Modular Dial Grip for Injection Devices

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Solution Overview

Problem

Current injection devices lack a versatile and user-friendly dial grip mechanism that allows for easy dose selection and replacement, particularly for self-administration by patients, with existing solutions often limited in functionality and ease of use.

Innovation Solution

A dial grip system comprising a grip base, handling part, and clutch for engagement with the injection device's dosage selection and expelling mechanism, featuring a movable locking lever for secure attachment and detachment of a grip top with additional features like guide grooves and retention springs for enhanced functionality and user convenience.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Ease of manufacture

If a basic dummy dial grip is provided for shipping and basic functionality, then manufacturing cost and simplicity are improved, but functionality and user experience are limited

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvemanufacturing simplicityVSAvoidfunctionality
Core Design Contradiction:
Ease of manufactureVSAdaptability or versatility

Solution Approach 1:

The dial grip is divided into separate modular components: a basic dummy dial grip provided with the injection device, and optional grip tops that can be attached later. This segmentation allows the basic unit to be manufactured simply while enabling enhanced functionality through add-on components.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The dummy dial grip is designed as a universal base that can accommodate multiple different grip tops with various functionalities (dose recording, connectivity features, comfort enhancements). This multi-functionality approach allows a single basic structure to support diverse functional requirements.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

2Adaptability or versatility

If a releasable attachment mechanism is implemented for grip tops, then adaptability and replaceability are improved, but device complexity increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvegrip top replaceabilityVSAvoidattachment mechanism complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The attachment mechanism is segmented into simple complementary features: a recess in the dummy dial grip and corresponding protrusions on grip tops. This segmentation creates a straightforward connection system that is easy to manufacture and use.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The recess-protrusion interface acts as an intermediary mechanism that simplifies the connection between the dummy dial grip and grip tops. This intermediary structure provides secure attachment without requiring complex fastening systems.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

3Reliability

If locking levers are added to prevent unauthorized dose selection during shipping, then security and reliability are improved, but ease of operation decreases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvedose selection securityVSAvoiddial grip usability
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSEase of operation

Solution Approach 1:

The locking levers are pre-positioned in a locked state during shipping to prevent unauthorized dose selection. When the grip top is attached, the locking mechanism is automatically or easily disengaged, transitioning from a secured shipping state to an operational user state.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #10Preliminary action

Solution Approach 2:

The locking levers serve as an intermediary security mechanism that can be easily activated or deactivated. They provide security during shipping but do not permanently impede operation, as they can be readily disengaged when the device is ready for use.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

Data Source

PatentUS20230191038A1A dial grip for an injection device
Publication Date: 2023.06.22 SANOFI SA(FR)
  • US20230191038A1 patent drawing
  • US20230191038A1 patent drawing
  • US20230191038A1 patent drawing

AI summary

A dial grip of an injection device comprises a grip base, an handling part provided on one side of the grip base, and clutch being provided on the other side of the grip base for releasable engagement with a dose selecting part of a dosage selection and expelling mechanism of the injection device to couple the grip base to the dosage selection and expelling mechanism for selecting and expelling a dosage with the dial grip.