DE102007054020A1 - Injection device with uncoupling click mechanism - Google Patents

Abstract

Injection device for administering a product, comprising: a) a locking member (2b) and b) a coupling member (6) having at its circumference at least one profile section (6b) and at least one threaded portion (6d), c) wherein the coupling member (6 ) From a position in which the locking member (2b) engages in the at least one profile section (6b), in a position in which the locking member (2b) engages in the at least one threaded portion (2d), is displaceable.

Description

The The invention relates to an injection device for administration a particular liquid product, such as B. a drug. For example, with the injection device Insulin preparations, Growth hormones or others in a similar way medicines to be administered to a human or animal Patients are administered. The injection device may be together or be sold separately with a separate drug, the by User of the injection device is used in this. Prefers the injection device is connected to one in the injection device distributed drug contained, causing the injection device can also be considered as a disposable injection device, the after complete product distribution is disposed of.

Out The prior art injection devices are known which create sensible or audible clicking sounds when adjusting a product dose. For the Generation of a click sound Normally a force or a torque must be applied. However, such a force or torque can make it difficult to distribute the product.

It is therefore an object of the invention, an injection device to provide a dosage by means of one or more Display clicks and still allow a simple product distribution.

The Task is solved by the features of claim 1. Advantageous developments from the dependent ones claims and the description.

The Injection device according to the invention comprises a locking member and a coupling member. The locking member can in the z. B. sleeve-shaped coupling member intervention. In particular, the locking member of a spring force be kept in the procedure. This force can be generated for example, by a separate spring acting on the locking member acts, or by a spring arm on which the locking member arranged is and on an element relative to the coupling member is rotatable and preferably also axially movable, such as a housing the injection device can be arranged. It is preferred the locking member is acted upon by a radially inwardly acting force, which engages the locking member into engagement with the outer periphery of the coupling member suppressed.

The Coupling member has at its periphery, in particular at its outer periphery, at least a profile section and at least one threaded portion. The profile section is designed such that - provided the locking member in the Profile section intervenes - at a relative rotation between locking member and coupling member the locking member over the profile section snaps, with a tactile or audible click perceived can be. The advantage of the locking engagement is that on the one hand a unconscious twisting of the coupling member is prevented, d. H. that, for example, an external torque, applied by the hand of a user to the coupling member can be on the coupling member should act to be a conscious Twist the coupling member and the resistance, the provided by the latching engagement to overcome. On the other hand, through the detention also people who suffer from visual impairment, make a safe dose adjustment. The at least one profile section can also be designed such that at a relative axial Displacement between coupling member and locking member the locking member no detent movement executes. This makes it easier for the user of the device, the coupling member to move. Preferably, the at least one profile section several in the longitudinal direction of the coupling member extending and circumferentially next to each other arranged grooves on. The locking member preferably engages in one of Grooves, with their edges prevent unwanted rotation. at one, in particular conscious, rotation of the coupling member relative to the locking member, the locking member by a flank of the groove depressed and snaps into the adjacent groove, creating the click becomes. By the elongated Design of the grooves is an axial displacement of the coupling member relative to the locking member without a click sound possible. The flanks of the grooves and / or the locking member are preferably designed so that the locking member at Rotation of the coupling member is pushed out of the groove. Preferably, the radially outward projecting flank separating two adjacent grooves, in cross-section symmetrical to the radial axis of rotation of the coupling member. It is therefore preferred that the flanks and / or the locking member so are designed such that a rotation of the coupling member relative to Detent member is possible in both directions of rotation. The applied Torque for one Rotation of the coupling member in a first direction of rotation may be different in magnitude from the torque in the other direction of rotation. Preferred are the for the Torque required torques for both directions of rotation substantially equal.

The at least one threaded portion of the coupling member is preferably configured such that it limits the at least one profile section, preferably in both axial directions, at least in one axial direction. Preferably, the at least one threaded portion extends helically at least partially over the circumference of the coupling member. Accordingly, it is also preferred that the at least one profile section extends helically, at least partially over the circumference of the coupling member. The profile section and / or the at least one threaded section can wind multiple times or only around a part of the circumference of the coupling member. The at least one profile section and / or the at least one threaded section can be interrupted in the circumferential direction, so that a plurality of profile sections and / or threaded sections are formed.

Of the at least one threaded portion or its bottom, by the outer circumference of the coupling member in the region of the at least one threaded portion is formed, at least one less pronounced profile have as the profile section and can therefore be referred to as poor profile become. This will be the for a rotation of the coupling member required torque reduced or / and at the same time a weak audible or when turning tactile Click generated, provided that the locking member in the at least one threaded portion located. In particular, the profilarme threaded section profile free be, d. H. that the reason of the threaded portion a z. B. forms smooth sliding surface or is. This can be done for the rotation of the coupling member required torque even more reduced and Z. B. a click-free rotation can be achieved. The invention is characterized in that the coupling member from a position in engages the locking member in the at least one profile section, in a position in which the locking member in the at least one threaded portion engages, displaceable, in particular axially displaceable. By This axial displacement can be advantageously achieved that the for a turn the torque required by the coupling member is reduced. Further is due to the displaceability of the coupling member of the click mechanism, by the engagement of the locking member in the at least one profile section is generated, decoupled. This means that - if the locking member in which at least one threaded section is located - no or at least a weaker one Click is perceptible as in an engagement of the locking member in the at least one profile section. For no clicking sound can the reason of the at least one thread section be smooth. For a light one The reason why the at least one thread section is ribs, Grooves, cams or the like, these elements being preferred less pronounced are as the grooves of the at least one profile section.

Of the at least one threaded portion may be groove-shaped, wherein the groove flanks from the flanks, d. H. the ribs arranged between the grooves, be formed. It is preferred that the bottom of the groove be flat merges into the bottom of the at least one threaded section. For example, you can the reason of the at least one threaded portion and the reason of Grooves each having the same distance from the longitudinal axis of the coupling member.

The Coupling member is preferably arranged in the injection device, that in addition to twisting to the rotational movement performs an axial movement. This can be special for a dosage, in which the locking member engages in the at least one profile section, and / or for an operation or product distribution, for the engages the locking member in the at least one threaded portion, be valid. For example, this combination of rotational and axial movement over a Thread engagement of the coupling member or one with the coupling member preferably rotatably coupled guide member in the surrounding the coupling member sleeve, in particular the housing of Injection device can be achieved. For example, the surrounding Sleeve Having threads in which engages a cam of the guide member or the coupling member, the z. B. threaded section-shaped can be trained. Preferably, this threaded engagement is separate from the engagement of the locking member in the coupling member. The slope the thread, which is the combination of rotational and axial movement causes, and the slope of the at least one threaded portion of the coupling member can be the same size. Preferably, the slope is so large that at an axial on the coupling member applied force, especially in the discharge direction or distal direction, no self-locking occurs, but rather a rotational movement of the coupling member is effected.

Preferably is a spring member provided against the force of the coupling member is axially displaceable. The spring member may be a separate spring member or a spring member formed on the coupling member or - if available - one on the guide member be formed spring member. In particular, the coupling member so interact with the guide member, that the coupling member only to the clutch stroke relative to the guide member movable is. The limited mobility can, for example, by means of the Coupling member and on the guide member educated stops accomplished be, with a first pair of cooperating stop the movement in the proximal direction and a second cooperating stop pair the Blocked movement in the distal direction. By the spring force can the coupling member, if it is not actuated, in one position are held, in which the locking member in the at least one profile section intervenes.

Preferably, the coupling member is part of an actuator. The actuating device may in particular also include the guide member. In other words, the coupling member may be part of an actuating device which is in threaded engagement with a sleeve surrounding the coupling member, in particular the housing of the injection device, so that a rotation of the coupling member relative to the housing causes an axial movement relative to the housing and vice versa. In embodiments in which the injection device, in particular whose actuating device comprises a guide member, the coupling member may be axially displaceable relative to the force of a spring member, wherein the guide member is threadedly engaged with the housing and wherein the coupling member and the guide member are rotatable relative to each other.

The Injection device, in particular its actuator can a Engaging member, in the position in which the locking member engages in the at least one threaded portion, in the output device intervenes. The engagement of the engagement member in the output device is preferably such that the actuating device, in particular the coupling member against rotation with the output device connected is. For the engagement of the engagement member in the output device is preferred that a relative movement between actuator and driven means in the axial or longitudinal direction of the injection device possible is, d. H. for example, that the actuator relative to the output device is movable in the axial direction. Thus, can upon engagement of the engagement member in the output device the actuator at their operation for one distribution perform a combined rotational and axial movement, with only the rotational movement transferred to the output device becomes. Preferably, the output device or at least a part of which relative to the housing axially fixed and rotatable. In an unactuated state of the actuator, d. H. when the locking member in the at least one profile section is located of the coupling member, the engaging member is preferably of the output device decoupled, d. H. disengaged. The actuating device can be rotated in this position relative to the output device or axially displaced, so that the output device by the movement of the actuator is not affected.

This Effect can be used, for example, that in an unactivated state of actuator a dosage by means of rotation of the actuating device, in particular the Coupling member can be made. As with the actuator If it is also possible to adjust a product dose, it can also be used as a dosing and actuator be designated. For this purpose, the actuating device can be a dosing member, especially in the form of a dose-indicating drum, which, for example, rotationally and axially connected to the coupling member can be. The dosing member may, for example, one at its periphery arranged scale at which the set by rotation Product dose is readable. For example, the housing of the Injection device have a window through which a discrete Value of the scale is readable. In particular, the dose scale can be revolving helically be arranged on the dosing. The slope of the helix corresponds preferably the pitch of the threaded engagement of the actuator in the case, which causes the combined rotational and axial movement.

The actuator may have at its proximal end an actuator, which For example, be pressed by the thumb of the user can, causing the actuator actuated becomes. Upon actuation, especially after the clutch stroke, d. H. during the drive stroke, the leads Actuator preferred a rotational movement, which is why it is advantageous that the actuator is freely rotatable relative to the coupling member, so as to B. the Decoupling the user's thumb from the rotary motion. The coupling member can preferably axially fixedly connected to the coupling member or the dosing be.

In preferred embodiments the output device comprises circumferentially distributed and longitudinal the injection device extending grooves. In these grooves is the engagement member movable into engagement, wherein in this engagement between Engagement member and output device an axial relative movement possible and a rotational movement is locked. In the combined rotational and axial movement, d. H. Screwing, which the actuator during its Actuation, in particular during the drive stroke, is preferred between the engagement member and the output device only an axial relative movement instead. Generally preferred, that in the coupled state of the engaging member, the actuating device and the output device acting in the same direction rotational movement To run.

The Output device may be one or more parts. Preferably can the output device when actuated the coupling member an axial movement in the discharge direction to a piston, which acts on a product.

In one embodiment, the output device, in particular a piston rod, z. B. apart from acting on the piston flange, be formed integrally, wherein the piston rod at its outer periphery, the above-mentioned grooves for the engagement of the engaging member and a Ge wind, which is superimposed on the grooves has. In particular, the regions arranged between two adjacent threads can have the grooves. The thread of the piston rod may be in engagement with the housing of the injection device, wherein the piston rod during its rotation performs a dispensing movement, ie a piston acting on the product to be dispensed or the product acting on the piston.

In alternative preferred embodiments The output device is multi-part and includes at least one Output member and a piston rod. In particular, the output device have a driven member, which is sleeve-shaped, for example. Furthermore, the output device a piston rod, which preferably from the driven member is surrounded. Output member and piston rod can be connected together be that a rotational movement of the output member an axial movement the piston rod causes. Preferably, the output member is relatively to the housing the injection device rotatably and axially fixed.

According to one first variant, the piston rod, for example, with a thread engage in the output member, so that a rotational movement of the output member relative to the piston rod relative to an axial movement of the piston rod to the housing and causes the output member. The piston rod can be relatively to the housing rotatably and axially slidably received in the housing or thereof be stored. Suitable means for this are in the longitudinal direction the piston rod extending groove or flattening. The thread, with which the piston rod engages in the output member, in this case in reverse to the thread, with which the actuating device engages in the housing.

According to one second, preferred variant, the output member is non-rotatable with the piston rod is connected, wherein the piston rod relative to the output member is axially movable. Suitable means for this are in the longitudinal direction the piston rod extending groove or flattening. Preferably, the attacks Piston rod with its thread in the housing, so that one on the Piston rod transmitted rotary motion of the output member, the piston rod screwed in the distal direction. In this case, it is preferable that the thread of the piston rod has the same sense of rotation as the thread with the actuator in the case intervenes.

Generally it is preferred that the thread of the piston rod is a smaller one Slope has as the thread with which the actuator in the housing intervenes.

Prefers can with the injection device several dosages and product distributions be made. To prevent a larger dose is set when product is in the injection device a stop member may be provided which serves to at the last dose setting only the setting of a Allow the product dose to reach the rest of the injection device contained product. The stop member is preferably with the actuator in a threaded engagement. Preferably, the stop member is sleeve-shaped and between the actuator, in particular the coupling member, the z. B. the thread for the stop member may have, and the output device, in particular the output member arranged. The thread in which engages the stop member, preferably a smaller pitch than the thread with which the actuator in the engagement with the housing is and preferably but not necessarily a smaller one Increase on, as the thread with which the output device in an engagement with the housing is. The stop member is preferred with the output device in such an engagement that the stop member relative to the output device rotationally fixed and longitudinally movable is. Preferably, this engagement, as well as the engagement in the Thread of the actuator permanently. While the setting of a product dose is the actuator relative to the output device and also rotatable relative to the stop member. Due to the threaded engagement of the actuator with the Stop member and the longitudinal displacement the stop member relative to the output device is at the dose setting the stop member moved axially. Because with a product distribution the actuator and the output device are rotationally fixed relative to each other, is the stop member in the product distribution not relative to the actuator or moved to the output device. The injection device preferably comprises a stop, the z. B. from the actuator be formed, to which the stop member at each dosage a piece further is moved. At the last presettable dosage with the Injection device, the stop member is engaged with postponed. An additional dosage is therefore not more is possible, since that is located in the stop with the actuator Stop member an increase the product dose locks. This will ensure that no higher Product dose can be adjusted, as is actually distributable, whereby advantageous misuse can be avoided.

In advantageous developments of the invention, the at least one profile section and / or the at least one threaded section in the circumferential direction of a longitudinally he limited stretching section, the profile poor or even profile-free - a special case of poor profile - can be. Preferably, the coupling member has two profilme sections extending in the longitudinal direction. A profilmenmen section is preferably so long that it extends over the axial length of at least one profile section, in particular over the axial length of all profile sections. The at least one profilme section can extend in the longitudinal direction over the length over which profile sections are arranged. The several profilarmen sections are preferably evenly distributed over the circumference. The at least one profilme section has, in particular, a width extending in the circumferential direction of the coupling member which may be larger or smaller, but preferably equal to the width of the at least one profile section extending in the circumferential direction. In particular, the at least one profile section and the at least one profiled section extend in the circumferential direction approximately by the same arc length. By way of example, in the case of two profiled sections which are arranged uniformly around the circumference, the angles which span the arc lengths of the two profile sections and of the two profiled sections are each about 90 °, irrespective of the at least one threaded section. Preferably, the same applies to the outer circumference of the coupling member in the region of the profile-like section as to the at least one threaded section.

Prefers can the at least one profilarme section, such as Also, the at least one threaded portion be groove-shaped, wherein the groove flanks from the at least one profile section, in particular from the flanks the grooves are formed. In particular, the at least one profilarme Section and the at least one threaded portion each sliding surfaces for the locking member form the same distance to the longitudinal axis of the coupling member exhibit. The sliding surfaces are preferred from the outer periphery formed of the coupling member.

By the embodiment of the coupling member with at least one profilarmen Section, the production of the coupling member is much easier, not over there the profile needs to be arranged around the perimeter what the Removal of the preferred injection-molded coupling member of the Tool and also simplifies the manufacture of the tool.

Prefers the locking member is a first locking member, wherein the injection device additionally for the first locking member has a second locking member, wherein first and second latching member are arranged so that one, preferably only one that engages two locking members in a profile section. In particular, the other locking member, namely that not in the profile section engages, intervene in a profilmen section. It is therefore preferred that the first locking member and the second locking member the are arranged accordingly, in particular offset in the circumferential direction are arranged.

Prefers are the first and the second locking member in the circumferential direction and / or offset from each other in the axial direction. Preferably, the first and second detent member to each other in the circumferential direction by an angle - or a suitable multiples of it - offset, which corresponds to the angle, the arc length of the profilarmen section or the profile section spans. For example, this one Angle in a coupling member with two profiled sections be about 90 °.

hereby ensures that only one of the two locking elements engages in a profile section, while the other of the two locking members engages in the profilarmen section.

Around to achieve that the first or second locking member in the axial displacement of the coupling member to the coupling stroke in a threaded portion engages, first and second locking member are axially offset from each other. In particular, the first and second locking member are the product from the slope of the at least one threaded portion and the Angular offset of the locking members circumferentially offset axially offset to 360 °. In other words, it is preferable that the first and second locking members on a helical Line lie, which is the slope of the at least one threaded portion having.

Otherwise apply for the second locking member the embodiments to the first locking member, in particular with regard to arrangement and suspension.

The This invention has been described in terms of preferred embodiments. Hereinafter the invention will be described with reference to preferred embodiments. The features disclosed here each form individually in the combinations also advantageous with the preceding description, the invention further. Show it:

1A to 1D different views of an injection device in an initial state,

2A to 2D different views of the injection device from the 1A to 1D in a condition with set product dose,

3A to 3D different views of the injection device from the 1A to 1D in a state after completed clutch stroke,

4 a perspective view of a housing and a coupling member in a state with a set product dose,

5 a perspective view of a housing and a coupling member in a state after completion of the coupling stroke,

6 an actuating device with arms extending in the longitudinal direction of the injection device for an engaging member,

7 different views of an injection device with extending in the longitudinal direction of the injection device arms for an engaging member and before a coupling stroke,

8th different views of the injection device 7 after completion of the coupling stroke,

9 an actuator having circumferentially extending arms for an engaging member;

10 various views of an injection device with circumferentially extending arms for an engaging member and before a coupling stroke,

11 different views of the injection device 10 after completion of the coupling stroke,

12 a coupling member, a guide member and a combination thereof with an arm extending in the longitudinal direction of the injection device for an engaging member, and

13 a coupling member, a guide member and a combination thereof and a circumferentially extending arm for an engaging member.

The reference numerals used in the figures indicate the same or at least similar parts, unless stated otherwise. The invention will be initially based on 1A to 3D described.

The injection device comprises an actuating device 6 . 7 . 12 . 13 in a multipart housing 1 . 2 . 3 is arranged. The housing 1 . 2 . 3 has an outer housing 1 , an inner case 2 , which is rotationally and axially fixed to the outer housing 1 is connected and a functional sleeve 3 on, which is also rotationally and axially fixed to the outer housing 1 and the inner housing 2 connected is. In principle, the housing could be formed in one piece. Due to the multi-part of the housing, however, there are advantages during assembly.

In the case 1 . 2 . 3 is a product container 4 arranged, which has a distal, intended for a needle end and a proximal, with a displaceable piston 4a has closed end. By displacement of the piston 4a in the distal direction, the product is released, whereby the distal direction can also be referred to as the delivery direction. Distal becomes the product container 4 closed by a septum that can be perforated by the needle when attached to the housing. The injection device shown is provided with an inserted product container 4 delivered. The product container 4 is not interchangeable, so it is a so-called disposable injection device. Basically, the product container could 4 also directly from the outer housing 1 be formed.

The injection device further comprises an output device 9 . 10 . 11 that is an output member 9 , one in the output member 9 received, with an external threaded piston rod 10 and one at the distal end of the piston rod 10 arranged flange 11 having. About the flange 11 becomes a dispensing movement on the piston 4a transferred in the distal direction for a product distribution. The flange 11 is relative to the piston rod 10 freely rotatable and axially fixed to the piston rod 10 coupled.

Like from the 1C and 13 it can be seen has the piston rod 10 Flattening on, in which the sleeve-shaped output member 9 engages and thus a rotation of the piston rod 10 relative to the output member 9 permanently prevented, however, an axial displacement of the piston rod 10 relative to the output member 9 allows. The output member 9 is by means of a on the housing 1 . 2 . 3 , in particular on the functional sleeve 3 formed pivot bearing 3a relative to the housing 1 . 2 . 3 rotatably and axially fixed. The threaded rod 10 engages with its external thread in the internal thread 3c the functional sleeve 3 one.

In addition, it should be mentioned that in an alternative embodiment, the piston rod 10 with its thread in a sleeve-shaped output member 9 formed internal thread engage and, for. B. with its flattening, rotatably and axially displaceable by the function sleeves 3 can be included. The piston rod 10 However, then has a thread with a sense of rotation, which is opposite to the direction of rotation of the thread in the first described embodiment.

A rotation of the output device, ie the output member 9 and the piston rod 10 in one direction causes an axial displacement of the col benstange 10 in the distal direction due to the threaded engagement of the piston rod 10 with the thread of the functional sleeve 3c or - alternatively - the output member 9 , In other words, the piston rod 10 screws in the distal direction. About the freely rotatable flange 11 becomes the screwing movement of the piston rod 10 in an axial movement of the piston 4a , ie transferred to a delivery stroke, whereby the product is distributed. To turn back the piston rod 10 to prevent the other direction of rotation, engages the functional sleeve 3 with a locking element 3d in sawtooth, over the circumference of the output member 9 distributed ribs 9a one. Each sawtooth rib 9a have a flat and steep flank. The flat flank allows the output member 9 to turn in one direction, at which the piston rod 10 is moved in the distal direction. The steep flank prevents rotation of the output member 9 in the other direction of rotation, causing the piston rod 10 would be screwed in the proximal direction. This ensures that the piston rod 10 only in the distal direction, that can be screwed in the delivery direction. The sawtooth ribs 9a are distal to the area of the output member 9 who is in the pivot bearing 3a is arranged. Proximal of this area has the output member 9 evenly distributed over its circumference and extending in the longitudinal direction of the injection device grooves on such. B. off 1c is apparent. These grooves are sawtooth-shaped in the embodiment shown, but may also have other shapes, in particular symmetrical tooth shapes. The grooves serve on the one hand as anti-rotation and as a longitudinal guide for a sleeve-shaped stop member 8th , which is the output member 9 surrounds and with its inside in the grooves of the output member 9 intervenes. Thus, the stopper is 8th relative to the output member 9 permanently rotationally fixed and axially displaceable.

The on the outer circumference of the output member 9 arranged grooves are also used, in particular predominantly, to a rotation between the actuator 6 . 7 . 12 . 13 and the output device 9 . 10 . 11 optionally to produce a rotational movement of the actuator 6 . 7 . 12 . 13 on the output device 9 . 10 . 11 transferred to. The actuating device 6 . 7 . 12 . 13 also serves for dose adjustment in the embodiment shown, which is why it is also used as dosing and actuating device 5 . 6 . 7 . 12 . 13 can be designated. The metering and actuating device 5 . 6 . 7 . 12 . 13 includes a dose indicator drum 5 placed in an annular gap between the sleeve-shaped inner housing 2 and sleeve-shaped outer housing 1 is arranged. The dose indicator drum 5 has a helical around the dose display drum 5 running dose scale on. The currently set product dose is through that in the outer housing 1 formed windows 1a ( 1A ) readable. At the proximal end of the dose indicator drum 5 is a handle formed ( 1A ), on which the user of the injection device by gripping and turning a torque on the dose display drum 5 and thus on the metering and actuating device 5 . 6 . 7 . 12 . 13 , in particular for dose adjustment exercise. The dose indicator drum 5 has at its proximal end region further on a radially inwardly formed shoulder on the z. B. a stop 5a for the proximal end of the stop member 8th can be formed. The function of the stop member 8th will be described later in more detail.

An actuator designed as a button 12 is at the proximal end of the actuator 5 . 6 . 7 . 12 . 13 , freely rotatable and axially fixed. Thus, at a later actuation of the actuator 5 . 6 . 7 . 12 . 13 the actuator 12 relative to the housing 1 . 2 . 3 as an adapter for z. B. a thumb of the user of the device relative to the housing 1 . 2 . 3 stand firm while the rest of the actuator 5 . 6 . 7 . 12 . 13 relative to the housing 1 . 2 . 3 performs a rotational movement.

The actuating device 5 . 6 . 7 . 12 . 13 further includes an with the dose display drum 5 axially and rotatably locked, sleeve-shaped coupling member 6 , The coupling member 6 has at its inner periphery an internal thread, which is in an external thread of the stop member 8th , in particular permanent, engages. The thread has a relatively small pitch, which is preferably only so large that the thread is self-locking.

At the outer periphery of the coupling member 6 are distributed over the circumference arranged profile sections 6b comprising a plurality of juxtaposed, longitudinally extending and profile-forming ribs or grooves 6a have arranged. Such as B. off 1C it can be seen has the coupling member 6 in cross-section over the circumference of two profile sections 6b and two profile arms, here profile-free or smooth sections 6c on. Each profile section 6b becomes circumferentially on each side of a profile-free section 6c limited. Each profile section 6b has several, evenly spaced grooves 6a on. The profile sections 6b and the profile-free sections 6c extend in the cross section of the coupling member 6 about substantially the same circular arc section length. In the example shown, each of the sections is 6b . 6c in about a quarter of the circumference of the coupling member 6 long.

The grooves 6a are formed by radially outwardly projecting ribs, which also extend in the longitudinal direction, wherein between two adjacent ribs, a groove is arranged. The ribs or the grooves 6a have flattened flanks on, so that engaging in the groove locking member 2 B , preferably as a locking cam 2 B is formed, with a sufficient on the coupling member 6 applied torque out of engagement with a groove 6a is pressed and engaged with the next groove 6a device. This will create an audible or tactile click.

The locking cam 2 B is on the inner case 2 via a springy arm, the locking cams 2 B against the outer periphery of the coupling member 6 pushes, educated. The inner housing 2 has a total of two such locking cams, wherein the two locking cams in the circumferential direction by 90 ° and in the axial direction by a quarter of the way, the coupling member 6 performs a complete rotation, are axially offset. Because the profile sections 6b and the profile-free sections 6c each extend about 90 ° around the circumference, it is ensured that upon rotation of the coupling member 6 always one of the two locking cams 2 B in a profile section 6b and the other of the two locking cams 2 B in the profile-free section 6c intervenes. This causes the profile sections 6a only partially over the circumference of the coupling member 6 extend, a simple manufacture of the coupling member 6 allows.

The coupling member 6 has at its periphery further threaded portions 6d , In particular threaded guides or thread grooves, extending through the profile sections 6b , ie in sections over the circumference of the coupling member 6 extend. The threaded sections 6d are at least as wide in the longitudinal direction of the injection device, as the locking cams 2 B ,

In an unactuated state of the actuator 5 . 6 . 7 . 12 . 13 is at least one of the two cams 2 B in engagement with a groove 6a , The threaded sections 6d have the same pitch as the coupling member 6 covered in one turn. The offset in the axial and circumferential directions locking cams 2 B of the inner housing 2 are z. B. particularly clearly in the 4 and 5 shown.

The metering and actuating device 5 . 6 . 7 . 12 . 13 further comprises a guide member 7 , which in this embodiment rotatably with the coupling member 6 connected is. The coupling member 6 is axial, ie along the longitudinal axis of the injection device in particular by a Kupplungshub h displaced. The guide member 7 has at least one, in this example two radially projecting engagement cam 7a on which sections over the circumference of the guide member 7 extend. The inner housing 2 has an internal thread 2a in the shape of a helically encircling groove into which the engagement cam 7a extends. The intervention cam 7a Therefore, although it only partially extends over the circumference has a corresponding helical form or pitch to in the thread 2a to fit. A rotational movement of the guide member 7 thus causes its axial movement and vice versa. The way the actuator 5 . 6 . 7 . 12 . 13 traverses in one revolution corresponds to the pitch of the thread 2a , The threaded sections preferably also have 6d the same pitch as the thread 2a , The thread 2a is a double-threaded, with a first engagement cam 7a in the first thread and a second engagement cam 7a engage in the other thread.

The coupling member 6 is along the longitudinal axis relative to the guide member 7 limited in both directions and movable to the Kupplungshub h. To fall out of the actuator 5 . 6 . 7 . 12 . 13 from the proximal end of the housing 1 . 2 . 3 To prevent, a movement of the coupling member 6 relative to the guide member 7 in the proximal direction by axially engaging, on the coupling member 6 and the guide member 7 formed stop pairs 16 formed, such. In 12 , middle representation, can be seen. As in 13 can be seen, this task can also be designed as a clasp spring member 15 , which surrounds a cam b hook-shaped and on the coupling member 6 is attached, take over.

By the spring member 15 become the coupling member 6 and the guide member 7 pressed as far apart as the above-mentioned travel limits allow it.

The coupling member 6 may be about a clutch stroke h relative to the guide member 7 be moved in the distal direction, wherein the spring member 15 ( 12 and 13 ) is stretched.

The actuating device 5 . 6 . 7 . 12 . 13 has an engaging member 13 on. The engaging member 13 can, as in the 6 - 8th and 12 respectively. 9 - 11 and 13 is shown to be arranged in various ways. However, the arrangements shown have in common that the engaging member 13 during the movement of the coupling member 6 relative to the guide member 7 in the distal direction radially inward, that is pressed in the direction of the longitudinal axis of the injection device. The inwardly pressed engaging member 13 engages with his intervention area 13a ( 12 and 13 ) in the outer periphery of the driven member 9 formed grooves. As a result, an anti-rotation between the output member 9 and engaging member 13 educated. The engaging member 13 is in turn rotationally fixed with the dosing actuator 5 . 6 . 7 . 12 . 13 ie with the coupling member 6 ( 12 ) or the guide element 7 ( 13 ) connected.

The in the 6 - 8th and 12 respectively. 9 - 11 and 13 shown engaging members 13 also have in common that they are arranged in particular at the end of a resilient arm. The resilient arm is on the coupling member 6 ( 12 ) or on the guide member 7 ( 13 ) in particular formed in one piece. The arm makes it possible for the engaging member 13 when moving the coupling member 6 pressed by the clutch stroke h in the distal direction into the engagement and when moving the coupling member 6 in the coupling stroke h opposite direction from the engagement with the output member 9 is moved.

The engaging member 13 has a first transmission element 13b which points radially outward. The first transmission element 13b has a gear surface, which is formed according to the mechanism of action of an inclined plane on. The transmission element 13b is engaged with a second gear member during execution of the clutch stroke 14 brought by the guide member 7 ( 12 ) or the coupling member 6 ( 13 ) can be formed. The second transmission element 14 has a radially inwardly facing gear surface, which can also act according to the laws of an inclined plane. When moving the coupling member to the Kupplungshub h get the gear surfaces of the first gear member 13b and the second transmission element 14 in an engagement and slide on each other, so that the engaging member 13 is pressed radially inward.

The engaging member 13 can, as in 12 shown along the longitudinal axis of the injection device have. In the in 12 The example shown is the arm on which the engaging member 13 is arranged on the coupling member 6 attached. Alternatively, the arm pointing along the longitudinal axis could be on the guide member 7 be arranged, in which case the second transmission element 14 on the coupling member 6 instead of the guide member 7 could be arranged.

The engaging member 13 can, as in 13 is shown formed on a circumferentially extending, curved arm. The curvature corresponds to the radius at which the arm is spaced from the longitudinal axis. As in 13 is shown is the arm 13 on the guide member 7 formed, wherein the second transmission element 14 on the coupling member 6 is formed. Alternatively, the circumferentially extending arm could be on the coupling member 6 be arranged, in which case the second transmission element 14 on the guide member 7 could be arranged.

Be particularly advantageous, as in 12 shown, serpentine spring members 15 or, as in 13 is shown, designed as a clasp spring members 15 exposed.

The function of the injection device will now be described below:
The injection device is preferably in the in the 1A to 1D shown state delivered. The coupling member 6 is from the in 12 or 13 illustrated spring member 15 relative to the guide member 7 pressed in the proximal direction and held there. The metering and actuating device 5 . 6 . 7 . 12 . 13 is still unconfirmed. One dose is not yet set. At least one locking cam 2 B engages in a profile section 6b of the coupling member 6 one. The metering and actuating device 5 . 6 . 7 . 12 . 13 and the output device 9 . 10 are not rotationally locked in this state.

To adjust a dose of product, the user of the injection device will place it at the proximal end of the dose indicating drum 5 formed handle with a torque applied. By this torque, the metering and actuating device 5 . 6 . 7 . 12 . 13 rotated, causing them to become threaded 7a . 2a in the proximal direction of the housing 1 . 2 . 3 screwed. One of the two locking cams 2 B engages in a profile section 6b ie in a groove 6a one with the other locking cam 2 B in a profile-free section 6c intervenes. That means that on the dosing and actuating device 5 . 6 . 7 . 12 . 13 Applied torque must be large enough that the locking cams 2 B out of engagement with the grooves 6a is pressed. As a result, an audible or tactile signal is generated, which indicates the rotation of the metering and actuating device 5 . 6 . 7 . 12 . 13 indexed. The output device 9 . 10 performs no rotation during the metering, since the engaging member 13 not in the output member 9 intervenes. An unintentional rotation, z. B. caused by the clicking vibrations is caused by the latching engagement of the locking element 3b in the output member 9 prevented.

The coupling member 6 , with an internal thread in the non-rotatable with the output member 9 connected stop member 8th engages, during the dosage leads a rotational movement relative to the stop member 8th because of the thread engagement, the stop member 8th towards the stop 5a is moved. The stopper 8th is in the 2 and 3 deviating from 1 drawn only in the representations C, which does not mean, however, that no stop member 8th is available.

In 4 is shown as the inner case 2 and the coupling member 6 at the end of a dose setting and before actuation of dosing and actuator 5 . 6 . 7 . 12 . 13 interact. In particular, it can be seen that a cam 2 B in the grooves 6a of the profile section 6b intervenes.

The 2A to 2D show the injection device in an overdosed condition, where the desired product dose in the window 1a is readable. The metering and actuating device 5 . 6 . 7 . 12 . 13 is still unconfirmed in this state to initiate the product distribution is the metering actuator 5 . 6 . 7 . 12 . 13 pressed and first, as in the 3A to 3D shown, the coupling member 6 together with the actuator 12 and the dose indicator drum 5 in the distal direction about the clutch stroke h relative to the guide member 7 postponed.

By the engagement of the cams 2 B in the grooves 6a becomes the coupling member 6 for the clutch stroke h straight led. At the end of the clutch stroke h at least one of the cams engage 2 B in the threaded section 6d and the other of the two cams 2 B in the profile-free section 6c one ( 5 ). Further, at the end of the clutch stroke h, the engaging member 13 in the rotationally fixed engagement with the output member 9 brought. The 3A to 3D show the injection device in a shifted by the coupling stroke h state. In a further operation, ie displacement of the metering and actuating device 5 . 6 . 7 . 12 . 13 this performs the drive stroke, which is the delivery stroke of the piston rod 10 causes.

During the drive stroke, the dose indicator drum screws 5 , the coupling member 6 and the guide member 7 due to the thread engagement 7a . 2a distally into the housing 1 . 2 . 3 and offset due to the engagement of the engaging member 13 in the output member 9 the piston rod 10 in a directed in the same direction of rotation rotation, alternatively - in a threaded engagement between the piston rod and driven member - in no rotation.

This causes the piston rod to move 10 due to their engagement in the functional sleeve 3a in the distal direction, ie discharge direction, causing the piston 4a is taken in the distal direction. Product is distributed.

Because between coupling member 6 and output member 9 during the drive stroke of the coupling member 6 , ie during the product distribution, no relative movement takes place, the distance between the proximal end of the stop member remains 8th and the stop 5a constant. After the metering and actuating device has been pushed back completely into its original position, can be metered anew, whereby the stop member 8th again towards the stop 5a is moved. This can be repeated until the stop member 8th to the stop 5a abuts, at which moment an increase in the product dose is no longer possible, even if the scale value of the dose display drum 5 allow another dosage. The distance of the stop member 8th to the stop 5 is tuned to the stop member 8th to the stop 5a then strikes when the piston 4a in a distribution then carried out its most distal position.

The 6 . 7 and 8th show the injection device in the embodiment with an axially extending arm for the engaging member 13 wherein the arm on the coupling member 6 is attached. In 7 is the injection device with an unactuated metering and actuating device 5 . 6 . 7 . 12 . 13 shown ie that the engaging member 13 not in the output member 9 intervenes. A shift of the coupling member 6 around the clutch stroke h ( 7 ) causes the engaging member 13 in the output member 9 engages, causing the coupling member 6 relative to the output member 9 rotatably coupled ( 8th ).

In the 9 . 10 and 11 In the embodiment, the injection device is provided with a circumferentially extending arm for the engagement member 13 shown. The arm is in this example on the guide member 7 arranged. In 10 the injection device is shown in an unactuated state, that is, the engagement member 13 not in the output member 9 intervenes. When the rotary and axial fixed with the dose display drum 5 connected coupling member 6 around the clutch stroke h ( 10 ) is shifted, the engaging member 13 due to the interaction of the transmission elements 13b and 14 radially inwardly into a rotationally fixed engagement with the output member 9 pressed.

Claims (24)

Injection device for administering a product, comprising: a) a locking element ( 2 B ) and b) a coupling member ( 6 ), which has at least one profile section ( 6b ) and at least one threaded section ( 6d ), c) wherein the coupling member ( 6 ) from a position in which the locking member ( 2 B ) in the at least one profile section ( 6b ) engages, in a position in which the locking member ( 2 B ) in the at least one threaded portion ( 2d ) engages, is displaceable. Injection device according to claim 1, characterized in that the at least one profile section ( 6b ) and / or the at least one threaded section ( 6d ) at least partially over the circumference of the coupling member ( 6 ) extend helically. Injection device according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the at least one profile section ( 6b ) several in the longitudinal direction of the coupling member ( 6 ) extending and circumferentially juxtaposed grooves ( 6a ) having. Injection device according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the at least one profile section ( 6b ) at least in an axial direction, preferably in both axial directions of the at least one threaded portion ( 6d ) is limited. Injection device according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the at least one profile section ( 6b ) and / or the at least one threaded section ( 6d ) in the circumferential direction of at least one longitudinally extending profilmenmal section ( 6c ) are limited. Injection device according to the preceding claim, characterized in that over the circumference a plurality of, in particular two, longitudinally extending profiled portions ( 6c ) are arranged. Injection device according to one of the two preceding claims, characterized in that the at least one profile section ( 6b ) and the at least one profilme section ( 6c ) each extend in the circumferential direction about the same arc length. Injection device according to one of the three preceding claims, characterized in that the at least one profilme section ( 6c ) and / or the at least one threaded section ( 6d ) groove-shaped, wherein the groove flanks of the flanks of the grooves ( 6a ) are formed. Injection device according to one of the four preceding claims, characterized in that the at least one profilme section ( 6c ) and the at least one threaded section ( 6d ) each sliding surfaces for the locking member ( 2 B ), which are the same distance to the longitudinal axis of the coupling member ( 6 ) exhibit. Injection device according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the bottom of the grooves ( 6 ) of the at least one profile section ( 6b ) in the at least one threaded portion ( 6d ) passes over. Injection device according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the coupling member ( 6 ) relative to the locking member ( 2 B ) is rotatable, whereby the locking member ( 2 B ) over the at least one profile section ( 6b ) and a tactile and / or audible click is perceptible. Injection device according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the coupling member ( 6 ) is arranged in the injection device such that it performs an axial movement in addition to the rotational movement during rotation. Injection device according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the locking member ( 2 B ) resiliently on a the coupling member ( 6 ) surrounding sleeve, in particular a housing ( 1 . 2 . 3 ) of the injection device is arranged. Injection device according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the coupling member ( 6 ) Part of an actuating device ( 5 . 6 . 7 . 12 . 13 ) which is in threaded engagement with a coupling member ( 6 ) surrounding sleeve, in particular a housing ( 1 . 2 . 3 ) of the injection device, so that a rotation of the coupling member ( 6 ) relative to the housing ( 1 . 2 . 3 ) an axial movement relative to the housing ( 1 . 2 . 3 ) causes. Injection device according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the injection device, in particular its actuating device ( 5 . 6 . 7 . 12 . 13 ) a guide member ( 7 ), relative to which the coupling member ( 6 ) against the force of a spring member ( 15 ) is axially displaceable, wherein the guide member ( 7 ) in the threaded engagement with the housing ( 1 . 2 . 3 ) and wherein the coupling member ( 6 ) and the guide member ( 7 ) are axially non-rotatable relative to each other. Injection device according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the locking member ( 2 B ) a first locking member ( 2 B ) and the injection device in addition to the first locking member ( 2 B ) a second locking member ( 2 B ), wherein first and second locking member ( 2 B ) are arranged so that one, preferably only one of the two latching members ( 2 B ) in a profile section ( 6b ) intervenes. Injection device according to the preceding claim, characterized in that the other locking member ( 2 B ) not in the profile section ( 6b ), into the profiled section ( 6c ) intervenes. Injection device according to one of the two preceding claims, characterized in that the first and second locking members ( 2 B ) are offset in the circumferential direction and / or in the axial direction to each other. Injection device according to the preceding claim in combination with claim 7, characterized in that the first and second locking members ( 2 B ) are offset from each other in the circumferential direction by an angle which corresponds to the angle of the arc length of the at least one profilmenmen section ( 6c ) or the at least one profile section ( 6b ). Injection device according to one of the two preceding claims, characterized in that the first and second locking members ( 2 B ) around the product of the pitch of the at least one threaded portion ( 6b ) and the angular offset of the locking members ( 2 B ) are axially offset in the circumferential direction to 360 °. Injection device according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the injection device, in particular its actuating device ( 5 . 6 . 7 . 12 . 13 ) an engaging member ( 13 ) and an output device ( 9 . 10 ), wherein in the position in which the locking member ( 2 B ) in the at least one threaded portion ( 6d ) engages, the engaging member ( 2 B ) in the output device ( 9 . 10 ) intervenes. Injection device according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that an output device ( 9 . 10 ) of the injection device is one or more parts and upon actuation of the coupling member ( 6 ) an axial movement in the discharge direction on a piston ( 4a ). Injection device according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the coupling member ( 6 ) Part of a metering and actuating device ( 5 . 6 . 7 . 12 . 13 ), with which a product dose is adjustable and which is a dose display drum ( 5 ) at which the set product dose is readable. Injection device according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the injection device comprises a stop member ( 8th ), which limits the last adjustable product dose.