CN117255702A

CN117255702A - Cartridge unit subassembly for a medicament delivery device

Info

Publication number: CN117255702A
Application number: CN202280031039.2A
Authority: CN
Inventors: M-T·尹; O·亚历山大森; D·卡尔森; J·赞德
Original assignee: Astor Medical
Current assignee: Astor Medical
Priority date: 2021-04-28
Filing date: 2022-04-19
Publication date: 2023-12-19

Abstract

A cartridge unit sub-assembly for a medicament delivery device, the sub-assembly comprising: a body extending along a longitudinal axis from a proximal end to a distal end; a delivery member shield coaxially attached to the body and axially movable relative to the body along a longitudinal axis; a locking member attached to the body; the locking member being movable relative to the transport member shroud between a locked position and an unlocked position; the locking member includes a distally directed surface adjacent to a proximally directed surface of the delivery member shield in a locked position; and, in the unlocked position, the distally directed surface of the locking member is circumferentially spaced from the proximally directed surface of the delivery member shield relative to the longitudinal axis.

Description

Cartridge unit subassembly for a medicament delivery device

Technical Field

The present disclosure relates generally to a cartridge unit subassembly for a medicament delivery device such as a reusable auto-injector or syringe having two separable components, and more particularly to a subassembly for locking a delivery member shield of such a unit prior to use.

Background

Medicament delivery devices such as pen-type manual or automatic injectors are well known for self-administration to non-medical trained patients. For example, a patient suffering from diabetes may require repeated injections of insulin, or the patient may require periodic injections of other types of agents, such as growth hormone.

Some medicament delivery devices have two parts that are connected to each other during use. One part typically receives a medicament container, such as a cartridge or syringe, containing a medicament; this part is often referred to as a cartridge or cartridge unit. The other part typically comprises a driver for activating the expelling of the medicament.

Medicament delivery devices designed in this way are generally reusable. The cartridge unit is a disposable component and the other part with the drive is a reusable component. The drive member may comprise a power unit, such as a spring or a motor, and thus may be reused for multiple medicament deliveries.

Medicament delivery devices are typically designed to comprise a delivery member shield for protecting a medicament delivery member (e.g. needle or nozzle) delivering a medicament to an end user from contamination; and serves to protect the end user from the medicament delivery member.

A locking mechanism/device is generally sought for locking the delivery member shield to prevent distal movement of the delivery member shield after use, generally locking the delivery member shield in the final use position. Prior to use, the delivery member shield is typically protected by a protective cap to prevent a user from accidentally pushing the delivery member shield and exposing the medicament delivery member. However, it has been recognized that alternatives for protecting the medicament delivery member prior to use may be advantageous.

Disclosure of Invention

The invention is defined by the following claims, with reference to which the invention should now be construed.

In the present disclosure, when the term "distal direction" is used, it refers to a direction away from the dose delivery site during use of the medicament delivery device. When the term "distal portion/end" is used, it refers to the portion/end of the drug delivery device or a component thereof that is furthest away from the drug delivery site when the drug delivery device is in use. Accordingly, when the term "proximal direction" is used, it refers to a direction pointing to the dose delivery site during use of the medicament delivery device. When the term "proximal portion/end" is used, it refers to the portion/end of the drug delivery device or a component thereof that is closest to the drug delivery site when the drug delivery device is used.

Furthermore, the terms "longitudinal," "axial," or grammatical variations thereof refer to a direction that extends along a device or component thereof, generally along the longest direction of extension of the device and/or component thereof, from a proximal end to a distal end.

Similarly, the term "transverse" or grammatical variations thereof refers to a direction that is substantially perpendicular to a longitudinal direction.

Furthermore, the term "circumferential" or grammatical variations thereof refers to a circumferential or circumferential direction relative to an axis that is generally a central axis that extends along the longest extension of the device and/or component. Similarly, "radial" or grammatical variations thereof refers to a direction extending radially relative to an axis, and "rotational" or grammatical variations thereof refers to rotation relative to an axis.

Accordingly, there is provided a cartridge unit sub-assembly for a medicament delivery device, the sub-assembly comprising: a body extending along a longitudinal axis from a proximal end to a distal end; a delivery member shield coaxially attached to the body and axially movable relative to the body along a longitudinal axis; a locking member attached to the body; the locking member being movable relative to the transport member shroud between a locked position and an unlocked position; the locking member includes a distally directed surface adjacent to a proximally directed surface of the delivery member shield in a locked position; and, in the unlocked position, the distally directed surface of the locking member is circumferentially spaced from the proximally directed surface of the delivery member shield relative to the longitudinal axis.

The locking member is configured to lock the delivery member shield from moving in a proximal direction relative to the body when the locking member is in the locked position, and unlock the delivery member shield such that the delivery member shield is free to move in a proximal direction relative to the body.

Thus, by placing the locking member in the locked or unlocked position, the subassembly provided by the invention is able to releasably prevent movement of the medicament delivery shield relative to the body.

Thus, proximal movement of the delivery member shield may be used to trigger another action of the medicament delivery device, such as priming, needle mounting, enabling the end user to mount the medicament delivery member, or in some cases as a second safety design. For example, a safety mechanism of the delivery member shield may be provided on a cartridge unit having the delivery member shield and the medicament delivery member. The safety mechanism is designed to prevent the delivery member shield from being moved to the distal position before use until the cartridge unit of the medicament delivery device has been properly assembled to another part of the medicament delivery device, whereby the end user is not accidentally injured or contaminating the delivery member. However, when the end user assembles the two parts of the medicament delivery device together, sometimes the end user may press the delivery member shield in a distal direction; also, once the safety mechanism is released, the end user may come into contact with the delivery member because the delivery member shield may now suddenly move in a distal direction. In this case, proximal movement of the delivery member shield may be of a second safety design; for example, the delivery member shield cannot move in the distal direction unless the delivery member shield is first moved to the proximal position; or the delivery member shield cannot be moved in the distal direction a distance long enough to expose the medicament delivery component. Thus, the medicament delivery member is not exposed to the end user; unless (i) the cartridge unit has been properly assembled to another part of the medicament delivery device; and (ii) the end user does not press the delivery member shield in the distal direction (so the delivery member shield cannot move to the proximal "free-moving" position).

Preferably, according to another embodiment, the locking member is rotatable relative to the delivery member shield about a longitudinal axis between a locked position and an unlocked position.

Alternatively, according to another embodiment, the locking member is linearly slidable relative to the delivery member shield in a direction transverse to the longitudinal axis from the locked position to the unlocked position.

Preferably, according to another embodiment, the locking member is a removable pin configured to be removed from the delivery member shield by linear sliding relative to the delivery member shield along a direction transverse to the longitudinal axis.

Alternatively, according to another embodiment, the locking member is radially flexible relative to the longitudinal axis and the delivery member shield from the locked position to the unlocked position.

Preferably, according to another embodiment, the locking member is a clip that is radially flexible relative to the delivery member shield from a locked position to an unlocked position.

Preferably, according to another embodiment, the locking member is a removable clip configured to be removed from the delivery member shield when the removable clip is bent from the locked position to the unlocked position.

Preferably, according to another embodiment, the cartridge unit sub-assembly comprises a biasing member arranged between a first distally directed surface of the delivery member shield and a proximally directed surface of the body.

According to another embodiment, the delivery member shield comprises a ledge extending radially with respect to the longitudinal axis; and the first distally directed surface of the delivery member shield is defined by a portion of the ledge.

Preferably, according to another embodiment, the delivery member shield comprises a protrusion extending radially with respect to the longitudinal axis; and the proximally directed surface of the delivery member shield is part of the protrusion.

Preferably, according to another embodiment, the protrusions extend radially in a direction away from the rungs.

Preferably, according to another embodiment, the locking member comprises a tubular body surrounding a portion of the delivery member shield.

According to another embodiment, the locking member comprises a ledge extending circumferentially with respect to the longitudinal axis along a portion of the inner surface of the tubular body of the locking member; and the distally directed surface of the locking member is part of the rail.

Alternatively, according to another embodiment, the locking member comprises a recess extending circumferentially with respect to the longitudinal axis along a portion of the inner surface of the tubular body of the locking member; the recess radially facing the longitudinal axis; and the distally directed surface of the locking member is part of the recess.

Preferably, according to another embodiment, the cartridge unit sub-assembly comprises an actuator attached to the body and configured to move relative to the body in the direction of the longitudinal axis between a proximal position and a distal position; the actuator includes an elongate body; and the actuating member includes an interaction portion extending from an elongate body of the actuating member toward a distal end of the body.

Preferably, according to another embodiment, the delivery member shield is movable relative to the body between a distal trigger position and a proximal post-use position; and the delivery member shield includes a second distally directed surface.

According to another embodiment, the actuator comprises a proximally directed locking surface; and, when the delivery member shield is in the post proximal use position, a second distally directed surface of the delivery member shield is adjacent to a proximally directed locking surface of the actuator.

Alternatively, according to another embodiment, the cartridge unit subassembly includes an inner housing disposed within a delivery member shroud and an actuator; and the inner housing includes a proximally directed locking surface adjacent to a second distally directed surface of the delivery member shield when the delivery member shield is in the proximal post-use position.

According to another embodiment, the actuator is located between the proximally directed locking surface of the inner housing and the second distally directed surface of the delivery member shield in a direction transverse to the longitudinal axis when the delivery member shield is not in the proximal post-use position.

Preferably, according to another embodiment, the actuator comprises a proximally directed holding surface adjacent to the distally directed surface of the body when the actuator is axially moved from the proximal position to the distal position.

Preferably, according to another embodiment, the interacting portion of the actuating member protrudes from the distal end of the body when the actuating member is in the distal position.

According to another embodiment, the cartridge unit sub-assembly of the present invention may be used in a cartridge unit of a medicament delivery device. The box body includes: a delivery member cover assembly secured to the proximal end of the body and rotatably releasable relative to the body; the transport member cover assembly includes: a tubular outer protective cap; an inner cap at least partially surrounded by the tubular outer cap; a clutch member rotatably secured to the inner cap and longitudinally located between the tubular outer cap and the delivery member shield; the clutch member includes a clutch biasing member axially movable relative to the outer cap between a relaxed position and a tensioned position; the tubular outer cap is fixed in the axial direction relative to the inner cap and is rotatable relative to the inner cap; the tubular outer cap includes a plurality of engagement members, the clutch member including a plurality of mating engagement members; and, the plurality of engagement members are adjacent to the plurality of mating engagement members when the clutch biasing member is in the tensioned position.

Preferably, according to another embodiment, said plurality of engagement members of the tubular outer cap are a plurality of protrusions; the plurality of protrusions extend radially inward from an inner surface of the tubular outer cap relative to the longitudinal axis.

According to another embodiment, the plurality of mating engagement members of the clutch member are a plurality of mating projections; the plurality of mating projections extend radially outwardly from an outer surface of the inner cap relative to the longitudinal axis.

Alternatively, according to another embodiment, the plurality of mating engagement members of the clutch member are a plurality of slots; the plurality of slots are radially outward from the outer surface of the inner cap relative to the longitudinal axis.

Preferably, according to another embodiment, the clutch member comprises a proximal connector and a distal connector; the clutch biasing member is longitudinally between the proximal connector and the distal connector; and the distal connector is adjacent the proximal end of the delivery member shield, the proximal connector releasably adjacent a distally directed surface on the inner surface of the tubular outer cap.

According to another embodiment, the plurality of mating engagement members of the clutch member are arranged on an outer surface of the distal connector.

Alternatively, according to another embodiment, the plurality of mating engagement members of the clutch member are arranged on an outer surface of the proximal connector.

According to another embodiment, the plurality of mating engagement members includes flexible arms extending partially around the longitudinal axis.

Preferably, according to another embodiment, the body comprises a bayonet connector on an outer surface of the body for attachment to a part of a medicament delivery device.

Preferably, according to another embodiment, the body comprises a snap-fit connector on an outer surface of the body for attachment to a portion of a medicament delivery device.

Preferably, according to another embodiment, the locking member comprises a flange; the flange protrudes from an outer surface of the body and is aligned with the bayonet connector of the body in a longitudinal direction.

Another embodiment of the present invention provides a cartridge unit subassembly for a medicament delivery device, the cartridge unit subassembly comprising: a body extending along a longitudinal axis from a proximal end to a distal end; a delivery member shield coaxially attached to the body and biased proximally to move axially relative to the body from a distal position to a proximal position; and a locking member attached to the body; the locking member being movable relative to the transport member shroud between a locked position and an unlocked position; and the locking member is configured to lock the delivery member shield in the distal position when it is in the locked position.

Preferably, according to another embodiment, the locking member comprises a distally directed surface which in the locked position faces a proximally directed surface of the delivery member shield; and, in the unlocked position, the distally directed surface of the locking member is separated from the proximally directed surface of the delivery member shield.

Preferably, according to another embodiment, the actuator is configured to move relative to the body along the longitudinal axis under the action of the delivery member shield.

Preferably, according to another embodiment, the actuation member comprises an interaction portion configured to interact with a portion of a medicament delivery device comprising a cartridge unit having a cartridge unit sub-assembly.

Preferably, according to another embodiment, the delivery member shield is movable relative to the body between a distal trigger position and a proximal post-use position; and the actuator is configured to lock the delivery member shield in the proximal post-use position when the delivery member shield is moved from the distal trigger position to the proximal post-use position.

Preferably, according to another embodiment, the cartridge unit sub-assembly of the present invention may be used in combination with a cartridge unit for a medicament delivery device; the medicament delivery device comprises a drive unit in addition to the cartridge unit, and the cartridge unit is releasably attached to the drive unit of the medicament delivery device.

Preferably, according to another embodiment, the cartridge unit of the present invention may be used in combination with a medicament delivery device comprising a reusable drive assembly; the reusable drive assembly includes a tubular housing extending along a longitudinal axis from a proximal end to a distal end; and the cartridge unit is releasably attached to the reusable drive assembly by a bayonet connection on an inner surface of the proximal end of the reusable drive assembly and an outer surface of the distal end of the body of the cartridge unit.

According to another embodiment, the inner surface of the proximal end of the reusable drive assembly comprises a bayonet recess; and wherein an outer surface of the distal end of the body of the cartridge unit comprises bayonet projections.

Another aspect of the invention provides a cartridge unit subassembly for a medicament delivery device, the subassembly comprising: a housing extending along a longitudinal axis between a proximal end and a distal end; a delivery member shield telescopically arranged to the proximal end of the housing; and an actuator axially movable and rotatable relative to the delivery member shield; the delivery member shield includes an interaction portion configured to rotate relative to the housing and axially move the actuator by interacting with a ramp disposed on the actuator.

Preferably, according to another embodiment, the interaction portion is a protrusion or a distally directed arm.

Preferably, according to another embodiment, the actuator comprises an actuator body and a track arranged on a wall of the actuator body.

Preferably, according to another embodiment, the track comprises a first track extending in the direction of the longitudinal axis and a second track comprising a ramp.

Preferably, according to another embodiment, the track is formed by a cutout, or recess, or a plurality of laterally extending rails arranged on the actuator body.

Preferably, according to another embodiment, the medicament delivery device is an injection device, an inhalation device or a medical nebulizer.

Preferably, according to another embodiment, the cartridge unit of the medicament delivery device is adapted to house a medicament container.

Preferably, according to another embodiment, the drive unit comprises a drive for actuating a medicament contained in a medicament container contained by the cartridge unit.

Preferably, according to another embodiment, the subassembly comprises a distal cap attachable to the distal end of the body.

Preferably, according to another embodiment, the distal cap is part of the body of the subassembly.

Preferably, according to another embodiment, the distal cap comprises a cap body having a shape conforming to the shape of the medicament container contained within the body.

Preferably, according to another embodiment, the body comprises a tubular portion.

Preferably, according to another embodiment, the distal cap comprises a mating ramp configured to interact with a ramp of the actuator when the actuator is axially moved by the delivery member shield.

Preferably, according to another embodiment, the second track comprises a locking portion, the protrusion of the delivery member shield being configured to move into the locking portion as the delivery member shield is moved distally of the proximal post-use position of the delivery member shield.

Preferably, according to another embodiment, the protrusion is arranged at the flexible portion of the delivery member shield, or the distal frame of the locking portion of the actuator is flexible.

Preferably, according to another embodiment, the actuator comprises a locking tab configured to move into the locking notch of the distal cap as the delivery member shield is moved distally of the proximal post-use position of the delivery member shield.

Preferably, according to another embodiment, the distal cap comprises a container support for supporting a medicament container housed within the body; the container support includes a proximally directed surface.

Preferably, according to another embodiment, the container support is a flexible arm.

Preferably, according to another embodiment, the flexible arms of the container support may be formed by cuts in the cover opening in a direction transverse to the longitudinal axis.

Preferably, according to another embodiment, the flexible arm may extend in a distal direction from the cover.

Preferably, according to another embodiment, the proximally directed surface of the container support is formed on an inner surface of the flexible arm, or on a distal end of the flexible arm.

Preferably, according to another embodiment, the container support is configured to prevent the medicament container contained within the body from moving in a distal direction in an axial direction and/or to allow the contained medicament container to have different dimensions related to engineering tolerances, such as a specific length and/or width of the contained medicament container.

Preferably, according to another embodiment, the medicament delivery device with the sub-assembly of the present invention may be operated by a method comprising the step of connecting the cartridge unit to the drive unit.

Preferably, according to another embodiment, the method comprises the step of connecting the cartridge unit to the drive unit by rotating the cartridge unit relative to the drive unit about a longitudinal axis.

Preferably, according to another embodiment, the method comprises the steps of: rotating a locking member relative to the body from a locked position to an unlocked position; moving the delivery member shield in a proximal direction along a longitudinal axis relative to the body; compressing the clutch biasing member from the relaxed position to the tensioned position by proximal movement of the delivery member shield; and rotating the outer and inner caps about the longitudinal axis relative to the body by engagement between the plurality of engagement members and the plurality of mating engagement members to remove the transport member cover assembly from the body.

Preferably, according to another embodiment, the method comprises the steps of: inserting the distal end of the body of the cartridge unit into the proximal end of the housing of the drive assembly; rotating the cartridge unit along the bayonet connection relative to the housing of the drive assembly; and rotating the body of the cartridge unit relative to the locking member about the longitudinal axis while rotating the cartridge unit relative to the housing of the drive assembly along the bayonet connection.

In general, all terms used in the claims are to be interpreted according to their ordinary meaning in the technical field, unless explicitly defined otherwise herein. All references to "a/an/the element, device, component, means, etc. are to be interpreted openly as referring to at least one instance of said element, device, component, means, etc., unless explicitly stated otherwise.

Drawings

Embodiments of the inventive concept will now be described, by way of example, with reference to the accompanying drawings, in which:

fig. 1 schematically shows a perspective view of a medicament delivery device with a cartridge unit and a medicament delivery device drive unit.

Fig. 2 schematically shows an exploded view of a sub-assembly of a cartridge unit for the medicament delivery device of fig. 1.

Fig. 3 schematically illustrates a perspective view of a locking member of the sub-assembly of fig. 2 and a body of the sub-assembly of fig. 2.

Fig. 4A-4B schematically illustrate perspective views of the locking member of fig. 3 in different embodiments.

Fig. 5 schematically illustrates a perspective view of a transport member shield of the subassembly of fig. 2.

Fig. 6A-6E schematically illustrate distal views of the delivery member shield of the subassembly of fig. 2 and the locking member of the subassembly of fig. 2 in two examples with the locking member in a locked position and an unlocked position.

Fig. 6F-6G schematically illustrate perspective views of an actuator of the subassembly of fig. 2 and a distal cap of the subassembly of fig. 2.

Fig. 7 schematically illustrates a perspective view of the distal cap of the subassembly of fig. 2 and the body of the subassembly of fig. 2 in another example.

Fig. 8 schematically illustrates a perspective view of the distal cap of fig. 7, the distal portion of the delivery member shield of the subassembly of fig. 2, and the biasing member of the subassembly of fig. 2.

Fig. 9 schematically illustrates a perspective view of a delivery member shield of the subassembly of fig. 2 and an actuator of the subassembly of fig. 2.

Fig. 10 schematically illustrates a perspective view of the delivery member shield of fig. 9 and the actuator of fig. 9.

11A-11B schematically illustrate cross-sectional views of the delivery member shield of FIG. 9 and the actuator of FIG. 9.

Fig. 12A-12B schematically illustrate cross-sectional views of the delivery member shield of fig. 9 and the actuator of fig. 9 assembled with the distal cap of fig. 7 and the biasing member of fig. 8.

Fig. 13 schematically shows a perspective view of the distal cover of fig. 7.

Fig. 14A-14B schematically illustrate side views of the distal cap of fig. 7 and the actuator of fig. 9.

15A-15B schematically illustrate side views of the delivery member shield of FIG. 5, the distal cap of FIG. 7, and the actuator of FIG. 9.

Fig. 16 schematically illustrates a perspective view of an actuator of the sub-assembly of fig. 2 in another example.

Fig. 17 schematically illustrates a perspective view of the conveying member shield of fig. 5 and the inner housing of the subassembly of fig. 2.

Fig. 18A schematically illustrates a perspective view of the inner housing of fig. 17, the delivery member shield of fig. 5, and the actuator of fig. 16.

Fig. 18B schematically illustrates a cross-sectional view of fig. 18A.

Fig. 18C schematically illustrates a perspective view of the inner housing of fig. 17, the delivery member shield of fig. 5, and the actuator of fig. 16.

Fig. 19A-19B schematically illustrate perspective views of the inner housing of fig. 17, the delivery member shield of fig. 5, and the actuator of fig. 16.

Fig. 19C-19J schematically illustrate a sequence of operations of the interaction between the actuation member of fig. 6F, the distal cap of fig. 6G, and the delivery member shield of fig. 6C.

Fig. 20 schematically shows a side view of a cartridge unit with a kit of medicament delivery members.

Fig. 21 schematically illustrates an exploded view of the sub-assembly of fig. 2 with the medicament delivery member kit of fig. 20.

Fig. 22A-22B schematically illustrate perspective views of the medicament delivery member set of fig. 20.

Fig. 23 schematically shows a perspective view of the inner cap of the medicament delivery member kit of fig. 20.

Fig. 24 schematically illustrates a distal view of a clutch member of the medicament delivery member kit of fig. 20.

Fig. 25A-25B schematically illustrate perspective views of the medicament delivery member set of fig. 20.

Fig. 26A-26B schematically show perspective views of an outer cap and an inner cap of a medicament delivery member kit in another embodiment.

Detailed Description

Fig. 1-36D illustrate a cartridge unit subassembly for a medicament delivery device. In this specification, the term "cartridge unit subassembly" is sometimes referred to simply as a "subassembly". It should be noted that the term "cartridge unit subassembly" and the term "subassembly" have the same meaning in this specification. As shown in fig. 1, the cartridge unit is typically used in combination with a medicament delivery device having two separable parts. The first part or cartridge unit 2 of the medicament delivery device is typically intended to house a medicament container, such as a syringe or cartridge, containing a medicament. The syringe or cartridge may be made of glass or plastic. The syringe or cartridge may include a rubber stopper sealed at the distal end of the syringe or cartridge and a septum or medicament delivery member with a rubber sheath sealed at the proximal end of the syringe or cartridge. Alternatively, the syringe or cartridge may be collapsible, having only a septum or medicament delivery member, with a rubber delivery member sheath sealing the proximal end of the syringe or cartridge.

The second part of the medicament delivery device or the drive unit 1 typically comprises a drive member for driving the medicament contained in the medicament container in a proximal direction of the medicament delivery device, expelling the medicament into the end user. The drive unit 1 may comprise a plunger rod for pushing the medicament container. In one example, the stopper of the medicament container is thereby movable in a proximal direction relative to the other parts of the medicament container. In another example, the plunger rod may collapse the medicament container by pushing the medicament container in a proximal direction with respect to the cartridge unit 2. The drive unit 1 further comprises a power source, such as a spring, a gas cartridge or a motor driven gear set, for moving the plunger rod in the proximal direction of the medicament delivery device. The focus of the concepts described herein is on a cartridge unit subassembly for a medicament delivery device, rather than a drive unit, and various different types of drive units may be used in combination with a cartridge unit with the subassemblies described herein. Therefore, the driving unit will not be fully described.

The sub-assembly of the present invention includes a body 20 extending along a longitudinal axis L from a proximal end to a distal end; 20'; coaxially attached to the body and capable of being relative to the body 20 along a longitudinal axis; 20' along an axial direction; 21';21"; attached to the body 20;20' a locking member 22;22';22". A locking member 22;22';22 "can be shielded 21 relative to the conveying member; 21';21 "between a locked position and an unlocked position. A locking member 22;22';22 "comprise a distally directed surface adjacent to the delivery member shield 21 in the locked position; 21';21", a proximally directed surface; in the unlocked position, the locking member 22;22';22 "are circumferentially associated with the delivery member shield 21 with respect to the longitudinal axis L; 21';21 "are spaced apart.

In a preferred example, body 20;20' may be formed as a generally tubular member having a shape corresponding to the most common medicament container, whereby the subassembly enables the medicament delivery device to be kept compact. However, the body may be formed in any other suitable shape capable of accommodating a medicament container.

As shown in fig. 1-2, the body 20 is configured to house a medicament container in the housing 200. If it is desired that the medicament container be visible, the housing 200 may include a window 201 aligned with the medicament container so that the end user can view the medicament through the window 201. On the other hand, the housing 200 may be transparent so that the body does not require a window. The cartridge unit 2 is configured to be releasably attached to the drive unit 1 by a releasable connection between the body 20 and the drive unit when an end user intends to perform a medicament delivery operation. The main body 20 includes a connector configured to be connected with a counterpart connector on the drive unit 1. In one example, the connector and the counter connector may form a bayonet connection, which means that one of the body 20 and the drive unit 1 comprises bayonet protrusions and the other of the body 20 and the drive unit 1 comprises bayonet recesses/cutouts. For example, the outer body 20 may include a bayonet connector 202 on the housing 200 of the body 20, such as the bayonet protrusions shown in fig. 2; and the drive unit 1 comprises a mating bayonet connector 11, such as the bayonet recess shown in fig. 1. In this example, the body 20 is configured to be inserted axially into the proximal portion of the drive unit 1 along the longitudinal axis L by means of the bayonet connector 202 and the mating bayonet connector 11; the body 20 then needs to be rotated about the longitudinal axis L relative to the drive unit 1 so that the cartridge unit 2 is properly attached to the drive unit.

Alternatively, the connection between the body 20 and the drive unit 1 may be another suitable connection, such as a snap fit connection or a threaded connection; or the cartridge unit may be fully received in the drive unit; in this example, the portion of the drive unit for receiving the cartridge unit may be a form-fit connection to releasably receive the cartridge unit. In the case where the cartridge unit is completely received in the driving unit, the shape of the main body may depend on the shape of the portion of the driving unit for receiving the cartridge unit.

The subassembly of the present invention includes a transport member shield 21;21' as shown in fig. 2, 5 and 6C. A conveying member cover 21;21' includes a front cover 210 configured to protrude from the proximal end of the body 20; 210'. A front cover 210;201' are configured to conceal a medicament delivery member integral with or attachable to a medicament container when the medicament delivery device is in use by an end user. In a preferred example, front cover 210;210' is a tubular element, in front of the hood 210;210' has an opening at the proximal end thereof to deliver the member guard 21;21' of the front cover 210;210' are coaxially attached to the body 20 and are axially movable relative to the body 20 along a longitudinal axis L between a distal position and a proximal position. Similarly, the front shroud 210 of the conveying member shroud; 210' are similar in shape to the body 20, thereby making the device compact, the delivery member shield may be formed in any other suitable shape that is axially movable relative to the body 20 along the longitudinal axis L.

The delivery member shield 21 includes arms 211 extending from the distal end of the front cover 210 in the distal direction of the body 20 of the subassembly. Preferably, the delivery member shroud 21 includes a projection 214 extending radially relative to the longitudinal axis L, as shown in fig. 5. The delivery member shield 21 optionally includes a ledge 212 disposed on the distal end of the delivery member shield. In a preferred example, the protrusions 214 extend radially relative to the longitudinal axis L in a direction away from the rails 212. The delivery member shield 21 optionally includes a window portion 213 configured to align with the window 201 on the housing 200 of the body 20. Window portion 213 may be an aperture or a portion formed of a transparent material.

In a preferred example, the delivery member shield 21 is partially disposed within the body 20, i.e., the delivery member shield 21 is partially disposed within the housing 200 of the body 20. In this example, the arms 211 and rails 212 are preferably disposed entirely within the body 20; and the front cover 210 protrudes fully or partially from the proximal end of the main body 20 so that the front cover 210 can cover the medicament delivery member. In one example, the arms 211 of the delivery member shield 21 are configured to interact with a part of the drive unit 1 of a medicament delivery device comprising a sub-assembly of the present invention. For example, when the cartridge unit 2 comprising the sub-assembly is assembled onto the drive unit 1, further distal movement of the delivery member shield 21 can move the arm 211 into the drive unit 1 to release the plunger rod connected to a power source, e.g. a spring, a gas canister, a motor; or to switch on the power source.

The subassembly includes a locking member 22, as shown in fig. 2-4B. A locking member 22 is attached to the body 20. The locking member 22 may be removably or non-removably attached to the body 20. The locking member 22 includes a body 220. In a preferred example, the body 220 of the locking member 22 is a tubular body 220. The lock member 22 is movable relative to the main body 20 between a locked position and an unlocked position. As shown in fig. 4A-B, the locking member 22 includes a distally directed surface that is adjacent the delivery member shield 21 in the locked position; 21' to a proximal-directed surface; and, in the unlocked position, the distally directed surface of the locking member 22 and the delivery member shield 21;21' are spaced apart by proximally directed surfaces. In a preferred example, the conveying member shroud 21; the proximally directed surface of 21' is defined by a protrusion 214.

The subassembly of the invention is arranged such that, in the locking member 22;22';22 "in the locked position, the transport member shield 21;21';21 "is locked in the distal position; and, at the locking member 22;22';22 "in the unlocked position, the transport member shield 21;21';21 "is released from the distal position; so that if the member is conveyed the shield 21;21';21 "is subjected to a proximal force, then the delivery member shield 21;21';21 "are movable to a proximal position.

In one example, the locking member 22;22';22 "are rotatably attached to the body 20 between a locked position and an unlocked position; 20'. In this example, to attach the locking member 22 to the body 20, the locking member 22 includes a flange 221 as shown in fig. 3. In this example, as shown in fig. 3, the flange 221 includes an enlarged portion 221a and a lateral portion 221b. The lateral portion 221b extends between the enlarged portion 221a and the body 220 of the locking member 22. In this example, the body 20 includes an assembly track 203 formed by a cutout/recess on the distal end of the body 20, the assembly track 203 preferably being on a distal portion of the housing 200 of the body 20, as shown in fig. 3. The assembly track 203 comprises a longitudinal portion 203a and a transverse portion 203b. The longitudinal portion 203a is a longitudinal cut/recess on the distal end of the body 20 and the lateral portion 203b is a lateral cut/recess on the distal end of the body 20. The longitudinal portion 203a of the assembly track 203 includes a distal end and a proximal end. The transverse portion 203b of the assembly track 203 includes a first circumferential end and a second circumferential end. The proximal end of the longitudinal portion 203a is connected to a first circumferential end of the lateral portion 203b of the assembly track 203.

The dimensions of the longitudinal portion 203a and the transverse portion 203b are, seen in a direction perpendicular to the longitudinal axis L, greater than the dimensions of the transverse portion 221b of the flange 221 of the locking member 22, but less than the dimensions of the enlarged portion 221a of the flange 221 of the locking member 22.

During assembly, the locking member 22 is configured to be attached to the body 20 by the flange 221 of the locking member 22 and the assembly track 203 of the body 20. The lateral portion 221b of the flange 221 of the locking member 22 is aligned with the distal end of the longitudinal portion 203a of the assembly track 203; inserted into the longitudinal portion 203a through the distal end of the longitudinal portion 203 a; moving along the longitudinal portion 203a of the assembly track 203 from the distal end of the longitudinal portion 203a to the proximal end of the longitudinal portion; enters the transverse portion 203b of the assembly track 203 from a first circumferential end of the transverse portion 203b and moves along the transverse portion 203b of the assembly track 203 until blocked by a second circumferential end of the transverse portion 203 b.

The body 220 of the locking member 22 is sized to mate with the distal end of the housing 200 such that the body 220 of the locking member 22 can be snugly received within the distal end of the housing 200 after assembly. Alternatively, the dimensions of the longitudinal portion 203a and the transverse portion 203b are smaller than the dimensions of the enlarged portion 221a of the flange 221 of the locking member 22, so that lateral movement of the locking member 22 relative to the body 20 is prevented by the enlarged portion 221 a.

In a preferred example, the enlarged portion 221a of the flange 221 protrudes from the outer surface of the distal end of the housing 200 of the body 20. In one example, the bayonet connector 202 of the body 20 is a bayonet protrusion. The flange 22, in particular the enlarged portion 221a of the flange 221, is aligned in the longitudinal direction with the bayonet connector 202 of the body 20, as shown in fig. 3. The perimeter of the enlarged portion 221a of the flange 221 may be substantially equal to or slightly less than the perimeter of the bayonet connector 202. The enlarged portion 221a of the ledge 221 is also able to move into the longitudinal portion of the mating bayonet connector 11 when the bayonet protrusion 202 moves into the longitudinal portion of the mating bayonet connector 11. However, the enlarged portion 221a of the ledge 221 can only rest in a longitudinal portion of the mating bayonet connector 11 when the bayonet protrusion 202 is moved into a circumferential portion of the mating bayonet connector 11. Thus, as the bayonet projections 202 rotate along a circumferential portion of the mating bayonet connector 11, the body 20 and the conveying member shroud 21;21' rotate relative to the locking member 22. Thus, rotation for connecting the cartridge unit 2 to the drive unit 1 results in the locking member 22 being relative to the transport member shroud 21;21' from a locked position to an unlocked position.

It should be noted that alternatively, to attach the locking member to the body, the body 20 may comprise a circumferential slot of the body 20 instead of an assembly track as described above. The locking member can thus be snap-fitted into the circumferential slot of the body 20. It should be noted that if the assembly method of attaching the locking member to the body is changed, the above-described assembly-related components may also be changed according to the selected assembly method. Furthermore, the lateral portion 221b of the flange 221 of the locking member 22 is designed mainly for assembly, and therefore, the flange 221 may be modified to have only the enlarged portion 221a.

In one example, the locking member 22;22';22 "is a tubular body 220. A locking member 22;22';22 "surrounds the delivery member shield 21;21' are provided. For example, the tubular body 220 may be a generally cylindrical element or a generally semi-cylindrical element. In one example, the locking member includes a ledge 222 extending circumferentially along a portion of the inner surface of the tubular body 220 of the locking member 22 relative to the longitudinal axis; 222', as shown in fig. 4A-4B and 6C-6E, and the distally directed surface of the locking member is a ledge 222;222' are provided.

The rail 222 may extend circumferentially relative to the longitudinal axis along only a portion of the inner surface of the tubular body 220 of the locking member 22, as shown in fig. 4A. In this example, the unlocked position is defined by the position of the broken portion 223 of the ledge 222 on the inner surface of the tubular body 220 of the locking member 22 relative to the rest of the ledge 222, as shown in fig. 4A. The broken portion 223 refers to a portion where the crosspiece 222 stops extending continuously in the circumferential direction with respect to the longitudinal axis l. Thus, once the protrusion 214 is aligned with the break in the direction of the longitudinal axis L, the protrusion 214 is free to move in the direction of the longitudinal axis without being blocked by the ledge 222. A conveying member cover 21;21' are configured to move along the ledge 222 of the locking member 22 when the locking member 22 is moved from the locked position to the unlocked position. Once the projections 214 disengage the ledge 222 or encounter the broken portion 223 of the ledge 222, the member shield 21 is conveyed; 21' are free to move in the proximal direction of the body 20 of the subassembly. Alternatively, the rail 222' can extend in a circumferential direction relative to the longitudinal axis and in a direction along the longitudinal axis. In this example, the rails 222' may be helical, as shown in fig. 6C-6E. The helical ledge 222' extends helically from the distal end to the proximal end in the proximal direction of the cartridge body unit 2. In this example, the conveying member shroud 21;21';21", a projection 214;214';214 "are configured to move along the helical ledge 222' of the locking member 22 when the locking member 22 is moved from the locked position to the unlocked position. Once the protrusions 214;214' move from the distal end of the helical ledge 222' to the proximal end of the helical ledge 222', delivering the member shield 21;21' are free to move in the proximal direction of the body 20 of the subassembly. The exact position defining the unlocked position of the locking member 22 depends on the design of the medicament delivery device comprising the sub-assembly of the present invention. In this example, even if the end user rotates the locking member 22 to the unlocked position, the end user is still able to change mind and rotate the locking member back to the locked position. It should be noted that the protrusion 214' may include a proximally facing ramp.

Alternatively, the locking member 22 includes a recess extending in a circumferential direction relative to the longitudinal axis L along a portion of the inner surface of the tubular body 220 of the locking member 22. The recess faces radially towards the longitudinal axis L. The distally directed surface of the locking member is part of said recess, thereby delivering the member shield 21;21' are configured to protrude into the recess. In this example, the transport member shroud 21 is prevented when the locking member 22 is in the locked position; 21' are moved in a distal or proximal direction relative to the body 20 of the subassembly. Similarly, the recess includes a break portion similar to the above example to define the unlocked position of the locking member 22.

Fig. 6A shows the locking member 22 in a locked position. The conveying member shroud 21 when the locking member 22 is in the locking position; the projection 214 of 21' rests on/moves along the ledge 222 of the locking member, thereby transporting the member shield 21;21' is locked in the distal position; namely, the conveyance member shroud 21 is prevented; 21' are moved proximally of the body 20 relative to the locking member 22. Fig. 6B shows the locking member 22 in an unlocked position. In this example, the locking member 22 is opposite the delivery member shield 21;21' rotate about the longitudinal axis L. In the example where the rails are partially circular rails 222, as shown in fig. 4A, once the member shield 21 is delivered, the locking member 22 extends only partially along the inner surface of the tubular body 220 of the locking member 22; 21' are no longer aligned with a portion of the ledge 222 in the direction of the longitudinal axis L, the distally directed surface of the locking member 22 is in contact with the delivery member shield 21;21' are spaced apart by proximally directed surfaces. A conveying member cover 21;21' are completely misaligned with a portion of the ledge 222 on the longitudinal axis L, thus defining an unlocked position of the locking member 22. Thus, the exact unlocked position of the locking member 22 may be defined by selecting the length of the rail 222 according to design requirements.

A conveying member cover 21; the movement of 21' from the distal position to the proximal position may serve as an "unlocking" mechanism of the cartridge unit 2, whereby injuries or contamination of the medicament delivery member caused by accidental touching or falling to the ground by a user or the like can be prevented. For example, in the conveying member cover 21;21' have been moved from the distal position to the proximal position, the member shield 21;21' is movable to a second distal position; more details about this initiation mechanism will be explained later. Alternatively, the conveying member shield 21; the movement of 21' from the distal position to the proximal position may be used in a cartridge unit where the end user needs to have the ability to self-attach to the medicament delivery member. For example, the end user may need to self-attach the pen needle to the cartridge unit. In this example, the delivery member shield should be initially in a distal position so that the end user can attach the pen needle to the cartridge unit; when the end user attaches the pen needle to the cartridge unit, the end user may move the locking member 22 from the locked position to the unlocked position such that the delivery member shroud 21;21' are movable from a distal position to a proximal position (e.g. by simply being pulled by a user or pushed by a biasing member or resilient structure) so that an attached pen needle can be shielded 21 by the delivery member; 21' cover. Alternatively, if the subassembly is used in a cartridge unit having a pre-assembled medicament delivery member kit, the delivery member shield 21;21' shroud 21 from the conveying member; the proximal movement of the distal position of 21' may be used to enable a user to manipulate the medicament delivery member kit to mount the medicament delivery member; this alternative will be explained in detail later.

In a preferred example, a safety mechanism may be provided to prevent the end user from accidentally separating the cartridge unit 2. The safety mechanism provided by the tubular body 220 of the locking member 22 includes a cutout/recess 220a ' opening in a direction transverse to the longitudinal axis L and a locking tab 20a ' extending from the wall of the body 20', as shown in fig. 33-36D. The cutout/recess 220a ' is configured to radially face the distal end 20b ' of the locking tab 20a '.

In this example, the body 20 'includes a locking tab 20a', the locking tab 20a 'extending from a wall of the body 20' to a distal end 20b 'of the locking tab 20 a'. The locking tab 20a' is flexible. As shown in fig. 36A-36D, when the end user attaches the cartridge unit 2 to the drive unit 1 via the bayonet connection described above (the sequence of operations shown by arrow S), the main body 20 'rotates relative to the locking member 22' (as shown by arrow R3 in fig. 36B-36C). As shown in fig. 36B-C, upon rotation of the body 20 'relative to the locking member 22', the distal end 20B 'of the locking tab 20a is deflected radially inward relative to the longitudinal axis L by the tubular body 220 of the locking member 22' (as indicated by arrow Z in fig. 36C). When the cartridge unit 2 is properly attached to the drive unit 1, the distal end 20b ' of the locking tab 20a ' is radially aligned with the cutout/recess 220a ' of the locking member 22', and thus the locking tab 2 is bent radially outwardly relative to the longitudinal axis L and is in the cutout/recess 220a ', as shown in fig. 36D. When the locking tab 2 is in the cutout/recess 220a ', the locking member 22' and the body 20' are prevented from rotating relative to each other.

As described above, when the bayonet projections of the body are in the circumferential portion of the mating bayonet connection of the drive unit 1, the enlarged portion 221a of the locking member 22' will stay in the longitudinal portion of the mating bayonet connector 11 of the drive unit 1, which means that the cartridge unit 2 is properly attached to the drive unit 1. Thus, as described above, the cartridge unit 2 cannot be separated from the drive unit 1 by the bayonet connection when the locking member 22 'and the main body 20' are prevented from rotating relative to each other.

In a preferred example, the locking tab 20a ' includes a protrusion 20c ' extending from an outer surface of the locking tab 20a ' in a direction transverse to the longitudinal axis L. In this example, when the end user wants to detach the cartridge unit 2 from the drive unit 1, the end user may press the projection 20c 'radially inwards towards the longitudinal axis L such that the locking tab 20a' deflects radially inwards with respect to the longitudinal axis L. Whereby the distal end 20b ' is removed from the cutout/recess 220a ' of the locking member 22 '. Upon removal of the distal end 20b ' from the cutout/recess 220a ' of the locking member 22', the locking member 22' and the body 20' can be rotated relative to each other, thereby disengaging the cartridge unit 2 from the drive unit 1 by rotating the cartridge unit 2 along the bayonet connection.

In a preferred example, the subassembly includes a distal cap 24 as part of the body 20 of the subassembly; 24' as shown in fig. 6G and fig. 7-8. A distal cover 24;24' are configured to be fixedly attached to the distal end of the body 20, such as through a snap-fit aperture 204 on the body 20 and the distal cap 24; a catch arm 241 on 24'; 241' such that the medicament container is prevented from moving in a distal direction relative to the body 20. The distal cover 24 may also be fully or at least partially received within the longitudinal portion 203a of the assembly track 203 such that the locking member 22 can only rotate relative to the main body 20 along the lateral portion 203b of the assembly track 203. In this example, the distal cap 24 includes a proximally extending arm 242 configured to fit into the longitudinal portion 203a of the assembly track 203.

A distal cover 24; the shape of 24' generally depends on the shape of the distal end of the body 20. A distal cover 24;24' includes a cover 240;240', as shown in fig. 2, 6G and 7; a cover 240;240' may be formed according to the shape of the medicament container received within the body 20, e.g., the cover 240;240' comprise tubular portions. Further, a distal cap 24;24' generally comprise an opening 240a, which opening 240a is axially aligned with a portion of the distal end of the medicament container, such that when the cartridge unit 2 is attached to the drive unit 1, the plunger rod is able to pass through the opening 240a and exert an effect on the medicament container for delivering the contained medicament.

In one example, the distal cap 24 may include a curved opening/slot 240b (when viewed from the axial direction) so that the interacting portion 251 of the arm or actuator 25 of the delivery member shield 21 (to be explained later) can pass through the curved opening/slot 240b and extend into the drive unit 1. In another example, the distal cap 24 may be generally rectangular or oval in shape. In this example, the interacting portion 251 of the arm or actuator 25 of the delivery member shield 21 is able to pass through the space between the distal edge of the body 20 and the edge of the distal cap 24.

It should be noted that the cartridge unit sub-assembly may be used in combination with a medicament delivery device triggered by a button, e.g. arranged at the distal end of the drive unit 1 or at a side wall of the body of the drive unit 1. In this example, neither the delivery member shield nor the actuator is involved in triggering a medicament delivery operation. Thus, the distal cover need not include curved openings/slots.

A distal cover 24;24' optionally comprise a tag, such as an RFID tag, a bar code, a QR code or a mechanical code, to contain information about the cartridge unit 2 or the contained medicament, so that the reader in the drive unit 1 can obtain this information for further use.

The distal cap 24 optionally includes a container support 245 for supporting a medicament container received within the body 20. The container support 245 includes a proximally directed surface. In one example, the container support 245 is a flexible arm 245. The flexible arms 245 may be formed by cuts on the cover 240 that open in a direction transverse to the longitudinal axis L; alternatively, the flexible arms 245 may extend in a distal direction from the cover 240. In this example, the container support 245 is capable of preventing axial movement of a medicament container received within the body 2 in a distal direction. The proximally directed surface of the container support 245 may be formed on the inner surface of the flexible arm; or may be formed at the distal end of the flexible arm. The container support 245 may also be used to allow for different sizes of received medicament containers related to engineering tolerances, such as a particular length and/or width of a received medicament container.

The subassembly of the present invention optionally includes a protective cover 21 disposed over the conveying member; 21' and a biasing member 23 between the first distally directed surface of the body 20 and the proximally directed surface of the body. The biasing member 23 may be a spring or a flexible arm. The biasing member 23 is configured to bias the delivery member shield 21 toward the proximal end of the body 20; 21'. In one example, the transport member shroud 21;21' is defined by a ledge 212;212' are defined in part. The subassembly includes a distal cap 24; in the example of 24', the proximally directed surface 243 of the body 20 may be disposed at the distal cover 24;24' as shown in fig. 8. Alternatively, the body may be provided with an inner rail extending along an inner surface of the body, such that the proximally directed surface may be provided on the inner rail.

The sub-assembly of the present invention optionally includes an actuator 25 movable along the longitudinal axis L relative to the body 20 between a proximal position and a distal position, as shown in fig. 2. In a preferred example, the actuator 25 comprises an elongate body extending along a longitudinal axis between a proximal end and a distal end. The actuator 25 includes an interaction portion 251, a retention portion 252, a distal cutout 253. In a first example, as shown in fig. 9, the actuator 25 further includes a second cutout 254 and a third cutout 255. In a second example, as shown in fig. 16, the actuator 25 does not include the second cutout 254 and the third cutout 255, but rather includes a recess 255' disposed on an outer surface of the elongated body of the actuator 25. The difference between the two examples of the actuator 25 relates only to the locking mechanism for the delivery member shield 21, i.e. the mechanism that prevents the delivery member shield 21 from moving in distal direction with respect to the main body 20 after the cartridge unit 2 has been used; this part will be explained in detail later.

The interaction portion 251 of the actuation member 25 is configured to interact with a component of the drive unit 1 of the medicament delivery device comprising the sub-assembly. For example, the drive unit 1 may comprise a motor, a motor driven gear, a plunger rod and a mechanical switch for switching on the motor. Upon movement of the delivery member shield 21 in a distal direction relative to the body 20 and the drive unit 1, the interacting portion 251 of the actuator 25 may contact the mechanical switch and move the switch to switch on the motor. In this case, if the switch is designed to face the proximal end of the drive unit 1, the switch may be placed in a slot of the drive unit 1 (to prevent any accidental contact), and the interaction portion 251 may be a rod having a diameter that can be inserted into such a hole and press the switch. Alternatively, the switch may be arranged on the inner surface of the drive unit 1. In this case, the interaction portion 251 may be an arm protruding radially outward so that the interaction portion 251 may press or flip the switch when the interaction portion is aligned with or moved over the switch. In this example, the arms 211 of the delivery member shield 21 may not extend into the drive unit 1 of the medicament delivery device comprising the sub-assembly. In this example, the delivery member shield 21 includes a second distally directed surface that is preferably disposed on a distally directed surface of the arm 211. The second distally directed surface is configured to interact with an actuator 25. As shown in fig. 10, the actuator 25 is movably attached to the transport member shield 21.

The actuator 25 is initially in its proximal position. As shown in fig. 11A, 12A and 19A, the actuator 25 is in its proximal position when the delivery member shield 21 is locked in the distal position. The arms 211 of the delivery member shield 21 are adjacent the distal edges 253a of the first cut-out 253 of the actuator 25. With the locking member 22 in the unlocked position and the delivery member shield subjected to proximally biasing force, the delivery member shield 21 is released and moves to the proximal position. With the delivery member shield 21 in the proximal position, as shown in fig. 11B and 12B/19B, the actuator 25 is in its proximal position. The arms 211 of the delivery member shield 21 now move proximally into the second cutouts 254 of the actuator 25. The arms 211 of the delivery member shield 21 may be flexible in a radial direction relative to the longitudinal axis L such that the arms 211 are able to flex outwardly to move past the ledge between the first cutout 253 of the actuator 25 and the second cutout 254 of the actuator 25. Alternatively, the ledge between the first cutout 253 of the actuator 25 and the second cutout 254 of the actuator 25 may be flexible in a radial direction relative to the longitudinal axis L such that the arm 211 is able to deflect the ledge and move from the first cutout 253 of the actuator 25 past the ledge of the actuator 25 to the second cutout 254 of the actuator 25 when the delivery member shield 21 is moved in a proximal direction relative to the body 20.

With the arms 211 of the delivery member guard 21 in the second cutout 254 of the actuator 25, the arms of the delivery member guard 21 are adjacent the distal edge 254a of the second cutout 254, such that further distal movement of the delivery member guard 21 can move the actuator 25 from the proximal position of the actuator 25 to the distal position of the actuator 25, as shown in fig. 15A. Thus, when the actuation member 25 is moved from its proximal position to its distal position, the interaction component 251 of the actuation member 25 is able to move into the drive unit 1 of the medicament delivery device and interact with components within the drive unit 1.

In another example, the actuator 25 is configured to remain in its distal position. In this example, the body 20 includes a retaining portion that provides a distally directed surface adjacent to the proximally directed retaining surface of the actuator 25 as the proximally directed retaining surface of the actuator 25 moves past the retaining portion of the body. In this example, as shown in fig. 13 and 14A-14B, the retaining portion 242a of the body 20 may be disposed on an inner surface of the proximally directed arm 242 of the distal cap 24. The proximally directed retaining surface of the actuator 25 is defined by a retaining portion 252 of the actuator 25. The design described in this example may be used in connection with a medicament delivery device having a drive unit that uses distal movement of the interacting portion 251 of the actuator 25 to switch on a set of control electronics, such that when the end user moves the delivery member shield 21 and the actuator 25 in distal direction relative to the body 20, these control electronics will be switched on and will only be switched off when the cartridge unit 2 comprising the sub-assembly has been removed from the drive unit 1. In this example, the actuator 25 remains in its distal position even if the delivery member shield 21 is again moved in a proximal direction relative to the body 20, as shown in fig. 15B. Furthermore, when the actuator 25 is held in its distal position, the interacting portion 251 of the actuator 25 will thus protrude from the distal cover 24, thereby enabling to provide a visual and/or tactile indication to the end user when the end user separates the cartridge unit 2 from the drive unit 1, to indicate that the cartridge unit 2 has been used.

To initiate operation of the medicament delivery device with the drive unit 1 and the cartridge unit 2, the end user may move the delivery member shield 21 towards the drive unit 1 to the distal trigger position. This distal movement of the delivery member shield 21 exposes the medicament delivery component to which the contained medicament is connected and may also trigger the drive unit 1 to output a force on the contained medicament. Thus, the medicament delivery member is exposed to the user when the delivery member shield 21 is in the distal trigger position. This distal movement of the delivery member shield 21 may be achieved by pressing the proximal end of the front cap 210 of the delivery member shield 21 over the medicament delivery site.

In the example where the subassembly includes a biasing member 23, the biasing member 23 is configured to bias the delivery member shroud 21 in a proximal direction relative to the body 20 of the subassembly. After performing the medicament delivery operation, the end user may remove the medicament delivery device from the medicament delivery site, and the biasing member 23 is thus able to bias the delivery member shield 21 in the proximal direction of the body 20, whereby the front cover 210 of the delivery member shield 21 is able to protect the medicament delivery member.

Thus, the delivery member shield 21 is biased to the proximal post-use position by the biasing member 23. The proximal post-use position may be a proximal position of the delivery member shield 21 as described above, or may be a second proximal position different from the proximal position of the delivery member shield 21 described above, depending on the design of the medicament delivery device. For example, if the medicament delivery member of the medicament delivery device is configured to move beyond its initial position in the proximal direction of the medicament delivery device after use as in a medicament delivery device comprising an automatic needle insertion mechanism, the delivery member shield may also be moved to a second proximal position being a proximal post-use position.

In this example, as shown in fig. 15B, the actuator 25 remains in its distal position as the delivery member shield 21 is moved to the post proximal use position, and the arms 211 of the delivery member shield 21 are thus moved into the third cutouts 255 of the actuator 25. The actuator includes a proximally directed locking surface 255a preferably disposed on the distal edge 255a of the third cutout 255 such that the second distally directed surface of the delivery member shield 21 is adjacent the proximally directed locking surface 255a of the actuator 25 when the delivery member shield 21 is in the post-proximal use position. Thus, any further movement of the delivery member shield 21 in a distal direction relative to the body 20 is prevented.

In a second example of an actuator 25, as shown in fig. 16, the subassembly includes an inner housing 26. As shown in fig. 17, the inner housing 26 is arranged radially with respect to the longitudinal axis between the conveying member shield 21 and the actuator 25. The inner housing 26 is fixed to the main body 20. The inner housing 26 includes a body 260 having a distal cutout 261. In this example, with the actuator 25 in its proximal position, the recess 255' of the actuator 25 is configured to prevent the arms 211 of the delivery member shield 21 from moving into the cutouts 261 of the inner housing, as shown in fig. 18A-B. With the delivery member shield 21 in the proximal position, the arms 211 of the delivery member shield 21 are adjacent the distal edges of the recesses 255a' of the actuator 25. When the delivery member shield 21 moves the actuator 25 to the distal position of the actuator 25, the actuator 25 is held in its distal position by the body 20 so that the arms 211 of the delivery member shield 21 can move into the cutouts 261 of the inner housing 26 once the delivery member shield 21 is moved to the proximal post-use position, as shown in fig. 18C. In this example, the second distally directed surface of the delivery member shield 21 is adjacent to the proximally directed surface on the distal edge 261a of the cutout 261 of the inner housing 26. Thus, any further movement of the delivery member shield 21 in a distal direction relative to the body 20 is prevented.

In another example, the actuator 25 'includes an actuator body 250' and a track. The tracks include a first track 251 'and a second track 252'. The first rail 251' and the second rail 252' are arranged on a wall of the actuator body 250 '. The first rail 251 'and the second rail 252' are configured to interact with protrusions arranged on the transport member guard. In a preferred example, the conveying member shield 21 'comprises a protrusion 211', which protrusion 211 'preferably extends from the wall of the conveying member shield 21' in a direction transverse to the longitudinal axis L, as shown in fig. 6C. In this example, the actuator 25 'is rotatable about the longitudinal axis L relative to the delivery member shield 21'. As shown in fig. 19C, with the locking member 22 in the locked position, the protrusion 211 'of the transport member shield 21' is initially within the first track 251 'of the actuator 25'. The protrusion 211' is movable together with the delivery member shield 21' in the proximal direction (arrow P) when the locking member 22 is in the unlocked position and thus enters the second track 252' of the actuator 25' when the delivery member shield 21' is in its proximal position (dashed arrow), as shown in fig. 19D. The proximal end of the first track 251 'optionally includes a bevel facing the distal end of the actuator 25'. Alternatively, the proximal end of the projection 211' of the delivery member shield 21' may optionally include a bevel facing the proximal end of the actuator 25 '. As the delivery member shield 21 'moves in the distal direction (arrow D) relative to the body 20, the protrusion 211' of the delivery member shield 21 'will move along the longitudinal portion 252a' of the second track 252 'toward the ramp 252b' such that the actuator 25 'can rotate (arrow R1) and move axially (arrow a) relative to the body 20 under the influence of the delivery member shield 21', as shown in fig. 19E-F. The actuating member 25' may be provided with one or more interaction means for interacting with the drive unit 1, similar to the interaction means 251 described above.

Alternatively, the actuating member 25 'includes a ramp 254 "disposed at the distal end of the actuating member 25', as shown in FIG. 6F. The ramp 254 "is angled relative to the longitudinal axis L and is configured to interact with a mating ramp on the distal cap 24', as shown in fig. 19G, so that such interaction between the ramp 254" and the mating ramp of the actuator 25' facilitates rotation (arrow R2) between the actuator 25 'and the delivery member shield 21' (the actuator 25 'is easily rotated by the delivery member shield 21'). The second track 252 'optionally includes a locking portion 252c' for providing a transport component shield locking mechanism. In this example, as shown in fig. 19I, once the delivery member shield 21' is moved to the proximal post-use position, the protrusion 211' of the delivery member shield 21' moves into the locking portion 252c ' with the distal movement of the delivery member shield 21 '. In this example, the protrusions 211 'should be arranged at a flexible portion of the transport member shield 21', such as a flexible arm or a portion formed of a flexible material; or the distal frame of the locking portion 252c 'of the actuator 25' should be flexible. Further, the actuator 25 'optionally includes a locking tab 253', which locking tab 253 'is configured to move into a locking cutout 246' of the distal cap 24 'when the delivery member shield 21' is moved to the proximal post-use position, as shown in fig. 6F-6G and 19J. It should be noted that, in the conveying member shroud 21;21' are moved to a proximal post-use position, at least one of the above-described delivery member shield locking mechanism arrangements is sufficient to perform the function of a delivery member shield locking mechanism. However, a plurality of the above-described conveying member shield lock mechanism devices may also be used together. For example, the second track 252 'of the actuator 25' may have a locking portion 252c 'that interacts with the protrusion 211' of the delivery member shield 21 'and a locking tab 253' that interacts with the locking cutout 246 'of the distal cap 24'.

In another example, as shown in fig. 19K-19L, the actuator 25 'does not include a ramp 254 "for interacting with the locking notch, but rather includes a distal track 256', and the distal cap 24 'includes a protrusion 247' located within the distal track. A conveying member cover 21;21' are moved in a distal direction relative to the actuator 25', the actuator 25' rotates as described above. The distal track 256' also facilitates rotation of the actuator 25' through interaction between the distal track 256' and the projection 247' of the distal cap 24', as shown in fig. 19M-19N.

Fig. 19M shows the second track 252' with the transport member shield 21;21' are moved in a distal direction relative to the body and then moved back in a proximal direction relative to the body, delivering member shield 21; the movement path of the protrusion 211 'of 21' moves along the second rail as shown by the arrow in fig. 19M. Meanwhile, as shown in fig. 19N, the projection 247 'of the distal cover 24' moves along the distal rail 257 'relative to the actuator 25' (the path of movement is shown by the arrow in fig. 19N). In another example, the actuator 25' does not include the locking tab 253' of the actuator 25' and the locking notch 246' of the distal cover 24' as described above, but rather includes a distal notch/recess 257a ' for retaining the actuator 25 '. In this example, once the distal cutout/recess 257a 'of the actuator 25' is aligned with the projection 247 'of the distal cap 24', i.e., the projection 247 'is located within the distal cutout/recess 257a', the distal cap 24 'and the actuator 25' are secured to one another in the direction of the longitudinal axis L. It should be noted that the protrusion may be on the body instead of the distal cap.

It should be noted that the first and second tracks may be formed by cutouts or recesses in the body of the actuator; or may be formed by a plurality of rails extending from the body of the actuator in a direction transverse to the longitudinal axis L. Furthermore, the protrusions of the delivery member shield may be replaced by distally directed arms arranged on the delivery member shield. For example, the distally directed arm extends from the front cover of the delivery member shield in a distal direction of the housing, and a distal end of the distally directed arm is configured to act on a chamber of the second track of the actuator, such that the actuator is rotatable when the delivery member shield is moved in a distal direction along the longitudinal axis L relative to the actuator. In this example, the locking portions of the first and second of the tracks of the actuator are not necessary for the sub-assembly of the present invention.

It should be noted that the delivery member shield locking mechanism may in some cases be critical from the medicament delivery device adjustment aspect, but not from the mechanical point of view, the disclosed delivery member shield locking mechanism is only an optional feature for the claimed invention. There are many variations of the known conveying member shield locking mechanism that can be applied to the subassembly of the present invention without any substantial modification to the subassembly.

Furthermore, in a preferred example, slots may be provided on the actuator 25' for assembly purposes. As shown in fig. 19O-19P, a slot 258 'is provided in the activation member 25'. The projection 211' of the medicament delivery device 21' and the projection 247' of the distal cap 24' are both inserted into the slot 258' and moved a linear distance (shown by arrow X in fig. 19O, which distance depends on the size of the components) to the assembled position. Once the protrusion 211' of the medicament delivery device 21' and the protrusion 247' of the distal cap 24' are in the assembled position, the actuator 25' may be twisted (arrow Y in fig. 19P), and then the protrusion 211' of the medicament delivery device 21' and the protrusion 247' of the distal cap 24' are in the first track 251' and the second track 252 '.

It should be noted that the actuator 25 is under the action of the distal movement of the delivery member shield; 25' are associated with only the delivery member shield locking mechanism and/or the trigger mechanism. As mentioned above, in certain cases, the delivery member shield locking mechanism may be critical from a medicament delivery device adjustment perspective, but not from a mechanical perspective; furthermore, the cartridge unit subassembly may be used in combination with a medicament delivery device triggered by a button of the drive unit 1. Thus, the actuator 25;25' are only one optional feature of the subassembly of the present invention, namely the initial locking mechanism of the transport member shield, which is achieved by the locking member and the transport member shield.

The subassemblies of the present invention can be operated by the end user by: attaching the cartridge unit 2 to the drive unit 1, preferably by a bayonet connection between the cartridge unit 2 and the drive unit; releasing the conveying member shield 21;21';21 "to move in a proximal direction relative to the medicament delivery device, which may be achieved by means of a locking member 22;22';22 "with respect to the conveying member shield 21;21';21 "from the locked position to the unlocked position, preferably by shielding the 21 with respect to the transport member while the end user rotates the cartridge unit 2 to the drive unit 1 to connect the cartridge unit 2 to the drive unit 1 by a bayonet connection; 21';21 "rotation locking member 22;22';22 ".

The sub-assembly of the present invention may be combined with a kit 3 with pre-assembled medicament delivery members; 3';3 "are used in combination with the cartridge unit 2 as shown in fig. 20, 26A and 27. A preassembled kit of medicament delivery members 3;3';3 "is fixed to the proximal end of the body. For example, a pre-assembled medicament delivery member kit 3;3';3 "may be attached to the body. Alternatively, in the example where the cartridge unit 2 comprises an inner housing, the medicament delivery member kit 3 is pre-assembled; 3';3 "may be attached to the inner shell. Furthermore, in one example where the cartridge unit 2 comprises a support unit for receiving and/or supporting a medicament container arranged within the body 20, the pre-assembled medicament delivery member kit 3;3';3 "may be attached to the support unit. In one example, the pre-assembled medicament delivery member kit 3;3';3 "comprises a tubular outer protective cap 30;30';30", an inner cap 31 and a clutch member 32;32' as shown in fig. 21 and 28. The inner cap 31 is configured to be releasably attached to the cartridge unit 2 and can be detached from the cartridge unit 2 by rotation relative to the main body 20 of the cartridge unit 2. Preferably, the inner cap 31 is configured to completely cover the medicament delivery member.

A tubular outer cap 30;30';30 "at least partially encloses an inner cap 31. A clutch member 32;32' are longitudinally located in the conveying member shield 21;21';21 "and the medicament delivery member kit 3. A clutch member 32;32' are radially located with respect to the longitudinal axis L on the tubular outer cap 30;30';30 "and an inner cap 31. A clutch member 32;32' include a clutch biasing member 320;320', the clutch biasing member 320;320' can be opposite to the outer cap 30;30';30 "are axially movable between a relaxed position and a tensioned position. A tubular outer cap 30;30';30″ are axially fixed to the inner cap 31 and are rotatable relative to the inner cap 31. For example, inner cap 31 includes proximal annular recess 311, tubular outer cap 30;30';30 "include a proximal clip 302 that engages a proximal recess 311 of the inner cap 31, as shown in fig. 22B. A clutch member 32;32' are rotatably fixed to the inner cap 31. For example, the inner cap 31 may include a clamping portion 312, a clutch member 32; the inner surface of 32' may include a mating grip portion 322a corresponding in shape to the grip portion 312 of the inner cap 31, as shown in fig. 24.

A tubular outer cap 30;30';30 "includes a plurality of engagement members 301;301'. In a preferred example, tubular outer cap 30;30';30", a plurality of engagement members 301;301' are a plurality of protrusions 30 extending radially inward from the inner surface of the tubular outer cap 30 relative to the longitudinal axis L; 30';30". The clutch member 32 includes a plurality of mating engagement members 33, as shown in fig. 24. The plurality of mating engagement members 33 may be a plurality of protrusions or slots radially outward from the outer surface of the clutch member 32 relative to the longitudinal axis L. The plurality of engagement members 301 when the clutch biasing member is in the tensioned position; 301' are adjacent to the plurality of mating engagement members 33, as shown in fig. 25B and 26B.

In a preferred example, the clutch member 32;32' includes a proximal connector 321;321' and distal connector 322;322'. The proximal connector and/or the distal connector may be annular or formed from a plurality of stent-shaped elements. A clutch biasing member 320;320' are longitudinally located at the proximal connector 321;321' and distal connector 322;322'. A distal connector 322;322' are adjacent to the conveying member shield 21;21';21", a front cover 210;210", a proximal connector 321;321' are releasably adjacent to the tubular outer cap 30;30';30", a distally directed surface on the inner surface. As with the example shown in fig. 24, in another example, the clutch member 32;32' are arranged at the distal connector 322;322' on the outer surface thereof; alternatively, the plurality of mating engagement members of the clutch member may be disposed on an outer surface of the proximal connector. In another example, the plurality of mating engagement members 33 includes flexible arms 331 that extend partially around the longitudinal axis L, as shown in fig. 24. In this example, a tactile and/or audible indication can be provided to the end user when the plurality of engagement members 301 of the tubular outer cap 30 are adjacent the plurality of mating engagement members 33 of the clutch member 32 and the outer cap is rotated in a predetermined direction. The indication may be defined as either a wrong operation indication or a correct operation indication, depending on the particular design.

A tubular outer cap 30;30';30 "are rotatable relative to the inner cap 31, thus only at the tubular outer cap 30;30';30", a plurality of engagement members 301;301' are adjacent the clutch member 32;32' of the tubular outer cap 30 when mating the engagement members 33; 30';30 "can be converted into a rotation of the inner cap 31.

As shown in fig. 25A, the plurality of engagement members 301 of the tubular outer cap 30 are spaced apart from the plurality of mating engagement members 33 of the clutch member 32 when the clutch biasing member 320 is in the relaxed position. A conveying member cover 21;21' from its distal position to its proximal position, the delivery member shield 21;21' move the clutch biasing member 320 to the tensioned position of the clutch biasing member 320. Thus, the plurality of engagement members 301 of the tubular outer cap 30 are adjacent to the plurality of mating engagement members 33 of the clutch member 32.

It should be noted that in the above example, the tubular outer cap 30;30' remain attached to the subassembly, the transport member guard 21;21' to its proximal position. On the other hand, the conveying member cover 21;21' may also be arranged in the tubular outer cap 30;30';30 "are fully separated from the subassembly, and only reach their proximal position. The latter example may be more suitable for a sub-assembly arranged to enable a user to reverse rotation of the locking member from the unlocked position to the locked position.

As described above, the subassembly of the present invention is arranged such that the locking member 22;22';22 "shield the delivery member 21 only when the end user has properly assembled the cartridge unit 2 to the drive unit 1 of the medicament delivery device; 21';21 "are locked to the conveying member shield 21;21';21 "is released at the distal position. Thus, a pre-assembled medicament delivery member kit 3 as described above is comprised in the cartridge unit 2; 3';3", the end user can only detach the outer cap 30 when the cartridge unit 2 has been assembled correctly to the drive unit 1; 30';30 "and an inner cap 31. In a preferred example, the clutch member 32 is coupled with the outer surface of the inner cap 31; 32' and a clutch member 32;32' can follow the inner 31 and outer 30 caps; 30';30 "from the cartridge unit 2.

In one example, the delivery member shield 21 "may also be arranged such that the delivery member shield 21" reaches its proximal position only when the tubular outer cap 30 "is completely separated from the sub-assembly.

In this example, the ledge 222 "of the locking member 22' may be a helical ledge or a circumferential ledge as described above. Cutouts 222a "are disposed in ledge 222" as shown in fig. 31-32B. Thus, when the end user attaches the cartridge unit 2 to the drive unit 1, the projection 214 "of the conveying member shield 21" moves along the ledge 222 ". When the projection 214 "is disengaged from the ledge 222", the projection 214 "will move into the cutout 222a with the delivery member shield 21" moving from the distal position to the proximal position. Rotation between the conveying member shield 21 "and the locking member 22" is prevented when the projection 214 "moves into the cutout 222 a".

Thus, as the delivery member shield 21 "moves to the proximal position, the delivery member shield 21" moves the clutch biasing member 320 'to the tensioned position of the clutch biasing member 320'. Thus, the protrusion 214 "will move into the cutout 222 a". Since relative rotation between the transport member shield 21 "and the locking member 22" is prevented and the transport member shield 21 "cannot rotate relative to the main body 20 (as described above), the end user cannot detach the cartridge unit 2 from the drive unit 1 before removing the outer cap 30". When the outer cap 30 "is removed, the delivery member shield 21" is moved to a proximal position, with the projection 214 "being moved proximally out of the cutout 222 a". Thus, the end user is able to remove the cartridge unit 2 from the drive unit 1.

In another example, the pre-assembled medicament delivery member kit 3 "further comprises an adapter 34, as shown in fig. 28. The adapter 34 includes an adapter body 340. The adapter body 340 is rotatably fixed to the inner cap 31 in the axial direction. As shown in fig. 28, the adapter body 340 may be cylindrical, enabling a more compact medicament delivery device. Alternatively, the adapter body 340 may be of any suitable shape, depending on the design of the pre-assembled medicament delivery member kit 3 ". The adapter further comprises a track 341, which track 341 may be a recess/cutout in the wall of the adapter body 340. In this example, the clutch member 32' is radially disposed between the tubular outer cap 30 "and the adapter body 340. In this example, the clutch member 32 'includes a track follower 322b' located within the track 341 of the adapter 34. The track follower 322b 'may be a protrusion extending from an inner surface of the distal connector 322', as shown in fig. 29.

As described above, upon movement of the delivery member shield 21 "to the distal position, the delivery member shield 21" moves the clutch biasing member 320 'to the tensioned position of the clutch biasing member 320'. In the preferred example shown in fig. 30A-30D, the delivery member shield 21 "is configured to move the distal connector 322 'of the clutch member 32' in a distal direction relative to the inner cap 31 and the adapter 34. Thus, the track follower 322b' will move into the track 341 and will move along the track 341 of the adapter 34 under the front shroud 210 "of the transport member shield 21". Track 341 includes a circumferential section and a longitudinal section. In this example, as the delivery member shroud 21 "moves to the proximal position, the delivery member shroud 21" moves the track follower 322b' into the circumferential section of the track 341. If the end user plans to remove the outer cap 30", the end user may rotate the outer cap 30" with the clutch member 32", and the inner cap 31 will not rotate because the track follower 322b' is located in a circumferential section of the track 341. With the track follower 322b 'aligned with the longitudinal section of the track 341, the transport member shroud 21 "will move the track follower 322b' into the longitudinal section of the track 341, thus enabling removal of the outer cap 30" as the outer cap 30 "is rotated relative to the body 20 by an end user, as described above.

In this example, the protrusion 214 "of the conveying member shield 21" is configured to be within the cutout 222a "when the track follower 322b' is in the longitudinal section of the track 341. Thus, the end user is prevented from separating the cartridge unit 2 from the drive unit 1 only during removal of the outer cap 30 ".

The inventive concept was described above primarily with reference to some examples. However, it is readily appreciated by a person skilled in the art that other embodiments than the ones disclosed above are possible within the scope of the inventive concept defined by the appended claims.

Claims

1. A cartridge unit sub-assembly for a medicament delivery device, the sub-assembly comprising:

a body (20) extending along a longitudinal axis (L) from a proximal end to a distal end;

a conveying member shield (21) coaxially attached to the body (20) and axially movable along a longitudinal axis (L) with respect to the body (20);

a locking member (22) attached to the body (20);

wherein the locking member (22) is movable relative to the transport member shroud (21) between a locked position and an unlocked position;

wherein the locking member (22) comprises a distally directed surface which in the locked position is adjacent to a proximally directed surface of the delivery member shield (21); wherein, in the unlocked position, the distally directed surface of the locking member (22) is circumferentially spaced from the proximally directed surface of the delivery member shield (21) relative to the longitudinal axis (L).

2. The cartridge unit sub-assembly according to claim 1, wherein the locking member (22) is rotatable about a longitudinal axis (L) relative to the transport member shield (21) between a locked position and an unlocked position.

3. The cartridge unit sub-assembly according to claim 1 or 2, comprising a biasing member (23) arranged between the first distally directed surface of the delivery member shield (21) and the proximally directed surface of the main body (20).

4. The cartridge unit sub-assembly according to any of the preceding claims, wherein the transport member shield (21) comprises a projection (214) extending radially with respect to a longitudinal axis (L); and wherein the proximally directed surface of the delivery member shield (21) is part of the protrusion (214).

5. A cartridge unit sub-assembly according to claim 3, wherein the transport member shield (21) comprises a ledge (212) extending radially with respect to the longitudinal axis (L); and wherein a first distally directed surface of the delivery member shield (21) is defined by a portion of the ledge (212).

6. The combination of claim 4 and claim 5, wherein the projection (214) extends radially away from the ledge (212).

7. The cartridge unit sub-assembly according to any of the preceding claims, wherein the locking member (22) comprises a tubular body (220) surrounding a portion of the transport member shield (21).

8. The cartridge unit sub-assembly for a medicament delivery device according to claim 7, wherein the locking member (22) comprises a ledge (222; 222') extending circumferentially along a portion of an inner surface of the tubular body (220) of the locking member (22) with respect to the longitudinal axis (L); and wherein the distally directed surface of the locking member (22) is part of the rail (222; 222').

9. A cartridge unit (2) for a medicament delivery device, the cartridge unit (2) comprising a cartridge unit sub-assembly according to any of the preceding claims, the cartridge unit (2) comprising:

a delivery member cover assembly (3) secured to the proximal end of the body (20) and being rotatably releasable relative to the body (20);

wherein the transport member cover assembly (3) comprises:

a tubular outer cap (30);

an inner cap (31) at least partially surrounded by the tubular outer cap (30);

a clutch member (32) rotatably fixed to the inner cap (31) and longitudinally located between the tubular outer cap (30) and the delivery member shield (31);

Wherein the clutch member (32) includes a clutch biasing member (320), the clutch member (32) being axially movable relative to the outer cap (30) between a relaxed position and a tensioned position;

wherein the tubular outer cap (30) is fixed in axial direction with respect to the inner cap (31) and is rotatable with respect to the inner cap (31);

wherein the tubular outer cap (30) comprises a plurality of engagement members (301), the clutch member comprising a plurality of mating engagement members (33); wherein the plurality of engagement members (301) are adjacent to the plurality of mating engagement members (33) when the clutch biasing member (320) is in the tensioned position.

10. The cartridge unit of claim 9, wherein the plurality of engagement members (301) of the tubular outer cap (30) are a plurality of protrusions or slots; wherein the plurality of protrusions extend radially inward from an inner surface of the tubular outer cap (30) relative to the longitudinal axis or the plurality of slots extend radially outward from an outer surface of the inner cap (31) relative to the longitudinal axis.

11. The cartridge unit according to claim 10, wherein the plurality of mating engagement members (33) of the clutch member (32) are a plurality of mating projections (33); wherein the plurality of mating projections (33) extend radially outwardly from an outer surface of the inner cap (31) relative to the longitudinal axis.

12. A cartridge unit according to any one of claims 9 to 11; wherein the clutch member (32) comprises a proximal connector (321) and a distal connector (322); wherein the clutch biasing member (320) is longitudinally between a proximal connector (321) and a distal connector (322); and wherein the distal connector (322) is adjacent the proximal end of the delivery member shield (21), the proximal connector (321) being releasably adjacent a distally directed surface on the inner surface of the tubular outer cap (30).

13. The cartridge unit of claim 12, wherein a plurality of mating engagement members (33) of the clutch member (32) are arranged on an outer surface of the distal connector (322).

14. The cartridge unit of any of claims 9-13, wherein the plurality of mating engagement members (33) comprises flexible arms (331) extending partially around the longitudinal axis (L).

15. Medicament delivery device comprising a cartridge unit (2) according to any of claims 9-14 and a reusable drive assembly (1);

wherein the reusable drive assembly (1) comprises a tubular housing extending along a longitudinal axis (L) from a proximal end to a distal end; and is also provided with

Wherein the cartridge unit (2) is releasably attached to the reusable drive assembly (1) by a bayonet connection (11) on an inner surface of the proximal end of the reusable drive assembly (1) and on an outer surface of the distal end of the body of the cartridge unit (2).