FR3084832A1 - ASSISTANCE DEVICE FOR THE USE OF A LIQUID PRODUCT DISPENSING DEVICE - Google Patents

Abstract

The invention relates to a device for assisting the use of a device for dispensing liquid product in the form of drops, the dispensing device being provided with a dispensing orifice (20) for drops having a longitudinal axis. The assistance device comprises: - means for securing to the distribution device, - means for detecting liquid product arranged in the vicinity of the drop dispensing orifice, - a system for processing the information supplied by the detection means liquid product, the treatment system being configured to provide information on the distribution of a drop, the liquid product detection means being configured to detect the presence or absence of liquid at least three different distances from the distribution orifice in a distal direction of distribution of drops, namely a first distance (D1), a second distance (D2) greater than the first distance, and a third distance (D3) greater than the second distance.

Description

Device for assisting the use of a device for dispensing a liquid product [0001] The invention relates to a device for assisting the use of a device for dispensing a liquid product in the form of drops and a method for monitoring the distribution of a drop by means of such an assistance device.

When dispensing a liquid product, it is often interesting to know the amount of liquid dispensed. This is particularly true for the administration of medical products, for which the amount of drug administered must be precisely controlled according to the prescription. Insufficient intake or overdose of medication should be avoided to preserve the patient's health.

Document US 2014/0257206 describes a control device for the instillation of drops of ophthalmic liquid comprising a drop counter by optical principle. The device is capable of detecting the presence of a drop at the outlet of a bottle of medicine and thus of deducing a number of drops dispensed therefrom. This allows the device and / or the user to control the number of drops administered. However, this device does not make it possible to detect an effective distribution of drop in the subject's eye, for example a drop can be detected without being distributed, when the pressure applied to the device is too low. In addition, this device does not provide information on the quantity of liquid product dispensed. Indeed, we note that the volume of a drop is not always constant. It depends on many variable parameters, depending on the properties of the bottle, the liquid product or even on the dispensing condition of each drop.

The object of the invention is in particular to provide a device and a method making it possible to have better information on the distribution of the drop, and / or to obtain information on the quantity of liquid product distributed.

To this end, the invention particularly relates to a device for assisting the use of a device for dispensing liquid product in the form of drops, the dispensing device being provided with a dispensing orifice. drops having a longitudinal axis, the assistance device comprising:

- means of attachment to the distribution device,

- liquid product detection means arranged in the vicinity of the drop dispensing orifice,

a system for processing the information provided by the liquid product detection means, the processing system being configured to provide information on

-2 dispensing a drop, the liquid product detection means being configured to detect the presence or absence of liquid at at least three different distances from the dispensing orifice in a distal direction of dispensing drops, at know a first distance, a second distance greater than the first distance, and a third distance greater than the second distance.

In the following, a direction moving away from the dispensing orifice relative to the reservoir is called distal direction.

The first, second and third distances are defined in the distal direction going from the dispensing orifice to the area for receiving the drops, generally the receiving body of the user. Thanks to this assistance device, the detection means make it possible to detect the presence or absence of liquid, therefore a drop, at three different distances from the dispensing orifice. Depending on whether or not liquid is detected at these different distances, the processing system can deduce therefrom information on the effective distribution of a drop, in particular if a drop of liquid product is only formed, effectively distributed, has become residual or else re-aspirated inside the orifice. For example, if the detection means detect the absence of liquid at the first distance and the presence of liquid at the second distance, further from the dispensing orifice than the first distance, the processing system can deduce that a drop of liquid product has detached from the dispensing orifice. According to another example, the detection means could detect the absence of liquid at the first and at the second distance, due either to a drop which has become detached, or to a drop which would be reabsorbed in the orifice , and thanks to the detection of the presence of liquid at the third distance further from the orifice, the treatment system can deduce therefrom that a drop of liquid product has effectively detached from the dispensing orifice. Provision may be made for the liquid product detection means to be configured to detect the presence or absence of liquid product at more than three different distances, for example at four different distances.

According to another particularly advantageous advantage, it is not only possible to identify whether a drop has effectively detached, but one can also estimate the size of drop distributed. For example if the presence of liquid is detected simultaneously at the first and at the second distance, and if subsequently, an absence of liquid is detected at the first distance simultaneously with the presence of liquid at the third distance, the processing system can deduce not only that the gout was

-3distributed, but also that this distributed drop has a size at least equal to an optimal drop size which would be a drop whose apex reaches the second distance. Thus, the assistance device and the method make it possible to determine with great precision the quantity of liquid product dispensed.

In another example, if the presence of liquid is detected at the first distance and an absence of liquid at the second distance, and if subsequently, an absence of liquid is detected at the first distance and the presence of liquid at the second distance or at the third distance, the treatment system can deduce therefrom, not only that the drop has been dispensed, but also that this drop dispensed has a drop size less than an optimal drop size, or also according to the second distance, less than a drop size defined as too large, which would be a drop in formation whose apex reaches the second distance.

It is possible to predict that the second and third distances are very close and respectively slightly less and slightly greater than an optimal drop size. For example, if the presence of liquid is detected at the first and second distance simultaneously with an absence of liquid at the third distance, then an absence of liquid is detected at the first distance simultaneously with the presence of liquid at the second and / or at the third distance, the treatment system can deduce therefrom that the size of the drop is between the second and the third distances.

Among the other advantages, one can envisage two embodiments in which the presence or absence of liquid is detected at four different distances, and provide that the second and third distances are very close and that respectively:

- the second and third distances are both less than an optimal drop size, or

- the second distance is less than an optimal drop size and that the third distance is greater than an optimal drop size.

Thus, in these two embodiments, it is possible to obtain more precise measurements which take better account of the difference in sizes between the drops. Detection at the fourth distance, greater than the third distance, makes it possible to validate the distribution of the drop.

Preferably, the liquid product detection means are configured

-4 to simultaneously detect the presence or absence of liquid at at least three different distances. However, it can be envisaged that this detection at three different distances is not simultaneous and that the liquid product detection means are configured to simultaneously detect the presence or absence of liquid at (only) two different distances. For example, provision may be made for the detection means to comprise first and second detection means, the first detection means being configured to detect the presence or absence of liquid at the first distance, and the second detection means being adjustable so as to be able to detect the presence or absence of liquid respectively at the second or third distance.

It can be provided that the information processing system comprises means for storing a variable value corresponding to the quantity of liquid product dispensed and / or to the quantity of liquid product remaining in a reservoir of a device for distribution of liquid product in the form of drops.

The assistance device may also include one or more of the following characteristics, taken alone or in combination.

The liquid product detection means are configured to simultaneously detect the presence or absence of liquid at least two distances from the first, second and third distances, preferably at each of the first, second and third distances. Thus, the detection means comprise first, second and preferably third detection means, preferably separate, configured to simultaneously detect the presence or absence of liquid respectively at the first, second and preferably third distances.

At least one of the first, second and third distances is adjustable, preferably the second distance is adjustable. Thus, the liquid detection distances can be varied, in particular to adapt to the type of liquid product or to the configuration of the dispensing orifice. This is particularly advantageous in the case where the second distance is adjustable. Indeed, the detection of liquid at the second distance can make it possible to estimate the volume of a drop distributed, since it can be detected if a drop in the course of formation reaches the second distance, which could correspond to a size of drop optimal, before detaching, so before an absence of liquid is detected at the first distance. By being able to vary this second distance, it is possible to vary the drop size considered to be optimal. However, this optimal drop size can in particular depend on the viscosity of the

-5 liquid product or geometry of the dispensing orifice. This second distance can also be selected so that the device is able to detect either that a distributed drop is at least equal to an optimal drop size, or at least less than an optimal drop size. Generally, "adjustable distance" means a distance which can be predefined, adjustable before using the assistance device. It is however possible to envisage an adjustable distance which varies during use, or even during the dispensing of the same drop, depending on the inclination of the device for example. In addition, the distance can be adjusted manually or automatically.

The detection means comprise at least one sensor and / or one shutter, the sensor and / or the shutter being able to be moved along the longitudinal axis, so as to define the adjustable distance. Generally, the term "sensor" means a transmitter and / or a receiver. Furthermore, a detection means can be formed by a transmitter / receiver pair. The sensor and / or the shutter are capable of being moved axially with reference to the longitudinal axis so as to define the adjustable distance. The shutter may be able to shut off one or more transmitters and / or one or more receivers.

The detection means comprise at least two sensors offset between them in the distal direction and able to be activated independently of one another so as to define at least one of the first, second, and third adjustable distances . This activation can be done automatically or manually. For example, activation can be done automatically based on the data received by the processing system.

The detection means comprise means for automatic or manual adjustment of the first, second, and / or third adjustable distance, for example from information readable on an electronic information medium such as a radio tag. , and / or from a theoretical drop volume. Thus, the second distance, for example, can be adjusted more precisely so that it is slightly less than or greater than an optimal drop size taking into account the characteristics of the dispensing device and of the liquid product. A radio tag is an information medium which can, for example, be of the RFID tag type or "radio frequency identification" in English. The processing system receives information and processes it in order to provide information on the theoretical volume of a drop, and preferably provide information on the optimal setting of at least one

First, second, or third distance from the detection means.

It will be noted that the processing of the information can advantageously take account of other information made available to the information processing system to estimate the quantity of liquid product distributed. For example, it can be provided that the processing system is configured to receive information on at least one of the following characteristics:

the pressure exerted on the distribution device;

the duration of the presence of liquid detected in the vicinity of the dispensing orifice; the geometry of the valve of the dispensing device;

the mechanical properties of the dispensing device;

the mechanism of action of the distribution device;

the physico-chemical properties of the liquid product, for example the viscosity or the surface tension, the inclination of the dispensing device, the processing system being further configured to process this information in order to provide information on the theoretical volume of a drop.

The processing system can then estimate the theoretical volume of the drop based on this information, and adapt the setting of at least one of the first, second, and third adjustable distances according to this estimate.

The detection means comprise at least two optical sensors each comprising a pair of transmitter and receiver of an optical signal, preferably in which the respective wavelengths used by these couples are different. This advantageously prevents an optical signal receiver of a given transmitter and receiver pair from being activated by an optical signal transmitter of another optical signal transmitter and receiver pair, which would cause noise background and less significant results. “Optical” means any electromagnetic wave, belonging to the visible spectrum or not. It can for example be an infrared ray. The optical detection means used are generally means capable of transmitting, receiving and / or reflecting such an electromagnetic wave. The transmitter and the receiver are preferably diametrically opposite with respect to the dispensing orifice, but they can take other forms and in particular be combined or juxtaposed on the same component and receiving a detection signal by possible reflection on a wall. opposite.

The detection means comprise at least two receivers offset between them in the distal direction, and configured to receive an optical signal emitted by

-7 same transmitter. This solution is economical since only one optical signal transmitter is used instead of two or more. We can expect the transmitter to be able to orient its signal in order to activate only one of the two receivers. Provision can also be made for the transmitter to be able to activate both receivers at the same time.

The detection means comprise at least two transmitters offset between them in the distal direction, and configured to transmit an optical signal received by the same receiver. This solution is economical since only one optical signal receiver is used instead of two or more. Provision may be made for the receiver to send signals for detecting the presence of different liquids depending on the portion of the receiver which receives the optical signal.

The detection means comprise optical means, for example a transmitter and receiver of an optical signal such as an infrared ray, or even a camera. The advantage of the camera is that it can estimate the amount of liquid dispensed in an extremely realistic manner.

The assistance device comprises means for measuring the inclination configured to provide information on the inclination of the dispensing device. Note that the inclination of the dispensing device influences the volume of the drop. More specifically, it can be seen that the volume of the drop dispensed increases with the angle of inclination of the dispensing device measured relative to the horizontal. Thus, by measuring this inclination, the processing system can weight a theoretical volume of drop to estimate the volume of the drop actually dispensed. Furthermore, after having obtained the volume of the detected drop, the treatment system can possibly calculate a new value for the residual volume of liquid product in the dispensing device. The treatment system can also calculate the second distance for an optimal drop size.

The assistance device includes one or more of the following characteristics:

the first distance is between 1 and 3 mm from the dispensing orifice, preferably close to 2 mm,

the second distance is between 4 and 10 mm from the dispensing orifice, preferably close to 7 mm,

- The third distance is between 10 and 13 mm from the dispensing orifice, preferably around 11 mm.

-8 The assistance device further comprises means for blowing residual drop, for example by means of an air nozzle. Thus, if a residual drop is detected, an air flow can be projected in the direction of the dispensing orifice in order to expel the residual drop from the end of the dispensing orifice.

The invention also relates to a liquid product distribution kit in the form of drops, comprising a liquid product distribution device and an assistance device as described above. Preferably, the assistance device and the distribution device are separate devices, attached to each other and removable, but it is conceivable that they are made in one piece, made from one material.

The invention also relates to a method for monitoring the distribution of a drop by means of an assistance device as described above, during which the processing system receives information corresponding to the succession of following steps :

- a first detection step, during which the detection means detect the absence of liquid at the first distance,

a second detection step, during which the detection means detect the presence of liquid at the first distance,

a third detection step, during which the detection means detect the absence of liquid at the first distance and the presence of liquid at the second and / or at the third distance, and the processing system processes this information successive detection of presence and absence of liquid to provide information on the distribution of a drop.

The succession of steps mentioned above thus allows the processing system to deduce that a drop has actually been delivered. Failure to carry out one of the stages mentioned indicates either that the distribution of the drop did not take place (for example the drop was re-aspirated), or that the distribution of the drop took place in an abnormal manner (for example example, the gout has split). We can predict that the third distance is defined so that it is greater than a theoretical maximum drop size which is for example calculated according to the characteristics of the device and / or of the product. Thus, if the presence of liquid is detected simultaneously at the first and at the third distance, it can be deduced that these two detections correspond either to two different drops, or to the same drop which has split.

The invention also relates to a method for monitoring the distribution of a drop by means of an assistance device as described above, during

-9which the processing system receives information corresponding to the succession of the following steps:

a first detection step, during which the detection means simultaneously detect the presence of liquid at the first distance and at the second distance,

a second detection step, during which the detection means simultaneously detect the absence of liquid at the first distance and the presence of liquid at the second and / or at the third distance, and the processing system processes this information successive detection of presence and absence of liquid to provide information on the quantity of liquid product dispensed.

The second distance may have been set to be slightly less than the optimal drop size depending on the characteristics of the dispensing device and the liquid product. Thus, when the distribution of a drop has been validated, for example using the method described above, we are able to say if the volume of the drop is at least equal to the optimal drop volume. This gives precise information on the quantity of liquid product dispensed. It should be noted that this is a direct measurement of the size of the drop and not an indirect measurement, for example by measuring the pressure exerted on an area of the assistance device making it possible to estimate a volume distributed. Thus, in a particularly advantageous manner, this measurement can be more precise than an indirect measurement, in particular if the optimal drop size has been correctly determined.

The invention also relates to a method for monitoring the distribution of a drop by means of an assistance device as described above, during which the processing system receives information corresponding to the succession of the following steps. :

a first detection step, during which the detection means detect the presence of liquid at the first distance,

- a second detection step, during which the detection means detect the absence of liquid at the first distance,

a third detection step, during which the detection means simultaneously detect the absence of liquid at the first distance and the presence of liquid at the second and / or at the third distance, and the processing system processes this information successive detection of presence and absence of liquid to provide information on the quantity of liquid product dispensed.

- 10 The second distance may have been adjusted to be slightly greater than the optimal drop size depending on the characteristics of the dispensing device and the liquid product. Thus, when the distribution of a drop has been validated, for example by using the method described above, it is possible to say whether the volume of the drop is less than an optimal drop volume. This gives precise information on the quantity of liquid product dispensed. Again, this is a direct measure of the size of the drop, not an indirect measure. Thus, this measurement can be more precise than an indirect measurement, especially if the optimal drop size has been correctly determined.

The invention also relates to a method for monitoring the distribution of a drop by means of an assistance device as described above, during which the processing system receives information corresponding to the succession of the following steps. :

a first detection step, during which the detection means simultaneously detect the presence of liquid at the first distance and at the second distance,

a second detection step, during which the detection means simultaneously detect the presence of liquid at the first distance and at the third distance and the absence of liquid at the second distance, and the processing system processes this information successive detection of presence and absence of liquid to provide information on the quantity of liquid product dispensed.

This succession of steps makes it possible in particular to detect the cases in which the drop which was to be dispensed has fractured, often due to the too rapid formation of several drops. Indeed, in the case where a normal drop is dispensed, we can expect that there will be no liquid detected simultaneously at the first and third distances, while detecting an absence of liquid at the second distance. In the case of splitting the drop, the presence of a residual drop at the first distance is detected while the presence of the rest of the liquid is detected at the third distance. In the case where the detection means detect an absence of liquid at the first distance between the first and the second detection step, the processing system will process this information to differentiate this case of rapid but correct distribution from the case of incorrect distribution with splitting of gout.

The invention also relates to a method for monitoring the distribution of a

- 11 drop by means of an assistance device as described above, during which the treatment system receives information for detecting the presence of liquid at the second distance for a duration greater than a predetermined duration, and the system processing processes this detection information to provide information on the distribution of a drop. In particular, in the absence of detection at the first distance from the start of the formation of a drop, one cannot distinguish a drop at the end of the formation from a drop that falls, except by measuring the duration of detection. From a certain predetermined duration, for example 0.2s (second), the detection most probably corresponds to a drop in formation and not to a drop that falls, we can therefore deduce that there has not been effective distribution of gout.

We will now present several embodiments of the invention given by way of nonlimiting examples and with the support of the appended figures in which:

- Figures 1 and 2 are perspective views of an assistance device according to one embodiment, Figure 1 showing the assistance device alone and Figure 2 showing the upper part of the entire device assistance and a dispensing device secured to the assistance device, the assistance device being in the open position and the distribution device being provided with a protective cap for the dispensing orifice,

FIGS. 3A and 3B are perspective views of the assembly of FIG. 2, the views being respectively diametrically opposite with respect to a longitudinal axis of the assembly,

FIGS. 4 to 7 and 11 to 13 are schematic representations of different drop distribution sequences with an assistance device secured to a drop distribution device according to several embodiments, and

- Figures 8 to 10 are schematic representations of different mechanisms for adjusting one of the distances at which a presence or absence of liquid is detected by the detection means.

FIG. 1 illustrates a device 10 for assisting in the use of a dispensing device 12 for a liquid product in the form of drops, the liquid product being contained in a reservoir of the dispensing device 12. FIG. 2 illustrates a distribution kit comprising the assistance device 10 and the distribution device 12 disposed inside the assistance device 10. The assistance device 10 comprises means for securing to the distribution device 12 so that the whole is united. The joining means may for example include a

- 12 snap-fitting of the dispensing device 12 into the assistance device 10. The assistance device 10 here comprises a main body 14 in which the dispensing device 12 is placed, and a support structure 16 against the skin of the user when dispensing drops into a target organ of a user (or subject), for example an eye. The support structure 16 is for example removably mounted on the main body 14 between an open position for inserting the dispensing device 12, visible in FIG. 2, and a closed position for use, for example by means of a hinge 18. The support structure 16 can be designed in a sufficiently flexible manner to ensure the comfort of the support against the skin of the user and to adapt to the reliefs in the vicinity of the target organ, and / or fairly rigid to ensure the support support function and impose a predetermined distance between the target member and a dispensing orifice 20 arranged in this example on the dispensing device 12 but which can be arranged according to a variant on the assistance device 10 The support structure 16 comprises an axial orifice 22 intended to allow the passage of drops of liquid product from the dispensing orifice 20 towards the body of the user. The support structure 16 optionally includes recesses 24 on two opposite sides and at its end, in particular to prevent the eye of the user from being in the dark when the assistance device 10 is applied against the user's skin around their eye. The support structure 16 may have a closed or not closed contour, for example a C contour. The C contour allows the user, for example, to pass his finger through the opening of the C to pull the lower eyelid, to further open his eye and ensure that the drop reaches the eye.

The assistance device 10 also includes a support zone 26, intended here both for gripping and for enabling user support to dispense the liquid product. The support area 26 is arranged on two opposite sides of the main body 14. In a variant not shown, the support area is arranged only on one side of the main body. An activation pressure exerted on the support zone 26 is transmitted to the reservoir of the distribution device 12, in particular at a contact zone between the reservoir and the assistance device 10. The support zone 26 may be made of a different material, in particular more flexible, than that of the rest of the main body 14. It may also include reliefs which facilitate gripping by the user. Furthermore, thanks to the presence of the support zone 26, the assistance device 10 increases the gripping surface of the user and the activation pressure on the reservoir relative to that of the dispensing device 12 alone, which is particularly advantageous for users suffering from neuromuscular diseases.

- 13 The assistance device 10 includes means 28, 30, 32, 34, 36, 38 for detecting the presence or absence of liquid at different distances from the dispensing orifice 20 in the direction distal. These detection means here comprise three sensors which each comprise a pair formed by a transmitter 28, 32, 36 (FIG. 3A) of an optical signal 39 and a receiver 30, 34, 38 (FIG. 3B) of this optical signal 39 (visible in Figures 4 to 7 and 11 to 13). For each sensor, the transmitter 28, 32, 36 of optical signal 39 is diametrically opposite the receiver 30, 34, 38 of this optical signal 39 with respect to a longitudinal axis 70 of the distribution orifice 20 (see FIGS. 3A and 3B). The sensors are configured to detect the presence of liquid disturbing the optical signal 39 and, optionally, to measure the duration of this presence. The transmitters 28, 32, 36 comprise for example diodes emitting infrared rays and the receivers 30, 34, 38 comprise for example phototransistors capable of detecting infrared rays. The transmitters 28, 32, 36 and the receivers 30, 34, 38 thus detect the presence of liquid passing through the optical signal 39 when the optical signal 39 is disturbed, for example by a variation of the intensity of this optical signal 39 (see Figures 4 to 7 and 11 to 13).

In the following, the first, second and third distances are defined in the distal direction. The first emitter 36 and receiver 38 pair is preferably located at a distance of between 1 and 3 mm, preferably 2 mm, from the dispensing orifice 20, detecting the presence of liquid product in a detection zone located between the emitter 36 and the receiver 38 in the vicinity of the dispensing orifice 20. This first pair of emitter 36 and receiver 38 is capable of detecting the presence or absence of liquid product at a first distance D1 from the dispensing orifice 20. The second pair of transmitter 32 and receiver 34 is located at a distance from the dispensing orifice 20 greater than that of the first pair of transmitter 36 and receiver 38, preferably at a distance between 4 and 10 mm from the distribution orifice 20, for example close to 7 mm from the distribution orifice 20. Thus, the second pair of transmitter 32 and receiver 34 is able to detect the presence or the abs enclosure of liquid product at a second distance D2 from the dispensing orifice, greater than the first distance D1. The operation of this second pair 32, 34 is similar to that of the first. The third pair of transmitter 28 and receiver 30 is located at a distance from the dispensing orifice 20 higher than that of the second pair, and therefore that of the first pair, preferably at a distance of between 10 and 13 mm. of the dispensing orifice 20, for example close to 11 mm from the dispensing orifice. Thus, the third pair of transmitter 28 and receiver 30 is able to detect the presence or absence of liquid product at a third distance D3 from the orifice of

- 14 distribution 20, greater than the second distance D2 and therefore also greater than the first distance D1. Preferably, D3 is greater than a theoretical maximum distance for the formation of a drop. In other words, a drop which is detected at the third distance is detached from the dispensing orifice 20 and is therefore not in the process of formation. The operation of this third pair 28, 30 is similar to that of the first and second. These three couples 28, 30, 32, 34, 36, 38 are therefore able to independently detect, simultaneously or not, the presence or absence of liquid respectively at a first, second and third distance D1, D2, D3 from the distribution orifice 20. By the relative arrangement of these different couples, it is noted that the first couple 36, 38 is particularly suitable for the detection of gout at the start of training and that the third couple 28.30 is able to validate a distribution of a drop. In addition, provision can be made for the second distance D2, defined by the second pair 32, 34, to be chosen so as to be close to an optimal drop size (calculated for example as a function of the characteristics of the distribution device 12 and of the physico-chemical properties of the liquid product). In this way it is possible to define more precisely, and directly, the size of drop dispensed. According to a first example, as visible in FIG. 4, the second distance D2 is slightly less than an optimal drop size. Thus, if the first and second pairs 36, 38, 32, 34 detect at a first and second distance D1, D2 the presence of liquid product, and if subsequently an absence of liquid product is detected at the first distance D1 simultaneously with a presence of liquid product at a second distance D2 and / or at a third distance D3, then an information processing system 40 (visible in FIG. 1) can deduce therefrom, not only that the drop has been dispensed, but also besides that this drop has a size at least equal to the second distance D2. According to a second example, visible in FIG. 5, the second distance is slightly greater than an optimal drop size. Thus, if the first pair 36, 38 detects the presence of liquid at the first distance D1 simultaneously with a detection by the second pair 32, 34 of the absence of liquid at the second distance D2, and if thereafter, the second and / or the third pair 32, 34, 28, 30 detect the presence of liquid at the second distance D2 and / or at the third distance D3 simultaneously with a detection by the first pair 36, 38 of the absence of liquid at the first distance D1, then the information processing system 40 can deduce therefrom, not only that the drop has been dispensed, but also that this drop has a size less than the second distance. Furthermore, the possibility of detecting the product at the second distance D2 makes it possible to calculate a rate of drop formation by measuring the time elapsed between the detection of the presence of liquid at the first distance and the detection of the presence of liquid. at the first and second distances, this criterion can be taken into account

- 15 to more accurately estimate a drop size. It is possible to provide for the presence of at least one additional sensor, for example located between the first distance D1 and the third distance D3. Such an additional sensor is in particular capable of improving the accuracy of the measurement, in particular if it is close to the second distance D2. So that there is no interference between the different pairs of transmitters 32, 36, 38 and receivers 30, 34, 38 the respective wavelengths used by these pairs are different.

According to one embodiment of the invention, at least one of the first, second and third distances D1, D2, D3 is adjustable, preferably the second distance D2 is adjustable. As indicated previously, it can thus be provided that the second distance D2, defined by the second pair of transmitter and receiver 32, 34, is chosen so as to be close to an optimal drop size. In this way, the same assistance device 10 is able to be used optimally with different dispensing devices 12 (A, B) and with different types of liquid products. In Figures 6 and 7, we note that:

- with a first distribution device 12 (A), the second pair of transmitter and receiver 32, 34 is positioned so that it is capable of detecting the presence or absence of liquid product at a first second distance D2a which has been chosen so as to be close to the optimal drop size taking into account the characteristics of the dispensing device 12 (A) and of the liquid product used, and that

- with a second distribution device 12 (B), the same pair of transmitter and receiver 32, 34 is positioned so that it is able to detect the presence or absence of liquid product at a second second distance D2b, different from the first second distance D2a, and which is closer to the optimal drop size taking into account the characteristics of the dispensing device 12 (B) and the liquid product used.

The difference between Figure 6 and Figure 7 is that:

- in the first case, the first second distance D2a or the second second distance D2b were adjusted so as to be slightly less than the optimal drop size and,

- in the second case, the first second distance D2a or the second second distance D2b have been adjusted so as to be slightly greater than the optimal drop size.

Thus, for FIG. 6, we are more likely to obtain information relating to the fact that the size of the drop is at least equal to a size predefined by the first second distance D2a or the second second distance D2b, whereas for the figure

- 167 we are more likely to obtain information relating to the fact that the size of the drop is less than a size predefined by the first second distance D2a or the second second distance D2b. The adjustable distance can be predefined, adjustable before using the assistance device 10, but it can also be adjustable during use, or even during the dispensing of the same drop of liquid product. The adjustment can be done manually or automatically, and mechanically or electronically. The adjustment can for example be carried out by displacement in the distal direction of at least one sensor of the dispensing orifice 20 (see for example FIG. 9). Alternatively or additionally, the adjustment can also be carried out by axial displacement 64 of a shutter 60 with reference to the longitudinal axis 70 of the dispensing orifice 20 (see FIG. 10). In the example shown in FIG. 10, the shutter 60 has a generally rectangular shape elongated in the direction of the axis of the dispensing orifice 20. It is made of an opaque material capable of interrupting the optical signals 39 emitted by the transmitters 28, 32, 36. The shutter 60 comprises openings 62 which are capable of letting the signals transmitted by the transmitters 28, 32, 36 pass. In FIG. 10, it can be noted that the assistance device 10 comprises six transmitter and receiver pairs 32, 34, 36, 38, 28, 30 but that they can only operate simultaneously in threes because of the presence of the shutter 60. The latter is thus configured to block three optical signals 39 while allowing three other optical signals to pass through 39. The axial displacement 64 of the shutter 60, manual or automatic, makes it possible to adjust the assistance device 10 on the three optical signals 39 that one wishes to use.

The detection means can also include at least two sensors 28, 30, 32, 34, 36, 38 offset in the distal direction and able to be activated independently of one another so as to define the adjustable distance (see figure 8). In FIG. 8, it is noted that the second distance D2 is adjustable, it can be defined by three pairs of transmitters 32 and receivers 34 which can each be activated independently of one another so as to define a distance where the presence or absence of liquid product. It can be foreseen that several of these pairs of transmitters 32 and receivers 34 are activated at the same time so as to increase the number of distances observed and therefore to obtain more precise measurements.

The adjustable distance can be adjusted manually or automatically from information readable on an electronic information medium. One can for example provide that it is the distribution device 12 which comprises this information medium readable by electronic means. This information medium is for example a radio tag (of the RFID tag type or "radio frequency identification" in English)

- 17 glued below the tank. The radio tag includes information such as, for example, the filling volume of the reservoir, the diameter of the dispensing orifice 20, the viscosity of the liquid product, the dosage of the liquid product, the expiration / manufacturing date. Provision may be made for the assistance device 10 to include reading means comprising, for example, an antenna capable of reading the radio tag in order to extract the information necessary for adjusting the distance. The label can also be affixed to the side of the tank or to any other suitable location.

Furthermore, with receivers 30, 34, 38 of limited dimensions, it may be that, when the assistance device 10 is inclined, the passage of a drop is not detected by these receivers 30, 34, 38. To overcome this problem, the receivers 30, 34, 38 can have an optical signal reception area 39 extending axially and / or circumferentially, the transmitter 28, 32, 36 being configured to transmit said optical signal 39 in the reception area, in order to guarantee the detection of the passage of a drop even when the assistance device 10 is inclined.

As can be seen in FIG. 1, the assistance device 10 comprises an information processing system 40, in particular detection information supplied by the detection means 28, 30, 32, 34, 36 , 38. The processing system 40 is configured to provide information on the distribution of a drop. The information processing system 40 is a system comprising a set of components (mechanical, electronic, chemical, photonic and / or biological) capable of automatically processing information. It includes for example a printed circuit of PCB type (for “printed circuit board”), a set of transistors and / or a computer.

The assistance device 10 also comprises means for measuring the duration 42 of the presence of liquid in the vicinity of the dispensing orifice 20, for example by measuring the duration of disturbance of the signal of the detection means at the level the first distance D1 and / or the second distance D2. The duration measurement means 42 comprise for example an electronic time counter activated at the same time as the detection means.

The assistance device 10 further comprises means for measuring the inclination 44 configured to provide information on the inclination of the dispensing device 12 secured to the assistance device 10. In one example, the means of Inclination measurement 44 include an inclinometer such as an electronic gyroscope or an accelerometer. The inclination measurement means 44 are preferably placed in the main body 14 or in the support structure 16, for example in a

- 18 zone intended to be placed in the vicinity of the distribution orifice 20.

The assistance device 10 further comprises means for measuring the activation pressure 46 exerted on a support area for the activation of a drop distribution, such as the support area 26, for trigger the detection means 28, 30, 32, 34, 36, 38 and / or provide information to the processing system 40. The means for measuring the activation pressure 46 can provide information on the intensity of the pressure d activation applied to the support zone and the duration of application of this activation pressure. The processing system 40 can process this information to provide more precise information on the delivery speed of a drop. The detection of this activation pressure can be direct, by measuring the pressure applied by the user to the support zone 26 to activate the dispensing device 12, or indirect, for example by measuring the pressure exerted on a area of the assistance device 10 or of the dispensing device 12 secured to the reservoir of the dispensing device 12 during activation pressure by the user on the reservoir or on another support area. In this second case, it may be the deformation of the reservoir which allows the activation of a drop distribution, the information of the activation pressure being deduced from the manner in which the reservoir is deformed. The means for measuring the activation pressure 46 comprise for example a pressure sensor of the resistive force sensor type (or FSR for force-sensing resistor in English), intended to be placed in contact with the reservoir of the distribution device 12, by being carried for example by the inner face of the assistance device.

The means for measuring the activation pressure 46 exerted on a support area for the activation of a drop distribution, such as the support area 26, can also be configured to trigger the means for measure the duration 42 of the presence of liquid in the vicinity of the dispensing orifice 20. Thus, the measurement of the duration is triggered only if the detection of liquid at the first distance D1 is simultaneous with the detection of a pressure activation, to provide more precise information on the dispensing speed of a drop. If the means for measuring the activation pressure 46 detect a lack of activation pressure after the detection of the liquid presence at the first distance but before the detection of the presence of liquid at the second distance, the means for measuring the duration are deactivated until the presence of an activation pressure is detected to dispense the drop formed.

The assistance device 10 includes contact detection means

- 1948 with the skin of a user, located on the support structure 16, visible in FIG. 1. The contact detection means 48 make it possible to supply information to the processing system 40 on the correct placement of the organ target opposite the dispensing orifice 20 to ensure the distribution of drop at the desired location. The contact detection means 48 can operate by optical principle (light sensor which detects the presence or absence of light on the surface of the support structure 16), by electrical principle (closing of an electrical circuit by the presence of the skin), by mechanical principle or everywhere else.

The assistance device 10 comprises means for measuring the weight 50 of the dispensing device 12 secured to the assistance device 10, configured to provide information on the amount of liquid product remaining in the reservoir of the dispensing device 12 , visible in FIG. 1. The means for measuring the weight 50 comprise a weight sensor, for example of the pressure sensor type (of the FSR type), disposed below or above the reservoir of the distribution device 12 making it possible to measure the weight of the dispensing device 12, from which the weight of liquid product in the tank, and therefore the volume, is deduced from the quantity of liquid product remaining. In a variant, the assistance device 10 has several weight sensors around the tank in order to be able to measure the weight of the dispensing device 12 secured to the assistance device 10 regardless of its inclination.

Advantageously, the assistance device 10 comprises means 52 for indicating the information provided by the processing system 40, for example visual means 52 as shown in Figure 1, sound means and / or means touch. They include, for example, an information display screen in alphanumeric form. In a variant, they further or alternatively comprise light-emitting diodes around the dispensing orifice 20 making it possible to provide a light signal to indicate for example a correct or incorrect distribution of drop of liquid product.

Optionally, the assistance device 10 may also include residual blowing means, such as an air nozzle oriented towards the dispensing orifice 20.

We now describe a method of monitoring the distribution of a drop by means of an assistance device 10 as described above, during which the processing system 40 receives information corresponding to the succession of the following steps. (see figure 11):

a first detection step A, during which the first pair of transmitter 28 and receiver 30 detects the absence of liquid at the first distance D1. The information processing system 40 processes this information as an absence of residual drop at the distribution orifice 20 and an absence of drop during distribution;

- a second detection step B, during which the first pair of emitter 36 and receiver 38 detects the presence of liquid at the first distance D1. The information processing system 40 treats this information as the fact that the formation of a drop has started at the distribution orifice 20. In the case where a drop formation speed is calculated, it is from this moment that time is calculated;

a third detection step C, during which the first and second pairs of transmitters 32, 34 and receivers 36, 38 detect the presence of liquid at the first and second distances D1, D2. The information processing system 40 processes this information and concludes that the drop being formed is not yet detached and has a size which corresponds at least to that of the second distance D2. In addition, the time elapsed between the detection of the presence of liquid by the first pair 36, 38 and that by the second pair 32, 34 corresponds to the time of formation of the drop;

a fourth detection step D, during which the second pair of transmitter 32 and receiver 34 detects the presence of liquid at the second distance D2 while the first pair of transmitter 36 and receiver 38 detects the absence of liquid at the first distance D1. The information processing system 40 processes this information and concludes that a drop having reached at least one size corresponding to the distance D2 has formed and has come off. If the second pair 32, 34 is activated alone without having previously been activated at the same time as the first pair 36, 38 then the information processing system 40 concludes that the drop has detached before reaching its optimal size ; and

a fifth detection step E, during which the third pair of emitter 28 and receiver 30 detects the presence of liquid at the third distance D3 while the first pair 36, 38 and, optionally, the second pair 32, 34 detect the absence of liquid at the first and second distances D1, D2. The information processing system 40 processes this information and validates the distribution of a drop having reached at least one drop size corresponding to the second distance D2. Thus, the succession of steps mentioned above allows the information processing system 40 to provide information on the distribution of a drop and on the quantity of liquid product dispensed.

According to another method for monitoring the distribution of a drop by means of an assistance device as described above, during which the processing system receives information corresponding to the succession of the following steps ( see figure 12):

a first detection step A, during which the first pair of transmitter 28 and receiver 30 detects the absence of liquid at the first distance D1. The information processing system 40 processes this information as an absence of residual drop at the distribution orifice 20 and an absence of drop during distribution;

- a second detection step B, during which the first pair of emitter 36 and receiver 38 detects the presence of liquid at the first distance D1. The information processing system 40 treats this information as the fact that the formation of a drop has started at the distribution orifice 20. In the case where a drop formation speed is calculated, it is from this moment that time is calculated;

a third detection step C, during which the first and second pairs of transmitters 32, 34 and receivers 36, 38 detect the presence of liquid at the first and second distances D1, D2. The information processing system 40 processes this information and concludes that the drop being formed is not yet detached and has a size which corresponds at least to that of the second distance D2. In addition, the time elapsed between the detection of the presence of liquid by the first pair 36, 38 and that by the second pair 32, 34 corresponds to the time of formation of the drop.

- A fourth step D ’of detection, during which the detection of the presence of liquid by the sensors 32, 34, 36, 38 is identical to step C.

a fifth detection step E, during which the first pair of emitter 36 and receiver 38 detects the presence of liquid at the first distance D1, the second pair 32, 34 detects the absence of liquid at the second distance D2, and the third couple detects the presence of liquid at the third distance D3. The information processing system 40 provides information according to which the drop during formation has split or the activation pressure was too great. Thus, there remains a residual drop (or a new drop at the start of its formation) at the level of the dispensing orifice 20 and a fraction of the drop has been dispensed. The detection of the presence of liquid by the third pair 28, 30 during step E avoids the erroneous conclusion of a partial re-aspiration of the drop.

In a particular embodiment, the assistance device 10 comprises four pairs of transmitter and receiver. In this way, it is able to detect the presence or absence of liquid product at a fourth distance D2 ’(see Figure 13). Preferably, this fourth distance is less than the third distance D3 and greater than the first distance D1. More preferably, the fourth distance is close to the optimal drop size. In the present example, the distance D2 ’is greater than the distance D2, but it can also be provided that the distance D2’ is less than the distance D2. A method of monitoring the distribution of a drop is thus obtained by means of an assistance device 10 as described above, during which the processing system 40 receives information corresponding to the succession of the following steps (see FIG. 13):

a first detection step A, during which the first pair of emitter 28 and receiver 30 detects the absence of liquid at the first distance D1

J

- A second detection step B, during which the first pair of emitter 36 and receiver 38 detects the presence of liquid at the first distance D1;

a third detection step C, during which the first and second pairs of transmitters 32, 34 and receivers 36, 38 detect the presence of liquid at the first and second distances D1, D2;

a fourth detection step D during which the second and fourth pair of transmitters and receivers detect the presence of liquid at the second and fourth distance D2, D2 ′ and the first and third pairs detect the absence of liquid at the first distance D1 and at the third distance D3;

- A fifth detection step E during which the third pair of transmitter and receiver detects the presence of liquid and the other pairs detect the absence of liquid. The information processing system 40 provides information according to which a drop has been dispensed and it has a size greater than a drop size corresponding to the distance D2 and less than a drop size corresponding to the distance D2 ’.

The invention is not limited to the embodiments presented and other embodiments will be apparent to those skilled in the art.

Claims (15)

claims 1. Assistance device (10) for the use of a dispensing device (12) of liquid product in the form of drops, the dispensing device (12) being provided with a dispensing orifice (20) of drops having a longitudinal axis (70), the assistance device (10) comprising: - means for securing (18) to the distribution device (12), means of detection (28, 30, 32, 34, 36, 38) of liquid product arranged in the vicinity of the dispensing orifice (20) of drops, a system for processing the information (40) supplied by the detection means (28, 30, 32, 34, 36, 38) of liquid product, the processing system (40) being configured to provide information on the distribution of '' a drop, the detection means (28, 30, 32, 34, 36, 38) of liquid product being configured to detect the presence or absence of liquid at at least three different distances (D1, D2, D3) from the distribution orifice (20) in a distal direction of distribution of drops, namely a first distance (D1), a second distance (D2) greater than the first distance (D1), and a third distance (D3) greater than the second distance (D2). 2. Assistance device (10) according to the preceding claim, wherein the detection means (28, 30, 32, 34, 36, 38) of liquid product are configured to simultaneously detect the presence or absence of liquid to at least two distances from the first, second, and third distances (D1, D2, D3), preferably at each of the first, second and third distances (D1, D2, D3). 3. Assistance device (10) according to any one of the preceding claims, in which at least one of the first, second and third distances (D1, D2, D3) is adjustable, preferably the second distance (D2) is adjustable . 4. Assistance device (10) according to the preceding claim, in which the detection means (28, 30, 32, 34, 36, 38) comprise at least one sensor (28, 30, 32, 34, 36, 38 ) and / or a shutter (60), the sensor (28, 30, 32, 34, 36, 38) and / or the shutter (60) being able to be moved along the longitudinal axis (70) so as to set the adjustable distance. 5. Assistance device (10) according to any one of claims 3 to 4, in which the detection means (28, 30, 32, 34, 36, 38) comprise at least two -24 sensors offset between them in the distal direction and able to be activated independently of one another so as to define at least one of the first, second, or third adjustable distance (D1, D2, D3). 6. Assistance device (10) according to any one of claims 3 to 5, in which the detection means (28, 30, 32, 34, 36, 38) comprise means for automatic or manual adjustment of the first , second, and / or third adjustable distance (D1, D2, D3), for example from information readable on an electronic information medium such as a radio tag, and / or from a volume of theoretical drop. 7. Assistance device (10) according to any one of the preceding claims, in which the processing system is configured to receive information on at least one of the following characteristics: - the pressure exerted on the distribution device, - the duration of the presence of liquid detected in the vicinity of the dispensing orifice, - the geometry of the valve of the dispensing device; - the mechanical properties of the dispensing device; - the mechanism of action of the distribution device; - the physico-chemical properties of the liquid product, for example the viscosity or the surface tension; - the inclination of the dispensing device, the processing system being further configured to process this information in order to provide information on the theoretical volume of a drop. 8. Assistance device (10) according to any one of the preceding claims, in which the detection means (28, 30, 32, 34, 36, 38) comprise at least two optical sensors each comprising a pair of emitters (28, 32, 36) and receiver (30, 34, 38) of an optical signal, preferably in which the respective wavelengths used by these couples are different. 9. Assistance device (10) according to any one of the preceding claims, comprising one or more of the following characteristics: the first distance (D1) is between 1 and 3 mm from the dispensing orifice (20), preferably close to 2 mm, the second distance (D2) is between 4 and 10 mm from the dispensing orifice (20), preferably close to 7 mm, The third distance (D3) is between 10 and 13 mm from the dispensing orifice (20), preferably close to 11 mm. 10. Kit for dispensing liquid product in the form of drops, comprising a device (12) for dispensing liquid product and an assistance device (10) according to any one of the preceding claims. 11. Method for monitoring the distribution of a drop by means of an assistance device (10) according to any one of claims 1 to 9, during which the treatment system (40) receives information corresponding to the succession of the following stages: - a first detection step, during which the detection means (36, 38) detect the absence of liquid at the first distance (D1), a second detection step, during which the detection means detect (36, 38) the presence of liquid at the first distance (D1), - a third detection step, during which the detection means (28, 30, 32, 34, 36, 38) detect the absence of liquid at the first distance (D1) and the presence of liquid at the second ( D2) and / or at the third distance (D3), and the processing system (40) processes this information for successive detection of presence and absence of liquid in order to provide information on the distribution of a drop. 12. Method for monitoring the distribution of a drop by means of an assistance device (10) according to any one of claims 1 to 9, during which the treatment system (40) receives information corresponding to the succession of the following stages: a first detection step, during which the detection means (32, 34, 36, 38) simultaneously detect the presence of liquid at the first distance (D1) and at the second distance (D2), - a second detection step, during which the detection means (28, 30, 32, 34, 36, 38) simultaneously detect the absence of liquid at the first distance (D1) and the presence of liquid at the second (D2) and / or at the third distance (D3), and the processing system (40) processes this information for successive detection of presence and absence of liquid to provide information on the quantity of liquid product dispensed. 13. Method for monitoring the distribution of a drop by means of an assistance device (10) according to any one of claims 1 to 9, during which the treatment system (40) receives information corresponding to the succession of the following stages: a first detection step, during which the detection means (36, 38) detect the presence of liquid at the first distance (D1), - a second detection step, during which the detection means (36, 38) detect the absence of liquid at the first distance (D1), - a third detection step, during which the detection means (28, 30, 32, 34, 36, 38) simultaneously detect the absence of liquid at the first distance (D1) and the presence of liquid at the second (D2) and / or at the third distance (D3), and the processing system (40) processes this information for successive detection of presence and absence of liquid to provide information on the quantity of liquid product dispensed. 14. Method for monitoring the distribution of a drop by means of an assistance device (10) according to any one of claims 1 to 9, during which the treatment system (40) receives information corresponding to the succession of the following stages: a first detection step, during which the detection means (32, 34, 36, 38) simultaneously detect the presence of liquid at the first distance (D1) and at the second distance (D2), a second detection step, during which the detection means (28, 30, 32, 34, 36, 38) simultaneously detect the presence of liquid at the first distance (D1) and at the third distance (D3) and the absence of liquid at the second distance (D2), and the processing system (40) processes this information for successive detection of presence and absence of liquid to provide information on the quantity of liquid product dispensed. 15. Method for monitoring the distribution of a drop by means of an assistance device (10) according to any one of claims 1 to 9, during which the processing system (40) receives detection information. the presence of liquid at the second distance (D2) for a duration greater than a predetermined duration, and the processing system (40) processes this detection information -27 to provide information on the distribution of a drop.