EA044677B1 - ADMINISTRATION DEVICE DESIGNED FOR INTRAVITREAL ADMINISTRATION OF FLUID - Google Patents

Description

The present invention relates to a device for intravitreal fluid administration in accordance with the preamble of claim 1 of the claims, as well as to the use of such an administration device.

Although the present invention is particularly suitable for intravitreal injection of a drug, i.e. injection of a drug directly into the eye, in particular into the vitreous body, the administration device according to the present invention can also be used in other cases, in particular for the administration or injection of a liquid or drug. The present invention is particularly useful in the medical field for administering or injecting a drug or other liquid directly into the human or animal body or part thereof.

WO 2014/005728 A1 relates to a small volume syringe which is suitable for ophthalmic injections. The syringe is pre-filled with medication and consists of a body, a locking device and a piston. The piston includes a piston contact surface arranged to engage the locking device such that the piston can be used to push the locking device toward the outlet and the body of the syringe.

WO 00/69488 A2 relates to a device consisting of an injector containing a housing and a syringe with a needle, the syringe being movable relative to the housing. The injector device includes a penetration mechanism configured to move the needle from a rear position to a forward position, a reset mechanism for moving the needle in the opposite direction, and an injection mechanism configured to push the contents of the syringe through the needle. In addition, the injection device includes a control button located on the housing, which step-by-step activates the penetration mechanism and the injection mechanism. The button is provided to have at least a movement element perpendicular to the axis of the needle. The injector device is not suitable for intravitreal injection.

US 2006/0069350 A1 relates to a medical syringe-injector in the form of a pen with a casing for housing the syringe. The handle includes a drive mechanism and an activation element for releasing the drive mechanism and actuating the device to deliver liquid from the syringe to the user. After delivering the liquid, the syringe is retracted back into the housing. The pen injector is not suitable for intravitreal injection.

US 2010/0241102 A1 relates to an intravitreal injection device which includes an injection device adapted to receive a syringe. The injection device, in response to user input, is adapted to automatically and sequentially first move a syringe into the patient's eye and then dispense an injectable drug from the syringe. The injection device does not contain a purge device.

GB 2541445 A relates to an injection device. The injection device contains a pre-filled syringe with a locking device for ejecting the drug. A syringe, a piston for driving the locking device, and a blowing mechanism having a working element that can move relative to the housing are located in the housing. The purge mechanism is arranged to move the syringe in the direction of the piston when the working element moves so that the locking device comes into contact with the piston. Rotation of the working element causes the reciprocating part to move axially in such a way that it presses on the shoulder of the syringe barrel. Purge is carried out by removing the cap from the injector. The injection device is not suitable for intravitreal injection.

The object of the present invention is to provide an administration device that is safe to use, easy to use and/or ensures correct and/or accurate dosing of the liquid or drug to be administered, particularly in the case of intravitreal administration.

The above problem is solved using a device for intravitreal fluid administration (hereinafter referred to as the insertion device) in accordance with claim 1 of the claims or by using such a device in accordance with claim 53. Advantageous improvements are the subject of dependent claims.

An administration device according to the invention comprises a syringe and a drive mechanism for driving the syringe. The syringe is preferably a pre-filled syringe, i.e. a syringe containing a liquid or drug to be dispensed from the syringe and/or administered to the patient. The syringe includes a syringe body and a piston located within the body, the piston being movable within the syringe body.

In accordance with one aspect of the present invention, the administration device includes a housing in which the drive mechanism is configured to move the syringe or syringe body relative to the device housing. This is preferable for easy use and operation of the insertion device.

- 1 044677

According to a further aspect, which can also be implemented independently, the injection device comprises a housing in which a syringe and/or an injection needle attached thereto can be either configured to be completely accommodated within the housing, in particular in such a way that so that the syringe and/or injection needle do not protrude from the housing. This facilitates safe operation of the insertion device.

According to a further aspect, which can also be implemented independently, the insertion device, in addition to the drive mechanism, comprises a purge device. In particular, the blowing device is separate and/or functionally separated from the drive mechanism. In this way, purging can be accomplished without the possibility of accidental activation of the syringe, which could result in unintentional liquid dispensing. In this way, easy-to-use and safe operation of the insertion device can be achieved.

According to a further aspect, which may also be implemented independently, the insertion device includes a purge device configured to act on the syringe plunger and a locking device that prevents the purge device from moving the plunger beyond the purge position and/or to the end of the syringe. syringe. This ensures correct, precise and/or defined purge and facilitates simple and safe operation of the insertion device. In particular, the locking device is configured to prevent the blowing device from moving beyond a certain end position.

The syringe preferably contains or is configured to connect to it an injection needle, in particular using a Luer connection.

The drive mechanism is preferably configured to move the syringe, in particular the syringe body, relative to the device housing into a syringe insertion position. In particular, the syringe or its plunger is not actuated while the syringe is moved to the injection position. This facilitates safe and easy operation of the insertion device.

In addition, the drive mechanism is preferably configured to actuate the syringe after moving the syringe, in particular the syringe body, to the insertion position. The steps of first moving the syringe or syringe body to the insertion position and then driving the syringe are preferably carried out during one overall movement of the drive mechanism. In particular, the syringe is driven by movement of a piston located in the syringe body. This facilitates safe and easy operation of the insertion device.

In addition, the drive mechanism is preferably configured to, in particular, automatically position the syringe and/or injection needle completely within the housing upon completion of actuation of the syringe. In other words, the syringe and/or injection needle are preferably automatically retracted or closed by the housing upon completion of actuation of the syringe, in particular after injection or dispensing of liquid. In this way, safe and simple operation of the insertion device is achieved.

It is preferred that the drive mechanism comprises a reset means, in particular a spring, for moving the syringe and the device housing or part thereof relative to each other. This facilitates safe and easy operation of the insertion device.

According to a preferred aspect, the drive mechanism comprises a push element for actuating or moving the plunger of the syringe, wherein the push element preferably comprises an engagement device for engaging the body of the syringe, in particular in an insertion position, in particular such that the position of the syringe or the syringe body relative to the pushing element is fixed by a clutch. This facilitates safe and easy operation of the insertion device.

In a preferred embodiment, the drive mechanism preferably comprises an activation element in the form of a button. The activation element is preferably configured to be manually and/or directly actuated by the insertion device by the user, in particular independently of the actuation of the purge device. Preferably, the activation element is designed to be activated in a direction transverse, in particular perpendicular to the longitudinal extent of the syringe and/or the direction of movement of the purge device. This facilitates safe and easy operation of the insertion device.

The drive mechanism preferably includes a gear or gear for moving the syringe. In this case, it is advantageous when the gear train is driven by an activation element in the form of a button. This facilitates safe and easy operation of the insertion device.

The activation element is preferably located on the housing in the lateral direction and/or on or in close proximity to the axial end of the insertion device containing the insertion hole, and/or in close proximity to the axial end of the insertion device, which is opposite to the axial end containing the device for purge or its activation section. Thus, the insertion is preferably designed to be activated with one hand and/or can be activated

- 2 044677 with the user's index finger, in particular when he is holding an insertion device like a pen.

According to a preferred aspect, the syringe and/or injection needle is retractable, preferably automatically, into the housing, in particular by means of a gear drive.

The retraction of the syringe and/or injection needle is preferably carried out after injection or dosing of the liquid, in particular automatically. This facilitates safe and easy operation of the insertion device.

According to another preferred embodiment, the device housing comprises or consists of two housing parts that are movable relative to each other and/or relative to the syringe. This facilitates safe and easy operation of the insertion device.

Preferably, the above-mentioned reset means or spring is located in the casing and/or between two parts of the casing. Preferably, the spring is configured to move the casing parts in different directions. In this way, automatic movement of the housing parts in different directions can be achieved, for example in order to close the syringe and/or injection needle with one of the housing parts, or in order to retract the syringe into the housing, in particular after administration or dosing liquids. This facilitates safe and easy operation of the insertion device.

According to a further preferred aspect, the injection device is configured such that, during actuation of the syringe plunger, the first two-piece housing portion of the device moves relative to the syringe body and the second two-piece housing portion, as do the syringe body and the first portion. casing, do not move relative to each other. In particular, the push member for moving the piston is rigidly connected to the first housing part or forms a part or section of the first housing part. This facilitates safe and easy operation of the insertion device.

The term purging in the sense of the present invention preferably means preparing the injection device before introducing the liquid contained in the injection device or syringe, whereby a small part of the liquid contained in the syringe is released so as to remove air bubbles potentially contained in the liquid and the volume of liquid, contained in the syringe, after purging, corresponds to the desired dose to be administered to the patient. Typically, the volume of liquid contained in a (pre-filled) syringe is slightly larger than the volume of dose to be administered, so that the air contained in the syringe can be purged by purging without affecting the volume of dose intended to be administered. However, using the term purge does not actually mean that the syringe is filled with liquid. In other words, purge specifically means moving the syringe plunger to a certain position, which is also referred to as the purge position hereinafter. In particular, the purge device can be actuated or moved even if the syringe is empty (ie, not filled with liquid or drug). Accordingly, all other actions that are performed during or for purging, such as moving the purging device or moving the syringe plunger, can be performed with the syringe empty, i.e. a syringe that is not pre-filled.

The term administration position in the sense of the present invention preferably means a position of the syringe and/or an injection needle attached thereto, in which the liquid contained in the syringe can be dispensed or administered to the patient without performing additional steps other than actuating the syringe to dispense the liquid. Specifically, the insertion position is the position of the syringe body at the time the liquid contained in the syringe is administered to a patient. However, the insertion position is determined relative to other parts of the insertion device, in particular the housing or parts thereof. Thus, the insertion position is not patient specific.

The terms administer and dispense, and terms related thereto, in the sense of the present invention preferably mean the dispensing of a liquid from an administration device or syringe, in particular through an injection needle attached to the syringe. However, it is preferred that the administration device according to the invention is used to administer a medicament directly into the patient's body, for example by using an injection needle and/or by injecting the medicament directly into the eye, in particular into the vitreous body, said terms also refer to dispensing fluids without the presence of the patient. In particular, the term administer can also be used to dispense a liquid without the presence of the patient.

The term syringe actuation and related terms in the sense of the present invention preferably mean movement of the piston relative to the body of the syringe, in particular towards the outlet of the syringe through which liquid can be dispensed. Thus, the term syringe actuation may also be replaced by the term plunger actuation.

The term movement of a syringe in the sense of the present invention preferably means a linear movement of the body of the syringe, in particular relative to other parts of the injection device, for example the housing. In particular, only actuating or moving the piston relative to the syringe body without moving the syringe body is not understood as moving the syringe in the sense of the present invention. Thus, in particular, the term syringe movement can also be replaced by the term piston movement. In addition, the term syringe may be replaced by the term syringe body when it is readily apparent from the context that the term syringe specifically refers to the body of the syringe, such as in the term syringe movement.

The above aspects and features of the present invention, as well as the aspects and features of the present invention that will become apparent from the claims and the following description, can in principle be implemented independently of each other, as well as in any combination or order.

Additional aspects, advantages, features and characteristics of the present invention will become apparent from the claims and from the following description of preferred embodiments with reference to the drawings, wherein:

fig. 1 shows a schematic perspective view of a first embodiment of an administration device in accordance with the invention;

fig. 2 shows a schematic side view of an insertion device according to the first embodiment that is held by a user;

fig. 3 shows a schematic sectional view of an injection device according to the first embodiment, in which the syringe is in its original position;

fig. 4 shows a schematic sectional view of the insertion device according to the first embodiment in which purging has been carried out;

fig. 5 shows a schematic sectional view of an injection device according to the first embodiment, in which the syringe is in the injection position and the syringe is not actuated;

fig. 6 shows a schematic sectional view of an injection device according to the first embodiment, in which the syringe is in the injection position and the syringe is actuated;

fig. 7 shows a schematic sectional view of an injection device in accordance with the first embodiment, in which the syringe is positioned in a retracted or resting position;

fig. 8 shows a schematic perspective view of a second embodiment of an administration device in accordance with the invention;

fig. 9 shows a schematic side view of an insertion device according to the second embodiment that is held by a user;

fig. 10 shows a schematic sectional view of an injection device according to the second embodiment, in which the syringe is in its original position;

fig. 11 shows a schematic sectional view of an injection device according to the second embodiment, in which the syringe is in the injection position and the syringe is not actuated;

fig. 12 shows a schematic sectional view of an administration device according to the second embodiment, in which the syringe is actuated;

fig. 13 shows a schematic sectional view of an injection device according to the second embodiment, in which a syringe is located inside the housing of the injection device;

fig. 14 shows a schematic perspective view of an insertion device according to the third embodiment;

fig. 15 shows a schematic sectional view of an insertion device according to the third embodiment.

In the figures, which are only schematic and are sometimes not to scale, the same reference symbols are used for the same or similar parts and elements, and corresponding or comparable characteristics and advantages may be achieved even if not further described.

The figures show various embodiments of an administration device according to the invention, wherein the illustrated embodiments in particular share several common features. Thus, features described in connection with one embodiment may preferably also be implemented by another embodiment. Thus, for the sake of brevity, repeated descriptions of features that are common to multiple embodiments are avoided. Moreover, different embodiments can in particular be combined.

Hereinafter, the present invention will first be described with reference to FIGS. 1-6, which show a first preferred embodiment of the present invention with several illustrations. Additional embodiments will then be described.

Fig. 1 shows the administration device 1 according to the first embodiment in perspective view.

The administration device 1 is in particular a device for intravitreal administration and/or is configured for intravitreal administration and/or injection of fluid F, in particular

- 4 044677 medicinal product, i.e. administering and/or injecting fluid F directly into the eye E of the patient, in particular into the vitreous body of the eye.

Preferably, all parts of the insertion device 1 described below are sterilized and/or can be sterilized. In particular, the insertion device and/or parts thereof are designed to be sterilizable using an autoclave.

The injection device 1 contains a syringe 2. The injection device 1 or syringe 2 is configured to dispense liquid F, in particular to introduce liquid F directly into the patient's body (not shown) or into a part thereof, in particular into the eye E, especially preferably into the vitreous body. This facilitates safe and easy operation of the insertion device.

The syringe 2 is preferably pre-installed and/or permanently installed in the injection device 1 and/or integral with it. However, solutions are also possible where the syringe 2 can be inserted into the device 1 for administration by the user.

The administration device 1 and/or the syringe 2 are preferably a disposable product and/or intended for single use.

The syringe 2 contains or consists of a syringe body 3 and a piston 4.

The syringe body 3 is preferably at least substantially cylindrical and/or oblong, in particular provided in the form of a cylinder. In particular, the syringe 2 or the syringe body 3 is located at least substantially parallel, in particular coaxially and/or symmetrically, to the longitudinal extent or axis L of the injection device 1 and/or the syringe 2.

Terms such as axial, coaxial, radial or the like preferably refer to the L axis unless explicitly stated otherwise.

The piston 4 is located inside the housing 3 and preferably fits tightly and/or hermetically into the housing 3 such that no fluid F can pass between the piston 4 and the housing 3.

The piston 4 can move in the syringe body 3, in particular linearly and/or along the L axis.

The syringe body 3 preferably includes a collar 3A at an axial end opposite the outlet 7. Specifically, the collar 3A surrounds a cylindrical portion of the syringe body 3, particularly in an annular manner and/or radially protrudes from the syringe body 3.

According to a preferred aspect, the syringe 2 is pre-filled with or contains liquid F. In particular, Liquid F is a drug or drug intended for administration to a patient, for example a VEGF Antagonist, Bevacizumab, Ranibizumab, Aflibercept and/or Pegaptanib. However, other drugs or medications can also be used.

Moreover, it is also possible when the syringe 2 is configured to be filled or refilled by the user of the administration device 1 and/or when the syringe 2 is not pre-filled. Alternatively or in addition, the syringe 2 can be removed from the housing 8 and/or replaced.

The syringe 2 may also include an injection needle 5, for example a permanent needle and/or a needle that cannot be detached from the syringe 2. However, it is also possible that the syringe 2 is simply configured to attach an injection needle 5 to it and/or with the possibility of detaching the injection needle 5 from the syringe 2, in particular by using a Luer lock or a system that is widely used in the medical field, in particular a Luer lock.

The syringe 2 contains or defines a chamber 6 for liquid F. The chamber 6 is preferably formed or defined by a body 3 and a piston 4. The chamber 6 has a variable volume. The volume of the chamber 6 can be changed, in particular reduced, by moving the piston 4 relative to the syringe body 3.

In addition, the syringe 2 or the syringe body 3 includes an outlet 7 for dispensing liquid F. The outlet 7 is preferably located at the axial end of the syringe 2.

The piston 4 can preferably only move towards the outlet 7 and/or cannot move away from the outlet 7.

The injection needle 5 is preferably located at or connected to the outlet 7.

Liquid F can be dispensed from the syringe 2 by moving the piston 4 towards the outlet 7 so that the volume of the chamber 6 is reduced and the liquid F contained in the chamber 6 is pushed out through the outlet 7.

The injection device 1 preferably includes a housing 8. The syringe 2 is preferably located within the housing 8. The housing 8 preferably surrounds or includes the syringe 2 or at least a main body portion of the syringe 3. Preferably, the syringe 2 can be completely located inside the housing 8 so that no part of the syringe 2 protrudes from the housing 8. In particular, this also applies to an injection needle 5 attached to or forming part of the syringe 2.

The housing 8 can be at least partially transparent, so that a visual inspection of the interior of the injection device 1, in particular the syringe 2, is possible.

Preferably, the housing 8 protects the syringe 2, the syringe body 3 and/or the needle 5 from external

- 5 044677 impacts.

In particular, the injection device 1 preferably includes a rigid cover or cap 27 for the injection needle 5. In particular, the cap 27 is configured to protect the injection needle 5 from damage and/or ensure the sterility of the injection needle 5.

The cap 27 can preferably be detached from the injection needle 5, the injection device 1, the housing 8 and/or the syringe 2.

The housing 8 at the axial end of the injection device 1 preferably includes an injection hole 15 for receiving a syringe 2 and/or an injection needle 5.

The syringe 2 or syringe body 3 can preferably be moved within and/or relative to the housing 8. In particular, the syringe 2 or the syringe body 3 can be moved between a retracted or a resting position, which is particularly shown in FIG. 3 and 4, and the insertion position, which is particularly shown in FIG. 5. The retracted or resting position is particularly the position in which the syringe 2 is positioned when the injection device 1 is not used or actuated.

The administration position is, in particular, a position in which dispensing of liquid F can occur for administering liquid F to a patient. In the insertion position, the outlet port 7 and/or the injection needle 5 preferably protrude from the housing 8. In the insertion position, the injection needle 5 and/or the syringe 2, in particular the outlet port 7, preferably extends through the injection port 15.

The injection device 1 comprises a drive mechanism 9 for driving the syringe 2, in particular for moving the piston 4 relative to the syringe body 3, especially preferably in the direction of the outlet 7.

In particular, the insertion device 1 preferably comprises, in addition to and/or separately from the drive mechanism 9, a blowing device 10 capable of blowing.

The term purging is defined above.

The blowing device 10 is preferably separate and/or functionally separated from the drive mechanism 9. In particular, therefore, blowing through the blowing device 10 can be carried out without actuating the syringe 2 via the drive mechanism 9.

The purge device 10 is preferably configured and/or positioned to actuate the piston 4 and/or move the piston 4 relative to the syringe body 3. In particular, the purge device 10 is configured to move or push the piston 4 towards the outlet 7 of the syringe 2.

The purge device 10 is preferably configured to move the piston 4 to a certain end position, which is also referred to as a purge position in the following. In particular, the piston 4 cannot be moved beyond the purge position by the purge device 10.

The term purge position preferably means a position in which the piston 4 moves for the purpose of purge. When the piston 4 is in the purge position, the chamber 6 preferably has the (exact) desired or predetermined volume and/or contains a quantity of liquid F that corresponds to the specified volume, in particular a volume that exactly corresponds to one dose of liquid F that is intended to be administered to the patient.

In the purge position, the piston 4 is preferably located at a distance from the axial end of the syringe 2 containing the outlet 7.

The administration device 1 and/or the purging device 10 is preferably designed in such a way that the actuation of the administration device 1, in particular the dosing of the medicinal product and/or the movement of the piston 4 beyond the purging position, is only possible after purging and/or is prevented until and/or during purging. For example, the purge device 10 may be configured to (mechanically) block the actuation of the insertion device 1 before moving to the purge position.

The syringe body 3 is preferably open at an axial end 14 of the syringe 2 or syringe body 3 opposite the outlet 7. In particular, the purge device 10 extends into the syringe body 3 through the axial end 14 or through an opening thereof.

Preferably, the blowing device 10 can move relative to the housing 8 and/or relative to the syringe 2, in particular along and/or parallel to the L axis.

The blowing device 10 can be configured to be operated differently from others. In other words, it is possible that the blowing device 10 can be operated just once. The purge device 10 is preferably designed to be locked after the piston 4 is moved to the purge position by the purge device 10, in particular by engaging the housing 8 or part thereof. Preferably, the blowing device 10 cannot be moved again

- 6 044677 after purging.

The blocking of the purge device 10 as a result of or after purge preferably serves as an indication to the user of the administration device 1 that purge has already been carried out, that the administration device 1 is ready for use, in particular for the administration, of a medicinal product to the patient and/or that the device 1 for introduction has already been applied.

Alternatively or in addition, the purge device 10 and/or the insertion device 1 may include a cap or the like for covering the purge device 10 (not shown). In particular, the cap can be removed from the housing 8 or the insertion device 1. The cap preferably covers the blowing device 10 in such a way that (accidental) activation of the blowing device 10 is prevented by the cap.

Preferably, the purge device 10 is physically separated from the piston 4. Thus, it is preferably not possible to move the piston 4 away from the outlet 7 by the purge device 10. This prevents the piston 4 from moving away from the outlet 7, for example, when the purge device 10 (accidentally) moves away from the piston 4 and/or from the outlet 7. Thus, air is prevented from entering the syringe 2 and/or moving the piston 4 away from the outlet openings 7 while liquid F is introduced or injected into the patient's body. In this way, harm to the patient due to accidental movement of the blowing device 10 in the wrong direction can be avoided.

Preferably, the purge device 10 is partially located in the housing 8 and/or in the syringe body 3 and/or extends into the syringe 2 or the syringe body 3.

Preferably, the blowing device 10 includes an activation section 11, which is particularly located on the outside of the housing 8, so that the activation section 11 can be activated by the user. Preferably, the activation section 11 is located at the axial end of the insertion device 1, in particular opposite the insertion hole 15.

The insertion device 1 preferably includes a locking device 12 for blocking or stopping the blowing device 10 and/or preventing the blowing device 10 from moving beyond a certain end position. Thus, the locking device 12 preferably determines the end position of the blowing device 10. The blocking device 12 is preferably located on the inner wall 16 of the casing 8 and/or formed integrally with the inner wall 16. The blocking device 12 preferably forms a stop for the purge device 10. In particular, the locking device 12 protrudes from the inner wall 16 of the casing 8 and/or forms an elevation of or on the said inner wall 16.

The blowing device 10 is preferably elongated and/or rod-like. At the end of the purge device 10 containing the activation section 11, the purge device 10 preferably has an enlarged cross section and/or diameter, in particular perpendicular to the longitudinal extent of the purge device 10 and/or the L axis such that the purge device 10 or the activation section 11 comprise a contact surface 13 configured and/or positioned to come into contact with the locking device 12. The contact surface 13 preferably extends in the transverse direction, in particular at least substantially perpendicular to the L axis and/or the longitudinal the length of the device is 10 for purging.

In particular, the purge device 10 can be moved (linearly) into the housing 8 and/or the injection device 1 and/or towards the syringe 2, in particular the piston 4, preferably until the contact surface 13 comes into contact with the locking device 12, as a result of which further movement of the device 10 for purging is blocked.

In fig. 3, the purge device 10 is shown in a non-activated position. In fig. 4, the purge device 10 has moved from the non-activated position in FIG. 3 to an activated or determined end position as a result of movement of the purge device 10 towards the outlet 7 and/or the insertion hole 15. This is indicated by the arrow in Fig. 4.

Thus, preferably, the piston 4 cannot be moved beyond the predetermined purge position by the purge device 10. In particular, it is not possible to reduce the volume of the chamber 6 (at least practically) to zero by moving the piston 4 towards the outlet 7 using the purge device 10. In particular, the activation of the syringe 2 is carried out by activating a part other than the part that is activated for purging, i.e. devices 10 for purging. Thus, purging cannot cause the chamber 6 to be reduced to a volume smaller than its intended volume. Therefore, part of the dose of liquid F or drug intended to be administered to the patient is prevented from being removed from the chamber 6 as a result of or during purging.

The syringe 2, plunger 4, housing 8, locking device 12, purge device 10 and/or contact surface 13 are preferably sized and/or positioned in such a way

- 7 044677 that the piston 4 moves to the purge position when the purge device 10 is moved towards the piston 4 until the contact surface 13 comes into contact with the locking device 12.

The drive mechanism 9 is preferably configured to move the syringe 2 or the syringe body 3 relative to the housing 8.

Preferably, the purging by means of the purging device 10 occurs or is carried out before the syringe 2 is moved and/or activated.

The drive mechanism 9 includes several parts that interact or function together, in particular to drive the syringe 2 and/or to move the syringe 2, in particular relative to the housing 8.

The drive mechanism 9 is preferably configured to move the syringe 2 relative to the housing 8 to the insertion position. Said movement to the insertion position can in particular be carried out without actuating the syringe 2, i.e. without moving the piston 4 relative to the syringe body 3 while moving the syringe 2 using the drive mechanism 9. This is particularly shown in FIG. 4 and 5.

In addition, the drive mechanism 9 is preferably configured to drive the syringe 2 or move the piston 4 relative to the syringe body 3, preferably in the direction of the outlet 7, in particular after moving the syringe 2 to the injection position. This is particularly shown in FIG. 6. Arrow in Fig. 5 indicates the movement of the syringe 2 from the initial position shown in FIG. 4 to the insertion position shown in FIG. 5.

In addition, the drive mechanism 9 is preferably configured to position the syringe 2 and/or the injection needle 5 at least substantially completely within the housing 8, in particular upon completion of actuation of the syringe 2, for example by retracting the syringe 2 into the housing 8. Preferably, the positioning of the syringe 2 and/or the injection needle 5 within the housing 8 can or is carried out automatically. This is particularly shown in FIG. 7. Arrow in Fig. 6 indicates the movement of the syringe 2 from the injection position shown in FIG. 6 to the rest or retracted position shown in FIG. 7.

Thus, in a particularly preferred embodiment, the drive mechanism 9 is configured to first move the syringe 2 to an injection position and then drive the syringe 2 by moving the piston 4 towards the outlet 7 so that the liquid F contained in the chamber 6 of the syringe 2, and then position the syringe 2 completely inside the housing 8 (again), for example by drawing the syringe 2 into the housing 8 so that the syringe 2 and/or the injection needle 5 does not protrude from the housing 8. Preferably, these steps are carried out sequentially and/or automatically by just one actuation of the insertion device 1 or the drive mechanism 9, as will be further described in more detail below. Therefore, safe and easy operation of the insertion device 1 can be achieved.

The drive mechanism 9 preferably includes a return means 17 to its original position. The reset means 17 is preferably configured and/or positioned to displace or force the syringe 2, in particular the syringe body 3, into a retracted or original position.

The reset means 17 is preferably a spring, particularly preferably a coil spring and/or a compression spring.

The drive mechanism 9 preferably includes a push element 18 configured to drive the piston 4, in particular in addition to and/or independently of the blowing device 10. In particular, the pushing element 18 can move further towards the syringe 2 and/or the outlet 7 than the purge device 10. The pushing element 18 is preferably configured to move or push the piston 4 towards the axial end of the syringe 2 containing the outlet opening 7, in particular in such a way that the desired dose of liquid F, in particular the entire liquid contained in the chamber 6, can be dosed through the outlet opening 7 as a result of actuating, pushing or moving the piston 4 by the pushing element 18. Preferably, the pushing element 18 is separate from or physically separated from the piston 4 and/or not rigidly connected to it.

The pushing element 18 is preferably rod-like and/or oblong and/or extends along and/or parallel to the axis L. Preferably, the pushing element 18 is partially located within the syringe body 3 and/or extends in the syringe body 3. Particularly preferably, the pusher element 18 is located in close proximity to the purge device 10 and/or extends at least substantially parallel to the purge device 10. The push element 18 is preferably located entirely within the housing 8. The push element 18 is preferably configured to move independently of the purge device 10.

The push member 18 preferably includes a coupling device 19 for engaging the push member 18 with the syringe body 3.

- 8 044677

Preferably, the pusher 18 or the engagement device 19 can engage the syringe 2, in particular the syringe body 3, in two different engagement positions.

In the first engagement position, the pusher element 18 preferably engages with the syringe body 3 in such a way that the position of the syringe body 3 relative to the pusher element 18 is at least temporarily fixed, in particular in such a way that the syringe 2 moves from the original position and/or in the direction of the position insertion when the pushing member 18 moves towards the insertion hole 15. In the first engagement position, the push member 18 is preferably movable relative to the blower 10.

In particular, preferably, the pushing element 18 can engage with the syringe body 3 in the second engagement position automatically and/or following engagement in the first engagement position. Preferably, the clutch in the first clutch position is released and/or the pusher element 18 is moved relative to the syringe body 3 after the clutch in the first clutch position and/or before the clutch in the second clutch position. It is particularly advantageous if the engagement in the second engagement position occurs only after the pusher member 18 has moved the piston 4 towards the outlet 7. Thus, engagement in the second engagement position preferably occurs only after the liquid F has been dispensed from the syringe 2.

In other words, engagement in the first position preferably occurs at the home position of the syringe 2 and/or during movement of the syringe 2 from the home position to the insertion position. Engagement in the second engagement position preferably occurs only when the syringe 2 has moved to the insertion position or thereafter and/or while the syringe 2 is moving from the insertion position back to the original position or to the retracted position.

The first clutch is shown in Fig. 3-5. The second clutch is shown in Fig. 6 and 7.

The coupling device 19 preferably contains or is formed by one or more flaps or tabs 19A, 19B.

The push element 18 preferably includes a first tab 19A, which is preferably located laterally on the push element 18. In particular, the first tab 19A projects laterally or deviates from the push element 18 and/or is located transversely or obliquely to the L axis and/or the pusher element 18. The tab 19A is preferably made integral with the pushing element 18.

The engagement in the first engagement position is preferably effected by the first tab 19A. The diameter and/or cross-section of the push member 18 is preferably increased by the first tab 19A. The diameter and/or cross-section of the push member 18 with the first tab 19A is preferably larger than the inner diameter or cross-section of the syringe body 3 so that the tab 19A comes into contact with the axial end 14 of the syringe body 3.

The syringe body 3, the push member 18 and the tab 19A are preferably arranged such that the tab 19A comes into contact with the axial end 14 of the syringe 2 or the syringe body 3 when the syringe 2 is in the home position and/or the injection device 1, in particular the element 20 activation, not activated. This is particularly shown in FIG. 3 and 4.

In the case where the pushing member 18 moves toward the injection hole 15, the syringe body 3 preferably moves with the pushing member 18 due to engagement with the first tab 19A at the axial end 14. Thus, the pushing member 18 preferably does not move relative to the syringe body 3 and /or the piston 4, so that the syringe 2 is not driven when moved to the injection position.

The injection device 1 preferably includes a stopper 26 for the syringe 2. In particular, the stopper 26 is configured to stop the syringe 2 in the insertion position and/or determines the insertion position. In particular, the stop 26 is configured to come into contact with the collar 3A of the syringe 2.

The stopper 26 is preferably located inside the housing 8. Preferably, the stopper 26 is formed integrally with the housing 8 or part 8A, 8B thereof, in particular with its inner wall.

When the syringe 2 reaches the injection position, the pushing element 18 can preferably be moved further in the direction of the injection hole 15, in particular in such a way that the piston 4 is actuated, in particular moved in the direction of the outlet hole 7.

The coupling device 19 or the first tab 19A is preferably flexible. In particular, the first tab 19A is configured to deform and/or rotate in the direction of the pushing element 18, thereby reducing the diameter and/or cross-section of the pushing element 18, so that the engagement between the tab 19A and the syringe body 3 is released and the pushing element 18 can move further into the syringe body 3 in order to move or actuate the piston 4.

The first tab 19A is preferably deformed as a result of the (subsequent) pushing of the pushing element 18 towards the outlet 7 and/or the (subsequent) activation or pressing of the activation element 20 when the syringe 2 has (already) reached the injection position and/or when further movement of the syringe 2 or the syringe body 3 in the direction of the injection hole 15 is blocked

- 9 044677 limiter 26.

The clutch 19 is preferably configured to engage in the second clutch position only when the piston 4 has been moved towards the outlet 7 by the push member 18 or thereafter. The clutch 19 preferably includes a second tab 19B for engaging in a second position. The second tab 19B is preferably located on the rod 23.

The rod 23 is preferably rigidly connected to the pushing element 18, in particular by means of a connecting part 24. The connecting part 24 is preferably located between the pushing element 18 and the rod 23. The pushing element 18, the rod 23 and the connecting part 24 preferably form a U-shape, in particular when the pushing element 18 and the rod 23 are parallel to each other. The rod 23 is preferably located entirely within the housing 8 and/or on the outside of the syringe 2 or the syringe body 3.

The second tab 19B is preferably flexible. In particular, the second tab 19B is configured to deform and/or rotate in the direction of the rod 23, so that the rod 23 and/or the second tab 19B can extend past the collar 3A.

The second tab 19B is preferably configured to engage a collar FOR the syringe body 3, particularly on the side of the collar 3A that faces the outlet 7. The second tab 19B is preferably elastic. The second tab 19B is preferably located on the rod 23 such that the second tab 19B passes by the collar 3A when the push member 18 pushes the piston 4 towards the outlet 7 and/or such that the second tab 19B engages the collar 3A, in particular on the side that faces the outlet 7 when the piston 4 has moved far enough towards the outlet 7.

When the pushing element 18 and/or the rod 23 moves away from the injection opening 15, in particular after the injection of liquid F, the syringe 2 or the syringe body 3 preferably moves together with the pushing element 18 and/or the rod 23 due to the engagement in the second engagement position, in particular, due to the engagement of the second tab 19B with the collar 3A.

While the above explanations have mainly been made with reference to the first embodiment shown in FIG. 1-7, the above explanations and described features also apply to the additional embodiments shown in FIGS. 8-13, and are not limited to the first embodiment.

Below, some special features of the first embodiment will be described, in particular with reference to FIGS. 1-7, before further embodiments are discussed.

The insertion device 1 and/or the drive mechanism 9 preferably comprises an activation element 20 configured to activate the insertion device 1, in particular the syringe 2 and/or the drive mechanism 9.

The activation element 20 is preferably shaped or formed as a button and/or as a piston.

The activation element 20 is preferably located laterally on the insertion device 1, in particular in such a way that the surface or side of the activation element, which is capable of being actuated, faces in the radial direction relative to the axis L. Preferably, the activation element 20 extends through the opening or a groove 21 of the housing 8, wherein the groove 21 is preferably located laterally on the housing 8. It is preferable if the activation element 20 protrudes from the housing 8.

The activation element 20 is preferably located at or in close proximity to the axial end of the insertion device 1, which contains or defines the insertion opening 15. The activation element 20 is preferably located at or in close proximity to the axial end of the insertion device 1, which is opposite to the (axial) end containing the purge device 10 and/or its activation section 11. Preferably, the activation element 20 is located closer to the end containing the insertion hole 15 than to the end containing the purge device 10.

The activation element 20 preferably extends in a transverse direction, in particular at least substantially perpendicular to the axis L and/or in the direction of movement of the pushing element 18 and/or in the direction of movement of the blowing device 10.

Preferably, the activation element 20 can move in a direction that is transverse, in particular perpendicular, to the axis L, and/or in the direction of movement of the pushing element 18, and/or in the direction of movement of the blowing device 10.

Preferably, the activation element 20 is configured to be activated manually and/or directly by the user of the insertion device 1, in particular by the user's index finger.

As shown in FIG. 2, the insertion device 1 and/or the activation element 20 is preferably provided and/or configured to be activated with one hand, in particular in such a way that the insertion device 1 can be held like a pen and/or between the thumb and forefinger

- 10 044677 and/or the middle finger of the user of the insertion device 1, in particular in such a way that the activation element 20 can be activated, in particular pressed, by the index finger when the user holds the insertion device 1. Preferably, the user does not need to change his grip in order to activate the insertion device 1 and/or the activation element 20, in particular during and/or after piercing the body, in particular the eye, of the patient with the needle 5. This makes the use of the device 1 for administration easier and safer. Preferably, the insertion device 1 is thus prevented from rocking or swinging during use.

The injection device 1 is preferably designed in such a way that actuation of the injection device 1 and/or administration of liquid F is accomplished differently than by pressing an activation device such as a plunger or a syringe plunger located at the axial end of the injection device 1 or syringe 2 Preferably, the injection device 1 does not contain a device for driving a syringe 2, which is located and/or configured to be driven at an axial end of the injection device 1 opposite the axial end containing the outlet hole 7 and/or the injection hole 15 .

The activation element 20 is preferably displaced and/or forced into a non-activated position, in particular by means of a reset means 17 . This is, in particular, shown in Fig. 3-7.

The spring or reset means 17 is preferably located on the outside of the housing 8 and/or between the housing 8 and the activation element 20, in particular in the transverse direction or perpendicular to the L axis, and/or in the direction of movement of the blowing device 10, and/ or in the direction of movement of the pushing element 18.

The reset means 17 is preferably configured to compress after actuation of the activation element 20.

The pushing element 18 can preferably be moved or activated by actuating the activation element 20, in particular by pressing the activation element 20, i.e. by moving the activation element 20 in the direction of the housing 8 and/or in the direction perpendicular to the L axis.

Preferably, the activation element 20 is provided additionally and/or separately from the purge device 10. Preferably, the activation element 20 is mechanically and/or functionally separated from the purge device 10, in particular in such a way that the activation element 20 and the purge device 10 can be activated independently and/or function or move independently of each other.

The activation element 20 and/or the purge device 10 can be designed in such a way that activation or pressing of the activation element 20 is blocked, in particular by the purge device 10, until the purge has been carried out or the purge device 10 has advanced to the purge position .

The drive mechanism 9 preferably includes a gear or gear train 22. The gear train 22 is preferably configured to transmit or convert activation or movement of the activation element 20 into or movement of the push element 18. In particular, the gear train 22 is configured to convert the movement of the activation element 20 into the movement of the pushing element 18, which movement is transverse, in particular, at least essentially perpendicular to the direction of movement of the activation element 20.

In addition, the gear train 22 preferably comprises or defines a series of gear trains. The gear ratio, in particular the ratio between the movement distance of the activation element 20 and the movement distance of the pushing element 18 and/or the rod 23, is preferably greater than 1:3, in particular greater than 1:5, and/or less than 1:20, in particular less than 1 :10.

The gear train 22 preferably includes a gear 22A. Particularly preferably, the gear 22A is a double gear, i.e. a gear containing two different ring gears or ring gears 22B, 22C. The two ring gears or ring gears 22B, 22C preferably have different diameters, in particular, the diameter of the first ring gear 22B, hereinafter referred to as the inner ring gear 22B, is smaller than the diameter of the second ring gear 22C, hereinafter referred to as the outer ring gear 22C.

The activation element 20 preferably includes one or more racks or rods. In particular, the gear 22A and the activation element 20 together form one or more racks and pinions of a gear pair.

The activation element 20 preferably contains or forms one of these gear rods. Specifically, the activation member 20 and the inner ring gear 22B of the gear 22A together form the first rack and pinion of the gear pair.

Preferably, the rod 23 comprises or forms a second of said gear rods. Specifically, the rod 23 and the outer ring gear 22C of the gear 22A form the second rack and pinion of the gear pair.

Thus, the relatively short distance of movement of the converter activation element 20

- 11 044677 is adjusted to a much greater movement distance of the pushing element 18. This is advantageous for the simple operation of the insertion device 1.

Moving the syringe 2 to the injection position and/or actuating the syringe 2, in particular dispensing liquid F, can preferably be carried out by single and/or continuous activation of the activation element 20, in particular by pressing the activation element 20 (in the direction of the housing 8 and/or in the direction , transverse to the L axis). Preferably, the syringe 2 is automatically retracted into the housing 8 or moved (back) to the retracted or original position, in particular after the injection of liquid F and/or after activation of the activation element 20.

In the sense of the present invention, retracting the syringe 2 into the housing 8 preferably means moving the syringe 2 or the syringe body 3 relative to the housing 8 or part 8A, 8B so that the syringe 2 is located inside the housing 8 upon completion of retraction. In particular, the syringe 2 and/or the injection needle 5 do not protrude from the housing 8 in the retracted position. In one embodiment, the retraction of the syringe 2 can be accomplished by moving the syringe 2 relative to the housing 8. However, in another embodiment, it is also possible that the parts 8A, The housings 8B are moved relative to each other and/or at least one of the housing parts 8A, 8B is moved relative to the syringe 2 or the syringe body 3 such that the syringe 2 is surrounded and/or closed by the housing 8 as a result of said relative movement.

In particular, the term retracting the syringe 2 refers to moving the syringe 2 from the insertion position to the retracted or home position.

The reset means 17 is preferably configured to (automatically) position the syringe 2 in the housing 8 and/or retract the syringe 2 into the housing 8. The reset means 17 is preferably configured to (automatically) move the syringe 2 from the insertion position to the retracted position or to the original position. In particular, the reset means 17 is configured to move the syringe 2 by returning the activation element 20 to the original position in which the activation element 20 is/was before activation or pressing. The movement of the activation element 20 is preferably transmitted to the movement of the syringe 2 into the retracted or home position by means of a drive mechanism 9, in particular a gear 22, a push element 18, a coupling device 19 and/or a rod 23.

Below, the insertion device 1 according to the second embodiment, which is shown in FIG. 1, will be described in particular. 7-12. As explained above, the second embodiment shares many features with the first embodiment. Therefore, the differences between the second embodiment and the first embodiment will be discussed below primarily. Thus, unless otherwise stated, the above explanations relating to the first embodiment are preferably also applicable to the second embodiment.

According to the second embodiment, the insertion device 1 or housing 8 preferably includes two housing portions 8A and 8B, which are hereinafter distinguished by the terms first housing portion 8A and second housing portion 8B.

The housing parts 8A, 8B are preferably located coaxially with each other and/or with the L axis.

The housing parts 8A, 8B are preferably movable relative to each other, in particular linearly and/or along the L axis. The housing parts 8A, 8B are preferably movable relative to each other in a telescopic manner.

Preferably, the second housing portion 8B extends at least partially into the first housing portion 8A and/or the first housing portion 8A surrounds the second housing portion 8B at least partially, or vice versa.

The injection device 1, in particular the housing 8, especially preferably the second housing part 8B, preferably contains or forms a cover or cap 27 of the injection needle 5, the housing part 8B preferably surrounding the injection needle 5 at least in the radial direction. However, the cap 27 may also be a part that can be detached from the casing 8 or from the first casing part 8A.

The cap 27 preferably contains one or more holes or recesses 27A, in particular in the case where the injection needle 5 is capable of being connected to and/or detachable from the injection device 1 and/or the syringe 2, for example by means of a connection Luer.

The recess(es) 27A is preferably located/located on the cap 27 in a lateral direction. Preferably, two recesses 27A are provided, wherein in particular the recesses 27A are located on radially opposite sides of the cap 27.

The injection needle 5 and/or the inside of the cap is preferably accessible through the recess(es) 27A. The recesses 27A are preferably configured to allow and/or facilitate connection of the injection needle 5 to the syringe 2, in particular by means of a Luer lock and/or removal or detachment of the injection needle 5 from the syringe 2. In addition, the recess(es) 27A allows inspection of needle 5 for injection.

- 12 044677

The insertion device 1 preferably includes an alignment device 25 for aligning the insertion device 1 with the patient's eye E.

Preferably, the second housing portion 8B defines or contains an alignment device 25.

The matching device 25 is preferably located at the axial end of the housing 8 or at the housing portion 8B containing the insertion hole 15.

The registration device 25 preferably contains or defines a registration surface 25A. The alignment device 25 and/or the alignment surface 25A is preferably configured to directly contact the patient's eye E. Preferably, the registration surface 25A extends in the transverse direction to the longitudinal extent of the second housing portion 8B and/or to the axis L. The registration surface 25A is preferably located at the axial end of the registration device 25.

The registration surface 25A is preferably at least substantially flat, planar and/or laminar.

In particular, the alignment device 25 and/or the alignment surface 25A is curved and/or has a (slight) curvature and/or is at least substantially spherical in shape, thus being particularly adapted to the shape of the eye E.

The alignment device 25 is preferably elongated, tube-shaped, sleeve-shaped, and/or at least substantially cylindrical. In particular, the alignment device 25 surrounds the needle 5 at least partially.

The drive mechanism 9 of the insertion device 1 according to the second embodiment is, in principle, very similar and/or partially identical to the drive mechanism 9 of the insertion device 1 according to the first embodiment. In particular, the above explanations regarding the device 10 for purging and driving the syringe 2 by means of the pushing member 18, in particular the step of first moving the syringe 2 to the driving position, then driving the syringe 2 and then again positioning the syringe 2 in housing 8 or retracting the syringe 2 are also applicable for the second embodiment.

Unlike the first embodiment, the insertion device 1 according to the second embodiment preferably does not include an activation element in the form of a button.

The injection device 1 and/or the syringe 2 according to the second embodiment is preferably designed to be actuated by moving the housing parts 8A, 8B relative to each other, in particular by linear movement.

Moreover, in the second embodiment, the spring or reset means 17 is located inside the casing 8 and/or between the first casing part 8A and the second casing part 8B. The reset means 17 is preferably located coaxially with the longitudinal extent of the casing 8 or casing parts 8A, 8B and/or axis L.

Preferably, the reset means 17 is configured or positioned to force the first and second housing portions 8A, 8B in different directions and/or to the home position.

Preferably, the push member 18 of the second embodiment is integral with the casing 8, in particular with the first casing part 8A, and/or cannot be moved relative to the first casing part 8A.

The housing 8, in particular the first housing portion 8A, preferably forms a part of the drive mechanism 9, in particular by containing or forming a push member 18.

The pushing element 18 and/or the blowing device 10 are preferably located coaxially with the reset means 17 and/or extend into or through the reset means 17. In particular, the reset means 17 surrounds the pushing element 18 and/or the blowing device 10.

The drive mechanism 9 according to the second embodiment preferably does not include a gear 22.

The syringe 2 is preferably movable to an insertion position and/or actuated by, in particular, linear movement of the first housing part 8A relative to the second housing part 8B. As a result of such movement, the reset means 17 is preferably compressed.

The stopper 26 is preferably located on the second housing portion 8B, in particular on its inner wall.

The push member 18 can engage or preferably engages with the syringe 2 by means of the engaging device 19, in particular its tab 19A, 19B, as explained above in connection with the first embodiment. Preferably, the position of the syringe 2 relative to the first housing portion 8A and/or the push member 18 is locked by engagement at least until the syringe 2 reaches the insertion position.

In other words, the syringe 2 is preferably movable relative to

- 13 044677 of the second housing part 8B, in particular, from the initial position to the insertion position, when the first housing part 8A is moved relative to the second housing part 8B, in particular, in the direction of the insertion hole 15.

When the syringe 2 reaches the injection position, the syringe 2 can preferably be driven and/or the liquid F can be introduced by further moving the first housing part 8A relative to the second housing part 8B. As a result of this further movement, the engagement of the engagement device 19 or tab 19A with the syringe body 3 is preferably released so that the pushing element 18 moves further in the direction of the piston 4 and thus drives the piston 4 or syringe 2.

During actuation of the piston 4, in particular movement of the piston 4 towards the outlet 7, the first housing part 8A preferably moves relative to the syringe 2 and/or the second housing part 8B, in particular such that the syringe 2 and/or the second part The housings 8B are moved into or toward the first housing portion 8A. In particular, this can be seen by comparing FIGS. 11 and 12.

The syringe 2, in particular the injection needle 5, can then preferably be positioned entirely within the housing 8 and/or be retractable, in particular automatically.

The coupling device 19 according to the second embodiment preferably includes only one or exactly one coupling tab 19A. The engagement tab 19A can preferably engage with the syringe body 3 in two different engagement positions.

The syringe body 3 preferably includes a recess 28 or the like configured to engage the tab 19A in the second engagement position. In a preferred embodiment, the tab 19A is configured to engage with the recess 28 of the syringe body 3 and thereby engage with the syringe body 3 in the second engagement position when the piston 4 is pushed towards the outlet 7 by the push member 18. In particular, the tab 19A is elastic so that it automatically fits into the recess 28 when it reaches its position.

In particular, the engagement of the tab 19A in the second engagement position allows the syringe 2 to be drawn into the housing 8.

A solution with an engagement device 19 comprising only one tab 19A, which is configured to engage with the syringe body 3 in two different positions, can advantageously also be implemented in the first embodiment of the insertion device.

The reset means 17 is preferably configured to (automatically) position the syringe 2 within the housing 8 or to retract the syringe 2 into the housing 8. In particular, the insertion device 1 is configured to retract the syringe 2 by moving the second housing portion 8B relative to the first housing portion 8A the casing, in particular by moving the casing parts 8A, 8B apart by means of a (compressed) spring or reset means 17, in particular in such a way that the second casing part 8B is pushed out of the first casing part 8A, resulting in the second housing part 8B covers the syringe 2 and/or the injection needle 5. Specifically, the second housing portion 8B moves relative to the syringe 2 and/or the syringe 2 does not move relative to the first housing portion 8A after the syringe 2 is retracted.

In particular, the insertion device 1 is configured to carry out the method described below.

A method of using or actuating the device 1 for administering and/or dispensing or introducing liquid F from the device 1 for administration/device 1 for administering and/or administering or injecting a medicinal product into a patient, in particular directly into the body of the patient or into a part thereof, is preferable includes one or more of the following stages.

Preferably, the cap 27 is first detached from the insertion device 1.

The blower 10 is preferably advanced to a certain end position, in particular by pushing the blower 10 towards the insertion hole 15, thereby preferably moving the blower parallel to the L axis. As a result of the movement of the blower, the piston 4 is preferably moved or pushed to the purge position.

It is possible that purging with the purging device 10 is carried out before removing the cap 27.

The administration device 1 is preferably located in a desired position relative to the body of the patient to whom the drug or liquid F is to be administered, for example located on or above the vein into which the drug is to be administered or injected, or it is located on the eye E, in which drug is to be injected.

Additionally, before positioning the insertion device 1 relative to the eye E, the patient's eye E can be anesthetized.

- 14 044677

The position of the insertion device 1 may be supported or facilitated by the alignment device 25.

The introduction device 1 is preferably activated after purging or actuating the purge device 10. According to a preferred aspect, the insertion device 1 cannot be actuated before purging and/or can only be actuated after purging or actuating the purge device.

Activation of the insertion device 1 is preferably carried out by activating the activation element 20 and/or moving the housing parts 8A, 8B relative to each other.

The liquid F or the drug contained in the administration device 1 or the syringe 2 is preferably administered to the patient. This is preferably carried out by actuating the injection device 1, for example by activating or pressing the activation element 20 and/or by moving the housing parts 8A, 8B relative to each other, preferably in such a way that the syringe 2 is first moved to the injection position and then is activated in such a way that the liquid F is expelled from the syringe 2 and injected into the patient.

After injection of liquid F, the injection needle 5 is preferably retracted into the injection device 1, in particular into the housing 8. This is preferably done automatically, in particular by releasing the activation element 20 and/or parts 8A, 8B of the syringe retraction housing 2. In particular , the force applied to activate the activation element 20 and/or to move the housing parts 8A, 8B relative to each other is reduced or removed, for example, by removing the finger used to press the activation element 20.

A particularly preferred embodiment of the present invention will be described below. A preferred embodiment is shown in FIG. 14 and 15.

The third embodiment of the insertion device 1 is similar to the first embodiment. Therefore, only the differences with respect to the first embodiment will be described below, and the above explanations, in particular the explanations in connection with the first embodiment, preferably also apply to the third embodiment.

The insertion device 1 according to the third embodiment preferably includes a locking device 10A for preventing (unintentional) purge, in particular to prevent movement of the purge device 10 towards the syringe 2. The locking device 10A is preferably configured to (mechanically) lock the purge device 10 purging. Preferably, the blocking device 10A forms a limiter for the purge device 10.

The locking device 10A is preferably located or can be located between the purge device 10, in particular the activation section 11, and the casing 8 and/or part thereof.

The locking device 10A is preferably configured to surround the purge device 10 at least partially. In particular, the locking device 10A is U-shaped.

The locking device 10A can preferably be removed from the blowing device 10 and/or from the insertion device 1, in particular in a direction transverse, in particular perpendicular to the L axis.

The insertion device 1 according to the first embodiment may also include a locking device 10A.

In a third embodiment, the position of the syringe 2, in particular the syringe body 3, in the housing 8 is preferably fixed and/or the syringe 2, in particular the syringe body 3, cannot move relative to the housing 8.

The pusher element 18 is preferably formed by a plate-like and/or planar element configured to act on the piston 4. Alternatively or in addition, the pusher element 18 or a portion thereof may be configured to enclose or engage, at least partially, the piston 4, in particular a radially extending plate located at the axial end of the piston 4. This is particularly shown in FIG. 15.

The administration device 1 according to the third embodiment is preferably configured in such a way that only the piston 4 of the syringe 2 is moved by activating the activation element 20 and/or in such a way that the body 3 of the syringe 2 is not or cannot be moved by activating the activation element 20. Preferably, the gear ratio of the gear train 22 is at least substantially 1:1. Gear 22A preferably includes only one or exactly one ring gear.

The pushing element 18 is preferably directly connected to the rod 23 and/or extends transversely, in particular perpendicularly, to the rod 23.

The insertion device 1 according to the third embodiment may include a reset means 17 (not shown in FIGS. 14 and 15) for returning the activation member 20 to a non-activated position after actuation as described above. However

-

Claims (51)

preferably, the activation element 20 and/or the reset means 17 is not engaged with the syringe 2 or the syringe body 3 and/or is not configured to move the syringe 2 relative to the housing 8. Thus, the reset means 17 is preferably configured only to returning the activation element 20 to the non-activated position after actuation. The insertion device 1 according to the third embodiment preferably includes a needle cap 27 as described above in connection with the second embodiment. Certain aspects and features of the present invention may be implemented independently of each other, as well as in any desired combination and/or order. List of reference designations: 1 insertion device 22A gear 2 syringe 22V inner crown 3 syringe body 22C outer crown BEHIND collar 23 barbell 4 piston 24 connecting part 5 injection needle 25 combining 6 camera device 7 outlet 25A surface 8 casing combination 8A first part of the casing 26 limiter 8V second part of the casing 27 cap 9 drive mechanism 27A recess (cap) 10 device for 28 purge deepening E eye 10A blocking F liquid device L axis AND activation section 12 locking device 13 contact surface 14 axial end 15 insertion hole 16 inner wall 17 reset device 18 pushing element 19 coupling device 19A first paw 19V second paw 20 activation element 21 recess 22 gear CLAIM 1. Device (1) for intravitreal injection of liquid (F), containing a syringe (2) and a drive mechanism (9) for driving the syringe (2), characterized in that the device (1) for administration contains a device (10) for a purge device configured to act on the piston (4) of the syringe (2), and a locking device (12) to prevent the purge device (10) from moving the piston (4) to the end of the syringe (2). - 16 044677 2. Insertion device according to claim 1, characterized in that it contains a purge device (10) in addition to the drive mechanism (9). 3. Device for insertion according to claim 1 or 2, characterized in that the device (10) for purging is configured and/or located with the possibility of actuating the piston (4) and/or moving the piston (4) relative to the housing (3 ) syringe. 4. An injection device according to one of the previous paragraphs, characterized in that the purge device (10) is configured to move or push the piston (4) towards the outlet (7) of the syringe (2). 5. An insertion device according to one of the previous paragraphs, characterized in that the blowing device (10) is physically separated from the piston (4). 6. An insertion device according to one of the previous paragraphs, characterized in that the purge device (10) contains an activation section (11), which is located on the outside of the casing (8). 7. Insertion device according to one of the previous paragraphs, characterized in that the blowing device (10) is elongated and/or rod-like. 8. Insertion device according to one of the previous paragraphs, characterized in that the locking device (12) determines the final position of the purge device (10). 9. Insertion device according to one of the previous paragraphs, characterized in that the blocking device (12) forms a limiter for the purge device (10). 10. An insertion device according to one of the previous claims, characterized in that the locking device (12) protrudes from the inner wall (16) of the casing (8) and/or forms an elevation of or on said inner wall (16). 11. Insertion device according to one of the previous paragraphs, characterized in that the purge device (10) is separated and/or functionally separated from the drive mechanism (9). 12. Device for insertion according to one of the previous paragraphs, characterized in that the drive mechanism (9) contains a pushing element (18) configured to drive the piston (4). 13. Insertion device according to claim 12, characterized in that the insertion device (1) comprises a pushing element (18) in addition to a purge device (10). 14. Insertion device according to claim 12 or 13, characterized in that the pushing element (18) is configured to actuate the piston (4) independently of the blowing device (10). 15. Insertion device according to one of claims 12 to 14, characterized in that the pushing element (18) is located in close proximity to the blowing device (10). 16. Insertion device according to one of claims 12 to 15, characterized in that the pushing element (18) extends at least substantially parallel to the blowing device (10). 17. An injection device according to one of the previous paragraphs, characterized in that it contains a casing (8) and a syringe (2) and/or an injection needle (5) attached to it, located or can be completely located inside the casing (8) . 18. Injection device according to claim 17, characterized in that the drive mechanism (9) is configured to move the syringe (2) relative to the housing (8) to the insertion position. 19. Injection device according to claim 17 or 18, characterized in that the drive mechanism (9) is configured to move the syringe (2) without actuating the syringe (2). 20. Injection device according to one of claims 17 to 19, characterized in that the drive mechanism (9) is configured to drive the syringe (2) by moving the piston (4) of the syringe (2) upon completion of movement of the syringe (2) to the insertion position. 21. Injection device according to one of claims 17 to 20, characterized in that the drive mechanism (9) is configured to position the syringe (2) and/or injection needle (5) completely inside the housing (8) upon completion of the syringe drive (2) into action. 22. Injection device according to one of claims 17-20, characterized in that the drive mechanism (9) is configured to automatically position the syringe (2) and/or injection needle (5) completely inside the housing (8) upon completion of the drive syringe (2) into action. 23. An injection device according to one of claims 17 to 22, characterized in that the drive mechanism (9) contains a spring for moving the syringe (2) and the housing (8) or part thereof (8A, 8B) relative to each other. 24. Insertion device according to claim 23, characterized in that the spring is located in the housing (8). 25. An injection device according to one of claims 17 to 24, characterized in that the drive mechanism (9) contains a pushing element (18) for actuating the piston (4) of the syringe (2), wherein the pushing element (18) contains a coupling device (19) for coupling with the body (3) of the syringe (2). 26. Injection device according to one of claims 17 to 25, characterized in that the syringe (2) is designed to be retractable into the housing (8) after insertion or positioned in the insertion position. - 17 044677 27. Injection device according to claim 26, characterized in that the syringe (2) is designed to automatically retract. 28. Injection device according to one of claims 17 to 27, characterized in that the housing (8) contains two housing parts (8A, 8B) that can move relative to each other and/or the syringe (2). 29. The insertion device according to claims 23 and 28, characterized in that the spring is located between two parts (8A, 8B) of the casing. 30. The insertion device according to claim 29, characterized in that the spring is designed to move the parts (8A, 8B) of the casing in different directions. 31. An injection device according to one of claims 28 to 30, characterized in that the injection device (1) is designed in such a way that when the piston (4) of the syringe (2) is activated, the first part of the parts (8A, 8B) ) of the casing moves relative to the body (3) of the syringe and the second part of the parts (8A, 8B) of the casing, as well as the body (3) of the syringe and the first part (8A) of the casing, do not move relative to each other. 32. An insertion device according to one of claims 28 to 31, characterized in that the pushing element (18) for moving the piston (4) is rigidly connected to the first housing part (8A). 33. An injection device according to one of the previous paragraphs, characterized in that the syringe (2) is a pre-filled syringe. 34. An injection device according to one of the previous paragraphs, characterized in that the syringe (2) contains or is configured to connect to it a needle (5) for injection, in particular using a Luer connection. 35. Device for administration according to one of the previous paragraphs, characterized in that the drive mechanism (9) is configured to drive the syringe (2) by moving the piston (4) of the syringe (2). 36. Insertion device according to one of the previous paragraphs, characterized in that the drive mechanism (9) contains an activation element (20). 37. The insertion device according to claim 36, characterized in that the activation element (20) is made in the form of a button. 38. Injection device according to claim 36 or 37, characterized in that the activation element (20) is configured to be manually activated independently of the purge device (10). 39. Injection device according to one of claims 36 to 38, characterized in that the activation element (20) is configured to be activated in a direction transverse, in particular perpendicular, to the longitudinal extent of the syringe (2). 40. Insertion device according to one of claims 36 to 39, characterized in that the activation element (20) is designed to be activated in a direction transverse, in particular perpendicular to the direction of movement of the blowing device (10). 41. Insertion device according to one of claims 36-40, characterized in that the activation element (20) is located on the housing (8) in the lateral direction. 42. An insertion device according to one of claims 36 to 41, characterized in that the activation element (20) is located at or in close proximity to the axial end of the insertion device (1) containing the insertion hole (15). 43. The insertion device according to one of claims 36 to 42, characterized in that the activation element (20) is located in close proximity to the axial end of the insertion device (1), which is opposite to the axial end containing the device (10) for purging or its activation section (11). 44. An injection device according to one of the previous paragraphs, characterized in that the drive mechanism (9) includes a gear train (22) for moving the syringe (2). 45. Injection device according to claims 25 and 44, characterized in that the syringe (2) is retractable by means of a gear drive (22). 46. Insertion device according to claim 43 or 44, characterized in that the gear train (22) is driven by the activation element (20). 47. The insertion device according to one of the previous paragraphs, characterized in that the insertion device (1) contains a matching device (25) configured to align the insertion device (1) with the eye (E) of the patient. 48. The insertion device according to claim 47, characterized in that the alignment device (25) comprises an alignment surface (25A) configured to be in direct contact with the patient's eye (E). 49. The insertion device according to claim 47 or 48, characterized in that the alignment surface (25A) is at least substantially laminar. 50. An insertion device according to one of claims 47 to 49, characterized in that the alignment surface (25A) is curved. 51. An insertion device according to one of claims 47 to 50, characterized in that the alignment device (25) contains or forms an alignment surface (25A) extending in the butt -