Auto-injector with active agent container latching
US7357790B2 · kind B2 · utility
Assignee
Inventors
Key dates
| Filing date | Dec 17, 2004 |
| Grant date | Apr 15, 2008 |
| Priority date | — |
| Expiry date | Sep 7, 2025 |
Classification
- Technology area (CPC A)Human Necessities
- CPC primaryA61M2205/273
- WIPO fieldMedical technology
- WIPO sectorInstruments
Abstract
In an elongated casing, an active agent container connected to an injection needle can be shifted axially by a spring force. Auto-injectors which are sold or distributed filled and with the springs tensed have to be provided with a needle protecting cap to ensure the sterility of the injection needle. When such a needle protecting cap is removed as preparation for using the auto-injector, a tensile force can be exerted on the active agent container. Therefore, the active agent container comprising the injection needle must be prevented from being undesirably pulled forwards. At least one latching tongue prevents the active agent container from being prematurely shifted with respect to the casing, by abutting a flange arranged on a sliding sleeve which accommodates the active agent container. When the auto-injector is placed onto a person's skin, a needle protecting tube is shifted into the casing, forcing the latching tongue away from the flange and, thus, freeing the travel path for needle movement.
Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.