Medication Delivery Device Reset Mechanism Using Resilient Member
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Solution Overview
Problem
Medication delivery devices require an easy and unambiguous method to reset the drive mechanism when a new cartridge is inserted, while being cost-effective and user-friendly, especially for those with impaired dexterity.
Innovation Solution
A medication delivery device with a reset mechanism that utilizes a resilient member to switch between operational and resetting states, allowing the conversion element to rotate freely, enabling easy resetting by moving the piston rod in the proximal direction, and fulfilling dual functionalities of engaging drive assembly members and disengaging the coupling means from the conversion element.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If a reset mechanism is added to enable easy resetting of the drive mechanism, then ease of operation is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The resilient member is designed to perform multiple functions: it provides force for engagement of drive assembly members during normal operation and simultaneously provides force for disengagement of the coupling means from the conversion element during resetting. This multi-functionality allows the reset mechanism to be implemented without adding separate dedicated components, thereby improving ease of operation while minimizing the increase in device complexity.
Solution Approach 2:
The resilient member automatically provides the necessary force for disengagement during resetting without requiring additional actuation mechanisms. When the coupling means is released from the conversion element, the resilient member's stored energy automatically drives the disengagement process, making the reset mechanism self-activating and reducing the need for complex control systems.
2Ease of operation
If additional components are added to facilitate resetting, then ease of operation is improved, but manufacturing cost increases
Solution Approach 1:
The resilient member is designed to perform multiple functions: it provides force for engagement of drive assembly members during normal operation and simultaneously provides force for disengagement of the coupling means from the conversion element during resetting. This multi-functionality allows the reset mechanism to be implemented without adding separate dedicated components, thereby improving ease of operation while minimizing the increase in device complexity.
Solution Approach 2:
The function of providing engagement force and resetting force is merged into a single resilient member rather than using separate components. This consolidation reduces the total number of parts that need to be manufactured, assembled, and quality-checked, thereby reducing manufacturing costs while still providing the required ease of operation for resetting.
3Ease of operation
If the resilient member provides force for disengagement during resetting, then ease of operation is improved, but force requirements during normal operation increase
Solution Approach 1:
The resilient member is designed to be dynamically active, providing force only when needed for disengagement during resetting. During normal operation, the system operates in a stable engaged state where the resilient member's force is balanced or inactive. The dynamic nature of the resilient member allows it to deliver high force temporarily during resetting without requiring continuously high force during normal operation, thus improving ease of resetting without permanently increasing force requirements.
Solution Approach 2:
The resilient member provides disengagement force periodically only during resetting operations rather than continuously during all operations. This periodic action allows the resilient member to be optimized for high-force temporary disengagement events while maintaining normal operational force requirements at acceptable levels, improving ease of resetting without unnecessarily increasing overall force requirements.
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 solution provides a smooth and cost-effective reset action, suitable for all users, particularly those with impaired dexterity, without the need for additional components, ensuring safe and correct handling of the device.
Implementation Method 1
a resilient member adapted to provide a force on the drive assembly for engagement of the drive assembly members
Implementation Method 2
in the resetting state of the device the coupling means is disengaged from the conversion element on the force of the resilient member
Data Source
Figure 1
Figure 2~3
Figure 4~5
AI summary
A medication delivery device (1) is provided which is switchable between an operational state and a resetting state and which comprises a housing (13) having a proximal end (8) and a distal end (7), a piston rod (12) being moveable in a distal direction with respect to the housing (13) for medication delivery, a conversion element (38) adapted to at least partially convert a rotational movement of the piston rod (12) into an axial movement of the piston rod (12), coupling means (39) prevented from rotational movement with respect to the housing (13) and adapted to engage with the conversion element (38) in the operational state, a drive assembly (3) comprising at least two drive assembly members and adapted for moving the piston rod (12) in the distal direction, and a resilient member (31) adapted to provide a force on the drive assembly (3) for engagement of the drive assembly members. In the operational state of the device (1) the coupling means (39) is engaged with the conversion element (38), the conversion element (38) thereby being prevented from rotation with respect to the housing (13). In the resetting state of the device (1) the coupling means (39) is disengaged from the conversion element (38) under force of the resilient member (31), the conversion element (38) thereby being allowed to rotate with respect to the housing (13) and thereby allowing a resetting of the device (1).