Medication Delivery Device Reset Mechanism Using Resilient Member
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Solution Overview
Problem
Medication delivery devices require an easy and unambiguous method for resetting the drive mechanism when a new cartridge is inserted, to prevent damage and ensure user safety, especially for those with impaired dexterity, while being cost-effective.
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 for easy reset, thus eliminating the need for additional components and ensuring smooth operation.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If a reset mechanism is added to facilitate easy resetting, then ease of operation is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The resilient member serves dual functions: providing driving force during medication delivery and enabling reset mechanism operation. This multi-functionality allows the reset feature to be integrated without adding separate components, thus improving ease of operation while avoiding increased device complexity
Solution Approach 2:
The reset mechanism is merged with the existing drive assembly by utilizing the resilient member's inherent properties. The coupling means and conversion element are integrated into the existing structure, combining the delivery and reset functions into a unified system rather than adding a separate reset device
2Reliability
If additional components are added for reset functionality, then resetting reliability is improved, but manufacturing cost increases
Solution Approach 1:
The resilient member is designed to perform both driving and resetting functions, eliminating the need for additional components. This approach maintains resetting reliability through proper mechanical design while avoiding increased manufacturing costs associated with extra parts
Solution Approach 2:
The reset mechanism utilizes the resilient member's inherent elastic properties to automatically provide the necessary force for resetting. The system serves itself by using existing components in a dual capacity, avoiding the need for additional powered or actuated elements that would increase manufacturing complexity and cost
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 facilitates easy resetting, enhances user safety, particularly for those with impaired dexterity, and maintains cost-effectiveness by utilizing a resilient member for dual functionalities, ensuring efficient medication delivery.
Implementation Method 1
a resilient member adapted to provide a force on the drive assembly for engagement of the drive assembly members, wherein in the operational state of the device the coupling means is engaged with the conversion element, the conversion element thereby being prevented from rotation with respect to the housing, and 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
AI summary
A medication delivery device is provided which is switchable between an operational state and a resetting state and which comprises a housing having a proximal end and a distal end, a piston rod being moveable in a distal direction with respect to the housing for medication delivery, a conversion element adapted to at least partially convert a rotational movement of the piston rod into an axial movement of the piston rod, coupling means prevented from rotational movement with respect to the housing and adapted to engage with the conversion element in the operational state, a drive assembly comprising at least two drive assembly members and adapted for moving the piston rod in the distal direction, and a resilient member adapted to provide a force on the drive assembly for engagement of the drive assembly members. In the operational state of the device the coupling means is engaged with the conversion element, the conversion element thereby being prevented from rotation with respect to the housing. In the resetting state of the device the coupling means is disengaged from the conversion element under force of the resilient member, the conversion element thereby being allowed to rotate with respect to the housing and thereby allowing a resetting of the device.