comprising a rotatable scale drum, a trigger member, an actuation member, a trigger spring acting on the trigger member and being energized by movement of the actuation member, as well as an end-of-dose switch adapted to be actuated by movement of the trigger member. The trigger member is adapted to be arranged in an axially supported position against the action of the energized trigger spring, and released from the axially supported position when the scale drum is rotated from a set position to an end-of-dose position, whereby the trigger member is moved axially by the trigger spring, the end-of-dose switch thereby being actuated.