US20090247951A1 - Injection device comprising low-loss drive - Google Patents

Abstract

An injection device including a housing, a delivery element displaceable in relation to the housing, and at least one ball bearing which absorbs forces transmitted between the delivery element and the housing, transmits axial forces from the delivery element to the housing, and is located in a front region of the injection device.

Description

CROSS-REFERENCED RELATED APPLICATIONS
• This application is a continuation of International Patent Application No. PCT/CH2007/000239 filed May 11, 2007, which claims priority to Swiss Patent Application No. 1475/06 filed Sep. 15, 2006, the entire contents of both of which are incorporated herein by reference.
BACKGROUND
• The present invention relates to devices for administering, injecting, delivering, infusing or dispensing a substance, and to methods of making and using such devices. More particularly, it relates to such a device for delivering a fluid product, wherein the device can be developed as an injection device for the injection of an adjustable dose of the product and can take the form of an injection pen, i.e. a compact injection device in pen-like form.
• A large number of injection devices are known from the prior art for the dosed administering of medicaments or therapeutic agents such as insulin, growth hormones or osteoporosis drugs, which must be administered regularly. Such devices are on the one hand intended to reliably and precisely deliver a dose which is able to be pre-set. On the other hand, they are intended to be user-friendly to a high degree. This applies all the more because they are generally operated by a person for self-administration.
• The medicament can be housed in an exchangeable carpule (which also may be thought of and/or referred to as an ampoule, receptacle, container or reservoir), which is able to be inserted into a carpule holder. The latter can then be associated with or fastened to a housing of the injection device, e.g. by a screw connection or a bayonet connection. For distribution, a product stopper or piston in the carpule is pushed forward (toward the needle associated with the injection device) by a delivery arrangement with a delivery element in the form of a piston rod.
• Compact, pen-shaped administering devices are known, in which the distribution takes place automatically after a first triggering (e.g. “power-assisted pens”). The dose in such devices is generally pre-set by a rotation of a dosing button. A drive is present in the device, e.g. a spring drive, which is tensioned on setting of the dose. The device is triggered by pressing a triggering arrangement, which can be identical to the dosing button. In so doing, the drive generates a drive movement, e.g. in the form of a rotary movement, which is converted into an advancing movement of the piston rod. In the case of a drive by a rotary movement, the piston rod may be constructed as a threaded rod on which a drive nut runs. Examples of such injection pens are disclosed in DE-A 10 2004 063 644, DE-A 10 2004 063 647, WO-A 2004/002556 and DE-A 102 29 122.
• In automatic injection devices a relatively powerful rotary drive is necessary for reliable administering, e.g. to reliably overcome the opposing forces which are acting during the administering. Therefore, a very great force must be applied by the user, when he sets the dose and thereby pre-stresses the drive. In manually actuated pens, e.g. in pens in which the thrust of an actuating means, which is to be pressed into the pen by the user, is converted via a first thread engagement initially into a rotary movement and this rotary movement is in turn converted via a second thread engagement into the thrust of the piston rod, the problem likewise exists that the user must apply a very great force to overcome the opposing forces.
SUMMARY
• It is, therefore, one object of the present invention to provide an administering device in which such opposing or “intrusive” forces are reduced.
• In one embodiment, the present invention comprises an injection device comprising a housing, a delivery element displaceable relative to the housing, and at least one ball bearing in a forward region of the injection device to transmit axial forces from the delivery element to the housing.
• In one embodiment, the present invention comprises an injection device comprising a housing and a delivery element, the latter being displaceable in relation to the housing. To minimize frictional losses, the device has at least one ball bearing, which absorbs forces that are transmitted between the delivery element and the housing. In some preferred embodiments, the ball bearing transmits axial forces from the delivery element to the housing, and or is located in a distal region of the injection device to save space.
• In one embodiment according to the present invention, a device for the administering of a fluid product comprises a housing and a delivery element which, for delivering the product, is movable out of a reservoir relative to the housing. The device further comprises at least one ball bearing which absorbs forces transmitted between the delivery element and the housing. By a ball bearing being provided, frictional losses which are caused during the administering owing to the transmission of forces between the delivery element and the housing, are largely minimized.
• In some embodiments, the device comprises at least one rotatable element cooperating with the delivery element, and a drive arrangement for generating a rotary movement of the rotatable element relative to the housing, with the rotary movement of the rotatable element bringing about a (e.g linear) thrust movement of the delivery element along the thrust axis in a distal direction, e.g. by a threaded engagement, which is not locking. In this case, the ball bearing is arranged such that it absorbs (axial) forces acting along the thrust axis, which are transmitted from the delivery element (locked with respect to rotation relative to the housing) via the rotatable element to the housing, i.e. which act between the rotatable element and the housing. Expressed in general terms, axial forces, e.g. acting in proximal direction, are therefore transmitted between the delivery element and the housing via a rotatable connection which is secure with respect to displacement in axial direction. For this, in the prior art generally, a sliding connection is provided between the rotatable element and the housing or an element which is fixed to the housing. In the present invention, on the other hand, at least one ball bearing is provided, which, in some preferred embodiments, is arranged between the rotatable element or an element connected therewith on the one hand, and the housing or an element which is fixed to the housing at least during the administering, on the other hand. Thereby, frictional losses during the rotation of the rotatable element can be avoided.
• In some preferred embodiments, two ball bearings are present, which are arranged so that they can absorb forces along the thrust axis both in the proximal direction and also in the distal direction opposite thereto, i.e. the direction in which the thrust takes place. Axial forces in the proximal direction occur generally during the administering, whereas axial forces in the distal direction can occur when the delivery element is spring-loaded in the distal direction, as may be the case in some preferred embodiments. The spring serving for this is sufficiently weak that it does not cause any ejection of the product out of the reservoir. Rather, it serves, in a change of reservoir, to automatically bring the delivery element into its distal final position, i.e. to extend it completely, when the reservoir is removed from the housing. When the delivery element is in a suitable connection with the rotatable element, this leads to the rotatable element being set into a rotation when the delivery element moves out due to the spring force. To keep the spring force, which is necessary for this, small, a ball bearing is advantageous, because with the extending of the delivery element, it minimizes the frictional forces acting then.
• In some preferred embodiments, a device in accordance with the present invention can be developed as follows: The delivery element is constructed in a sleeve or cylindrical shape with a proximal (rear) and a distal (front or forward) end and has an internal thread. The delivery element is guided along the thrust direction so as to be locked against relative rotation with respect to the housing. It is movable (axially) between a proximal and a distal final position along the thrust direction. The rotatable element has an external thread which cooperates with the internal thread of the delivery element. In this way, a thread on the outer side of the delivery element can be avoided, and the peripheral surface of the delivery element can be smooth or developed in any other desired manner. On the one hand, this offers advantages in the cleaning of the delivery element, because a smooth peripheral surface, as is well-known, is easier to clean than a thread. On the other hand, a smooth peripheral surface makes possible a simple sealing between the delivery element and a part surrounding the delivery element radially, to achieve a seal between the exterior of the delivery element and the interior of the housing. A delivery element which an internal thread makes possible an exterior configuration of the delivery element which has a less “technical” effect for the patient than a threaded rod, and which therefore helps to increase the acceptance of the injection device. Alternatively, the delivery element can, however, also be provided in a known manner with an external thread and can be constructed as an externally threaded rod. The external thread then cooperates with an internal thread of the rotatable element, which is constructed as a drive nut, as is known from the prior art.
• In a preferred embodiment, such a delivery element with an internal thread is surrounded radially at least partially by a guide sleeve with a proximal and a distal end. The length of this guide sleeve corresponds at least to the maximum thrust range of the delivery element, i.e. the distance between the distal and the proximal final position of the delivery element. Close to its distal end, the guide sleeve is connected, at least during the administering, so as to be locked against relative rotation with the housing or with an element fixed to the housing. The delivery element is guided along the thrust direction so as to be locked against relative rotation in the guide sleeve. For this, the delivery element, at least in the region of its proximal end, is in an engagement, locked against relative rotation, with the interior of the guide sleeve, which engagement, however, permits an axial displacement. For this, in the region of the proximal end, an engagement structure, e.g. in the form of several longitudinal ribs, can be constructed projecting radially outwardly from the outer peripheral surface of the delivery element, cooperating with a complementary structure, e.g. in the form of several longitudinal grooves on the inner peripheral surface of the guide sleeve. The device then comprises in addition an outer sleeve with a proximal and a distal end, which in turn radially surrounds the guide sleeve at least partially. Close to its proximal end, this outer sleeve is connected with the rotatable element. Close to its distal end, the outer sleeve is rotatable via the at least one ball bearing and is guided so as to be secured with regard to displacement relative to the guide sleeve.
• Some considerations relating to the embodiment described in the previous paragraph, as well as other preferred embodiments, can be summarized as follows: The delivery element is to be secured against rotation relative to the stationary housing and guided longitudinally. The delivery element is to be able to be formed on its outer side as desired, substantially smooth or otherwise. This means that the delivery element is only guided longitudinally in the region of its proximal end in an element which is locked against relative rotation with respect to the housing. However, this in turn requires that this element, which is locked against relative rotation, is at least long enough that the guiding is also ensured over the entire range of the thrust of the delivery element. To ensure this, a sleeve-like structure of the element which is locked against relative rotation is selected, which is therefore designated as a guide sleeve, with a length of this guide sleeve which corresponds at least to the thrust range of the delivery element. To drive the delivery element, furthermore, the rotatable element is arranged inside the delivery element. So that a thread engagement is ensured over the entire thrust range, the rotatable element extends at least over a length of proximal to distal into the delivery element which corresponds to the thrust range. The available access to the rotatable element exists from the proximal end. A driving of the rotatable element therefore takes place over its proximal end. At the same time, the rotatable element is mounted in any manner relative to an element which is fixed to the housing. This mounting absorbs axial forces, because axial forces are transmitted from the delivery element via the thread engagement to the rotatable element. In fact, a mounting could be provided directly at the proximal end of the rotatable element. However, this would take up a large amount of space in a region which is to be available as far as possible for other functions.
• In some embodiments, it is therefore desirable to reposition the site of the bearing to another location, e.g. as close as possible to one of the ends of the housing. This can be accomplished by the outer sleeve being securely connected with the rotatable element along the outer side of the guide sleeve toward the distal direction. The mounting then takes place between the outer sleeve and the guide sleeve, and namely in the region of the distal end of the outer sleeve. Thereby, a very compact unit is created, the mounting of which, taking up a relatively large amount of space radially, comes to lie in a proximal region, where it is only slightly intrusive, and which makes it possible to accommodate further elements of the injection device in the radial intermediate space between the outer sleeve and the housing. Furthermore, the fact that the outer sleeve (and thus the rotatable element) is mounted on the guide sleeve and not, for instance, on the housing itself, makes it possible that the entire unit of guide sleeve, outer sleeve, mounting, rotatable element and delivery element can be formed so as to be movable systematically with respect to the housing, e.g. in the changeover of a receptacle.
• In one embodiment, the delivery element is sealed so as to be fluid-tight, at least protected against splash water, with respect to the housing or to an element fixed to the housing. Thereby, a penetration of fluids is effectively prevented.
• In some embodiments, a corresponding seal can be constructed directly between the delivery element and the housing. However, it is also conceivable that a first seal is constructed between the delivery element and an element which is movable relative to the housing, and a second seal is constructed between the movable element and the housing. The movable element can be arranged, for example, so that it is only movable when the reservoir is being changed, and is immovable with respect to the housing during the actual administering. In some embodiments, it may be sleeve-shaped or cylindrical.
• In some preferred embodiments, the delivery element has a substantially smooth, cylindrical, circular cylindrical outer wall region, which is surrounded by at least one ring-shaped sealing element. In this way, a simple and efficient sealing can be achieved, as is not possible in the case of the piston rods with external threads of the prior art. The length of the smooth outer wall region corresponds at least to the distance between the distal (forward) final position and the proximal (rear) initial position, between which the delivery element is movable in the course of the administering, to ensure a sealing over this entire region. A “substantially smooth” outer wall region is to be understood to mean a region in which no structures such as threads or grooves are present, which could interfere with an efficient sealing effect. On the other hand, the outer wall region could well have fine structures, e.g. in the range below 100 micrometres, e.g. below 10 micrometres, which are suited to at least not impairing the sealing effect, or even to improving it, e.g. a micro- or nanostructuring. These structures could have a preferred direction or orientation to inhibit a flow of fluids.
• In some preferred embodiments, the at least one ring-shaped sealing element comprises at least one circumferential, flexible sealing lip, which rests on the cylindrical outer wall region and acts in the manner of a windscreen wiper as a stripper. The contact angle between the sealing lip and the outer wall region may be less than 90 degrees. However, it can also be constructed, for example, as a ring with a round or polygonal cross-section.
• In some preferred embodiments, the interior of the housing is sealed in a fluid-tight manner completely with respect to the exterior of the housing, i.e. not only in the region in which the delivery element is guided outwardly, but also in other regions, e.g. in the region of movable dosing- or actuating elements.
• In some preferred embodiments, the delivery element or an element cooperating therewith in a sealing manner can consist of a hydrophobic material or be coated hydrophobically to achieve or improve a sealing effect by helping to avoid a creep by capillary effect.
• In some preferred embodiments, the reservoir is held in a receptacle holder which is able to be fastened to the housing in a detachable manner. On fastening, this receptacle holder is guided with respect to the housing such that relative to the housing it carries out a combined rotary movement about a rotation axis and a translation movement along the rotation axis. The device then further comprises a spring element and a detent element. These elements are arranged such that the spring element produces a spring force onto the detent element acting substantially along the rotation axis. The detent element thereby brings about in a predetermined holding position of the receptacle holder a detachable detent connection, by which the receptacle holder is fixed relative to the housing. For this, for example, a projection of the detent element can project into a depression of the receptacle holder or of an element which is locked against relative rotation with respect thereto. A reverse arrangement is also conceivable. The detent connection is configured so that it is able to be detached again through a movement of the receptacle holder relative to the housing which is opposed to the movement on fastening, i.e. the detent connection does not need to be unlocked manually.
• Therefore, in some preferred embodiments, a connection in the manner of a screw or bayonet connection is provided between the receptacle holder and the housing or between elements connected with these. In conventional bayonet connections between two elements, generally an element with a bayonet pin is guided in a suitably formed slit or in a corresponding groove in the manner of a connecting link guide of the other element, until the bayonet pin reaches a final position (corresponding to the holding position). In such connections, the problem exists of avoiding an unintentional sliding back of the pin out of the final position. A similar problem also occurs in screw connections which are fixed by a clamping force and which can likewise become detached unintentionally. The present development addresses this problem by, in some embodiments, providing an axially spring-loaded (and axially movable) detent element. Such a detent element ensures a defined fixing of the receptacle holder in the holding position, without there being the risk of an unintentional detachment. The connection is only detachable again by overcoming a sufficiently great force. Thus, an abrasion which could lead to a wearing out of the connection is avoided. By the detent element being spring-loaded into the axial direction, a simple and space-saving development of the detent element and of the spring element is made possible.
• Generally, the receptacle will be a container with a cylindrical wall region and with a stopper which is displaceable therein, a so-called carpule or ampoule, which defines a longitudinal direction and is housed in a receptacle holder with a correspondingly elongated form. In some embodiments, when fastening on or being loaded in the housing, the receptacle holder is rotated about this longitudinal direction, i.e. the rotation axis coincides with the longitudinal axis. For the administering of the product, the stopper is advanced by the delivery element along the longitudinal direction. Expressed more generally, the thrust direction of the delivery element therefore corresponds to a direction along the rotation axis about which the receptacle holder is rotated during its fastening.
• Various possibilities exist for the arrangement of the spring- and detent element. According to one preferred development, the detent element is locked against relative rotation with respect to the housing and in the detent position it is detachably engaged with an element which is locked against relative rotation with respect to the receptacle holder. In other words, the detent element does not follow the rotation of the receptacle holder, but remains locked against relative rotation with respect to the housing on fastening of the receptacle holder. However, the reverse arrangement is also conceivable, in which the detent element is locked against relative rotation with respect to the receptacle holder.
• In a preferred embodiment, a device in accordance with the present invention comprises a carrier element which is rotatably arranged relative to the housing. The carrier element is guided with respect to the housing such that on fastening of the receptacle holder on the housing and on detaching the receptacle holder from the housing it is entrained by the receptacle holder and is set into a movement which comprises a rotary movement about the rotation axis. In the holding position of the receptacle holder, the detent element then brings about a detachable detent connection, by which the carrier element is fixed relative to the housing. This, in turn, then holds the receptacle holder. The receptacle holder is therefore fixed indirectly, via the carrier element, relative to the housing. Thereby, a greater freedom is made possible in the design of the receptacle holder and of the detent element and spring element.
• In one embodiment of the present invention, the injections device comprises a guide element which is arranged locked against relative rotation with respect to the housing, which guide element can be constructed as a guide sleeve. This guide element can be rigidly connected with the housing, can be produced integrally therewith, or it can be displaceable axially with respect to the housing. The carrier element, which can likewise be formed as a sleeve and can be thought of or designated as a bayonet sleeve, is connected at least rotatably with the guide element. In some preferred embodiments, the spring element and the detent element are arranged locked against relative rotation with respect to the guide element, and in the holding position of the receptacle holder the detent element is engaged detachably with the carrier element. The guide element can be connected so as to be axially displaceable with respect to the housing and the carrier element can be connected rotatably, but axially secure as regards displacement, with the guide element. Through this configuration, it is made possible that further parts of the device, arranged in the housing, which are connected with the guide element, are displaced axially when the receptacle holder is mounted on the housing. Thereby, the administering device can be automatically reset on detaching of the receptacle holder and, on fastening of the receptacle holder, it can be brought into a state ready for operation again. It is possible in this way, on detaching of the receptacle holder, to move the interior of the device (e.g. the drive arrangement and if applicable a triggering arrangement connected therewith) in a distal direction, so that the triggering arrangement, which can be formed as a push button, is drawn into the housing and thus indicates that the device is not ready for operation.
• In some preferred embodiments, the carrier element is guided with respect to the housing such that, on fastening of the receptacle holder to the housing, it is entrained by the receptacle holder and is set into a combined rotational movement relative the housing about the rotation axis and translation movement along the rotation axis in a proximal direction.
• In some preferred embodiments, the carrier element is moveable between two defined final positions, and the detent element brings about, in both positions, a detachable detent connection by which the carrier element is fixed relative to the housing. The carrier element assumes its first final position when the receptacle holder assumes its holding position, and it assumes its second final position when the receptacle holder is removed from the housing. The detent element is detachably engaged both in the first final position and also in the second final position directly with the carrier element.
• In some embodiments, the carrier element is preferably guided in at least one guide slit relative to the housing, i.e. on the actual housing itself or on an element which is fixed to the housing, e.g. by one or more corresponding pins. Likewise, on fastening to the housing, the receptacle holder is guided in at least one guide slit, in the manner of a bayonet connection, relative to the housing.
• In some preferred embodiments, the detent element is constructed in the form of a ring which extends around the rotation axis and around the thrust element. Suitable detent noses can be constructed on the ring. This detent element can be axially spring-loaded by a separate spring element. This may be, for example, a helical spring which is subjected to pressure, or another type of elastic element. In some preferred embodiments, the spring element has the form of a ring which extends around the rotation axis and is curved about an axis perpendicularly to the rotation axis, so that the spring force is produced by a compressing of the spring element along the rotation axis.
• In some preferred embodiments, the detent element is constructed integrally with the spring element. The detent element can be constructed as a projection, protruding in the direction of the rotation axis, on the spring element. This is advantageous when the spring element, as described above, has the form of a curved ring.
• In a preferred embodiment, an administering device in accordance with the present invention comprises a delivery arrangement for delivering the product from a reservoir, wherein the delivery arrangement comprises a rotatable input member and a delivery element which is movable along a thrust axis, which delivery element is able to be driven, in particular is able to be advanced linearly, due to a rotation of the input member, a drive arrangement for producing a drive rotational movement about the thrust axis relative to the housing, wherein the drive arrangement is able to be tensioned by a tensioning rotational movement, a rotatable dosing arrangement for setting a dose of the product which is to be administered and for tensioning the drive arrangement, and a triggering arrangement, which is movable from a position of rest into a triggering position for triggering an administering.
• In some embodiments, the device comprises two couplings. Each of the couplings can assume a coupled and an uncoupled position. A first coupling is formed between the drive arrangement and the input member of the delivery arrangement. In a coupled position of this coupling, the drive arrangement and the input member of the delivery arrangement are connected with each other so as to be locked against relative rotation, whereas in an uncoupled position these parts are detached from each other. A second coupling is formed between the dosing arrangement and the drive arrangement. In a coupled position of this coupling, the dosing arrangement and the drive arrangement are connected with each other so as to be locked against relative rotation and in an uncoupled position they are detached from each other.
• In some embodiments, the couplings are operable by the triggering arrangement. In the position of rest of the triggering arrangement, the first coupling assumes its uncoupled position and the second coupling its coupled position. In this way, a rotation of the dosing arrangement is able to be transmitted to the drive arrangement, but not to the delivery arrangement. Thereby, a tensioning of the drive arrangement is made possible by a rotation of the dosing arrangement without, in so doing, the delivery arrangement being moved. The dosing arrangement is able to be fixed detachably to be secure with regard to torque with respect to the housing, e.g. by a ratchet connection, e.g. an elastically detachable detent connection in at least one direction (the dosing direction) by rotation of the dosing arrangement, which detent connection engages in several predefined angle positions.
• A movement of the triggering arrangement from the position of rest into the triggering position brings about firstly a coupling of the first coupling and thereafter or simultaneously an uncoupling of the second coupling. The coupling of the first coupling causes the drive arrangement to be coupled with the delivery arrangement. However, no drive movement is possible yet, because the drive arrangement is still held by the second coupling by the dosing arrangement. Only after the second coupling is uncoupled is the drive arrangement released, and the resulting drive movement is able to be transmitted to the delivery arrangement. In some preferred embodiments, the two couplings are uncoupled in a state in which the receptacle holder is detached from the housing. This is achieved by a proximal displacement of an axially displaceable guide element, as was described above.
• One embodiment of an injection device in accordance with the present invention therefore makes possible a defined interaction of the dosing arrangement, the drive arrangement and the delivery arrangement. By the first coupling being firstly coupled and the second coupling only then being released, undefined operating states are avoided, in which one of the arrangements is rotatable without this having any effect on the operation of the device. Furthermore, the movement sequences are simplified, because only two movement phases are necessary to trigger an administering.
• In embodiments wherein the dosing arrangement is able to be fixed by a ratchet connection relative to the housing, this is constructed as a double slip coupling which makes possible a manual rotation of the dosing arrangement relative to the housing both in a first direction of rotation to increase the dose which is to be administered and also in an opposite direction of rotation, to reduce the dose. In this way, a simple dose correction is possible. For this, the ratchet connection has a spring-loaded toothing between an element which is locked against relative rotation with respect to the dosing arrangement and an element which is locked against relative rotation with respect to the housing. As this toothing must absorb the torque of the drive arrangement in the tensioned state of the injection device, the toothing (and/or teeth are) is formed asymmetrically, so that for a detachment of the ratchet connection on turning back the dosing arrangement contrary to the dosing direction a greater torque is necessary than for a releasing of the connection in the dosing direction. As a whole, it can thus be achieved that the user of the injection device when increasing the dose and in the case of a dose correction must apply a comparable torque.
• In one embodiment, the ratchet connection is formed by an axial toothing of two ratchet elements, i.e. the ratchet connection comprises two ratchet elements which are axially opposite each other, on the end faces of which teeth are constructed. A first of the ratchet elements can be formed as an axially movable ratchet ring which is spring-loaded in the direction of the second ratchet element, the ratchet ring being arranged locked against relative rotation with respect to the dosing element, and the second ratchet element can be connected locked against relative rotation and displacement with respect to the housing. To save space, the ratchet ring can be spring-loaded by a plurality of springs arranged along the periphery of the ratchet ring. A smaller space requirement thereby results than in an embodiment in which the ratchet ring is spring-loaded for example by a helical spring extending around the thrust axis.
• In some embodiments of the present invention, an optional third coupling can be provided. This is constructed between the housing and the delivery arrangement. In a coupled position, the delivery arrangement is connected locked against relative rotation with respect to the housing (directly or via an element which is locked against relative rotation with respect to the housing). Thereby, the third coupling in the coupled position prevents any rotary movement of the delivery arrangement and an unintentional administering of the product which is caused thereby. In an uncoupled position, on the other hand, the delivery arrangement and the housing are detached from each other, so that a movement of the delivery arrangement and hence an administering of the product becomes possible. In the position of rest of the triggering arrangement, the third coupling assumes its coupled position and thus prevents an unintentional movement of the delivery arrangement. A movement of the triggering arrangement from the position of rest into the triggering position firstly brings about a coupling of the first coupling, thereafter an uncoupling of the second coupling and finally an uncoupling of the third coupling. Thereby, the third coupling constitutes an effective security against an unintentional administering, which is then only released when the device is otherwise completely ready to bring about an administering.
• In some embodiments, an administering takes place by the triggering arrangement being pushed axially with respect to the housing in a distal direction. For this, the triggering arrangement is movable along the thrust axis between the position of rest and the triggering position. Each of the couplings comprises a coupling input member and a coupling output member. The triggering arrangement, through its axial displacement along the thrust axis, brings about a relative displacement of these members, whereby these are brought into engagement or out of engagement with respect to each other. The triggering arrangement is constructed as a push button which is able to be pushed into the housing along the thrust axis. This is retracted into the housing when the receptacle holder is detached from the housing. However, it is also conceivable that the triggering arrangement comprises, for example, a sleeve which surrounds the proximal end of the housing at least partially along the peripheral direction.
• In some embodiments, each of the couplings is formed by longitudinal grooves and longitudinal ribs on radial inner or outer surfaces of the respective coupling input member or coupling output member. These longitudinal grooves and longitudinal ribs can be brought into and out of engagement in the manner of a groove-and-tongue connection by reciprocal longitudinal displacement of the coupling input members and coupling output members. Such an arrangement is space-saving compared with other conceivable forms, e.g. teeth on the end face or oblique toothings or toothed regions, and it makes it possible that a coupling input member extends in the proximal and distal directions beyond the corresponding coupling output member.
• In a preferred embodiment, the entire drive arrangement is arranged to be displaceable along the thrust axis, so that the movement of the triggering arrangement from the position of rest to the triggering position brings about a distal displacement of the drive arrangement out of its initial position. This makes possible a compact injection device. In some preferred embodiments, the drive arrangement is spring-loaded along the thrust axis in proximal direction to ensure an automatic return of the drive arrangement into its initial position at the end of an administering. Further springs for this purpose can be dispensed with, because the spring-loaded drive arrangement at the same time also pushes the triggering arrangement back to the position of rest.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
• FIG. 1A is a perspective exploded view of an exemplary embodiment of an injection device according to the present invention;
• FIG. 1B is a detail view of a surface structure provided on the thrust sleeve;
• FIG. 2 is a longitudinal section through the injection device ofFIG. 1A;
• FIG. 3 is an enlarged cut-out ofFIG. 2;
• FIG. 4 is a longitudinal section through an arrangement of a guide sleeve and of a coupling sleeve in the injection device ofFIG. 1A;
• FIG. 5A is a top view onto a ball bearing ring;
• FIG. 5B is a sectional view of the ball bearing ring in the plane A-A;
• FIG. 6 is a perspective view of a coupling sleeve;
• FIG. 7 is a longitudinal section through selected parts of the injection device ofFIG. 1A;
• FIG. 8 is a perspective illustration of a bayonet sleeve;
• FIG. 9A is a top view onto a bayonet spring;
• FIG. 9B is a side view of the bayonet spring ofFIG. 9A;
• FIG. 9C is a perspective view of the bayonet spring ofFIG. 9A;
• FIG. 10 is a longitudinal section through selected parts of the injection device ofFIG. 1A;
• FIG. 11A is a longitudinal section through selected parts of the injection device ofFIG. 1A with a dose limiting ring in its final position;
• FIG. 11B is a longitudinal section through selected parts of the injection device ofFIG. 1A with the dose limiting ring in its initial position;
• FIG. 12A is a perspective view of a coupling shaft with a dose limiting ring of the injection device ofFIG. 1A;
• FIG. 12B is the parts ofFIG. 12A in an exploded view;
• FIG. 12C is the coupling shaft ofFIG. 12A in a perspective view from another direction of view;
• FIG. 13 is an exploded view of an arresting sleeve, a coupling spring and a support ring;
• FIG. 14 is a perspective view of selected parts of the injection device ofFIG. 1A;
• FIG. 15 is a perspective exploded view of the proximal end of the injection device ofFIG. 1A;
• FIG. 16 is a longitudinal section through the injection device ofFIG. 1A in the initial position;
• FIG. 17 is the longitudinal section ofFIG. 16 after a first increase of dose up to half the maximum dose;
• FIG. 18 is the longitudinal section ofFIG. 16 after a first increase of dose up to the full maximum dose;
• FIG. 19 is the longitudinal section ofFIG. 16 after a first triggering and a second increase of dose;
• FIG. 20 is a longitudinal section through the injection device ofFIG. 1A after a complete emptying of the carpule;
• FIG. 21 is a longitudinal section through an injection device according to another embodiment.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION
• With regard to fastening, mounting, attaching or connecting components of the present invention, unless specifically described as otherwise, conventional mechanical fasteners and methods may be used. Other appropriate fastening or attachment methods include adhesives, welding and soldering, the latter particularly with regard to the electrical system of the invention, if any. In embodiments with electrical features or components, suitable electrical components and circuitry, wires, wireless components, chips, boards, microprocessors, inputs, outputs, displays, control components, etc. may be used. Generally, unless otherwise indicated, the materials for making the invention and/or its components may be selected from appropriate materials such as metal, metallic alloys, ceramics, plastics, etc. Generally, unless otherwise indicated, relative positional or orientational terms (e.g., upwardly, downwardly, above, below, etc.) are intended to be descriptive, not limiting.
• FIG. 1A depicts an injection device in the form of an injection pen in a perspective exploded view.FIG. 2 shows the device in longitudinal section. The following description relates to the device in the assembled state, as is illustrated inFIG. 2.
• The injection device has ahousing sleeve20 in which a mechanism is housed for setting and distributing a dose. Thehousing sleeve20 has substantially the form of a circular cylinder and defines a longitudinal axis. A receptacle holder in the form of acarpule sleeve30 is detachably fastened to a distal end of thehousing sleeve20 by a bayonet connection, which is described in further detail below. This receives a receptacle in the form of a carpule40 with a fluid medicament, in which astopper41 is displaceably guided. A medicament reservoir R of changeable volume is thereby delimited inside the carpule. Instead of a carpule, a different receptacle can also be present, the volume of which is changeable, e.g., a receptacle with walls folded in a concertina-like manner in the manner of a bellows. The content of thecarpule40 may be monitored through an elongated viewing window34 in thecarpule sleeve30. Aneedle holder31 is screwed on the distal end of thecarpule sleeve30, which needleholder31 carries a hollow needle (cannula)32, serving as injection needle, the proximal end of which projects through a sealing septum into the medicament reservoir R. A removableneedle protection sleeve33 surrounds the forwardly projecting region of theneedle32 and protects a user from being pricked accidentally. Aprotective sleeve10, the distal end of which is permanently closed by aprotective cap50, is pushed over thecarpule sleeve30. A holdingring11 withdetent arms12 extending in the proximal direction is mounted inside theprotective sleeve10. The ends of thedetent arms12 are detachably engaged with thecarpule sleeve30. The proposed embodiments are described here by an injection device which has aneedle32, but it is also conceivable that the injection device has several needles or no needle, as in a jet injector.
• At the proximal end of thehousing sleeve20, adosing sleeve60 is rotatably arranged with apush button80 held therein. The dosing sleeve serves for the setting of a dose, which is to be distributed from the medicament reservoir R, and for the tensioning of a drive arrangement with a drive element in the form of aspiral spring310, acting as a torsion spring. The set dose is displayed on adisplay drum70, and can be read through awindow21 in thehousing sleeve20, which is covered by atransparent covering22. A correcting (reduction) of the set dose may be possible by turning back thedosing sleeve60, which is described in further detail below.
• With reference to these parts, the following directions can be defined, which will be referred to consistently below: The distal (forward) direction is the direction in which the administering takes place, i.e., it points along the longitudinal axis from thepush button80 in the direction of thehollow needle32. The proximal (rearward) direction is accordingly defined as the opposite direction. If reference is made to a direction of rotation (clockwise, anticlockwise), this means the direction of rotation which one observes when one views along the longitudinal axis in the distal direction.
• After the setting of the dose, thehollow needle32 is pierced through the skin of the patient, and a distribution of the dose is triggered by the user pushing thepush button80 into thedosing sleeve60. A rotary movement is produced by the drive arrangement via a mechanism, which is described in detail below, this rotary movement being converted into an advancing of a delivery element in the form of athrust sleeve90 in the distal direction. Thethrust sleeve90 pushes thestopper41 of themedicament carpule40 by the set amount in the distal direction via athrust flange100 arranged at its distal end, whereby the distribution of the medicament is brought about out of the reservoir R. Thethrust sleeve90 therefore acts as a piston rod for the piston which is formed by thethrust flange100 and thestopper41. After the end of the administering, the user releases thepush button80 again. During the advance of thethrust sleeve90, the display drum is entrained by the drive arrangement such that it returns to its zero position in the course of the distribution. The injection pen is thereby immediately ready for the next dose setting.
• When the medicament or therapeutic substance in the medicament reservoir R is running low, i.e. thethrust sleeve90 is almost completely extended, this is detected by a dose limiting arrangement in the injection pen, which is described in further detail below. The dose limiting arrangement allows the user to set as a maximum the remaining available residual dose. In a subsequent carpule or ampoule change, the dose limiting arrangement and also thedisplay drum70 automatically return into the initial state, and manual resetting may be unnecessary.
• The structure and mode of operation of the mechanism are described in detail below.
• FIG. 3 shows an enlarged illustration of the rear (proximal) region of the injection device ofFIG. 1A. The structure of this region will now be described in detail substantially from the interior outwardly.
• Thethrust sleeve90 is mounted in aguide sleeve110, arranged such that it is locked against relative rotation with respect to the housing and displaceably, locked against relative rotation and displaceably in the longitudinal direction. For this, thethrust sleeve90 has, at its proximal end, several radially outwardly projectingguide cams91, which are guided in longitudinal grooves, complementary thereto, on the inner side of theguide sleeve110.
• Theguide sleeve110 can be seen inFIG. 4, which illustrates the cooperation of theguide sleeve110 with further parts. Theguide sleeve110 has at its distal end a radially outwardly projecting,circumferential ring flange111 with radial bores112. A ring-shapedbearing holder130 is pushed from the proximal side via theguide sleeve110, surrounds thering flange111 radially and is connected rigidly therewith via radial cylinder pins, which are not illustrated in the drawings.
• Acoupling sleeve120 is rotatably mounted between thering flange111 of theguide sleeve110 and an inwardly projectingshoulder132 of thebearing holder130. As is described in further detail below, thecoupling sleeve120 is connected via a threadedrod180 with thethrust sleeve90 and therefore forms a part of a delivery arrangement, which is driven by a rotary movement and brings about a thrust of the delivery element in the form of the thrust sleeve. Thecoupling sleeve120 therefore absorbs considerable axial forces in operation, which are transmitted via its bearing onto theguide sleeve110, thebearing holder130, themechanism holder150 and therefore to the housing.
• To construct the bearing so as to be low-loss, the bearing includes ball bearings for providing relatively low friction to a rotating unit. Accordingly, a firstball bearing ring140 is provided between theflange111 of the guide sleeve and aradially encircling flange124 of thecoupling sleeve120. A further suchball bearing ring140 is arranged between theflange124 and an end face of thebearing holder130.
• Theball bearing ring140 is illustrated in detail inFIGS. 5A and 5B. It carries a plurality of bearingballs141, i.e., twelve, but may include a range of bearing balls such as from 3 to 24. The bearingballs141 run or roll, as can be seen inFIG. 3, in flat, circular grooves formed in both end faces of theradial flange124 of thecoupling sleeve120, in the corresponding end face of theflange111 of theguide sleeve110 and in the end face of thebearing holder130.
• Thecoupling sleeve120 is illustrated inFIG. 6, together with the ball bearing rings140 (but without balls141). On thecylindrical sleeve body121, a plurality oflongitudinal ribs122 are formed, which extend over a considerable part of the length of the sleeve body in a longitudinal direction up to its proximal end. Corresponding grooves are provided therebetween. From a thickeningarea123, theflange124 follows towards the front, which adjoins the ball bearing rings140 on both sides.
• FIG. 7 illustrates how the unit ofguide sleeve110 and bearingholder130 is held in a sleeve-shapedmechanism holder150, so as to be locked against relative rotation, but displaceably arranged in the longitudinal direction.
• Themechanism holder150 includes adistal section151 with increased internal and external diameter and aproximal section152 with a somewhat smaller internal and external diameter. These two sections are connected by astep153. The outer side of thedistal section151 is held rigidly in thehousing sleeve20. Thereby, themechanism holder150 may be immovable with respect to the housing, therefore forming functionally a part of the housing.
• Adjoining thestep153, at least twolongitudinal slits154 are formed in themechanism holder150. Pins, which are not illustrated inFIG. 7, are inserted in thebearing holder130. These project radially beyond thebearing holder130 and into thelongitudinal slits154 of the mechanism holder. Thebearing holder130 and theguide sleeve110, which is securely connected therewith, may thus be guided displaceably between a distal and a proximal final position and so as to be secured with regard to rotation in themechanism holder150. Toward the proximal end, on the outer covering surface of themechanism holder150, anexternal thread157 is formed. Severallongitudinal grooves158 are formed in this region on the inner surface.
• In the distal direction, abayonet sleeve160 adjoins theguide sleeve110 and thebearing holder130, which is also illustrated inFIG. 8. It is held on thebearing holder130 in the axial direction and is rotatable with respect thereto. With an inwardly projectingring flange161, thebayonet sleeve160 supports the unit ofguide sleeve110 and bearingholder130, withcoupling sleeve120 held therein, in the distal direction. Thebayonet sleeve160 has twoarms162 projecting axially in the distal direction and lying diametrically opposite each other, whicharms162 haveradial openings163. Radially outwardly projecting pins are inserted into these openings, which pins run in twoguide slits155 of themechanism holder150 acting as connecting link guides (positive guides). Guide slits155 are configured so that thebayonet sleeve160, with an anticlockwise rotation (in the sense of the definition indicated above, i.e., on observation along the longitudinal axis in the distal direction) is compulsorily also moved axially in the proximal direction. In this way, the unit ofguide sleeve110, bearingholder130 andcoupling sleeve120 is moved in the proximal direction. Vice versa, with a rotation of thebayonet sleeve160 clockwise, this unit moves in the distal direction. Parallel to the guide slits155, a further pair of guide slits156 runs, in order to receiveradial pins36 of a lockingregion35 of the carpule sleeve30 (cf.FIGS. 1 and 3). On introduction of thecarpule sleeve30 into the housing, the carpule sleeve is also subject to a positive guidance, so that thecarpule sleeve30 performs a combined rotary movement and displacement. Thecarpule sleeve30 is configured such that, upon its movement, it is coupled with thearms162 of thebayonet sleeve160 and entrains thebayonet sleeve160.
• The guide slits155 are of finite length and delimit the movement of the bayonet sleeve between a distal and a proximal final position. InFIG. 7, the proximal final position is illustrated in which the guide slits155 allow a rotation of the bayonet sleeve through 90 degrees between these positions.
• To fix the bayonet sleeve detachably in its two final positions so as to be locked against relative rotation with respect to theguide sleeve110, and thus with respect to thehousing sleeve20, abayonet spring170 is arranged between thebayonet sleeve160 and theguide sleeve110. This is illustrated, in detail, inFIGS. 9A to 9C. Thebayonet spring170 has a substantially flat and ring-shapedbase body171 acting as a spring element. Two diametrically opposite, axially flatly projecting bulges orprojections172 protrude out from this base body as detent elements or detent cams axially in the distal direction. Two diametrically oppositeflat tongues173 protrude inwardly and come to lie in corresponding flat recesses of theguide sleeve110. Thereby, thebayonet spring170 is held, so as to be secured with regard to torsion, on theguide sleeve110. As can be seen fromFIG. 9B, thebase body171 is bent slightly about an axis perpendicular to the longitudinal axis, and namely such that the curvature mid-point lies on the same side of the bayonet spring as the projections172 (i.e., distal). As a result, thebayonet spring170 is pre-stressed between theguide sleeve110 and thebayonet sleeve160 permanently such that theprojections172 are pressed in the distal direction against the corresponding counter-surface on thering flange161. In this counter-surface, four depressions are present, which are arranged at intervals of 90 degrees about the longitudinal axis. In the proximal final position, theprojections172 come to lie in a first pair of these depressions, whereas in the distal final position, in which the bayonet sleeve is turned through 90 degrees, they are held in the second pair of the depressions. Thereby, two defined detent positions are provided, in which thebayonet sleeve160 engages via thebayonet spring170 with theprojections172 detachably with theguide sleeve110. In both positions, a certain force may need to be overcome to move the bayonet sleeve in the direction of the respective other final position again. Each of the depression pairs may comprise a different configuration, e.g., depth and/or shape, so that a different releasing force is necessary in the two detent positions.
• In one detent position, thecarpule sleeve30 is held via its coupling with thebayonet sleeve160 to be secure with regard to rotation and displacement on theguide sleeve110, and thus on the housing. In the other detent position, thecarpule sleeve30 is detached from the housing. In this position, thebayonet sleeve160 is again engaged with theguide sleeve110 and is thereby fixed on thehousing20 so as to be secure with regard to rotation and displacement. In this way, the carpule sleeve, on insertion into the guide slits156, locates thearms162 of the bayonet sleeve in the correct position around the longitudinal axis, and can entrain these upon the releasing of the detent connection.
• In the present example, the detent elements are constructed asprojections172 integrally formed with the spring element in the form of thebase body171. Alternatively, a separate detent element may be provided, e.g., in the form of a rigid ring with detent cams, which may be pressed in the axial direction by the spring element. As an alternate to projections, the detent element may also have depressions, which then cooperate with corresponding projections of the counter surface. In the present example, the detent element is locked against relative rotation with respect to the housing. Alternatively, it can also be locked against relative rotation with respect to the bayonet sleeve. The spring element may also have an alternative configuration to produce an axial force. Accordingly, various modifications of locking between thecarpule sleeve30 and the housing are contemplated.
• InFIG. 10, the parts of the injection device illustrated inFIG. 7 are illustrated together with thethrust sleeve90 arranged in theguide sleeve110. At its proximal end, thethrust sleeve90 has a shortinternal thread92 in which a hollow external threadedrod180 is guided. The latter is connected at its proximal end rigidly with thecoupling sleeve120 via atransverse pin181. A thrust of thethrust sleeve90 in the distal direction takes place, by thecoupling sleeve120, which is rotatably mounted, carrying out a rotary movement. As a result of the rigid connection betweencoupling sleeve120 and external threadedrod180, this rotary movement also brings about a rotation of the external threadedrod180. Thethrust sleeve90 runs with itsinternal thread92 on the external threadedrod180, similar to a nut. Thethrust sleeve90 is locked against relative rotation with respect to theguide sleeve110, because it runs via theguide cams91 in longitudinal grooves on the inner side of theguide sleeve110. In this way, thethrust sleeve90 is advanced axially on a rotation of the external threadedrod180. Accordingly, a rotary movement of thecoupling sleeve120 is converted into an axial displacement of thethrust sleeve90.
• As can be seen fromFIG. 3, thethrust sleeve90 is assisted in this thrust movement by a longhelical spring190, which is subjected to pressure, and which is arranged in the interior of the threadedrod180 and is guided on aguide needle200. Thehelical spring190 presses a ring-shapedthickening201 close to the distal end of theguide needle200 in the distal direction against thethrust flange100. Anaxial pin202 projects into a corresponding blind-end bore of thethrust flange100 and is rotatable in this blind-end bore.
• Furthermore, inFIG. 10 a substantiallycylindrical transmission sleeve210 is inserted into themechanism holder150 from the proximal side, which transmission sleeve partially surrounds thecoupling sleeve120. Thetransmission sleeve210 has on the outer side a plurality oflongitudinal ribs212. The external diameter of thetransmission sleeve210 is selected here so that, despite its external longitudinal ribs, it is freely rotatable inside themechanism holder150. On the inner side, thetransmission sleeve210 has aninternal thread211, in which adose limiting ring220 runs with a correspondingexternal thread221. In the interior of thedose limiting ring220,longitudinal grooves222 are present which can be seen inFIGS. 12A and 12B, into which thelongitudinal ribs122 of the coupling sleeve120 (cf.FIG. 6) engage. Thereby, thedose limiting ring220 is movable on the one hand so as to be secure with regard to rotation in the axial direction on the coupling sleeve, and on the other hand is guided in the internal thread of thetransmission sleeve210. A rotation of thecoupling sleeve120 with respect to thetransmission sleeve210 therefore leads to a rotation and axial displacement of thedose limiting ring220.
• The axial displacement range of the dose limiting ring is limited in the distal and proximal directions. This is described in conjunction withFIGS. 11A,11B,12A and12B.
• InFIGS. 11A and 11B, acoupling shaft230 is connected with thetransmission sleeve210. The coupling shaft comprises anaxis231 with atransverse bore232 close to theproximal end233. Acircumferential flange234 extends radially outwardly from the distal end of the axis. Aring flange235 extends in turn therefrom axially in the distal direction. The external diameter of thecircumferential flange234 is greater than that of thering flange235, whereby thecircumferential flange234 protrudes radially over thering flange235, and forms a stop for thetransmission sleeve210. Thering flange235 is pushed into thetransmission sleeve210, so that the latter lies with its proximal end against thecircumferential flange234. The ring flange is secured by radial pins in thetransmission sleeve210, which are pushed intobores237. Thereby, thecoupling shaft230 and thetransmission sleeve210 are connected with each other so as to be locked against relative rotation and secured against displacement. Severallongitudinal grooves238 are formed in the inner surface of thering flange235.
• FIGS. 12A and 12B show thecoupling shaft230 and thedose limiting ring220 alone. Aradial stop223, which cooperates with a correspondingradial stop236 on thering flange235 of the coupling shaft, is formed on thedose limiting ring220. A radial stop is understood to mean a stop surface, the surface normal of which points substantially in the tangential direction, and which is formed to cooperate with a corresponding counter surface. The radial stop is therefore primarily stressed in a tangential direction (i.e., in a rotational direction) instead of in an axial direction. Thereby, a radial stop avoids the risk of jamming, such as when two parts collide axially via a screw connection, e.g., in the case of a small pitch of the helical thread. Theradial stop236 delimits the screw motion of thedose limiting ring220 in the proximal direction. InFIG. 11A thedose limiting ring220 is shown in the resulting proximal final position, and inFIG. 111B on the other hand in a distal initial position.
• The proximal end of an arrestingsleeve280 is rotatably clicked into an inwardly directedring flange213, chamfered in the distal direction, at the distal end of thetransmission sleeve210. For better clarity, the arrestingsleeve280 is not illustrated inFIG. 10. However, it is shown inFIG. 13. The arresting sleeve comprises a ring-shapedmain body281, from which fourarms282 extend in the distal direction. On its inner surface, the main body haslongitudinal grooves284, which are meshed with thelongitudinal ribs122 of thecoupling sleeve120. Thereby, the arrestingsleeve280 is displaceable in the longitudinal direction relative to thecoupling sleeve120, but is secured as regards torsion with respect thereto. At the end of thearms282, inwardly extendingflange regions283 are present. The possible displacement range is limited in the proximal direction by these flange regions. These abut in the proximal final position of the arrestingsleeve280, as illustrated inFIG. 3, onto the distal end of thelongitudinal ribs122 of thecoupling sleeve120. Longitudinal ribs are formed on the outer peripheral surface of themain body281. These longitudinal ribs engage, in the position ofFIG. 3, into the innerlongitudinal grooves158 of themechanism holder150. Thereby, the arrestingsleeve280 is displaceable in this position axially with respect to themechanism holder150, but secured with regard to torsion. The arrestingsleeve280 in this position therefore secures thecoupling sleeve120 against a rotation in themechanism holder150. As described further below, the arrestingsleeve280 is, however, displaceable so far in the distal direction that it can come out of engagement with themechanism holder150 and is then rotatable with thecoupling sleeve120.
• The arrestingsleeve280 is pre-stressed in the proximal direction by acoupling spring290. The coupling spring is configured as a helical spring, which is subjected to pressure, surrounds thearms282 of the arrestingsleeve280 and lies with its proximal end against the distal end face of themain body281. At the distal end of thecoupling spring290, the latter is held on asupport ring300, which abuts against the bearingholder130 in the distal direction and on the inner side of which longitudinal grooves are formed.
• InFIG. 14, the unit ofFIG. 10 is illustrated with further components. Thedisplay drum70 is held on themechanism holder150. In addition, astop sleeve240 is connected immovably with thehousing sleeve20 by pins projecting into theradial holes242, e.g., seeFIG. 14. At the distal end ofstop sleeve240, radial stops243 are provided, and at the proximal end,teeth244, e.g., serrated teeth, are arranged on the end face for a ratchet connection, described below.
• Thedisplay drum70 has an internal thread, which can be seen inFIG. 3, and runs on theexternal thread157 of the mechanism holder, which can be seen inFIGS. 7 and 10. At its proximal end, thedisplay drum70 narrows to a ring-shapedregion72. Longitudinal grooves are formed on the inner side of the ring-shapedregion72. By these longitudinal grooves, thedisplay drum70 is secured with regard to torsion, but is guided displaceably in the longitudinal direction on thelongitudinal ribs212 of thetransmission sleeve210. Through the combination of this longitudinal guide on the transmission sleeve and the thread guide on the mechanism holder, a rotation of thetransmission sleeve210 leads to a combined rotation and longitudinal displacement of thedisplay drum70. This movement is delimited or stopped by radial stops in both directions. At the proximal end, a radial stop cooperates with theradial stop243 of thestop sleeve240. At the distal end, a correspondingradial stop73 cooperates with aradial stop159 of themechanism holder150. Thereby, the screw motion of thedisplay drum70 is limited in both directions by radial stops.
• The mechanism for setting a dose and for triggering its administering is described with reference toFIGS. 3 and 15. Thedosing sleeve60 is arranged at the proximal end of thehousing sleeve20.Dosing sleeve60 is secured with regard to displacement axially with aspring ring61 and is fixed rotatably on thestop sleeve240. Thedosing sleeve60 is rotatable via a slip coupling in the form of a ratchet connection both clockwise and also anticlockwise about the longitudinal axis towards thehousing sleeve20, and is thus configured and arranged to assume several predefined detent positions.
• The dose setting mechanism comprises aninner ring250 arranged inside thedosing sleeve60 and rigidly connected with thedosing sleeve60. Theinner ring250 has in its radial inner surface a plurality of longitudinal grooves. In the distal direction from theinner ring250, aratchet ring260 is held axially displaceably but secured with regard to rotation in thedosing sleeve60. Theratchet ring260 is serrated on its distal end face, and namely in a complementary manner to theteeth244 of the serrated proximal end face of thestop sleeve240, so that teeth of theratchet ring260 can engage in depressions on the end face of thestop sleeve240 and vice versa. Theratchet ring260 is axially displaceable by a certain amount between the distal end face of theinner ring250 and the serrated proximal end face of thestop sleeve240. The amount by which an axial displacement is such that the serrated end faces of theratchet ring260 and of thestop sleeve240 can come out of engagement. Theratchet ring260 is pressed elastically by an elastic force against thestop sleeve240. For this, severalaxial bores251 are present in the form of blind-end bores in theinner ring250. Helical springs252, which are subjected to pressure are inserted in at least one of these bores, e.g., in at least two bores, at a uniform spacing along the circumference of the ring when multiple bores are provided. Thehelical springs252 press the ratchet ring elastically against the stop sleeve.
• In the position of rest, theratchet ring260, with its serrated end face, is in engagement with the serrated end face of thestop sleeve240. Thereby, the ratchet ring and thedosing sleeve60 connected therewith assume one of several defined angle positions about the longitudinal axis. With a rotation of thedosing sleeve60 relative to thehousing sleeve20, the teeth of theratchet ring260 and of thestop sleeve240 slide on each other against the axial spring force of thehelical springs252, until they come out of engagement and arrive in engagement again in the next defined angle position. In this way, an elastically detachable detent connection is produced by rotation with a sufficient torque in several predefined angle positions of thedosing sleeve60 relative to thehousing sleeve20. This mechanism can also be designated as a double slip coupling.
• By rotation of thedosing sleeve60 clockwise, thespiral spring310 can be tensioned, which is indicated inFIG. 3. Thespiral spring310 has a plurality of spring coils, which run around the longitudinal axis and are arranged over one another radially to the longitudinal axis. The inner end of thespiral spring310 is fastened to aspring holding region311 of thecoupling shaft230, which region can be seen inFIG. 12C. The outer end of thespiral spring310 is mounted on aspring sleeve320, which is held so as to be locked against relative rotation in thestop sleeve240.
• Acoupling disc270 is mounted on thecoupling shaft230, and is secured against rotation and displacement by apin271 in thetransverse bore232 of thecoupling shaft230. Thecoupling disc270 has a plurality of longitudinal ribs on its outer peripheral surface. In the position ofFIG. 3, these longitudinal ribs engage into the longitudinal grooves, which are complementary, on the inner side of theinner ring250, but can be brought out of engagement by an axial displacement.
• Thedosing sleeve60 has an axial passage opening, in which thepush button80 is arranged so as to be axially displaceable. Thepush button80 is rotatable with a plurality of radiallyelastic arms81 and is clicked on theproximal end233 of thecoupling shaft230 so as to be secured against displacement. It abuts with its distal end against a proximal end face of thecoupling disc270. In the interior of thepush button80 there is ahelical spring82, which lies with its proximal end against the inner end face of the push button and presses with its distal end against a bearingring83. The bearingring83 has on its outer peripheral face longitudinal ribs, which are guided in corresponding longitudinal grooves in the inner covering surface of thepush button80. Thereby, thesupport ring83 is arranged in thepush button80 so as to be locked against relative rotation and so as to be axially displaceable. The bearingring83 is configured be serrated in a flat manner on its distal end face. The proximal end face of thecoupling disc270 is formed so as to be serrated in a complementary manner hereto, so that the bearingring83 is axially meshed with thecoupling disc270. On distribution of the medicament, thecoupling disc270 rotates with respect to thebearing ring83. Thereby, the serrated surfaces slide on one another, so that the toothing comes alternately into and out of engagement. Thereby, a characteristic clicking sound is produced, which indicates to the user that an administering is just taking place. The toothing of bearingring83 andcoupling disc270 may be configured so that each clicking corresponds to one unit, or of a predetermined multiple of one unit, of the administered medicament.
• The mechanism for setting the dose and the distribution may be arranged and configured in thehousing sleeve20 so as to be protected against splashing, i.e., sealed. According to certain embodiments, four seals D1, D2, D3 and D4 may be provided. The seal D1 comprises a sealing ring, which lies in a sealing manner between themechanism holder150 and thebayonet sleeve160. Themechanism holder150 is mounted immovably and tightly in the housing2, and thebayonet sleeve160 is both displaceable and rotatable with respect to themechanism holder160 and is sealed with respect to the housing by the seal D1.
• The seal D2 comprises a further sealing ring, constructed so as to be flat, which lies in a sealing manner between thebayonet sleeve160 and the smooth outer side of thethrust sleeve90.Thrust sleeve90 may have a smooth (e.g., within accepted and/or manufacturing tolerances) or substantially smooth outer wall region, the length of which corresponds at least to the distance between the distal final position and the proximal initial position of its longitudinal movement, between which thethrust sleeve90 is movable in the course of the administering. The sealing effect between seal D2 and thrustsleeve90 may be facilitated by providing an outer wall region of thethrust sleeve90 with fine structures, e.g. scales, a pattern or texture, in the range below 100 micrometres, e.g. below 10 micrometres, and may be configured as micro- or nano-structuring, at least along the length between the distal final position and the proximal initial position. Athrust sleeve90 with such micro- or nano-structuring may be considered substantially smooth to one of skill in the art due to the minute size of the structures. However, one of skill in the relevant art would also appreciate the usefulness of such structures in maintaining and/or enhancing a seal between thethrust sleeve90 and seal D2. In some embodiments, the outer wall region may extend fromthrust flange100 to guidecams91. In addition, texture or structure provided on the substantially smooth surface may extend along the entire outer wall region or along portions thereof.Texture93 along the thrust sleeve is depicted inFIG. 1B, which is configured as micro-structured scales. In addition or alternatively, other structures, such as surface protrusions or indentations, which may have a desired texture or structure, may be provided along the outer wall region. Such additional or alternative structures may have an orientation such that the structures are directed towards the proximal or distal direction. Furthermore, thethrust flange100 is arranged tightly on thethrust sleeve90. The region of the injection device, including the interior of thethrust sleeve90, lying proximally from thebayonet sleeve160, may thus be sealed against the region lying distally. Where fluids are introduced into this distal region, e.g., due to a breakage of themedicament carpule40, the fluid may be prevented from penetrating into the mechanics, thus preventing contamination or jamming.
• The other two seals are situated at the proximal end of the injection device. The seal D3 comprises a sealing ring, which lies in a sealing manner between thedosing sleeve60 and thestop sleeve240. Thestop sleeve240 is mounted immovably and tightly in thehousing sleeve20, whereas thedosing sleeve60 is rotatable with respect to thestop sleeve240. The seal D4 comprises a further sealing ring, which lies in a sealing manner between thedosing sleeve60 and thepush button80. In addition, a transparent window covering22 is placed in a fluid-tight manner on thewindow21. Accordingly, mechanisms, operational components or mechanics, which are delimited toward the exterior by thehousing sleeve20, thedosing sleeve60 and thepush button80, are also sealed toward the exterior and may be protected against the penetration of fluids. Rainfall or a glass of water accidentally spilt by the user can therefore also not harm the injection device.
• The seal towards the thrust sleeve may be configured such that it acts as a stripper, similar to a windshield wiper in a car. For this, at least towards the distal side, there is as small a contact angle between the surfaces of the sealing element and the thrust sleeve, which may lie below 90 degrees.
• Instead of conventional seals or in addition hereto, the parts which are to be sealed with respect to each other may be configured with a hydrophobic surface, such as being formed of or coated with a hydrophobic material. A hydrophobic surface may prevent the parts from being wetted. Drops of water thereby roll off and a leaking of fluids through gaps is efficiently prevented between the parts, which are to be sealed due to capillary effects. The parts provided with a hydrophobic surface, which are to be sealed with respect to each other, may therefore be arranged at a certain distance (gap) from each other, without the sealing effect being lost (“virtual seal”).
• A hydrophobic surface is understood here to mean a surface for which the contact angle of a water drop is at least 90 degrees, e.g., at least 110 degrees. The contact angle is the angle between the surface normal of the water drop and the respective surface at the contact site. Examples of materials with hydrophobic characteristics are PTFE (polytetrafluoroethylene) or PVDF (polyvinylidene fluoride), as well as other hydrophobic materials that may be formed as thin coatings, e.g., in the range of a few micrometres, to provide a hydrophobic surface.
• In experiments, various pens and a sleeve were provided nanotechnologically with a hydrophobic coating. 20 pens with external diameters of 10.0 to 11.9 mm in graduations of 0.1 mm were examined. The pens were arranged centrally in a sleeve with 12 mm internal diameter, which corresponds to gap thicknesses of 0.05 mm to 1.0 mm in graduations of 0.05 mm. The interior of the sleeve was then acted upon with water. A sealing effect up to a gap thickness of approximately 0.5 mm was observed. With reciprocal rotation between pen and sleeve, a sealing effect up to a gap thickness of approximately 0.25 mm was observed.
• To improve the sealing effect, the surfaces may be micro- or nano-structured, i.e., provided with structures, the dimensions of which are in the nanometre to micrometre range. These structures can have a selected direction, to inhibit the flow of fluids on the surface in one direction. Thus, for example, scales can be provided.
• The mode of operation of the injection device is now to be described below with reference toFIG. 16, in which an exemplary injection device is illustrated in its initial position before the first use. The mechanism described above for setting and distributing a dose has three couplings K1, K2 and K3 for the transmission of torques. Each of these couplings may be brought into and out of engagement by an axial movement of two components with respect to each other.
• The coupling K1 is formed by the longitudinal grooves on the inner surface of theaxial flange235 of thecoupling shaft230 as a coupling input member in cooperation with thelongitudinal ribs122 on the outer side of the coupling sleeve120 (cf.FIG. 5) as coupling output member. In the position ofFIG. 16, this coupling is uncoupled, i.e., the coupling formed by the cooperation of the longitudinal grooves and longitudinal ribs is out of engagement. The coupling K1 can be coupled by an axial displacement of thecoupling shaft230 in the distal direction.
• The coupling K2 is formed by the longitudinal grooves in the radial inner surface of theinner ring250 as a coupling input member in cooperation with the longitudinal ribs on the radial outer surface of thecoupling disc270 as coupling output member. In the position ofFIG. 16, this coupling is coupled, i.e., the toothing formed by the longitudinal grooves and longitudinal ribs is in engagement. The coupling K2 can be uncoupled by an axial displacement of thecoupling disc270 in the distal direction.
• The coupling K3 is formed by the longitudinal ribs on the outer side of the outerring flange arms282 of the arrestingsleeve280 as coupling input member in cooperation with thelongitudinal grooves158 on the inner surface of themechanism holder150 as coupling output member. In the position ofFIG. 13, this coupling is coupled. It can be uncoupled by an axial displacement of the arrestingsleeve280 in the distal direction.
• All three couplings K1, K2 and K3 can be coupled and respectively uncoupled by thepush button80 being displaced axially. On pressing in of thepush button80, thecoupling disc270 and thecoupling shaft230, which is securely connected therewith, are displaced in the distal direction. In this instance, the coupling K1 comes into engagement, i.e., the coupling shaft is coupled for torque transmission with thecoupling sleeve120. At the same time, thecoupling shaft230 advances thetransmission sleeve210 in the distal direction. This entrains the arrestingsleeve280 in the distal direction, whereby thecoupling spring290 is compressed. When the coupling K1 arrives in engagement for the first time, the arrestingsleeve280 is not yet advanced sufficiently far to arrive with its outerring flange arms282 out of engagement with themechanism holder250. The coupling K3 is therefore initially still coupled. The same applies to the coupling K2: Thecoupling disc270 is still in engagement with theinner ring250. Therefore, all three couplings are coupled. When thepush button80 is pushed in further, the coupling K2 comes out of engagement. With a still further pushing in, coupling K3 comes out of engagement. Therefore, the couplings are as follows: Initial state: K1 uncoupled, K2 and K3 coupled. Pushing in of the push button80: K1 couples, thereafter K2 uncouples, thereafter K3 uncouples.
• FIG. 19, described further below, shows the injection device with thepush button80 pushed in completely. The coupling K1 is coupled, whereas the couplings K2 and K3 are uncoupled.
• On releasing of thepush button80, the engaging of the couplings into each other runs in the reverse sequence. Here, thecoupling spring290 presses the arrestingsleeve280, thetransmission sleeve210, thecoupling shaft230, thecoupling disc270 and thepush button80 back into the distal initial position.
• The couplings K1, K2 and K3 and the ratchet connection make possible the systematic transmission of torques between five functionally independent units. A first unit comprises thehousing sleeve20, themechanism holder150, thestop sleeve240 and thespring ring320. This unit can be regarded functionally as a holding arrangement or as a housing in an extended sense. It constitutes the stationary reference system for all movements.
• A second unit comprises thedosing sleeve60, theinner ring250 and theratchet ring260. It can be regarded functionally as a rotatable dosing arrangement. This dosing arrangement is held detachably on the housing by the ratchet connection, but so as to be secure with regard to torque up to a certain value.
• A third unit comprises thecoupling disc270, thecoupling shaft230 and thetransmission sleeve210, which are rigidly connected with each other, and by thespiral spring310, connected therewith, which acts as the actual drive element. This unit can be regarded as a drive arrangement. The rotary movement of the drive arrangement is limited by two limiting elements, which are both guided on the transmission arrangement. The first limiting element is formed by thedisplay drum70, which limits the range of movement of the drive arrangement in both directions, a dosing direction and a correction and distribution direction. The second limiting element is formed by thedose limiting ring220, which limits the range of movement of the drive arrangement at least in one direction, the dosing direction, independently of the first limiting element. The drive arrangement is able to be coupled detachably by the coupling K2 so as to be locked against relative rotation with respect to the dosing arrangement, which makes it possible to tension the drive element in the form of thespiral spring310.
• A fourth unit comprises thecoupling sleeve120 and the threadedrod180, which form a rigid unit, the elements on which these parts are mounted, namely theguide sleeve110, thebearing holder130 and the ball bearing rings140, and also thethrust sleeve90. This unit constitutes a delivery arrangement, which converts a rotary movement of an input member in the form of thecoupling sleeve120 into a thrust of the delivery element in the form of thethrust sleeve90. Its input member is able to be detachably coupled by the coupling K1 so as to be locked against relative rotation with the drive arrangement. In addition, it is able to be detachably coupled via the coupling K3 so as to be locked against relative rotation with the holding arrangement (i.e., the housing).
• Furthermore, a triggering arrangement is present, which comprises thepush button80 and serves for the operation of the couplings K1 to K3.
• The injection device is operated as follows. Starting from the initial position ofFIG. 16, a dose is set, which is to be administered. For this, thedosing sleeve60 is turned clockwise. In so doing, the dosing sleeve entrains thecoupling disc270 and thecoupling shaft230 via the coupling K2, and thespiral spring310 is wound up. The torque generated is held by the ratchet connection between theco-rotating ratchet ring260 and thestationary stop sleeve240. Through the rotation of thecoupling shaft230, thetransmission sleeve210 and thedisplay drum70, which is guided thereon, are also co-rotated. Thedisplay drum70, threadably guided on themechanism holder150, is additionally displaced axially in the proximal direction, and therefore performs as a whole a screw motion in the proximal direction. Markings on the surface of thedisplay drum70 pass through under thewindow21 and indicate the set dose. Furthermore, thedose limiting ring220, threadably engaged with the interior of thetransmission sleeve210 and arranged, secured with regard to rotation, on thecoupling sleeve120, is displaced in the proximal direction.
• FIG. 17 shows the injection device after half the maximum individual dose has been set. The display drum has traveled rearwardly half-way between its distal (forward) and its proximal (rear) final position. In addition, thedose limiting ring220 has traveled in the proximal direction by an amount proportional to the individual dose that has been set.
• The rotation of thedosing sleeve60 clockwise is limited, on the one hand, by the maximum movement range of thedisplay drum70, and on the other hand, by the maximum movement range of thedose limiting ring220. After a predetermined number of revolutions of thedosing sleeve60, thedisplay drum70 abuts with its proximal radial stop against thestop sleeve240, in so far as the rotation of thedosing sleeve60 has not been previously limited by thedose limiting ring220, as is described further below. Thereby, no further rotation of thedosing sleeve60 is possible. This position corresponds to the maximum individual dose, which can be set. This situation is illustrated inFIG. 18.
• If the set dose is to be corrected, i.e., reduced, then thedosing sleeve60 can be turned back anticlockwise against the force of the ratchet connection. As the ratchet connection in this direction absorbs the torque of thespiral spring310, the ratchet connection is configured asymmetrically: The toothing on the end face has a larger angle of inclination on the side which is stressed by a torque which acts anticlockwise onto the dosing sleeve than on the side which is stressed with a torque clockwise (cf. the configuration of theteeth244 inFIG. 14). The angle of inclination is understood here to mean the absolute amount of the angle between the respective flank of a tooth on the end face of theratchet ring260 or on the end face of thestop sleeve240 and a cross-sectional area through the injector.
• The distribution or delivery of the dose, which has been set is actuated or initiated by thepush button80 being pushed in. In this instance, the coupling K1 is coupled, and a connection is produced which is locked against relative rotation between thecoupling shaft230, on the one hand, and thecoupling sleeve120 and also the threadedrod180 rigidly connected therewith, on the other hand. All three couplings K1, K2 and K3 are coupled. On further pushing in of thepush button80, the coupling K2 uncouples. Thereby, the connection, which is locked against relative rotation between thedosing sleeve60, on the one hand, and thecoupling shaft230 with the coupledcoupling sleeve120 and threadedrod180, on the other hand, is cancelled. This leads to the ratchet connection no longer absorbing the torque of thespiral spring310. However, the system is held so as to be locked against relative rotation via the coupling K2 in themechanism holder150 and hence in thehousing sleeve20. When thepush button80 is pressed further, the coupling K3 also uncouples. At this moment, the torque of thespiral spring310 becomes free and acts via thecoupling shaft230 and thecoupling sleeve120 on the threadedrod190. Hereby, these parts are set in an anticlockwise rotation. Through its thread engagement with the threadedrod190, thethrust sleeve90 undergoes an axial displacement in the distal direction. Via thethrust flange100, the thrust sleeve advances thestopper41 in thecarpule40. In this way, the medicament is distributed or injected.
• During the distribution or injection process, axial forces act on the thrust sleeve90: The torque of thespiral spring310 is converted into a force in the thrust direction, which advances thestopper41 in thecarpule40. These forces are absorbed by the ball bearings between thecoupling sleeve12 and theguide sleeve110 and thebearing holder130, in a low-friction manner, so that counter forces (i.e., frictional counter forces), which could reduce the driving torque, are minimized.
• In the distribution, thedisplay drum70 is entrained by the rotation of thetransmission sleeve210 anticlockwise and is moved in the distal direction due to its engagement with thestationary mechanism holder150, until it assumes its distal initial position. In this position, it is prevented from rotating further by a radial stop, whereby the distribution is terminated. After the end of the distribution, thedisplay drum70 indicates the dose “zero”.
• The distribution can be interrupted at any time by thepush button80 being released. Thereby, the couplings K3 and K2 couple again, and the coupling K1 uncouples again. Thedisplay drum70 indicates the remaining residual dose which is further distributed when the push button is pressed again and thereby the distribution is continued.
• Thedose limiting ring220 maintains its axial position during the distribution, because thetransmission sleeve210 and thecoupling sleeve120, between which thedose limiting ring220 is situated, rotate synchronically.
• After the end of the distribution, the injection device is ready for the next injection process. Compared withFIG. 16, however, two components have changed their position: On the one hand, thethrust sleeve90 has traveled in accordance with the distributed dose in the distal direction. On the other hand, thedose limiting ring220 has likewise traveled by an amount proportional thereto in the proximal direction. Apart from this, the state after the end of the injection corresponds to the initial state ofFIG. 16. With each further injection, thethrust sleeve90 therefore travels further in the distal direction, whereas thedose limiting ring220 travels in the proximal direction. This is illustrated inFIG. 19, which illustrates the injection device after a first dose is administered, which corresponds to half the maximum individual dose, and then with the dosing sleeve a dose was again set, which in turn corresponds to half the maximum individual dose. The display drum indicates, as inFIG. 15, half the maximum individual dose, whereas thedose limiting ring220 assumes a position in thetransmission sleeve210, which corresponds to the sum of the doses which have been set, e.g., twice half the maximum individual dose.
• The maximum axial path by which thedose limiting ring220 can travel in the proximal direction in the transmission sleeve corresponds to the content of a completely filled carpule. As soon as the sum of the doses set on the dosing sleeve corresponds to the carpule content, thedose limiting ring220 reaches its proximal final position and abuts with its radial stop against theaxial ring flange235 of thecoupling shaft230, as is illustrated inFIG. 12A. Thereby, thedosing sleeve60 is prevented from a further clockwise rotation, and no larger dose can be set than the dose corresponding to the remaining residual amount of the medicament in the carpule.FIG. 20 shows this situation, in which no further increasing of the dose is possible, although the display drum is situated in the distal initial position, i.e., the zero position. Correspondingly, thethrust sleeve90 has reached its maximum, distal final position.
• To exchange the carpule, thecarpule sleeve30 is detached from themechanism holder150 against the elastic resistance of thebayonet spring170, and is unscrewed, guided through the corresponding guide slit156 in the mechanism holder. Compulsorily, thebayonet sleeve160 is twisted along its own, parallel guide slit155, and is displaced in the distal direction. Theguide sleeve110 is drawn in the distal direction, and the movable parts, which are connected axially therewith, also travel in the distal direction, including thecoupling sleeve120, the threadedrod190, the arrestingsleeve280, thetransmission sleeve210, thecoupling shaft230, thecoupling disc270 and thepush button80. Thepush button80 is therefore drawn into thedosing sleeve60 and thus indicates that the injection device is not ready for operation.
• Through this axial displacement of the various parts of the mechanism, the couplings K2 and K3 come out of engagement, while K1 is already out of engagement. If a dose had still been set before the carpule change, but had not been administered, thewound spiral spring310 sets thecoupling shaft230 and thetransmission sleeve210 connected therewith into an anticlockwise rotation, until thedisplay drum70 has reached its distal final position and prevents a further turning back by its radial stop on themechanism holder150. In this way, thedisplay drum70 is brought back into its distal initial position, the zero position. An automatic resetting of the dose display to zero therefore takes place.
• If, before the carpule change, a residual amount of the medicament was still situated in thecarpule40, then thethrust sleeve90 had not yet moved out to a maximum before the carpule change, and had therefore not yet reached its distal final position. On removal of thecarpule sleeve30, thehelical spring190 presses theguide needle200, thethrust flange100 and thethrust sleeve90 in the distal direction. Thus, the threadedrod180 is set in rotation via its screw connection with the interior of thethrust sleeve90. The threadedrod180 entrains thecoupling sleeve120 and thedose limiting ring220. With this rotation, thedose limiting ring220 is displaced into its proximal final position through its thread engagement with thetransmission sleeve210. As soon as thedose limiting ring220 has reached this initial position, it prevents a further rotation of thecoupling sleeve120 and of the threadedrod180, so that no further moving out of thethrust sleeve90 is possible, and thethrust sleeve90 has reached its distal final position, as illustrated inFIG. 1A. In addition, thedisplay drum70 is situated in the zero position, thedose limiting ring220 in the proximal final position and thethrust sleeve90 in its distal final position.
• Anew carpule40 may be pushed into thecarpule sleeve30, and thecarpule sleeve30 with the carpule40 held therein may be guided axially in the proximal direction against thehousing sleeve20. In this position, thestopper41 of the carpule presses thethrust flange100 and thethrust sleeve90 against the force of thehelical spring190 in the proximal direction. As a result, the threadedrod180 is set in rotation. The threaded rod entrains thecoupling sleeve120 and thedose limiting ring220. The dose limiting ring, threadably engaged with thetransmission sleeve210, is displaced in the distal direction, i.e., in the direction of its initial position. The degree of displacement in this direction corresponds to the dose present in thecarpule40. With a completely filled carpule, thedose limiting ring220 travels into its distal initial position. Thecarpule sleeve30 is then pushed into themechanism holder150, with the radial pins36 of thecarpule sleeve30 engaging again into the guide slits156 in the mechanism holder150 (cf.FIGS. 1 and 3). Through the positive guidance of thecarpule sleeve30 on insertion into themechanism holder150, thebayonet sleeve160 is forced to follow the movement of thecarpule sleeve30 in the corresponding guide slits. Thebayonet sleeve160 is thereby brought back into its proximal final position, in which it is detachably locked by the bayonet disc170 (cf.FIGS. 8 to 10). The injection device is thus situated in the initial position ofFIG. 16 and, after the screwing of anew needle holder31, is available for a new sequence of administrations.
• InFIG. 21, another exemplary embodiment of an injection device according to the present invention is illustrated as a variant. The mode of operation is substantially the same as in the first embodiment described above. Parts which perform similarly are therefore designated by the same reference numbers as in the first embodiment, the differences of the second embodiment being described below.
• In the second embodiment, thestop sleeve240 is omitted. Rather, its function is taken over by the correspondingly extendedhousing sleeve20.
• The drive arrangement which, in the first embodiment, apart from thespiral spring310, is formed from thecoupling disc270,coupling shaft230 andtransmission sleeve210, is formed in the second embodiment by different parts, including a connecting shaft400 (withcoupling disc401 formed integrally thereon), afirst transmission sleeve410 closed at the proximal end, and asecond transmission sleeve420 adjoining distally thereto. These three parts are, in turn, connected rigidly with each other.
• Whereas in the first embodiment, the display drum served to indicate the set dose and to delimit the maximum individual dose which was able to be set in the dosing direction and to delimit the movement in the distribution direction, the latter function in the second embodiment is taken over by a seconddose limiting ring430. The latter is guided so as to be locked against relative rotation, but axially displaceable, in thehousing sleeve20. With an internal thread it runs on a corresponding external thread of thefirst transmission sleeve410. Its axial movement is limited by two radial stops between a distal initial position, which corresponds to the zero position, and a proximal final position, which corresponds to the maximum dose which is able to be set. In this way, it takes over the stop functions of the display drum according to the first embodiment.
• Thedisplay drum70 in the second embodiment is guided axially displaceably via acarrier sleeve440, rigidly connected therewith, and so as to be locked against relative rotation on thesecond transmission sleeve420. Its mode of operation is otherwise identical to the first embodiment.
• Apart from these differences, the structure and mode of operation of the injection device are substantially the same as in the first embodiment.
• The differences between the first and the second embodiment show that the functions of an injection device according to the present invention can be reached in a variety of ways and the invention is in no way restricted to the exemplary embodiments. Various further modifications are possible, which may be due to manufacturing requirements.
• Embodiments of the present invention, including preferred embodiments, have been presented for the purpose of illustration and description. They are not intended to be exhaustive or to limit the invention to the precise forms and steps disclosed. The embodiments were chosen and described to provide the best illustration of the principles of the invention and the practical application thereof, and to enable one of ordinary skill in the art to utilize the invention in various embodiments and with various modifications as are suited to the particular use contemplated. All such modifications and variations are within the scope of the invention as determined by the appended claims when interpreted in accordance with the breadth they are fairly, legally, and equitably entitled.

Claims (11)

1. A device for the administering of a fluid product, comprising a housing, a delivery element movable relative to the housing for delivering the product from a reservoir, and at least one ball bearing for absorbing forces transmitted between the delivery element and the housing.

2. The device according toclaim 1, further comprising at least one rotatable element cooperating with the delivery element and a drive arrangement for producing a rotary movement of the rotatable element relative to the housing, wherein the rotary movement of the rotatable element brings about a thrust movement of the delivery element along a thrust axis in a distal direction, and wherein the ball bearing is arranged such that it absorbs forces acting along the thrust axis, which are transmitted from the delivery element via the rotatable element to the housing.

3. The device according toclaim 2, wherein the delivery element is locked against relative rotation with respect to the housing.

4. The device according toclaim 3, wherein the device comprises at least two ball bearings which are suited to absorb forces in the distal direction and in a proximal direction.

5. The device according toclaim 4, wherein the delivery element is spring-loaded in the distal direction.

6. The device according toclaim 5, wherein the delivery element is sleeve-shaped with a proximal and a distal end and has an internal thread, and the rotatable element has an external thread which cooperates with the internal thread of the delivery element.

7. The device according toclaim 6, wherein in a radial direction the delivery element is surrounded at least partially by a guide sleeve with a proximal and a distal end, wherein the guide sleeve is connected close to its distal end so as to be locked against relative rotation with the housing, and wherein the delivery element is guided so as to be locked against relative rotation along the thrust direction in the guide sleeve, and wherein the device further comprises an outer sleeve with a proximal and a distal end, which at least partially surrounds the guide sleeve, which is connected close to its proximal end with the rotatable element, and which close to its distal end is guided rotatably via the at least one ball bearing and so as to be secured against displacement relative to the guide sleeve.

8. The device according toclaim 7, wherein the delivery element is movable for the administering between a proximal and a distal final position, and wherein the guide sleeve has a length which corresponds at least to the distance between the distal and the proximal final position of the delivery element.

9. The device according toclaim 8, wherein the delivery element, in the region of its proximal end, is in an engagement which is locked against relative rotation and displaceable, with the interior of the guide sleeve.

10. The device according toclaim 9, wherein in the region of the proximal end of the delivery element an engagement structure is formed, projecting radially outwardly from an outer peripheral surface of the delivery element, which engagement structure cooperates with a complementary structure on an inner peripheral surface of the guide sleeve.

11. The device according toclaim 10, wherein the engagement structure comprises a plurality of longitudinal ribs and the complementary structure comprises a plurality of longitudinal grooves.

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