Sensor Cartridge with Integrated Sterile Capsule and Insertion Mechanism
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current systems for inserting subcutaneous sensors require an inserter each time a sensor is inserted, and they often use a large volume of packaging, which can be inconvenient and costly.
Innovation Solution
A sensor cartridge with a sterile capsule containing a sensor and an insertion needle, along with a sensor mounting unit and insertion mechanism, allows for easy insertion and mounting of the sensor without the need for individual sharps disposal units, as the needle is protected within the capsule and can be actuated using a simple mechanism such as a bellows or knob.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If a separate inserter is used each time a sensor is inserted, then the sensor can be inserted into the subject, but the device complexity and packaging volume increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines the sensor, insertion needle, and mounting unit into a single integrated cartridge assembly. The sensor is positioned within the cartridge, the needle is pre-attached and protected within the same housing, and the mounting unit with adhesive surface is integrated into the base. This eliminates the need for separate inserters and reduces packaging volume while maintaining ease of operation.
Solution Approach 2:
The cartridge serves multiple functions: it protects the needle during storage and transport, positions the sensor correctly during insertion, provides the mounting interface with adhesive surface, and enables disposal of the needle after use. This multi-functional design replaces what would traditionally require multiple separate devices.
2Reliability
If traditional packaging is used for sensor insertion systems, then the components are protected, but the packaging volume and waste increase
Solution Approach 1:
The protective housing that would traditionally be separate packaging is merged with the functional components to form the cartridge itself. The housing protects the needle and sensor during storage and transport, then becomes part of the insertion device. This eliminates redundant packaging layers and reduces waste.
Solution Approach 2:
The sensor is nested within the cartridge housing, which contains the mounting unit. The entire assembly is compact and self-contained, with each component nested within or attached to another, minimizing the overall volume required for storage and disposal.
3Object-affected harmful factors
If individual sharps disposal units are used for insertion needles, then needle safety is ensured, but the packaging volume and waste increase
Solution Approach 1:
The sharps disposal function is merged with the sensor cartridge housing. After needle insertion, the entire cartridge containing the used needle is disposed of as a single unit. The housing that protected the needle during storage now serves as the disposal container, eliminating the need for separate sharps containers and reducing waste.
Solution Approach 2:
The cartridge housing automatically serves as both the protective case during storage and the disposal container after use. The same structure that protects the needle from injury during storage later contains the used needle for safe disposal, making the system self-sufficient and eliminating additional disposal packaging.
Data Source
AI summary
A sensor cartridge comprising a sterile capsule. The sensor cartridge further comprises a sensor within the sterile capsule. The sensor cartridge further comprises a sensor connector connected to the sensor in an initial position. The sensor cartridge further comprises an insertion needle for inserting the sensor into a subject. The insertion needle is within the sterile capsule. The sensor cartridge further comprises a sensor mounting unit for receiving the sensor connector at a mounted position. The sensor mounting unit comprises an adhesive surface for attaching to an exterior surface of the subject. The sensor cartridge further comprises an insertion mechanism operable for actuating the insertion needle and moving the sensor connector from the initial position to the mounted position.