WO2025095466A1

WO2025095466A1 - Reusable portable drug delivery pump

Info

Publication number: WO2025095466A1
Application number: PCT/KR2024/016307
Authority: WO
Inventors: Sun Kil Park
Original assignee: Microflowtechnology Co Ltd
Current assignee: Microflowtechnology Co Ltd
Priority date: 2023-10-31
Filing date: 2024-10-24
Publication date: 2025-05-08
Anticipated expiration: 2026-04-30

Abstract

The portable drug delivery pump described in the present invention consists of a motor unit (100) that provides rotational power, a gear unit (200) that controls and transmits the motor's speed and torque, a pumping unit (300) that manages drug solution injection, a syringe unit (500) for storing the drug, a needle injection unit (600) for administering the drug to the patient, a hose unit (400) that connects the syringe and needle units and transfers the drug solution, a battery unit (700) for power supply, a sensor unit (800) for measuring the remaining drug solution, and a housing unit (900).

Description

REUSABLE PORTABLE DRUG DELIVERY PUMP

The present invention relates to a reusable portable drug delivery pump. More specifically, it relates to a wearable, reusable portable insulin pump for administering insulin.

Recently, diabetic patients have been using portable insulin pumps to conveniently control and inject insulin. These pumps are attached to the user and help deliver the appropriate amount of insulin at the necessary time. Existing insulin pumps involve either manual insertion of the needle-cannula or utilize mechanical and electrical mechanisms that operate automatically via a smartphone app. Some pumps use shape-memory alloys for actuation or rely on electro-osmosis to convert power, but these methods have limitations in allowing patients to precisely control the dosage. Particularly, the electro-osmosis method has the drawback of varying drug absorption rates depending on the patient’s skin characteristics.

In addition, wireless portable insulin pumps are often designed to be discarded after a single use, meaning that even components like electronic boards, which could be used semi-permanently, are thrown away. This results in resource waste and environmental pollution, while also increasing the financial burden on patients due to the cost of purchasing new devices. Another issue is the accurate determination of the remaining drug solution. Existing pumps estimate the remaining volume based on the electrical output data of the control unit, but this method lacks accuracy, leading to discrepancies between the actual remaining volume and the estimate.

The attachment and detachment method of the pump also needs improvement. Adhesive tape can cause the pump to move or lose proper adhesion to the skin during patient activity, making smooth drug delivery difficult. Additionally, removing the tape can cause skin damage or discomfort.

To address these issues, improvements in drug injection methods, enhancement of device reusability, the introduction of accurate methods to measure remaining drug volume, and the development of more efficient attachment mechanisms are needed through new technologies or structural innovations.

The present invention aims to provide a portable drug delivery pump that includes replaceable parts in order to address the aforementioned issues. Furthermore, it aims to provide a portable drug delivery pump capable of automatically carrying out the process of inserting the cannula into the patient. Another objective is to provide a portable drug delivery pump that can accurately measure the drug solution administered to the patient.

The portable drug delivery pump provided by the present invention includes a motor unit (100) that provides rotational power, a gear unit (200) that is placed adjacent to the motor unit (100) and controls and transmits the rotational speed and torque provided by the motor unit (100), a pumping unit (300) that is placed adjacent to the gear unit (200) and controls the injection of the drug solution by receiving controlled rotational force from the gear unit (200), a syringe unit (500) for storing and supplying the drug solution, a needle injection unit (600) for injecting the drug solution into a patient, a hose unit (400) that is detachably coupled with the syringe unit (500) and the needle injection unit (600), and delivers the drug solution from the syringe unit (500) to the needle injection unit (600) by receiving pressure from the pumping unit (300), a battery unit (700) that provides power and includes at least one battery, a sensor unit (800) for measuring the amount of drug solution stored in the syringe unit (500), and a housing unit (900).

In one embodiment, the needle injection unit (600) includes a cannula (660) for injecting the drug solution into the patient, a needle (650) for inserting the cannula (660) under the patient's skin, a moving unit (630) for moving the needle (650) and cannula (660), a connector (640) for delivering the drug solution to the cannula (660), a linear guide (620) for guiding the movement direction of the moving unit (630) and positioning it, and a torsion spring (670) that provides the moving force to the moving unit (630).

In one embodiment, the needle injection unit (600) may further include a needle control bolt (610) for controlling the initiation of the operation of the moving unit (630).

In one embodiment, the needle control bolt (610) may restrict the movement of the moving unit (630).

In one embodiment, the needle control bolt (610) may be exposed to the outside of the housing unit (900).

In one embodiment, the hose unit (400), the syringe unit (500), and the needle injection unit (600) may be replaceable.

The portable drug delivery pump provided by the present invention includes a first rotor unit (310) and a second rotor unit (320) in the pumping unit (300), a plurality of rotating pins (330) connected to the first and second rotor units (310, 320), which partially compress and release the hose unit (400) to pump the drug solution as the first and second rotor units (310, 320) rotate, a bearing (340) installed between the first and second rotor units (310, 320) and the plurality of rotating pins (330), and a rotor connecting shaft (350) that transmits power from the gear unit (200) and connects the first and second rotor units (310, 320).

In one embodiment, the hose unit (400) may include a drug delivery hose (410) and a molding block (420) that provides securing force to the drug delivery hose (410) so that it can be placed in close contact with the rotating pins (330).

In one embodiment, the syringe unit (500) may include: a syringe (510) for storing the drug solution, a discharge port (520) for releasing the drug solution, a plunger (530) that seals the syringe (510), and a syringe spring (540) that provides elastic force to the drug storage space inside the syringe (510) via the plunger (530).

In one embodiment, the moving unit (630) uses the rotational force provided by the torsion spring (660) as power to move the needle (650) and cannula (660) downward through a slide-crank mechanism, and it restores only the needle (650) to its original position, excluding the cannula (660).

In one embodiment, the sensor unit (800) may include: a photodiode array (810) that detects the drug storage status of the syringe unit (500), a processor (820) that controls the photodiode array (810), and a board (830) on which the photodiode array (810) and the processor (820) are installed.

In one embodiment, an exposure slit (950) may be formed on the bottom plate of the housing unit (900) to expose the photodiode array (810).

In one embodiment, the lower part of the housing unit (900) may include: a grid-shaped groove (910) through which an external substance can be injected to weaken the adhesive force during removal, adhesive tape (920), an adhesive mask (930) to control the adhesive force of the adhesive tape (920), and a protective film (940) to protect the adhesive tape (920).

The portable drug delivery pump provided by the present invention includes: a motor unit (100) that provides rotational power, a first gear unit (200) that is placed adjacent to the motor unit (100) and controls and transmits the rotational speed and torque provided by the motor unit (100), a second gear unit (300) that is placed adjacent to the first gear unit (200) and controls and transmits the rotational speed and torque provided by the first gear unit (200), a syringe unit (500) that discharges the drug solution using the rotational force transmitted by the second gear unit (300), a needle injection unit (600) for injecting the drug solution into the patient, a hose unit (400) that is detachably coupled with the syringe unit (500) and the needle injection unit (600) and delivers the drug solution from the syringe unit (500) to the needle injection unit (600) by receiving pressure from the second gear unit (300), a battery unit (700) that provides power and includes at least one battery, a sensor unit (800) for measuring the amount of drug solution stored in the syringe unit (500), and a housing unit (900).

In one embodiment, the syringe unit (500) and needle injection unit (600) may be replaceable.

In one embodiment, the syringe unit (500) may include: a syringe (510) for storing the drug solution, a discharge port (520) for releasing the drug solution, a plunger (530) that seals the syringe (510), a lead screw (550) that advances the plunger (530) through rotation, and a syringe gear (560) that is connected to the lead screw (550) and receives power from the second gear unit (300).

In one embodiment, the injection amount of the drug solution provided by the syringe unit (500) can be controlled by adjusting the gear reduction ratio of the first gear unit (200), the gear reduction ratio of the second gear unit (300), and the pitch of the lead screw (550) in the syringe unit (500).

In one embodiment, the needle injection unit (600) further includes a resistance wire (1130) that is heated by a release signal and is in contact with a wire (1120), where the wire (1120) may be made of a polymer material.

The portable drug delivery pump provided by the present invention includes: a motor unit (100), a gear unit (200) placed adjacent to the motor unit (100) that controls and transmits the rotational speed and torque provided by the motor unit (100), a pumping unit (300) placed adjacent to the gear unit (200) that receives controlled rotational force from the gear unit (200) and controls drug injection, a syringe unit (500) for storing and delivering the drug solution, a needle injection unit (600) in which the initial rotation of the pumping unit (300) triggered by the motor unit (100) initiates the injection of the needle (650) and cannula (660) into the patient and delivers the drug solution, a hose unit (400) detachably coupled to the syringe unit (500) and the needle injection unit (600), which receives pressure from the pumping unit (300) to deliver the drug solution from the syringe unit (500) to the needle injection unit (600), a battery unit (700) that provides power and accommodates at least one pair of battery groups, and a housing unit (900) that includes a detachable bottom unit (970) and cover unit (980).

In one embodiment, the pumping unit (300) may include: a first rotor unit (310) and a second rotor unit (320), a plurality of rotating pins (330) that partially compress and release the hose unit (400) to pump the drug solution as the first and second rotor units (310, 320) rotate, bearings (340) installed between the first and second rotor units (310, 320) and the rotating pins (330), a rotor connecting shaft (350) that transmits power from the gear unit (200) and connects the first and second rotor units (310, 320), and a protruding pin (321) involved in triggering the needle injection unit (600).

In one embodiment, the needle injection unit (600) may include a cannula (660) for injecting the drug solution into the patient, a needle (650) for inserting the cannula (660) under the patient's skin, a moving unit (630) for moving the needle (650) and cannula (660), a connector (640) for delivering the drug solution to the cannula (660), a linear guide (620) for guiding the movement direction of the moving unit (630) and positioning it, a torsion spring (670) that provides the moving force to the moving unit (630), a trigger pin (692) triggered by the protruding pin (321) of the pumping unit (300), and a fixing pin (695) that connects to the trigger pin (692) and secures or releases the tension of the torsion spring (670).

In one embodiment, the system may further include a tension spring (693) that provides restoring force to the fixing pin (695) and a spring connection unit (694) that is operated by the restoring force of the tension spring (693).

In one embodiment, the moving unit (630) uses the rotational force provided by the torsion spring (670) to move the needle (650) and cannula (660) downward through a slide-crank mechanism and restores only the needle (650) to its original position, excluding the cannula (660).

In one embodiment, the system may further include a cannula holder (665) that accommodates the cannula (660) and a horizontal movement bar (680) located in front of the moving unit (630). After the cannula (660) is moved downward by the triggering mechanism, the cannula holder (665) can be trapped and secured between the bottom unit (970) of the housing unit (900) and the horizontal movement bar (680).

In one embodiment, the syringe unit (500) may include a syringe (510) for storing the drug solution, a discharge port (520) for releasing the drug solution, a sealing part (531) that prevents leakage of the drug solution, a holder part (532) that holds the sealing part (531), and a plunger (530) that seals the syringe (510).

In one embodiment, the plunger (530) may further include a magnetic unit (533) that provides external magnetic force, a coupling magnetic unit (535) located outside the syringe (510) and magnetically coupled to the magnetic unit (533) of the plunger (530), and a resistor (536) formed in electrical contact with the coupling magnetic unit (535).

In one embodiment, the housing unit (900) may include an internal structural plate (960) and a PCB board (800) that house the motor unit (100), gear unit (200), pumping unit (300), syringe unit (500), needle injection unit (600), hose unit (400), and battery unit (700).

In one embodiment, the battery unit (700) may include a pair of first electrodes (711) that penetrate the internal structural plate (960) and are electrically connected, and a second electrode (712) that penetrates the internal structural plate (960), is electrically insulated from the first electrodes (711), and is positioned between the pair of first electrodes (711).

In one embodiment, the system may further include a first connecting electrode (715) that connects the PCB board (800) and the first electrode (711) below the internal structural plate (960), and a second connecting electrode (714) that connects the PCB board (800) and the second electrode (712).

In one embodiment, the system may further include a motor connection electrode (721) that penetrates the internal structural plate (960), is electrically connected to the motor unit (100), is secured by the insulation part (722), and is connected to the PCB board (800) via elasticity.

In one embodiment, the first rotor unit (310) and second rotor unit (320) may each include a first rotor connecting component (313) and a second rotor connecting component (323), which are coupled to each other to form the rotor connecting shaft (350).

In one embodiment, the first rotor unit (310) and the second rotor unit (320) may include bearing cover fixing grooves (314, 324).

In one embodiment, the connector (640) of the needle injection unit (600) may include a barb-shaped structure.

In one embodiment, the discharge port (520) of the syringe unit (500) may include a barb-shaped structure.

In one embodiment, the system may further include an O-ring (990) located at the junction of the bottom unit (970) and the cover unit (980) to maintain a seal from external elements.

This invention enhances the reusability of a portable drug delivery pump by adopting a structure that allows the replacement of only the necessary parts while retaining reusable components, thus enabling more economical and effective use. To achieve this, gear units and pumping units, or first and second gear units, are applied to separate the components related to operation from those in contact with drugs or blood. This design allows the pump to be reused by replacing only the parts that need to be changed.

Additionally, by applying a small DC motor, the pump can still precisely control and deliver the drug solution, reducing the overall size and weight of the pump. This design makes it easier for patients to wear and use the device without discomfort.

The lower part of the housing can be adjusted to fit the patient’s skin not only during application but also during removal. During removal, a solution-absorbing method is adopted, where the adhesive tape dissolves, facilitating both attachment and detachment.

The invention also automates the process of inserting the needle into the patient. By simply attaching the device to the skin and turning on the power, the cannula of the drug delivery device is automatically inserted into the skin. The fully automated portable drug delivery pump is designed so that each component can be replaced, allowing for simple part replacement if any component fails or reaches the end of its lifespan, making it economical and suitable for long-term use.

Furthermore, by using detachable electrodes inserted into slits, the pump can flexibly adapt to changes in the battery configuration if product requirements change.

By mechanically measuring the drug solution in the syringe using magnetic force and resistance values from outside, any issues in the drug delivery process can be accurately detected. This method offers the advantage of measuring the drug content in real-time more accurately compared to traditional methods based on rotation counting.

FIG. 1a to FIG. 1c are drawings illustrating the configuration of a portable drug delivery pump according to an embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 2 is a drawing illustrating the pumping unit and hose unit of the portable drug delivery pump according to the embodiment of FIG. 1a to FIG. 1c.

FIG. 3 is a drawing illustrating the syringe unit of the portable drug delivery pump according to the embodiment of FIG. 1a to FIG. 1c.

FIG. 4a and FIG. 4b are drawings illustrating the needle injection unit of the portable drug delivery pump according to the embodiment of FIG. 1a to FIG. 1c.

FIG. 5a to FIG. 5c are drawings illustrating the operation of the needle injection unit of the portable drug delivery pump according to the embodiment of FIG. 1a to FIG. 1c.

FIG. 6 is a drawing illustrating the sensor unit of the portable drug delivery pump according to the embodiment of FIG. 1a to FIG. 1c.

FIG. 7a to FIG. 7d are drawings illustrating the housing unit of the portable drug delivery pump according to the embodiment of FIG. 1a to FIG. 1c.

FIG. 8 is a drawing illustrating the configuration of a portable drug delivery pump according to another embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 9 is a drawing illustrating the operation of the portable drug delivery pump according to the embodiment of FIG. 8.

FIG. 10 is a drawing illustrating the syringe unit of the portable drug delivery pump according to the embodiment of FIG. 8.

FIG. 11a and FIG. 11b are drawings illustrating the needle injection unit of the portable drug delivery pump according to another embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 12a to FIG. 12b are drawings illustrating the configuration of a portable drug delivery pump according to yet another embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 13 is a drawing illustrating the motor unit, gear unit, and pumping unit of the portable drug delivery pump according to the embodiment of FIG. 12a and FIG. 12b.

FIG. 14a and FIG. 14b are drawings illustrating the pumping unit of the portable drug delivery pump according to the embodiment of FIG. 12a and FIG. 12b.

FIG. 15a to FIG. 15c are drawings of the syringe unit of the portable drug delivery pump according to the embodiment of FIG. 12a and FIG. 12b, and drawings illustrating the same.

FIG. 16a and FIG. 16b are drawings illustrating the needle injection unit of the portable drug delivery pump according to the embodiment of FIG. 12a and FIG. 12b.

FIG. 17a to FIG. 17d are drawings illustrating the triggering of the needle injection unit of the portable drug delivery pump according to the embodiment of FIG. 12a and FIG. 12b.

FIG. 18a to FIG. 18d are drawings illustrating the battery unit of the portable drug delivery pump according to the embodiment of FIG. 12a and FIG. 12b.

FIG. 19a to FIG. 19c are drawings illustrating the housing unit of the portable drug delivery pump according to the embodiment of FIG. 12a and FIG. 12b.

Hereinafter, preferred embodiments will be described with reference to the accompanying drawings. In this process, the thickness of lines or the size of components shown in the drawings may be exaggerated for the sake of clarity and convenience of explanation. Furthermore, the terms described below are defined in consideration of the functions in the present invention, and these terms may vary depending on the user's or operator's intention or custom. Therefore, the definitions of these terms should be based on the overall content of this specification.

Also, when a component is described as being "connected" or "coupled" to another component, it should be understood that the component may be directly connected or coupled to the other component, but other components may also exist in between. On the other hand, when a component is described as being "directly connected" or "directly coupled" to another component, it should be understood that there are no other components in between.

The singular expression includes the plural unless the context clearly dictates otherwise. In addition, throughout this specification, when a part "includes" a certain component, it means that other components may be included unless specifically stated otherwise, rather than excluding other components. It is apparent to those skilled in the art that the present invention may be embodied in other specific forms without departing from the essential characteristics of the present invention.

Furthermore, the following embodiments are presented as examples and are not intended to limit the scope of the present invention, and various embodiments may be implemented through the technical spirit of the present invention. Hereinafter, the embodiments of the present invention will be described in detail with reference to the drawings. In the drawings, the same reference numerals refer to the same elements.

Key Components of an Insulin Pump

Referring to FIG. 1a to FIG. 1c, the portable drug delivery pump (1000) includes a motor unit (100) providing rotational power, a gear unit (200) that controls and transmits the rotational speed and torque provided by the motor unit (100), a pumping unit (300) that controls the injection of the drug solution by receiving a controlled rotational force through the gear unit (200), a syringe unit (500) for storing and supplying the drug solution, a needle injection unit (600) for injecting the drug solution into a patient, a hose unit (400) that delivers the drug solution from the syringe unit (500) to the needle injection unit (600) by receiving pressure from the pumping unit (300), a battery unit (700) that provides power and includes at least one battery, a sensor unit (800) that measures the amount of drug solution stored in the syringe unit (500), and a housing unit (900).

In FIG. 1b and FIG. 1c, the motor unit (100) is positioned in the corner inside the housing unit (900), and the gear unit (200) is arranged in front of the motor unit (100). The pumping unit (300), which needs to be mechanically connected to the gear unit (200), is also placed there.

Meanwhile, the syringe unit (500) is located in the middle column, and the hose unit (400) is positioned on one side of the syringe unit (500), delivering the drug solution from the pumping unit (300) to the needle injection unit (600).

The needle injection unit (600) is placed in the corner inside the housing unit (900), and the battery unit (700) is located behind the needle injection unit (600).

Although not shown in the drawings, the sensor unit (800), which will be described later, is positioned at the bottom of the housing unit (900).

Overall, the components are divided into three sections formed longitudinally. In the first section, the motor unit (100), gear unit (200), pumping unit (300), and part of the hose unit (400) are combined with the pumping unit (300). In the second section, part of the hose unit (400) and the syringe unit (500) are placed. The last section houses the battery unit (700) and the needle injection unit (600).

This arrangement is not necessarily mandatory, but it is preferable to position non-replaceable components such as the motor unit (100), gear unit (200), and pumping unit in one section, while replaceable components such as the syringe unit (500), needle injection unit (600), and battery unit (700) are placed separately in other sections. If necessary, a cover can be installed inside the motor and gear unit (200) section to protect non-removable parts and internal components.

In particular, referring to FIG. 1c, other components except for the hose unit (400) are omitted, and an exposure slit (950) is formed at the bottom of the housing unit (900). The exposure slit (950) will be explained in conjunction with the description of the sensor unit (800).

First, a sequential explanation of the roles and functions of each component will be provided.

Motor Unit (100) and Gear Unit (200)

Referring again to FIG. 1c, the portable drug delivery pump (1000) of present embodiment includes a motor unit (100) and a gear unit (200).

The motor unit (100) and gear unit (200) are designed to provide the precise amount of medication to be delivered to the patient. The motor unit (100) can incorporate various types of motors, such as stepping motors, AC motors, servo motors, and DC motors. In this embodiment, a DC motor is preferred for application. The advantage of a DC motor is that it can be made compact, which is beneficial because the drug delivery pump needs to be portable, allowing the product to be implemented using a small motor.

A disadvantage of the DC motor is that, unlike a stepping motor which allows precise angular control, the DC motor is controlled by changes in input voltage or current, making precise control more difficult.

In the present embodiment, to compensate for using a small DC motor, a separate gear unit (200) is included. The gear unit (200) can utilize multiple reduction gears. By applying a combination of these reduction gears, ultra-low speed reductions of 5000:1 to over 10000:1 can be achieved.

Therefore, by using a small DC motor in conjunction with reduction gears, precise control can ultimately be achieved. For example, the present embodiment can combine ultra-low speed reduction gears with a ratio of 100:1 or higher and low-speed gears with a ratio of 50:1 or intermediate-speed gears with a ratio between 10:1 and 30:1, achieving an ultra-low reduction ratio of 5000:1 to 10000:1. As a result, very precise injection of the drug solution becomes possible.

Pumping Unit (300)

Referring to FIG. 2, the pumping unit (300) receives power with reduced rotational speed from the gear unit (200), where the speed is reduced by reduction gears, and uses this power to pump the drug solution for injection.

The pumping unit (300) includes a first rotor unit (310), a second rotor unit (320), a plurality of rotating pins (330) connected to the first and second rotor units (310, 320), which partially compress and release the hose unit (400) to pump the drug solution as the first and second rotor units (310, 320) rotate, a bearing (340) installed between the first and second rotor units (310, 320) and the plurality of rotating pins (330), and a rotor connecting shaft (350) that connects the first and second rotor units (310, 320).

The first rotor unit (310) and second rotor unit (320) rotate with the power transmitted from the gear unit (200). In the drawing, the rotor connecting shaft (350) transmits power from the gear unit (200) and connects the first rotor unit (310) and the second rotor unit (320).

The drug delivery hose (410) of the hose unit (400) is made of an elastic material, and part of the drug delivery hose (410) is placed in tight contact with the plurality of rotating pins (330), which are positioned between the first and second rotor units (310, 320).

Because each of the rotating pins (330) is placed tightly against the drug delivery hose (410), the sections of the hose that are in contact with the rotating pins (330) are compressed by the relative tension, closing the cross-section of the hose. Meanwhile, the sections of the drug delivery hose (410) that are not in contact with the rotating pins (330) remain open due to the inherent restoring force of the hose, allowing them to contain the drug solution.

As a result, in the area related to the pumping unit (300), part of the drug delivery hose (410) remains closed, while the other part is open and contains the drug solution. As the first and second rotor units (310, 320) rotate, these open and closed sections are sequentially pushed forward, causing the drug solution to move forward by a predetermined amount inside the drug delivery hose (410).

At this time, by controlling the voltage, current, and duration provided to the motor in the motor unit (100), the rotational speed of the motor can be accurately controlled. By calculating the reduced rotational speed via the gear unit (200), the required amount of drug to be injected per cycle and the rotational speed needed for the motor in the motor unit (100) can be determined, enabling precise delivery of the correct amount of drug.

Hose Unit (400)

Referring again to FIG. 2, the hose unit (400) includes a drug delivery hose (410) and a molding block (420) that provides securing force to the drug delivery hose (410) to ensure tight contact with the rotating pins (330).

As explained earlier in the description of the pumping unit (300), the drug delivery hose (410) of the hose unit must be tightly positioned in close contact with the rotating pins (330) of the pumping unit (300). Therefore, a separate molding block (420) is installed to provide this tension.

Optionally, the molding block (420) can be adhered to the drug delivery hose (410) in a non-removable manner, and a housing (900) may be equipped with a receiving portion to hold the molding block (420). By securing the molding block (420) in this receiving portion, the drug delivery hose (410) can be easily installed. In this case, simply fixing the molding block (420) in the receiving portion will provide sufficient tension between the drug delivery hose (410) and the rotating pins (330).

One end of the drug delivery hose (410) is connected to the discharge port (520) of the syringe unit (500), which will be described later, and the other end is connected to the connector (640) of the needle injection unit (600). This ensures that the drug solution stored in the syringe unit (500) is delivered to the needle injection unit (600) without coming into contact with other components.

Thus, since the parts that come into contact with the drug solution are limited to the hose unit (400), the syringe unit (500), and the needle injection unit (600), these components can be designed as replaceable parts, allowing the other components to be reused, which offers a significant advantage.

Syringe Unit (500)

Referring to FIG. 3, the syringe unit (500) includes a syringe (510) for storing the drug solution, a discharge port (520) for releasing the drug solution, a plunger (530) that seals the syringe (510), and a syringe spring (540) that provides elastic force to the drug storage space inside the syringe (510) through the plunger (530).

Inside the syringe unit (500), a consistent level of pressure is typically provided by the syringe spring (540) and the plunger (530). Even though discharge pressure is applied to the drug solution, the compressive force of the syringe spring (540) is kept low, and since the rotating pins (330) of the pumping unit (300), as previously explained, close the contact portion of the drug delivery hose (410), the motor unit (100) remains inactive in standby mode, and the drug is prevented from being discharged in the pumping unit (300).

The discharge port (520) is connected to one side of the drug delivery hose (410) of the hose unit (400), and in some cases, the discharge port (520) of the syringe unit (500) and the drug delivery hose (410) of the hose unit (400) may be integrally formed without a separate connection. In this case, the syringe unit (500) and the hose unit (400) can be formed as a single unit and replaced together.

Depending on the implementation, it is also possible for the hose unit (400) and the syringe unit (500) to be provided as a single package along with the needle injection unit (600), allowing the components to be replaced at once.

Needle Injection Unit (600)

Referring first to FIG. 4a, the needle injection unit (600) includes: a cannula (660) for injecting the drug solution into the patient, a needle (650) for inserting the cannula (660) under the patient’s skin, a moving unit (630) for moving the needle (650) and cannula (660), a connector (640) for delivering the drug solution to the cannula (660), a linear guide (620) for guiding the movement direction of the moving unit (630) and positioning the moving unit (630), a needle control bolt (610) that controls the initiation of the movement of the moving unit (630), and a torsion spring (670) that provides the moving force to the moving unit (630).

To explain the components in detail, the needle injection unit (600) primarily consists of the cannula (660) and the needle (650). The continuous injection of the drug solution into the patient is performed through the cannula (660), while the needle (650) is used initially to insert the cannula (660) under the skin.

In such drug injection devices, the needle-cannula is provided as a combined unit, where the needle (650) is used for initial insertion and then retracted, leaving only the cannula (660) in place. This method is applied similarly here, where after the drug injection through the needle (650), the cannula (660) remains, and the needle (650) is withdrawn.

The moving unit (630) moves in a downward direction for insertion and then in an upward direction, allowing the needle-cannula combination to be inserted through the patient's skin. After insertion, the needle (650) is retracted, leaving only the cannula (660) in place.

At this point, the horizontal movement bar (680) and the connected horizontal movement spring (690) are applied. The horizontal movement spring (690) provides lateral elastic force, and the horizontal movement bar (680) prevents the cannula (660) from retracting when it is hooked onto the horizontal movement bar (680) during the backward movement after the needle-cannula advances.

The movement direction and fixation of the moving unit (630) are guided by the linear guide (620), which also serves as the housing for the needle injection unit (600) when installed in the housing. The needle (650) and cannula (660) advance and retract according to the direction and distance guided by the linear guide (620).

The connector (640) delivers the drug solution from the hose unit (400) to the cannula (660), allowing the drug solution to be supplied through the cannula (660), which is inserted into the patient.

The torsion spring (670) is fixed to the sidewall of the housing (900) and provides rotational force, allowing it to rotate by a designated angle. Through a slide-crank mechanism, it moves the needle (650) and cannula (660) downward and then restores only the needle (650) to its original position, excluding the cannula (660). Typically, the torsion spring (670) can be pre-rotated by about 270 degrees to achieve this movement, though this may vary depending on the moving distance of the moving unit (630) and the mechanical components applied to the slide-crank mechanism.

Before the cannula (660) is initially inserted, the replaceable needle injection unit (600) is individually installed. Upon the initial installation of the needle injection unit (600), the torsion spring (670) is preloaded with the required rotational force.

The operation of the torsion spring (670) is controlled by the needle control bolt (610). The needle control bolt (610) restricts the movement of the moving unit (630) and is installed protruding outside the housing (900).

After the portable drug delivery pump (1000) is attached to the patient, releasing the needle control bolt (610) activates the movement of the moving unit (630) using the pre-stored rotational force of the torsion spring (670). Thus, by releasing the needle control bolt (610), the insertion of the cannula (660), as described above, is carried out.

FIG. 5a to FIG. 5c are drawings explaining the operation of the needle injection unit of the portable drug delivery pump according to the embodiment of FIG. 1a to FIG. 1c.

Referring first to FIG. 5a, the portable drug delivery pump is shown in its initial installed state according to the present embodiment.

The moving unit (630) is positioned at the top, with the cannula (660) and needle (650) almost entirely concealed and fixed, without being exposed. Considering the thickness of the bottom plate of the housing unit (900), the needle and cannula are fixed so they do not yet contact the patient's skin. At this stage, the needle control bolt (610) has not yet been released and holds the moving unit (630) in place.

Referring to FIG. 5b, the needle control bolt (610) has been released, causing the moving unit (630) to move downward due to the rotation of the torsion spring (670). At this point, the needle (650) simultaneously inserts the cannula (660) beneath the patient's skin.

At the same time, the horizontal movement bar (680) is shifted laterally by the horizontal movement spring (690), securing only the cannula (660) while the movement of the needle (650) is not restricted by the horizontal movement bar (680).

Referring to FIG. 5c, the cannula (660) remains inserted downward, while the moving unit (630) has returned to its original upper position, and the needle (650) is restored to its original position. At this stage, only the cannula (660) remains inserted in the patient's skin, transitioning the system to a state where the drug solution can be steadily administered to the patient through the cannula (660).

Even in this state, the horizontal movement bar (680) continues to be shifted laterally by the spring (690), securing only the cannula (660), while the needle (650) is not restricted by the horizontal movement bar (680), allowing only the needle (650) to retract.

Battery Unit (700)

The battery unit (700) supplies power to the motor unit (100), the sensor unit (800), which will be described later, and other components. The battery unit (700) may include at least one battery. These batteries are designed to be replaceable, allowing them to be removed and reinstalled as needed.

In some cases, the battery unit (700) can be designed as a rechargeable system, making it possible to charge the batteries using an external power source.

Sensor Unit (800)

FIG. 6 is a drawing explaining the sensor unit of the portable drug delivery pump according to the embodiment of FIG. 1a to FIG. 1c.

Referring to FIG. 6, the sensor unit (800) includes a photodiode array (810) that detects the storage status of the drug solution in the syringe unit (500), a processor (820) that controls the photodiode array (810), and a board (830) on which the photodiode array (810) and the processor (820) are installed.

The sensor unit (800) detects the storage status of the drug solution in the syringe using a separate sensor. The sensor unit includes a strip-shaped photodiode array (820) that senses the storage status of the drug solution in the syringe unit (500). A processor (820) can be used for the computation and processing of the photodiode array (820), and these components are installed on a board (830), such as a PCB.

The processor (820) not only performs computations and control related to the photodiode array (820), but also handles control and computation related to the operation of the motor unit (100).

The sensor unit (800) is located at the bottom of the housing (900). Meanwhile, an exposure slit (950) is formed in the bottom plate of the housing (900), allowing the photodiode array (810) to be exposed and sense the status of the syringe unit (500). The exposure slit (950) and the photodiode array (820) can be designed with the same shape and size, and it is also possible to expand the exposure slit (950) if necessary.

Lower Part of the Housing (900)

FIG. 7a to FIG. 7d are drawings explaining the housing unit of the portable drug delivery pump according to the embodiment of FIG. 1a to FIG. 1c.

Referring to FIG. 7a to FIG. 7d, the lower part of the housing (900) in this embodiment includes a grid-shaped groove (910) through which an external substance can be injected to weaken the adhesive force during removal, adhesive tape (920) for attachment, an adhesive mask (930) for controlling the adhesive force of the tape (920), and a protective film (940) to protect the adhesive tape (920).

The grid-shaped groove (910), adhesive tape (920), adhesive mask (930), and protective film (940) are installed in sequence on the lower part of the housing. Thus, the grid-shaped groove (910) is formed first on the lower part of the housing (900), followed by the installation of the adhesive tape (920) and the adhesive mask (930), with the protective film (940) being applied last.

When the patient installs the device, they remove the protective film (940) to attach it to their skin. When it is time to remove the entire device, a solvent can be injected into the grid-shaped groove (910) to weaken the adhesive force of the tape (920) and then separate the device. A more detailed explanation, referencing each figure, is as follows.

Referring to FIG. 7a, the grid-shaped groove (910) is installed on the lower part of the housing (900), which covers the sensor unit (800) from below, at the outermost lower edge of the housing (900). The grid-shaped groove (910) serves to inject a solvent, such as alcohol, into the contact area to help separate the pump (1000) from the patient. The solvent injected through the groove can dissolve the adhesive tape (920), weakening the adhesive force and allowing the pump (1000) to be separated from the patient's skin. A hole (911) is formed in the area where the grid-shaped groove (910) is located, allowing the cannula (660) and needle (650) to pass through.

Referring to FIG. 7b, the adhesive tape (920) is applied over the grid-shaped groove (910) and may be slightly larger than the surface area of the pump (1000). The adhesive tape (920) also needs to have a hole (921) to allow the passage of the cannula (660) and needle (650).

Referring to FIG. 7c, the adhesive mask (930) is placed on top of the adhesive tape (920). The adhesive mask (930) controls the adhesive force of the adhesive tape (920) and allows adjustment of the adhesive area depending on the patient's skin condition. In this case, an opening (9310) must be provided for the passage of the cannula (660) and needle (650), which is larger than a hole in this embodiment. However, the adhesive mask (930) can be adjusted based on the patient's skin condition by masking a larger area to reduce the actual adhesive area or masking a smaller area to increase the adhesive area.

Referring to FIG. 7d, at the time of product delivery, a protective film (940) is typically installed to protect the adhesive tape (920).

Additional Embodiment 1: Insulin Pump Including a Second Gear Unit

FIG. 8 is a drawing illustrating the configuration of a portable drug delivery pump according to another embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 9 is a drawing explaining the operation of the portable drug delivery pump according to the embodiment of FIG. 8.

Referring to FIG. 8, compared to the pump (1000) of the embodiment shown in FIG. 1b, this embodiment differs in that the pumping unit (300) is replaced by a second gear unit (300), and the syringe unit (500) directly discharges the drug by receiving power through a gear mechanism.

In particular, in this embodiment, the number of replaceable components is different in that the replaceable components are the syringe unit (500) and the needle injection unit (600), and depending on the configuration, the batteries in the battery unit (800) can also be replaced.

The portable drug delivery pump (1000') according to this embodiment includes: a motor unit (100) that provides rotational power, a first gear unit (200) that is placed adjacent to the motor unit (100) and controls and transmits the rotational speed and torque provided by the motor unit (100), a second gear unit (300) that is placed adjacent to the first gear unit (200) and controls and transmits the rotational speed and torque provided by the first gear unit (200), a syringe unit (500) that discharges the drug solution using the rotational force transmitted by the second gear unit (300), a needle injection unit (600) that injects the drug solution into the patient, a hose unit (400) that is detachably coupled with the syringe unit (500) and the needle injection unit (600), and delivers the drug solution from the syringe unit (500) to the needle injection unit (600) by receiving pressure from the pumping unit (300), a battery unit (700) that provides power and includes at least one battery, a sensor unit (800) that measures the amount of drug solution stored in the syringe unit (500), and a housing unit (900).

A more detailed explanation of the operation will be provided with reference to FIG. 9.

Referring to FIG. 9, unlike the embodiment shown in FIG. 1b, a second gear unit (300) is included. The first gear unit (200) has a function and configuration that is substantially the same as the gear unit (200) in the embodiment of FIG. 1b, and the second gear unit (300) can also perform a similar function to that of the gear unit (200) or the first gear unit (200).

Thus, the second gear unit (300) consists of a combination of multiple gears, which are fixed in a designated position for use. The second gear unit (300) may include reduction gears, similar to the gear unit (200) of the embodiment shown in FIG. 1b. The reduction ratio of the gears applied in this configuration can be adjusted based on the performance of the motor in the motor unit (100), the reduction gear ratio of the first gear unit (200), and the gear ratio of the syringe gear (560) described later. This allows the gear ratios and speed to be adjusted to discharge the specified amount of drug solution.

The second gear unit (300), as described earlier, is installed in a fixed position and does not come into contact with the drug solution, allowing it to be used continuously without replacement. Therefore, in this embodiment, the motor unit (100), the first gear unit (200), and the second gear unit (300) are non-replaceable components. As in the previous embodiment, a separate internal cover may be installed to protect these components and to ensure their non-replaceable nature.

Referring to FIG. 9 and FIG. 10, the syringe unit (500) in the pump (1000') of this embodiment is configured differently from the previous embodiment, as the discharge amount of the syringe unit (500) is directly controlled by rotational force from the second gear unit (300).

The syringe unit (500) of this embodiment includes: a syringe (510) for storing the drug solution, a discharge port (520) for releasing the drug solution, a plunger (530) that seals the syringe (510), a lead screw (550) that advances the plunger (530) through rotation, and a syringe gear (560) that is connected to the lead screw (550) and receives power from the second gear unit (300).

As previously described, the injection amount of the drug solution is controlled by adjusting the gear reduction ratio of the first gear unit (200), the gear reduction ratio of the second gear unit (300), and the pitch of the lead screw (550) in the syringe unit (500), thus controlling the discharge amount based on the operation of the motor unit (100).

In particular, the rotational speed of the motor unit (100) can be adjusted by controlling the voltage in the case of a DC motor, with pulse width modulation (PWM) being commonly applied. This signal can be generated by the processor included in the sensor unit (800).

Additional Embodiment 2: Automatic Needle Insertion

FIG. 11a and FIG. 11b are drawings illustrating the needle injection unit of the portable drug delivery pump according to another embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 11b is an enlarged view to assist in the explanation of FIG. 11a.

Referring to FIG. 11a and FIG. 11b, the needle injection unit (600) of the portable drug delivery pump in this embodiment, compared to the embodiment in FIG. 1b, does not include a needle control bolt (610) but additionally includes a moving unit fixture (1110), a wire (1120), and a resistance wire (1130).

First, the wire (1120) is connected to the moving unit fixture (1110), which is formed on the moving unit (630), and to other parts of the needle injection unit (600), securing the moving unit (630). The wire (1120) is made of a polymer material, and when heated externally, it melts, causing the wire (1120) to break and release the securing mechanism.

In this case, the wire (1120) may not only be made of polymer material but can also be composed of other materials that provide sufficient tensile strength at normal temperatures but release when deformed by heat.

The resistance wire (1130) converts electrical current into heat energy when triggered by an electronic circuit. This generates heat, melting the wire (1120) to the point where it breaks. Since the wire (1120) is under tension, even slight deformation can easily release the moving unit (630).

The operation of the resistance wire (1130) is designed to implement the needle-cannula insertion process via wireless communication or an electrical switch. This can be controlled by current output from the processor (820) or an output signal to operate a relay. The advantage of this mechanism is that it can automatically trigger the insertion of the patient's cannula (660) when the device detects that installation is complete or when controlled externally using a device such as an app.

Additional Embodiment 3: Fully Automatic Portable Drug Delivery Pump

FIG. 12a to FIG. 12b are drawings illustrating the configuration of a portable drug delivery pump according to another embodiment of the present invention.

Referring to FIG. 12a to FIG. 12b, the portable drug delivery pump (1000'') includes a motor unit (100), a gear unit (200), a pumping unit (300), a hose unit (400), a syringe unit (500), a needle injection unit (600), a battery unit (700), a PCB board (800), and a housing unit (900).

Repeated explanations of components that are identical to those in the embodiment of FIG. 1b are omitted. The key difference in this embodiment is that the needle injection unit (600) is automatically triggered. The needle injection unit (600) is triggered by the initial rotation of the pumping unit (300) when the motor unit (100) operates, and it injects the drug solution into the patient through the needle (650) and cannula (660). The configuration of the pumping unit (300) and syringe unit (500) in conjunction with the needle injection unit (600), as well as the interaction between the battery unit (700) and the PCB board (800), differ from the embodiment of FIG. 1b, and these will be explained in detail below.

Referring again to FIG. 12a, the motor unit (100), gear unit (200), and pumping unit (300) must be installed in close mechanical proximity, while the needle injection unit (600) is positioned between the column where the syringe unit (500) is installed and the column where the motor unit (100), gear unit (200), and pumping unit (300) are located. The battery unit is placed on the side of the needle injection unit (600) and the motor unit (100).

While the specified arrangement is not mandatory as long as the mentioned functions can be performed, placing the motor unit (100), which generates power using the battery unit (700), in close proximity simplifies the circuit configuration. Additionally, forming the motor unit (100), gear unit (200), and pumping unit (300) along a single axis enhances mechanical efficiency and stability.

The location of the syringe unit (500), which stores the drug solution, can be adjusted flexibly. However, generally, the larger the storage space for the drug solution, the fewer times the patient will need to replace the unit, thereby reducing inconvenience. Therefore, it is preferable to maximize the size of the syringe unit (500), but since the patient has to wear the device, an overly large unit could cause discomfort. Thus, it is important to balance portability with storage capacity.

Referring again to FIG. 12b, the expanded view of the configuration of the portable drug delivery pump (1000'') shows that it consists of a cover unit (980), the main components (100, 200, 300, 400, 500, 600, 700), an internal structural plate (960), a PCB board (800), and the bottom unit (970).

The main components?motor unit (100), gear unit (200), pumping unit (300), hose unit (400), syringe unit (500), needle injection unit (600), hose unit (400), and battery unit (700)?are housed within the internal structural plate (960). Meanwhile, the PCB board (800) is positioned below the internal structural plate (960) and manages power supply, drug solution residual measurement, and other tasks. Finally, the bottom unit (970) of the housing unit (900) encloses the PCB board (800), completing the packaging as a unified system.

FIG. 13 is a drawing illustrating the motor unit (100), gear unit (200), and pumping unit (300) of the portable drug delivery pump (1000'') according to the embodiment of FIG. 12a and FIG. 12b of the present invention.

Referring again to FIG. 13, the portable drug delivery pump (1000'') of this embodiment includes the motor unit (100) and gear unit (200). The motor unit (100) and gear unit (200) are designed to provide an accurate amount of the drug solution to the patient.

FIG. 14a and FIG. 14b are drawings illustrating the pumping unit (300) of the portable drug delivery pump (1000'') according to the embodiment of FIG. 12a and FIG. 12b of the present invention.

Referring to FIG. 14a and FIG. 14b, the first rotor unit (310) includes a rotating pin accommodation groove (311) that houses the rotating pins (330), a first rotor connection component (313) that forms the rotor connecting shaft (350), and a bearing cover fixing groove (314). The second rotor unit (320) includes a protruding pin (321) involved in triggering, a rotating pin accommodation groove (322) that houses the rotating pins (330), a second rotor connection component (323) that forms the rotor connecting shaft (350), and a bearing cover fixing groove (324).

The first rotor connection component (313) and the second rotor connection component (323) are each formed protruding from the center of the first rotor unit (310) and the second rotor unit (320), respectively. These components interlock with each other to form the rotor connecting shaft (350) through their coupling.

The protruding structure of the rotor connecting shaft (350) prevents twisting along the rotational axis when fixed to the rotational axis, ensuring that the positions of both the first rotor unit (310) and the second rotor unit (320) remain stable. This reduces friction between the rotating pins and the rotor units and decreases the load during rotation when mounted with the hose unit.

Additionally, the first rotor unit (310) and the second rotor unit (320) each include bearing cover fixing grooves (314, 324), allowing for the installation of a cover to protect the bearing (340).

Referring again to FIG. 1a, the hose unit (400) is tightly placed in close contact with the rotating pins (330) of the pumping unit (300). One end is connected to the discharge port (520) of the syringe unit (500), which will be described later, and the other end is connected to the connector (640) of the needle injection unit (600). This ensures that the drug solution stored in the syringe unit (500) is delivered to the needle injection unit (600) without coming into contact with other components.

Therefore, since the parts that come into contact with the drug solution are limited to the hose unit (400), the syringe unit (500), and the needle injection unit (600), these components can be designed as replaceable, allowing other components to be reused, which is an advantage.

FIG. 15a to FIG. 15c are drawings illustrating the syringe unit (500) of the portable drug delivery pump (1000'') according to the embodiment of FIG. 12a and FIG. 12b, as well as explanatory diagrams.

Referring to FIG. 15a, this drawing represents a vertical longitudinal cross-section of the syringe unit (500). The syringe unit (500) includes a syringe (510) for storing the drug solution, a discharge port (520) for releasing the drug solution, and a plunger (530) that seals the syringe (510). If necessary, it may also include a syringe spring that provides elastic force to the drug storage space inside the syringe (510) via the plunger (530).

The plunger (530) has a sealing part (531) to prevent leakage of the drug solution and a holder part (532), which is a structure that holds the sealing part (531). In addition, it includes a magnetic unit (533) that provides external magnetic force. The magnetic unit (533) of the plunger (530) is located outside the syringe (510) and magnetically interacts with the coupling magnetic unit (535).

Since it is important to maintain the seal in the syringe unit (500), the magnetic unit (533) and the coupling magnetic unit (535) are magnetically connected to monitor the position of the plunger (530), and the position of the coupling magnetic unit (535) is measured to determine the amount of drug solution remaining inside the syringe unit (500).

Meanwhile, referring to FIG. 15b, the coupling magnetic unit (535) further includes a resistor (536) that is formed by electrically contacting the coupling magnetic unit (535). This is formed on the PCB board (800), and the measurement value of the resistor (536) is transmitted as an electrical signal.

The resistor can be implemented through patterning of carbon paste or as part of the PCB board's (800) built-in pattern. The coupling magnetic unit (535) is fixed in the left-right and up-down directions within a groove formed in the lower part of the PCB board (800) and the bottom unit (970). Therefore, the magnetic unit (533) fixed to the plunger (530) moves along with the coupling magnetic unit (535) magnet on the external lower part, detecting resistance changes as the plunger (530) moves.

The magnetization direction of the magnetic unit (533) fixed to the plunger (530) is set with the N-S poles aligned along the circular side, while the coupling magnetic unit (535) positioned at the lower part of the PCB board (800) has its N-S poles aligned vertically, stabilizing the fixation of the magnet without twisting due to attractive forces when secured.

As a result, this magnetic coupling structure converts the position changes of the syringe plunger into linear changes in electrical resistance, allowing the plunger's position to be directly monitored. Since this measurement method physically tracks the actual location of the drug solution, it is much more accurate than methods that rely on counting motor rotations. Moreover, this physical measurement method can detect blockages that might occur during drug injection, allowing the system to automatically confirm that all components are functioning properly.

Referring to FIG. 15c, the syringe unit (500) is connected to the hose unit (400), and the discharge port (520) of the syringe unit (500) can be designed as an integrated or insertable barb-type connector. A barb-type connector is commonly used to connect hoses or tubes that transport fluids, featuring a structure with multiple protruding barbs (teeth) at the end. These barbs grip the inside of the hose or tube when it is pushed onto the connector, preventing it from being easily pulled off. The same structure can be applied to the connector (640) of the needle injection unit (600), as described later.

To reduce the overall weight of the syringe unit (500), the magnetic unit (533) and coupling magnetic unit (535) can be omitted. The pump can still function normally without these magnetic components. Additionally, removing the magnetic unit (533) from the plunger (530) extends the plunger's stroke, increasing the filling capacity. Conversely, to reduce the filling capacity, the diameter of the syringe (510) can be changed to a smaller type, and the height of the cover unit (980) can be adjusted to lower the overall height of the device. Additionally, when using a long syringe needle, the drug solution can be filled via the rubber packing attached to the plunger (530).

The discharge port (520) is connected to one side of the hose unit (400), and in some cases, the discharge port (520) of the syringe unit (500) and the hose unit (400) can be formed as a single piece without a separate connection. In this case, the syringe unit (500) and hose unit (400) are integrated and can be replaced together. Depending on the implementation, the hose unit (400) and syringe unit (500) can be provided as a single package along with the needle injection unit (600), allowing the components to be replaced simultaneously.

FIG. 16a and FIG. 16b are drawings illustrating the needle injection unit (600) of the portable drug delivery pump (1000'') according to the embodiment of FIG. 12a and FIG. 12b of the present invention.

Referring to FIG. 16a and FIG. 16b, the needle injection unit (600) includes a cannula (660) for injecting the drug solution into the patient, a needle (650) for inserting the cannula (660) under the patient’s skin, a moving unit (630) for moving the needle (650) and cannula (660), a connector (640) for delivering the drug solution to the cannula (660), a linear guide (620) for guiding the movement direction of the moving unit (630) and positioning it, and a torsion spring (670) that provides the moving force for the moving unit (630). Additionally, the needle injection unit (600) includes a trigger pin (692) that initiates triggering via the protruding pin (321) of the pumping unit (300), and a fixing pin (695) that connects to the trigger pin (692) to secure and release the tension of the torsion spring (670).

To explain each component in more detail, the needle injection unit (600) primarily consists of the cannula (660) and the needle (650). The continuous injection of the drug solution into the patient is performed through the cannula (660), while the needle (650) is used initially to insert the cannula (660) under the skin.

Typically, in such drug injection devices, a combined needle-cannula unit is used, where the needle (650) is inserted and then retracted, leaving only the cannula (660) in place. This same process is applied here, where the needle (650) is withdrawn after the insertion of the cannula (660).

The moving unit (630) performs a downward movement to insert the needle (650) and cannula (660) through the patient’s skin and then moves upward to retract only the needle (650), leaving the cannula (660) in place.

In this process, the horizontal movement bar (680) is applied. The horizontal movement bar (680) can be connected to a horizontal movement spring, which provides lateral elastic force. The horizontal movement bar (680) ensures that the cannula holder (665), which accommodates the cannula (660), hooks onto the horizontal movement bar (680) after the needle-cannula unit has advanced, preventing the cannula (660) from retracting during the backward movement.

The movement direction and fixation of the moving unit (630) are guided by the linear guide (620). The needle (650) and cannula (660) advance and retract according to the direction and distance guided by the linear guide (620).

The connector (640) delivers the drug solution from the hose unit (400) to the cannula (660), allowing the drug solution to be supplied through the cannula (660), which is inserted into the patient. Like the discharge port (520) of the syringe unit (500), the connector (640) can be designed as an integrated or insertable barb-type connector, which facilitates connection with the hose unit (400).

The torsion spring (670) is fixed to the needle base plate (691) and provides rotational force, allowing it to rotate by a designated angle. Through a slide-crank mechanism, this rotation moves the needle (650) and cannula (660) downward and restores only the needle (650) to its original position, leaving the cannula (660) in place. Typically, the torsion spring (670) can be pre-rotated by about 270 degrees for this movement. This mechanism can be controlled by limiting the rotation radius of the rotating plate (682) through the insertion of a rotation limiting pin (683) into the opening (621) within the linear guide (620). The movement distance of the moving unit (630) and the mechanical components applied to the slide-crank mechanism can vary depending on the configuration.

Additionally, the system includes a trigger unit cover (696), which covers the components related to triggering, and a moving unit cover (683), which covers the parts related to the needle (650) and cannula (660).

Referring again to FIG. 16a and FIG. 16b, the needle injection unit (600) of the present invention further includes a trigger pin (692), which initiates triggering by engaging with the protruding pin of the pumping unit, and a fixing pin (695) that connects to the trigger pin (692) and secures or releases the tension of the torsion spring. Additionally, it includes a tension spring (693) that provides restoring force to the fixing pin, and a spring connection unit (694) that receives restoring force from the tension spring (693) and operates the fixing pin (695).

As the second rotor unit (320) of the pumping unit (300) rotates, the protruding pin (321) lifts the trigger pin (692), initiating the insertion of the cannula (660). When the protruding pin (321) of the second rotor unit (320) lifts the trigger pin (692), the trigger pin (692) is released from the fixing groove (696) that holds it in place. As a result, the trigger pin (692) is acted upon by the tension spring (693) and the connected spring connection unit (694), moving the fixing pin (695). The fixing pin (695), which is inserted into a groove in the rotating plate (682), is released from the rotating plate (682), allowing the rotating plate (682) to rotate under the rotational force provided by the torsion spring (670). This movement initiates the slide-crank mechanism.

In this embodiment, a rotating ring (681) may also be included. The rotating ring (681) has an internal opening that allows rotation within a specified range, and it is coupled to a protrusion on the rotating plate (682) or the torsion spring (670), mechanically limiting the rotation range of the rotating plate (682) or the torsion spring (670). This entire process occurs automatically without human intervention.

FIG. 17a to FIG. 17d are drawings explaining the triggering mechanism of the needle injection unit (600) of the portable drug delivery pump (1000'') according to the embodiment of FIG. 12a and FIG. 12b.

Referring to FIG. 17a and FIG. 17b, as the second rotor unit (320) of the pumping unit (300) rotates, the protruding pin (321) lifts the trigger pin (692). The trigger pin (692) is released from the fixing groove (696), causing the fixing pin (695) to retract and initiating the slide-crank mechanism.

FIG. 17b shows the state just before the slide-crank mechanism is activated. Therefore, the moving unit (630) has not yet descended and remains elevated, and the needle (650) and cannula (660) have not yet been inserted into the patient.

FIG. 17c shows the state immediately after the slide-crank mechanism has been activated. The moving unit (630) has descended, and the needle (650) and cannula (660) have been inserted into the patient. At this stage, the trigger pin (692) has been released from the fixing groove (696). Consequently, the moving unit (630) has moved downward due to the rotation of the torsion spring (670), and at this point, the needle (650) has inserted the cannula (660) beneath the patient's skin.

Referring to FIG. 17d, after the initial triggering and once the cannula holder (665), which holds the cannula (660), descends, the cannula holder (665) comes into contact with the horizontal movement bar (680) as it moves forward with the movement unit. The horizontal movement bar (680) is held in place by a compression spring and initially aligns with the cannula holder (665) upon contact.

When the moving unit (630) descends, the horizontal movement bar (680) is pushed backward by the forward motion of the cannula holder. Once the moving unit (630) reaches the lower end of its downward movement, the horizontal movement bar (680) passes the contact point with the cannula holder (665). At this moment, the horizontal movement bar (680) moves forward again due to the restoring force of the compression spring, securing the cannula holder (665) between the bottom unit (970) and the horizontal movement bar (680) in both horizontal and vertical directions.

At this point, the horizontal movement bar (680) holds only the cannula holder (665) that accommodates the cannula (660), while the movement of the needle (650) is not restricted by the horizontal movement bar (680). As a result, with the cannula (660) still inserted downward, the moving unit (630) returns to its original upper position, and the needle (650) is restored to its original position. Only the cannula (660) remains inserted in the patient's skin, transitioning to a state where the drug solution can be steadily administered to the patient through the cannula (660).

FIG. 18a to FIG. 18d are drawings illustrating the battery unit (700) of the portable drug delivery pump (1000'') according to the embodiment of FIG. 12a and FIG. 12b of the present invention.

The battery unit (700) supplies power to components such as the motor unit (100) and the PCB board (800). The battery unit (700) may include at least one battery. These batteries are designed to be replaceable, allowing for removal and reinstallation as needed. Preferably, the batteries are arranged to accommodate a pair of battery groups, ensuring a longer battery life.

Referring to FIG. 18a to FIG. 18c, the battery unit (700) includes a pair of first electrodes (711) that penetrate the internal structural plate (960) and are electrically connected, and a second electrode (712) that penetrates the internal structural plate (960), is electrically insulated from the first electrodes (711), and is positioned between the pair of first electrodes (711). Additionally, the battery unit (700) includes a first connecting electrode (715) that connects the PCB board (800) and the first electrodes (711) below the internal structural plate (960), and a second connecting electrode (714) that connects the PCB board (800) and the second electrode (712). The battery unit (700) may also include a motor connection electrode (721) that penetrates the internal structural plate (960) and is electrically connected to the motor unit (100).

The structure of the battery unit (700) connects the battery electrodes, namely the first electrode (711) and the second electrode (712), to the PCB board (800). This structure is characterized by the fact that, when the bottom unit (970), PCB board (800), and internal structural plate (960) are assembled, the fixed electrodes automatically align and connect with the PCB board (800) through the slits formed in the internal structural plate (960). This method enables the formation of a series or parallel battery connection, achieving a 3V parallel structure by using four 1.5V batteries.

Referring to FIG. 18c and FIG. 18d, the method of connecting the electrodes of the motor unit (100) to the PCB board (800) involves a structure in which, when the bottom unit (970), PCB board (800), and internal structural plate (960) are assembled, the electrode structure fixed to the motor automatically aligns and connects with the PCB board (800) through the slits formed in the internal structural plate (960). This can be implemented through the motor connection electrode (721). At this time, a method is used in which the metal electrode patterned on an insulating material (e.g., plastic) is fixed by an insulation part (722), and the electrode structure fixed to the motor unit (100) is secured as the motor is fixed to the intermediate plate.

Additionally, the structure of the motor connection electrode (721) is designed to flexibly connect electrically to the PCB board (800) through the elasticity of the electrode itself. Therefore, when the internal structural plate (960), PCB board (800), and bottom unit (970) are mechanically connected, the motor connection electrode (721) and PCB board (800) come into electrical contact, enabling power to be supplied. The same principle applies to the first electrode (711) and the second electrode (712).

This structure of the battery unit (700) provides benefits such as weight reduction for the insulin pump, reduced battery replacement costs, and flexible adaptability to different battery electrode structures if the number of batteries decreases due to reduced drug injection volume. It offers a highly flexible connection method that allows easy replacement with different types of battery electrode structures.

FIG. 19a to FIG. 19c are drawings illustrating the housing unit (900) of the portable drug delivery pump (1000'') according to the embodiment of FIG. 12a and FIG. 12b of the present invention.

Referring to FIG. 19a to FIG. 19c, the portable drug delivery pump (1000'') in this embodiment includes bolts (991) and bolt fastening grooves (992) within the housing unit (900). It may also include an external drug injection port (994) through which the drug can be injected externally. Additionally, an O-ring (990) is included at the junction of the bottom unit (970) and the cover unit (980) to maintain a seal. The drug injection port (994) may also be equipped with a separate rubber stopper to prevent contamination.

The structure of the housing unit (900) in the present invention can be designed to secure or remove the cover in various ways. In particular, because it allows for the replacement of internal components, the external housing can be easily assembled and disassembled. This assembly method may use a bolt/screw fastening system, a locking mechanism that utilizes the elasticity of the structure, or a detachable structure using a push mechanism similar to that of a ballpoint pen.

On the other hand, the entire housing unit (900) can be designed as a permanently fixed structure using adhesives, ultrasonic welding, or heat sealing. This fully fixed design reduces the risk of external contamination or manipulation. The device can also be produced as a disposable product using cost-effective materials.

Additionally, an O-ring (990) may be included at the junction between the bottom unit (970) and the cover unit (980) to maintain a seal against external elements. The O-ring (990) can be secured by an O-ring fixing groove (991) formed in the area where the bottom unit (970) and cover unit (980) are joined.

Although the embodiments have been described with reference to limited drawings as above, those skilled in the art will understand that various technical modifications and variations can be applied based on the foregoing. For example, the described techniques may be performed in a different order than the method described, and/or the components of the described systems, structures, devices, circuits, etc., may be combined or arranged in a different manner than described, or replaced or substituted with other components or equivalents while achieving appropriate results. Therefore, other implementations, embodiments, and equivalents of the claims that follow are also within the scope of the claims.

The portable drug delivery pump according to the present invention includes replaceable components, enhancing maintenance and cost efficiency. Additionally, by automating the cannula insertion process, it reduces the workload of medical personnel and improves patient convenience and safety. Furthermore, the pump accurately measures the injected drug solution, minimizing dosage errors and maximizing therapeutic efficacy. These features can be widely utilized in the medical device industry, particularly in various healthcare settings such as chronic disease management, home care, and emergency medical situations.

Claims

A portable drug delivery pump comprising:

a motor unit (100) providing rotational power;

a gear unit (200) disposed adjacent to the motor unit (100), controlling and transmitting rotational speed and torque provided by the motor unit (100);

a pumping unit (300) disposed adjacent to the gear unit (200), receiving a controlled rotational force from the gear unit (200) to control injection of drug solution;

a syringe unit (500) for storing and supplying the drug solution;

a needle injection unit (600) for injecting the drug solution into a patient;

a hose unit (400) detachably coupled with the syringe unit (500) and the needle injection unit (600), delivering the drug solution from the syringe unit (500) to the needle injection unit (600) by receiving a pressure from the pumping unit (300);

a battery unit (700) including at least one battery to provide an electric power;

a sensor unit (800) for measuring the amount of drug solution stored in the syringe unit (500); and

a housing unit (900);

wherein the needle injection unit (600) includes:

a cannula (660) for injecting the drug solution into the patient;

a needle (650) for inserting the cannula (660) under the patient’s skin;

a moving unit (630) for moving the needle (650) and cannula (660);

a connector (640) for delivering the drug solution to the cannula (660);

a linear guide (620) for guiding a movement direction of the moving unit (630) and disposing the moving unit (630); and

a torsion spring (670) providing a moving force to the moving unit (630).
The portable drug delivery pump of claim 1,

wherein the needle injection unit (600) further includes a needle control bolt (610) for controlling initiation of operation of the moving unit (630).
The portable drug delivery pump of claim 2,

wherein the needle control bolt (610) restrains the movement of the moving unit (630).
The portable drug delivery pump of claim 2,

wherein the needle control bolt (610) is exposed to an outside of the housing unit (900).
The portable drug delivery pump of claim 1,

wherein the hose unit (400), the syringe unit (500), and the needle injection unit (600) are replaceable.
The portable drug delivery pump of claim 1,

wherein the pumping unit (300) includes:

a first rotor unit (310) and a second rotor unit (320);

a plurality of rotating pins (330) connected to the first and second rotor units (310, 320), partially compressing and releasing the hose unit (400) as the first and second rotor units (310, 320) rotate to pump the drug solution;

a bearing (340) installed between the first and second rotor units (310, 320) and the plurality of rotating pins (330); and

a rotor connecting shaft (350) transmitting power from the gear unit (200) and connecting the first and second rotor units (310, 320).
The portable drug delivery pump of claim 6,

wherein the hose unit (400) includes:

a drug delivery hose (410); and

a molding block (420) providing a securing force to the drug delivery hose (410) so as to be placed in close contact with the rotating pins (330).
The portable drug delivery pump of claim 1,

wherein the syringe unit (500) includes:

a syringe (510) for storing the drug solution;

a discharge port (520) for releasing the drug solution;

a plunger (530) sealing the syringe (510); and

a syringe spring (540) providing an elastic force to drug solution storage space inside the syringe (510) through the plunger (530).
The portable drug delivery pump of claim 1,

wherein the moving unit (630), using a rotational force provided by the torsion spring (670) as power, moves the needle (650) and the cannula (660) downward through a slide-crank mechanism, and restores only the needle (650) to an original position of the neddle (650), excluding the cannula (660).
The portable drug delivery pump of claim 1,

wherein the sensor unit (800) includes:

a photodiode array (810) detecting a storage status of the drug solution in the syringe unit (500);

a processor (820) controlling the photodiode array (810); and

a board (830) on which the photodiode array (810) and the processor (820) are installed.
The portable drug delivery pump of claim 10,

wherein a bottom plate of the housing unit (900) has an exposure slit (950) formed to expose the photodiode array (810).
The portable drug delivery pump of claim 1,

wherein the lower portion of the housing unit (900) includes:

a grid-shaped groove (910) through which an external injected material is delivered to weaken an adhesive force during detachment;

an adhesive tape (920) for adhering;

an adhesive mask (930) to control the adhesive force of the adhesive tape (920); and

a protective film (940) for protecting the adhesive tape (920).
A portable drug delivery pump comprising:

a motor unit (100) providing rotational power;

a first gear unit (200) disposed adjacent to the motor unit (100), controlling and transmitting the rotational speed and torque provided by the motor unit (100);

a second gear unit (300) disposed adjacent to the first gear unit (200), controlling and transmitting the rotational speed and torque provided by the first gear unit (200);

a syringe unit (500) for discharging a drug solution by using a rotational force transmitted by the second gear unit (300);

a needle injection unit (600) for injecting the drug solution into a patient;

a hose unit (400) detachably coupled with the syringe unit (500) and the needle injection unit (600), delivering the drug solution from the syringe unit (500) to the needle injection unit (600) by receiving a pressure from the second gear unit (300);

a battery unit (700) including at least one battery to provide an electric power;

a sensor unit (800) for measuring the amount of the drug solution stored in the syringe unit (500); and

a housing unit (900);

wherein the needle injection unit (600) includes:

a cannula (660) for injecting the drug solution into the patient;

a needle (650) for inserting the cannula (660) under the patient's skin;

a moving unit (630) for moving the needle (650) and cannula (660);

a connector (640) for delivering the drug solution to the cannula (660);

a linear guide (620) for guiding a movement direction of the moving unit (630) and disposing the moving unit (630);

a torsion spring (660) providing a moving force to the moving unit (630);

a wire (1120) locking the moving unit (630) and being able to be automatically released when a release signal is input; and

a moving unit fixture (1110) securing the moving unit (630) and the wire (1120).
The portable drug delivery pump of claim 13,

wherein the syringe unit (500) and the needle injection unit (600) are replaceable.
The portable drug delivery pump of claim 13,

wherein the syringe unit (500) includes:

a syringe (510) for storing the drug solution;

a discharge port (520) for releasing the drug solution;

a plunger (530) sealing the syringe (510);

a lead screw (550) for advancing the plunger (530) by rotation; and

a syringe gear (560) connected to the lead screw (550) and transmitting power from the second gear unit (300).
The portable drug delivery pump of claim 15,

wherein the injection amount of the drug solution provided by the syringe unit (500) is controlled by adjusting the gear reduction ratio of the first gear unit (200), the gear reduction ratio of the second gear unit (300), and the pitch of the lead screw (550) of the syringe unit (500).
The portable drug delivery pump of claim 13,

wherein the needle injection unit (600) further includes a resistance wire (1130) in contact with the wire (1120) and heated by the release signal,

and wherein the wire (1120) is made of a polymer material.
A portable drug delivery pump comprising:

a motor unit (100) providing rotational power;

a gear unit (200) disposed adjacent to the motor unit (100), controlling and transmitting rotational speed and torque provided by the motor unit (100);

a pumping unit (300) disposed adjacent to the gear unit (200), receiving a controlled rotational force from the gear unit (200) to control the injection of a drug solution;

a syringe unit (500) for storing and supplying the drug solution;

a needle injection unit (600) controling an injection of the drug solution and triggering an insertion of the needle (650) and cannula (660) into a patient by the initial rotation of the pumping unit (300) operated by the motor unit (100),

a hose unit (400) detachably coupled with the syringe unit (500) and the needle injection unit (600), delivering the drug solution from the syringe unit (500) to the needle injection unit (600) by receiving pressure from the pumping unit (300);

a battery unit (700) accommodating at least a pair of battery groups to provide electric power; and

a housing unit (900) including a detachable base (970) and a detachable cover (980).
The portable drug delivery pump of claim 18,

wherein the pumping unit (300) includes:

a first rotor unit (310) and a second rotor unit (320);

a plurality of rotating pins (330) connected to the first and second rotor units (310, 320), partially compressing and releasing the hose unit (400) when the first and second rotor units (310, 320) rotate in order to pump the drug solution;

a bearing (340) installed between the first and second rotor units (310, 320) and the plurality of rotating pins (330);

a rotor connecting shaft (350) transmitting power from the gear unit (200) to connect the first and second rotor units (310, 320); and

a protruding pin (321) involved in the process for triggering of the needle injection unit (600).
The portable drug delivery pump of claim 19,

wherein the needle injection unit (600) includes:

a cannula (660) for injecting the drug solution into the patient;

a needle (650) for inserting the cannula (660) under the patient’s skin;

a moving unit (630) for moving the needle (650) and cannula (660);

a connector (640) for delivering the drug solution to the cannula (660);

a linear guide (620) for guiding the movement direction of the moving unit (630) and disposing the moving unit (630);

a torsion spring (670) providing a moving force to the moving unit (630);

a trigger pin (692) initiating the process for triggering by the protruding pin (321) of the pumping unit (300); and

a fixing pin (695) connected to the trigger pin (692), securing and releasing the tension force of the torsion spring (670).
The portable drug delivery pump of claim 20,

wherein the needle injection unit (600) further includes:

a tension spring (693) providing a restoring force to the fixing pin (695); and

a spring connection unit (694) receiving the restoring force from the tension spring (693) and operating the fixing pin (695) by the restoring force.
The portable drug delivery pump of claim 20,

wherein the moving unit (630), using a rotational force provided by the torsion spring (660) as power, moves the needle (650) and the cannula (660) downward through a slide-crank mechanism, and restores only the needle (650) to an original position of the neddle (650), excluding the cannula (660).
The portable drug delivery pump of claim 22,

wherein the needle injection unit (600) further includes:

a cannula holder (665) for housing the cannula (660); and

a horizontal movement bar (680) positioned in front of the moving unit (630);

and wherein, after the cannula (660) is moved downward by the triggering, the cannula holder (665) is trapped and fixed between the base (970) of the housing unit (900) and the horizontal movement bar (680).
The portable drug delivery pump of claim 18,

wherein the syringe unit (500) includes:

a syringe (510) for storing the drug solution;

a discharge port (520) for releasing the drug solution; and

a plunger (530) sealing the syringe (510)

wherein the plunger (530) includes a sealing unit (531) for sealing the drug solution to prevent leakage, and a holder unit (532) as a structure for holding the sealing unit (531).
The portable drug delivery pump of claim 24,

wherein the plunger (530) further includes:

a magnetic unit (533) providing magnetic force externally;

a coupling magnetic unit (535) positioned outside the syringe (510) and magnetically coupled with the magnetic unit (533) of the plunger (530); and

a resistor (536) formed by electrically contacting the coupling magnetic unit (535).
The portable drug delivery pump of claim 18,

wherein the housing unit (900) includes:

an internal structural plate (960) accommodating the motor unit (100), the gear unit (200), the pumping unit (300), the syringe unit (500), the needle injection unit (600), the hose unit (400), and the battery unit (700); and

a PCB board (800).
The portable drug delivery pump of claim 26,

wherein the battery unit (700) includes:

a pair of first electrodes (711) passing through the internal structural plate (960) and electrically connected to each other; and

a second electrode (712) passing through the internal structural plate (960), electrically insulated from the first electrodes (711), and positioned between the pair of first electrodes (711).
The portable drug delivery pump of claim 27,

wherein the first connecting electrode (715) connects the PCB board (800) and the first electrodes (711) beneath the internal structural plate (960), and

the second connecting electrode (714) connects the PCB board (800) and the second electrode (712) beneath the internal structural plate (960).
The portable drug delivery pump of claim 26,

wherein the motor connection electrode (721) passes through the internal structural plate (960), is electrically connected to the motor unit (100), fixed by an insulation part (722), and elastically connected to the PCB board (800).
The portable drug delivery pump of claim 19,

wherein the first rotor unit (310) includes a first rotor connection component (313),

the second rotor unit (320) includes a second rotor connection component (323), and

the first rotor connection component (313) and the second rotor connection component (323) are engaged with each other to form the rotor connecting shaft (350).
The portable drug delivery pump of claim 19,

wherein the first rotor unit (310) and the second rotor unit (320) comprise bearing cover fixing grooves (314, 324).
The portable drug delivery pump of claim 20,

wherein the connector (640) of the needle injection unit (600) comprises a barb-shaped structure.
The portable drug delivery pump of claim 24,

wherein the discharge port (520) of the syringe unit (500) comprises a barb-shaped structure.
The portable drug delivery pump of claim 18, further comprising:

an O-ring unit (990) located at the junction of the base (970) and the cover (980) to maintain sealing from external elements.
The portable drug delivery pump of claim 18,

wherein the hose unit (400), the syringe unit (500), and the needle injection unit (600) are replaceable.