Optical Stopper Position Detection in Insulin Cartridges
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current insulin injection apparatuses, such as syringes and pens, require manual skill and frequent maintenance, and lack precision in delivering doses, especially when switching between different types of insulin, and there is a need for accurate determination of the stopper position in cartridges to ensure correct dosing.
Innovation Solution
A method using a light source and a photosensitive sensor surface to determine the position of the stopper in a medicament cartridge within a medical apparatus, employing a data processing unit to convert silhouette data into the stopper's position relative to its travel distance, which is integrated into the apparatus or operated separately, allowing for precise control of insulin delivery.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If manual handling and maintenance methods are used in insulin injection apparatuses, then device complexity is reduced, but measurement precision and reliability of stopper position determination deteriorate
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces manual visual inspection and mechanical position estimation with an optical measurement system. A light source illuminates the cartridge from below, and a photosensitive sensor surface detects the silhouette of the stopper, converting optical information into precise position data electronically, thereby eliminating the need for manual measurement while achieving high precision.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces an optical intermediary system consisting of a light source and photosensitive sensor surface that acts as a mediator between the stopper position and the measurement system. This intermediary converts the physical position of the stopper into optical signals (silhouette detection) that can be processed electronically, enabling precise non-contact measurement without direct mechanical interaction.
2Measurement precision
If optical sensors are used to determine stopper position, then measurement precision improves, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies local quality by positioning the light source and photosensitive sensor surface at specific locations relative to the cartridge - the light source is placed below the cartridge to illuminate it from underneath, and the sensor surface is positioned to receive the transmitted light. This localized arrangement ensures that only the relevant optical path through the cartridge is illuminated and detected, reducing unnecessary optical components and simplifying the overall system while maintaining high measurement precision.
3Reliability
If precise stopper position determination is implemented, then insulin delivery reliability improves, but ease of operation deteriorates due to additional maintenance requirements
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements self-service by enabling the optical measurement system to automatically and continuously monitor the stopper position during insulin delivery without requiring user intervention. The system autonomously determines the position based on silhouette detection, processes the optical signals, and provides feedback control, thereby ensuring reliable insulin delivery while minimizing the operational burden on the user.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent incorporates feedback by using the optical sensor data to continuously monitor stopper position and providing this information back to the control system. This feedback loop enables real-time adjustment and verification of insulin delivery, ensuring that the actual delivery matches the intended dosage, thereby significantly improving reliability while the automation maintains ease of operation.
4Measurement precision
If silhouette-based optical measurement is used, then measurement precision improves, but manufacturing precision requirements worsen
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies local quality by confining the optical measurement to a specific localized area - the light source illuminates only the relevant portion of the cartridge from below, and the photosensitive sensor surface detects silhouettes only in the intended measurement plane. This localized approach reduces the impact of manufacturing tolerances in other parts of the system, as the measurement is confined to a well-defined optical path that can be optimized independently, thereby achieving high measurement precision without requiring extreme manufacturing precision across the entire apparatus.
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 method enables accurate and precise determination of the stopper position, enhancing the reliability and safety of insulin delivery by ensuring the correct amount of insulin is administered, reducing the risk of errors and malfunctions associated with manual handling and maintenance.
Implementation Method 1
by means of a light source and photosensitive sensor surface... a silhouette of the component is generated on the sensor surface by irradiation of the component with light from a)
Implementation Method 2
photosensitive sensor surface... by irradiation of the component with light
Data Source
AI summary
A method for determining a position of a component in a medical apparatus along a travel distance. The method comprising the steps of generating light by a light source; fixing the component movably along a travel distance; providing a photosensitive sensor surface, and generating a silhouette of the component on the sensor surface by irradiating the component with light from the light source. Data relating to the silhouette is converted by a data processing unit into the position of the component along the travel distance. The component whose position is determined may comprise a stopper of a cartridge.