Retractable Needle Syringe with Unitary Propellant Release
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing pneumatically actuated medical devices, such as retractable needle syringes, face challenges in safe and efficient needle retraction mechanisms, with risks of accidental exposure to communicable diseases and complexity in construction, leading to a need for improved propellant release systems that facilitate easier and less expensive manufacturing.
Innovation Solution
A modular retractable needle assembly with a unitary propellant release structure, where a seal is ruptured by a post-injection force to release propellant, enabling full needle retraction and integration with a syringe barrel, reducing manufacturing complexity and enhancing safety by eliminating sharp hazards.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a traditional cap-based covering system is used for the needle, then the device structure remains simple, but the risk of accidental needle exposure and disease transmission increases
Solution Approach 1:
The needle assembly is designed to dynamically change its state from extended to retracted position automatically after injection. The spring mechanism stores energy during injection and releases it to retract the needle, transforming a static safety problem into a dynamic automated solution that eliminates manual capping risks.
Solution Approach 2:
The needle retraction system performs the safety function automatically without requiring user intervention. The spring-driven mechanism self-activates after injection based on pressure differential, making the system self-servicing for the safety function and eliminating the need for manual cap application by the user.
2Reliability
If a pneumatically actuated retraction system is implemented, then needle retraction reliability improves, but the manufacturing complexity and cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
The injection and retraction functions are merged into a single integrated system. The same spring mechanism that drives needle extension during injection automatically reverses to drive retraction, combining two opposite functions into one unified mechanical system that simplifies manufacturing compared to separate actuation systems.
Solution Approach 2:
The system utilizes pressure parameter changes to control needle position. During injection, positive pressure extends the needle; after injection, pressure equalization allows the spring to retract the needle. This parameter-based control eliminates complex electrical or pneumatic actuation systems while maintaining reliability.
3Device complexity
If multiple separate components are used for propellant release, then the release mechanism is simple, but the device assembly complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The propellant release structure is merged with the needle hub assembly. The frangible seal is integrated into the hub, and the propellant chamber is formed as part of the hub structure, eliminating separate components and simplifying assembly while maintaining the necessary release functionality.
Solution Approach 2:
The needle hub serves multiple functions: it retains the needle during injection, contains the propellant chamber, houses the frangible seal, and provides the release mechanism. This multi-functional design eliminates the need for separate components for each function, reducing assembly complexity.
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 modular design simplifies the manufacturing process, ensures safe and efficient needle retraction, and reduces the risk of accidental exposure to bodily fluids, while providing a cost-effective solution for pneumatically actuated medical devices.
Implementation Method 1
a seal sealingly engaged over the propellant chamber to seal a propellant in the propellant chamber... the rupturing member being moveable in the distal direction in response to the application of a post-injection force to the plunger by a user to rupture the seal and thereby release propellant into the upper chamber
Implementation Method 2
enabling full needle retraction... where a seal is ruptured by a post-injection force to release propellant
Data Source
AI summary
A modular retractable needle assembly having a unitary propellant release structure is provided. The modular retractable needle assembly can be coupled to a suitable syringe. A modular filler needle can be provided that is engageable to the syringe. Kits comprising the modular retractable needle assembly, one or more syringes, and a modular filler needle are provided.