Spring-Driven Oral Syringe with Color-Coded Dosage Display
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Current medication measuring devices require users to read difficult-to-see graduated scales, leading to potential overdosing and contamination issues, especially in young children, due to the complexity of determining accurate dosages.
Innovation Solution
A medication delivery device with a large, easy-to-read, color-coded display and a spring mechanism that allows for one-handed operation, enabling users to select and administer precise dosages without struggling with small print or contaminating the medicine bottle.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If a graduated scale is used to measure medication, then measurement capability is provided, but the scale is hard to see and difficult to read leading to potential overdosing
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies color-coded dosage indicators (e.g., green, yellow, red zones) to replace or supplement traditional graduated scales. These color zones provide intuitive visual cues for different dosage ranges, making it immediately apparent how much medication should be administered without requiring users to read small numerical markings. The color changes create high-contrast, easily distinguishable dosage guides that eliminate confusion about proper measurement.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent transitions from one-dimensional graduated scales (numerical markings along the barrel) to two-dimensional visual displays featuring large graphical indicators, color-coded zones, and pictorial representations. This dimensional expansion provides multiple visual cues simultaneously, allowing users to grasp the correct dosage at a glance rather than requiring careful reading of linear markings.
2Measurement precision
If a graduated scale is used to measure medication, then measurement capability is provided, but contamination of the medicine bottle occurs due to pouring medicine back
Solution Approach 1:
The device features a spring-loaded plunger mechanism that automatically draws the precise measured dosage from the medication bottle into the syringe barrel when activated. This self-service function eliminates the need for users to manually pour medication back into the bottle to adjust dosages, thereby preventing contamination. The spring mechanism performs the measurement and transfer operation autonomously once the user sets the desired dosage level.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent incorporates preliminary measurement markings and color-coded indicators on the syringe barrel that allow users to set the desired dosage before actually drawing the medication. Users can pre-determine the correct amount needed, then activate the spring mechanism to draw exactly that amount in one action, avoiding the need for multiple pour-and-adjust cycles that cause contamination.
3Device complexity
If manual operation is used to draw and administer medication, then device simplicity is maintained, but two hands are required for operation
Solution Approach 1:
The spring-loaded plunger mechanism serves itself by automatically performing the drawing action when the user releases it after setting the dosage. The user only needs to manipulate the plunger to the desired level with one hand, then the spring takes over to complete the drawing operation. This self-service automation eliminates the need for a second hand to pull or push the plunger during medication administration.
Solution Approach 2:
The spring mechanism operates in periodic cycles: the user sets the dosage position, releases the plunger, the spring draws the medication, then the cycle resets for the next administration. This periodic spring-driven action automates the repetitive drawing motion, allowing one-handed operation while maintaining mechanical simplicity.
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 device reduces the risk of overdosing by providing a clear and accurate method for administering medication, allowing users to confidently select and deliver the correct dosage with ease, using a spring mechanism for efficient operation with one hand.
Implementation Method 1
The syringe also includes a spring that creates a force on the plunger of the syringe
Data Source
AI summary
Embodiments disclosed herein generally describe a medication delivery system. The medication delivery system includes a barrel, a plunger assembly, a dosage selection device, and a force producing element. The plunger assembly is disposed within the barrel. The force producing element can force the plunger assembly from the barrel. The user can select one or two or more dosages with a dosage selection device. The user selects the dosage; then the medication delivery system delivers the same dosage repeatedly. Further, with the force producing element, the user need only depress the plunger assembly into the barrel and does not need to extract the plunger assembly. This allows the user to use only one hand with the medication delivery system.