Locking Cartridge Insert for Single-Use Needle and CGM Placement
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing insulin pumps lack an efficient mechanism for securely integrating an infusion needle and CGM sensor, leading to potential discomfort and inefficiencies in insulin delivery and glucose monitoring.
Innovation Solution
A cartridge with a locking mechanism is introduced to securely lock a cartridge insert that integrates an infusion needle and CGM sensor, allowing for a single insertion that moves from a non-deployed to a deployed position, ensuring a hermetic seal and low profile configuration.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a locking mechanism is added to secure the cartridge insert, then reliability of insulin delivery is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The cartridge assembly is divided into distinct components: a cartridge body and a separate cartridge insert containing the infusion needle and CGM sensor. The locking mechanism uses segmented elements including a locking arm with engagement features that can independently secure the insert to the cartridge body, providing reliable connection without requiring a monolithic complex structure
Solution Approach 2:
The locking mechanism is designed to be self-actuating through user manipulation of a release button or tab. The locking arm automatically engages with the cartridge body when the insert is inserted, and can be released by pressing the button, eliminating the need for external locking tools or complex multi-step securing procedures
2Ease of operation
If the cartridge is designed for single insertion with integrated needle and sensor, then ease of operation is improved, but manufacturing precision requirements increase
Solution Approach 1:
The infusion needle and CGM sensor are merged into a single integrated cartridge insert assembly. Both components are pre-positioned and secured together within the insert during manufacturing, allowing them to be inserted into the user's body simultaneously in a single action, simplifying the user operation while maintaining manufacturing precision through integrated component design
Solution Approach 2:
The infusion needle and CGM sensor are pre-assembled and pre-positioned within the cartridge insert before reaching the user. The components are prepared and aligned during manufacturing, so that during use, the entire pre-assembled unit is inserted in one action, eliminating the need for users to perform precise alignment themselves
3Reliability
If the cartridge insert is locked into the cartridge assembly, then reliability of connection is improved, but ease of disassembly for replacement decreases
Solution Approach 1:
The locking mechanism transitions from a static locked state during use to a dynamic release state when the button is pressed. The locking arm can pivot or move between engaged and disengaged positions, providing stable connection during insulin delivery while allowing easy release for replacement by simple button activation
Solution Approach 2:
A release button or tab acts as an intermediary element between the user and the locking mechanism. Pressing this intermediary component triggers the release of the locking arm, which then disengages from the cartridge body, allowing the insert to be removed without requiring the user to directly manipulate the locking arm itself
Data Source
AI summary
An infusion system is disclosed comprising: a device for delivering insulin to a user, the device including a reservoir and a micropump for pumping the insulin from the reservoir into tissue of a user; and a cartridge for securing a cartridge insert that includes (a) an infusion needle configured to infuse the insulin and introduce a CGM sensor into the user or (b) an introducer needle for introducing an infusion catheter and the CGM sensor into the user, the cartridge configured to move from (1) a first position, wherein the infusion needle or an introducer needle is above the tissue of the user to (2) an second position, wherein the infusion needle or the introducer needle is in a deployed position inserted into tissue of the user, wherein the cartridge includes a locking mechanism to lock the cartridge insert into the cartridge.