Medicament Delivery Release Button Permanent Locking Mechanism
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Solution Overview
Problem
Autoinjector devices face user uncertainty due to the release button returning to its original position after activation, making it difficult for users to determine if the device has been used.
Innovation Solution
The design incorporates multiple protrusions and contact surfaces on the flexible arm of the release button or the tubular body, which locks the button in its pushed position, preventing it from returning to its original state, allowing users to visually confirm activation.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If the release button is designed to return to its original position after activation, then the device can be reset for potential reuse, but the user cannot determine whether the device has been activated
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies visual indication through color changes or visual differentiation of the release button. The button is designed with visual features that change or become apparent after activation, allowing users to easily distinguish between activated and non-activated states without complex mechanical indicators
Solution Approach 2:
The patent uses a simplified visual copy or representation of the activation state through the button's appearance. The button itself serves as a visual indicator, where its post-activation appearance (such as color change or visual marking) communicates the activation status to the user without requiring additional complex indicator mechanisms
2Reliability
If the release button structure is modified to prevent return to original position, then user certainty of activation is improved, but manufacturing complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs color changes or visual markings on the release button to indicate activation status. This approach provides clear user feedback while maintaining manufacturing simplicity, as color changes can be achieved through standard manufacturing techniques such as different colored materials or surface treatments applied during button production
Solution Approach 2:
The patent modifies physical parameters of the release button such as its shape, color, or surface properties to create distinct visual states before and after activation. These parameter changes are integrated into the button design itself, allowing for straightforward manufacturing without requiring complex additional components or processes
3Reliability
If multiple protrusions and contact surfaces are added to lock the button, then permanent locking is achieved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the locking function into distinct protrusions and contact surfaces that are distributed across the button and housing structures. This segmentation allows each element to perform a specific locking function while maintaining overall system simplicity through modular, discrete components rather than a complex integrated mechanism
Solution Approach 2:
The patent designs the protrusions and contact surfaces to automatically engage and lock the button in its activated position through the button's own movement during activation. The structure utilizes the button's displacement to trigger the locking action, eliminating the need for separate locking mechanisms or additional actuation steps
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
This solution eliminates user uncertainty by ensuring the release button remains in its activated position, reducing complexity and manufacturing costs by modifying only the release button or tubular body.
Implementation Method 1
The flexibility of the flexible arm allows the release button to be pushed in the proximal direction along the longitudinal axis to at least a first position and a second position
Data Source
AI summary
The present disclosure provides a power pack for a medicament delivery device. The power pack includes a tubular body with a first protrusion and a first contact surface, and a release button with a flexible arm including a second protrusion with a second contact surface and a third protrusion with a third contact surface. In a first position, the first and second contact surfaces abut and prevents the release button from falling out of the tubular body. When the release button is pushed to activate the power pack, the first and third contact surfaces abut and prevents the release button from returning back to its original position. A corresponding release button, a tubular body and a medicament delivery device are also provided.