Sterile Syringe Packaging With Deformable Ejection Projection
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing medical device packaging requires direct handling, which can lead to contamination and compromise sterility, especially for pre-filled syringes, and jeopardize dose accuracy, particularly for ophthalmic syringes with small doses.
Innovation Solution
A packaging design featuring a deformable projection, such as a dome-shaped feature, that allows the syringe to be ejected without direct user contact by flexing the packaging, combined with a gas-permeable cover for external sterilization.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If direct handling of the syringe is used to remove it from packaging, then ease of operation is improved, but sterility is compromised and contamination risk increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces an intermediary mechanism (the deformable projection) that mediates between the user and the syringe. The user interacts with the projection rather than the syringe itself, and the projection transfers the ejection force to the syringe indirectly, preventing direct contact and potential contamination
Solution Approach 2:
The packaging system provides self-service functionality through the deformable projection that enables the syringe to be ejected automatically when pressure is applied. The system serves itself by incorporating the ejection mechanism within the packaging structure, eliminating the need for manual handling of the syringe
2Ease of operation
If direct handling of the syringe is used during removal, then ease of operation is improved, but dose accuracy is jeopardized
Solution Approach 1:
The deformable projection acts as an intermediary that transfers ejection force to the syringe without requiring direct manual manipulation. This prevents accidental bumps or movements that could displace the plunger and compromise dose accuracy, while still enabling easy removal
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces the manual mechanical handling system with a controlled deformation mechanism. Instead of directly grasping and manipulating the syringe, the user deforms the projection which then mechanically ejects the syringe in a controlled manner, preserving dose accuracy
3Object-affected harmful factors
If the packaging is designed with a deformable projection for ejection, then sterility is maintained, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs a flexible deformable projection made from elastomeric material within the packaging structure. This flexible element provides the necessary ejection functionality while maintaining a relatively simple overall packaging design, avoiding the need for complex mechanical mechanisms
Solution Approach 2:
The packaging utilizes changes in the physical state and properties of the deformable projection material (elastomeric properties) to enable ejection functionality. By selecting materials with appropriate elasticity and deformability, the system achieves sterility maintenance without requiring complex mechanical structures
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 design minimizes direct handling, maintains sterility, and ensures dose accuracy by allowing sterile syringes to be removed without contamination, reducing risks of infection and accidental discharge.
Implementation Method 1
The projection may be made of a deformable material
Implementation Method 2
the removable cover may be permeable to a gaseous sterilant, including one or more of vaporized hydrogen peroxide or ethylene oxide
Data Source
Figure 1
Figure 2
Figure 3A~3B
AI summary
According to one aspect of the disclosure, packaging for a sterile syringe having a nominal size of less than 1 mL may include a flexible tray having a cavity for containing the syringe. The cavity may include an opening, one or more sidewalls, and a base. A lip may surround the opening, may extend radially outward from the cavity, and may define a periphery of the tray. A removable cover may have a periphery that is adhered to the lip, and the removable cover may be permeable to a gaseous sterilant, including one or more of vaporized hydrogen peroxide or ethylene oxide. A projection may be associated with the base of the cavity and may extend away from the base of the cavity in a direction opposite to the opening of the cavity.