Reversible Cover Locking for Reusable Medicament Delivery Assemblies

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing medicament delivery devices face challenges in providing a robust and reliable cover assembly for reusable devices, as irreversible locks consume high electric power and are not suitable for reusable or simulation devices.

Innovation Solution

A cover assembly with a bi-directionally movable cover member, utilizing a biasing element and a locking member with an actuator unit, including a solenoid, to lock and unlock the cover in different positions, reducing power consumption and enabling reusable devices.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Reliability

If an irreversible lock is used to restrict bi-directional movement of the cover member, then safety and reliability are improved, but the device cannot be reused or reset

Engineering Contradiction:
ImprovesafetyVSAvoidreusability
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSAdaptability or versatility

Solution Approach 1:

The lock transitions from a static irreversible state to a dynamic reversible state through the introduction of a release mechanism. The cover member can be locked in the first position after use, but can also be unlocked and returned to the second position, enabling the device to be reset and reused multiple times while maintaining safety during operation.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

Solution Approach 2:

Instead of permanently discarding the cover member in a locked state, the invention enables recovery of the cover member to its initial position. The release mechanism allows the cover to be recovered and reused, eliminating the need for disposable components while maintaining safety functionality.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #34Discarding and recovering

2Reliability

If an electromagnetic lock with high electromagnet force is used to prevent retraction movement, then safety is improved, but electric power consumption increases

Engineering Contradiction:
ImprovesafetyVSAvoidelectric power consumption
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSUse of energy by moving object

Solution Approach 1:

The electromagnetic lock operates periodically rather than continuously. It is activated only at specific moments when locking or unlocking is required, rather than maintaining constant high force. This periodic operation dramatically reduces overall power consumption while ensuring safety when needed.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #19Periodic action

Solution Approach 2:

The system uses a release mechanism that can be actuated by the user or automatically triggered, reducing the need for continuous high-power electromagnetic engagement. The mechanical design allows the cover to be held in position with minimal active electromagnetic force.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #25Self-service

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 solution provides a simple and reliable mechanism for covering and uncovering the medicament delivery member, ensuring safety and reducing power consumption, suitable for reusable and simulation devices.

Implementation Method 1

an actuator unit connected to the housing and configured to interact with the free end of the locking member

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectSolenoid: Solenoid

Implementation Method 2

a biasing element arranged between the housing and the cover member and configured to move the cover member

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectElasticity: Elasticity

Data Source

PatentEP4065196B1A cover assembly
Publication Date: 2025.12.10 SHL MEDICAL AG
  • EP4065196B1 patent drawingFigure 1
  • EP4065196B1 patent drawingFigure 2
  • EP4065196B1 patent drawingFigure 3A~3B

AI summary

A cover assembly for covering a medicament delivery member of a medicament container, comprising: a housing extending along a longitudinal axis and having a proximal and a distal end; a cover member bi-directionally movable along the longitudinal axis and in relation to the housing and wherein said cover member comprises a tubular portion arranged to protrude from the proximal end of the housing; a biasing element arranged between the housing and the cover member and configured to move the cover member; a locking member having a fixed end which is pivotally arranged to the housing and a free end which is releasably connected to the cover member; wherein that the cover assembly further comprises: an actuator unit connected to the housing and configured to interact with the free end of the locking member such that the locking member is able to lock and unlock the cover member in different positions.