Motor Assembly Sensor Capture for Insulin Plunger Control
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing insulin delivery systems, particularly those using external pump-type devices, can be traumatic for patients due to the manual insertion of needles, and there is a need for a more efficient and less invasive method to manage insulin delivery, especially in conjunction with glucose monitoring systems.
Innovation Solution
A sensor system comprising a drive shaft, engagement member, motor, detectable feature, sensors, and circuitry that allows for precise control of a plunger arm to deliver insulin, with a rotary member and sensors to detect movement, enabling automated and controlled insulin delivery.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Object-affected harmful factors
If manual needle insertion is used for insulin delivery, then the device structure is simple, but the patient experiences trauma and discomfort
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces the manual mechanical needle insertion process with an automated motor-driven needle insertion mechanism. The motor assembly includes a motor, drive shaft, engagement member, and sensor system that automatically positions and inserts the needle into the patient's body, eliminating the need for manual insertion and reducing patient trauma.
Solution Approach 2:
The needle insertion system is designed to be self-operating through the motor assembly and sensor feedback system. The sensors detect the position of the needle and provide feedback to the control system, which automatically adjusts the motor to complete the insertion process without requiring manual intervention from the user.
2Ease of operation
If automated motor-driven needle insertion is implemented, then patient trauma is reduced, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The motor assembly is divided into distinct functional modules: the motor unit, drive shaft mechanism, engagement member, and sensor system. This segmentation allows each component to perform its specific function independently while working together as an integrated system, making the overall complex system manageable and maintainable.
Solution Approach 2:
The motor assembly serves multiple functions: it drives the needle insertion, positions the plunger for insulin delivery, and works in conjunction with the sensor system to provide automated control. This multi-functionality reduces the need for separate mechanisms for each operation, thereby managing device complexity while improving ease of operation.
3Measurement precision
If sensors and detectable features are added to the motor assembly, then positioning precision is improved, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The sensor system provides real-time feedback on the position of the needle and plunger to the control system. The detectable features on the drive shaft and engagement member are detected by the sensors, which send signals back to the controller to adjust the motor operation, ensuring precise positioning and delivery accuracy.
4Manufacturing precision
If integrated motor and sensor system is used for insulin delivery, then delivery precision is improved, but manufacturing complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The device is designed with separable modules including the motor assembly, sensor system, needle mechanism, and insulin reservoir. This segmentation allows each module to be manufactured and tested independently before final assembly, reducing manufacturing complexity while maintaining delivery precision through the integrated operation of the segmented components.
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 system provides a less traumatic and more efficient method for insulin delivery, allowing for precise control and automation, enhancing patient comfort and the integration with glucose monitoring systems for closed-loop insulin management.
Implementation Method 1
A sensor system and method for a motor assembly is disclosed. The motor assembly may include a drive shaft, an engagement member supported on the drive shaft, a motor configured to drive the drive shaft and the engagement member supported on the drive shaft, a detectable feature, and at least one sensor arranged to detect a state of the detectable feature
Data Source
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AI summary
A motor may be configured to drive a drive shaft and an engagement member supported on the drive shaft. A detectable feature comprising a rotary member may be supported on the drive shaft such that movement of the drive shaft by the motor changes a state of the detectable feature. At least one sensor may be arranged to detect the state of the detectable feature. Circuitry may be configured to provide a signal in response to a change in the state of the detectable feature detected by the at least one sensor.