WO2017016984A1

WO2017016984A1 - Removal device for a needle protection cap, and method

Info

Publication number: WO2017016984A1
Application number: PCT/EP2016/067451
Authority: WO
Inventors: Tobias Kistler
Original assignee: Vetter Pharma-Fertigung GmbH & Co. KG
Priority date: 2015-07-24
Filing date: 2016-07-21
Publication date: 2017-02-02
Also published as: DE102015214087A1

Abstract

The invention relates to a removal device (1) for a protection cap (5) of an injection needle (7) for medical purposes, which injection needle (7) is provided on a syringe body or a cartridge (9), comprising a holding device (3), which is designed to operatively connect to the protection cap (5) and, in a first functional position, to grip the protection cap (5) in the position of the protection cap in which the protection cap is fastened to the injection needle and to hold the protection cap (5) during a relative displacement between the holding device (3) and the syringe or cartridge (9) provided with the protection cap (5) such that the protection cap (5) is removed from the injection needle (7).

Description

Puller and method of operating a puller

description

The invention relates to a stripping device for a protective cap of an injection needle, which is provided on a syringe body or on a carpule according to the preamble of claim 1. The invention also relates to a method for operating a stripping device according to the preamble of claim 9.

Protective caps and methods of the type mentioned here are known. They are commonly used in conjunction with hypodermic needles for medical purposes and are designed to prevent injury to patients or medical personnel through the injection needle. Protective caps of this type are also used in conjunction with syringes and cartridges that are installed in car injectors or pens that serve to administer single or multiple medications to a patient. It has been shown time and again that in the case of contact of a patient with the protective cap but also in the event of contact of a doctor or medical staff with the protective cap, in particular when removing a protective cap, injuries can occur. In this way infections can occur, which should be prevented as far as possible.

The object of the invention is therefore to provide a stripping device for a protective cap of the type mentioned above, with which the disadvantages mentioned here can be avoided. To solve this problem, a stripping device is proposed which comprises the features mentioned in claim 1. Thus, there is provided a stripping means for a closed at one end cap of a provided on a syringe body or a carpule injection needle for medical purposes, which has a holding device. The latter is designed and set up in such a way that it can come into operative connection with the protective cap and grip it in a first functional position, with the protective cap being in a position fixed to the injection needle in this functional position. The protective cap in the specified position safely covers the injection needle so that in particular its tip is not accessible and injuries are avoided. The holding device is designed and arranged such that the protective cap is held and pulled off during a relative displacement. During this relative displacement, the holding device is moved from a first functional position to a second functional position. For the function of the stripper irrelevant, whether the holding device relative to the injection needle or the injection needle is moved relative to the holding device, or whether both the holding device and the injection needle are displaced relative to each other, that the protective cap is withdrawn from the injection needle. The peeling device thus causes both the detention of the protective cap in a first functional position and a removal of the protective cap during a relative displacement of holding device and injection needle, so that it can be removed in a controlled manner from the injection needle. This minimizes the risk of injury to a patient, doctor or medical staff through the injection needle. The here mentioned relative movement between Incidentally, holding device and injection needle lead to removal of the protective cap, regardless of whether the injection needle is placed on a syringe body or on a carpule.

A preferred embodiment of the stripping device is characterized in that the holding device has at least one holding element, which is designed and arranged so that the protective cap can be reversibly fixed to the holding device. This can be done by a reversible positive and / or non-positive connection of the at least one holding member with the protective cap. In this embodiment, it is thus provided that the withdrawal device holds the protective cap withdrawn from an injection needle after removal at least for a desired period of time, so that it can be removed or disposed of in a controlled manner. The withdrawn protective cap is thus not easily lost when it is withdrawn from the injection needle.

Particularly preferred is an embodiment of the stripping device, which is characterized by a drive device which is set up such that the relative movement between the holding device and the protective cap provided with the injection device is controlled and / or regulated.

The controlled and / or regulated relative displacement allows a targeted removal of the protective cap from the injection needle, so that a risk of both a patient and medical staff is avoided during this removal process. In addition, the peeling operation can be performed so that the protective cap is first loosened and then finally deducted by the above-mentioned relative displacement.

In a further preferred embodiment, it is provided that the drive device has at least one actuator, which comprises an electric motor and / or an electromagnet, and / or at least one biased elastic element, which causes the relative displacement between the holding device and the protective cap. It can be seen that in an actuator which is designed as an electric motor and / or as an electromagnet, the relative displacement is very well influenced. However, a prestressed elastic element to effect the relative displacement is much simpler and thus cheaper.

In a further preferred embodiment of the stripping device, it is provided that the stripping device comprises a control device, by means of which the drive device can be actuated. This embodiment of the stripping device allows a very variable and precise control of the drive device, so that the reliability of the stripping device is very high and also a high risk of injury due to the injection needle can be excluded.

Another embodiment of the stripping device is preferred because it is designed so that the control device has an operative connection to a position detection device that is set up for detecting the relative position of the protective cap to the holding device. With such a configuration it is very easily possible to change the current position of the withdrawal device with the protective cap, the injection needle and the belonging element, be it the syringe body or the carpule to capture. This offers the possibility to detect the gripping of the protective cap by the holding device, the removal of the protective cap from the injection needle and the current position of the peeling device and thus to monitor the removal of the protective cap accurately. In addition, the position detection device offers the possibility, in the case of a specific position of the puller and the holding device holding the protective cap, to release the holding forces acting on the protective cap, so that it is released and can be disposed of. In this case, the ejection process of the protective cap can be influenced and controlled precisely by the position detection device, so that even during this phase of use a risk of injury through the injection needle can be reduced to a minimum. This applies in particular to an embodiment of the stripping device, which is characterized in that it has at least one sensor which is operatively connected to the control device and detects the spatial position and orientation of the holding device. In this case, the control device is set up to process the sensor data in order to control and / or regulate the relative displacement between the holding device and the protective cap.

Further preferred is an embodiment, which is characterized in that the peeling device is designed as part of a pen. The peeling device may be part of the housing of the pen or of a needle guard of this pen, which covers the front part of the pen. In the following, it is assumed that the peeling device is not only related to Pens can be used, but also in connection with auto-injectors, in which case the puller can be formed as part of the autoinjector and realized as part of the housing or a needle guard of the autoinjector. Incidentally, the peeling device can also be realized in conjunction with other injection devices comprising a protective cap and injection needle.

To achieve the object, a method for operating a stripping device is proposed, which comprises the features mentioned in claim 9. It has a holding device which serves to grip a protective cap of a syringe body or a carpule provided for injection needle for medical purposes in a first functional position of the holding device in the position determined on the injection needle. By a subsequent relative displacement between the holding device and the injection cap covered by the injection needle, a second functional position is taken. The protective cap is removed from the injection needle. It is irrelevant whether the injection needle is provided on a syringe body on a carpule. It is crucial that during the process first the protective cap is detected and then removed in a further process step. The two process steps detect and subtract can follow one another directly or else be carried out at a time interval. In a preferred embodiment of the method it is provided that the holding device holds the withdrawn protective cap. This makes it possible, after removing the cap this specifically to remove and dispose of the holding device. So she does not get lost easily.

In a preferred embodiment of the method, it is provided that the holding device releases the protective cap after removal, preferably in a targeted manner, so that it preferably falls out of the holding device solely on the basis of gravity and can be disposed of. Preferably, it is dropped directly into a waste container.

The invention will be explained in more detail below with reference to the drawing. Show it:

Figure 1 shows a first embodiment of a peeling device in the open state

FIG. 2 shows a second exemplary embodiment of a stripping device in the closed state, FIG. 3 shows a second embodiment of a stripping device in the open state,

FIG. 4 shows a second exemplary embodiment of a stripping device in the closed state,

Figure 5 shows a third embodiment of a peeling device in the open state

FIG. 6 shows a third exemplary embodiment of a stripping device in the closed state, 7 shows a fourth embodiment of a stripping device in a first relative position to a protective cap on an injection needle, and

8 shows a fourth embodiment of a stripping device in a second relative position to a protective cap on an injection needle.

Figure 1 shows a longitudinal section of a first embodiment of a peeling device in the open state. It has a holding device 3, which serves to come into operative connection with a protective cap, which is provided on a syringe body or a carpule. In the embodiment shown here, the protective cap 5 is disposed over an injection needle 7, which is placed on a carpule 9 in the usual manner known. This is shown here aborted, so that only the upper area is shown in Figure 1. It has a generally cylindrical base body 1 1, which encloses an interior 13, which is designed for receiving substances for medical purposes. The interior 13 has at the upper end of the carpule 9 an opening 15 which is closed by a seal 17. This is held securely by a protective cap 19 at the upper end of the carpule 9.

In the embodiment shown here, the carpule 9 is surrounded by a protective housing 21, which can also be dispensed with. The protective cap 19, like the protective housing 21, has a central opening through which the injection needle 7 can be passed when it is placed on the carpule 9. The injection needle 7 pierces the seal 17 to provide a fluid connection to the interior 13. In general, the injection needle 7 is inserted into a needle holder 23, which at its end facing the carpule 9 a cap which engages over the upper end of the carpule 9, here also the upper end of the protective housing 21 and there in a suitable manner in the Usually by means of a thread, is attached.

Karpulen 9 of the type mentioned here are known. They are realized in various embodiments and, as stated, can also be provided with a protective housing 21. After filling the carpule 9 whose opening 15 is securely closed by the seal 17, so that the carpule 9 over a certain period of time, which is particularly dependent on the durability of the contents of the carpule 9, can be stored. If the contents of the carpule 9 are to be used, for example for administration to a patient, an injection needle 7 is placed on the carpule 9. There are different variants injection needles 7 on cartridges 9 set up. Here is provided by way of example that the injection needle 7 is part of the needle holder 23 and is fastened with the help of the carpule 9 such that on the hollow injection needle 7 access to the interior 13 of the carpule 9 is created. The injection needle 7 is overlapped by the protective cap 5, so that a risk from the syringe of the injection needle is reliably avoided.

Instead of the carpule 9 and a syringe, not shown here can be used with a syringe body, which is provided with a covered by a protective cap 5 injection needle 7, which may be integral part of the syringe body or, as here in Figure 1 shown, is attached by means of a needle holder on the syringe body.

Decisive for the pulling device 1 described here is that it serves to pull off a protective cap 5 from an injection needle 7. The drawing device 1 is provided here by way of example on a pen 25, namely at its upper end 27. In FIG. 1, the housing 29 of the pen 25 can be seen, which encloses an inner space 31 which serves to form a carpule or a syringe with an injection needle 7, which is surrounded by a protective cap 5. The upper end 27 of the pen 25 can also be realized by a relative to the housing 29 displaceable needle guard.

The cap 5 is independent of whether it is placed on a carpule or syringe, closed at its upper end 33, so that the tip of the injection needle 7 is arranged protected inside the cap 5 and injury to a patient through this tip or even medical Staff is excluded. The protective cap 5 is attached to the carpule 9 or a syringe, preferably placed, that it is securely held. This is true, as I said, regardless of whether the injection needle 7 is used in connection with a carpule 9 or a syringe. In any case, the protective cap 5 engages over the injection needle 7 in a functional position, in which it is ensured that the tip of the injection needle 7 can not cause any injuries.

The stripping device 1 shown here has at least one holding element 35 designed here as a holding arm. In this case In the exemplary embodiment provided, two opposing holding elements 35 and 35 'are provided. It can also be provided at least three arranged on an imaginary circle holding elements, which are arranged at the same circumferential distance. The at least one holding element 35, 35 'is pivotably articulated to a base body 37. It is here in its open position. The stripping device 1 is fastened via a base element 39 to the upper end 27 of the pens 25, be it on the housing 29 or on a needle guard, so that the base body 37 with the at least one holding element 35, 35 'is held securely at the upper end 27.

The at least one holding element 35, 35 'is articulated with its lower end 41, 41' on the base body 37. In the illustrated in Figure 1 open state of the embodiment of the stripping device 1, the main body 37 facing away from free ends 43, 43 'of the at least one holding element 35, 35' are arranged at a great distance from each other.

In FIG. 1 it can be seen that the stripping device 1 has at least one actuating element 45 which serves to cooperate with the at least one retaining element 35, 35 '. It is possible to assign each of the holding elements a separate actuator. Preferably, the actuating element 45 is annular and surrounds the base body 37. It can thus cooperate with all holding elements. In this case, shown here, it is provided that the inner diameter of the annular actuating element 45 is so large that the preferably cylindrically shaped main body 37 in the of the actuating element 45 enclosed space can be introduced, such that the actuating element 45 on the outside of the main body 37 by means of a suitable, also known as an actuator, preferably having an electromagnet and / or motor, not shown here drive device sliding in the longitudinal direction of the base body 37 slidably here, as indicated by the double arrow 47, up and down.

The at least one holding element 35, 35 'has an outer actuating region 49, 49' on which the actuating element 45 can act when it is displaced upward from its starting position shown in FIG. 1 and engages with the actuating region 49, 49 '. of the at least one retaining element 35, 35 '. To realize the actuation region 49, 49 ', the at least one actuation element 35 is quasi boomerang-shaped and has two legs 51, 51' and 53, 53 'arranged at an angle to one another, which meet in the actuation area, so that here an outwardly arched area is formed. By "outward" is meant here that the actuation region is directed away from a central axis 55 of the stripping device 1, to which here the protective cap 5 and the injection needle 7 are arranged concentrically, likewise the pen 25.

The actuating region 49, 49 'of the at least one retaining element 35, 35' protrudes beyond the peripheral surface 55 of the base body 37, so that when the at least one actuating element 45 moves upwards, this has an actuating surface 59 with the at least one retaining element 35, 35 'engages. Preferably, the actuating surface 59 of the actuating element 45 is ramped. shaped and is inclined at an angle α to the central axis 57, which opens according to the illustration in Figure 1 upwards.

FIG. 2 shows the first exemplary embodiment of the stripping device 1 shown in FIG. 1 in the closed state, that is to say in a state in which the at least one retaining element 35, 35 'pivoted by the at least one actuating element 45 grips the protective cap 5. The same parts are provided with the same reference numerals, so reference is made to the preceding description. In the illustration according to FIG. 2, the at least one holding element 35, 35 'is pivoted from the open position shown in FIG. 1 into its closed position. This means that at least one holding element 35, 35 'is pivoted about its lower end 41, 41' in the direction of the central axis 55, wherein the right holding element 35 in the counterclockwise direction and the left holding element 35 'in the clockwise direction around the associated lower End 41 and 41 'was pivoted in the direction of the central axis 55. The free ends 41, 41 'of the holding elements 35, 35' are thus much closer to the central axis 55 than is the case in the open state according to FIG. In the closed state of the stripper, as shown in Figure 2, the free ends 43, 43 'of the holding elements 35, 35' are preferably on the outer surface 61 of the cap 5 at. In the open state according to FIG. 1, the protective cap 5 can pass through the free space between the free ends.

The holding device 3 is therefore, as the illustrations of FIGS. 1 and 2 show, configured and configured in such a way that Connection with the protective cap 5 can occur in order to grip them in a first functional position according to Figure 2 in its fixed to the injection needle 7 position. Thus, in the closed state of the puller 1, the at least one holding arm 35 covers the protective cap 5 fixed to the carpule 9 or to a syringe, not shown here. In the exemplary embodiment shown here, the protective cap 5 is placed on the needle holder 23 on a cylindrical projection such that she can not easily fall off. For the invention, it is irrelevant how the protective cap 5 is attached to a carpule 9 or a syringe. It is crucial that the protective cap 5, the injection needle 7 securing overlaps and can not be lost easily.

The illustration according to FIG. 2 shows that a relative movement has taken place between the stripping device 1 or the holding device 3 of the stripping device 1 and the protective cap 5. In FIG. 1, the protective cap 5 is arranged inside the puller 1 or the housing 29 or needle guard of the pen 25 such that it can not or can not readily be grasped and pulled by a user. In FIG. 2, the upper end 33 of the protective cap 5 is displaced so far from the position shown in FIG. 1 that it protrudes above the peeling device 1. The position shown in FIG. 2 can be achieved by shifting the withdrawal device 1, here together with the housing 29 or needle guard of the pen 25, downwards in the direction of the carpule 9 or a syringe, not shown here. It is also conceivable, the carpule 9 and a syringe, not shown here with the injection needle and the Protective cap 5 relative to the peeling device 1 to move upward so that the upper end 33 of the protective cap 5 protrudes beyond the stripper 1. It is also conceivable, of course, to displace both the stripping device 1 or its holding device 3 downwardly and also the protective cap 5 upwards, so that it is moved from the position shown in FIG. 1 into the position resulting from FIG.

It is crucial that in the reproduced in Figure 2 position of the protective cap 5, the at least one holding element 35, 35 'by pivoting its free end 43, 43' in the direction of the central axis 55, the protective cap 5 can detect by the free ends 43, 43 'are applied to the outer surface 61 of the cap 5. The pivoting of the at least one retaining element 35, 35 'is effected in that the actuating element 45 from its ner shown in Figure 1 position, in which it rests example on the base member 39 is displaced by the drive means not shown upwards, so in that the actuating surface 59 of the actuating element 45 engages with the at least one retaining element 35, 35 'and the upward movement of the actuating element 45 is converted into a pivoting movement of the at least one retaining element 35, 35'. By the force acting on the at least one holding element 35, 35 'from the outside of the upward-moving actuating element 45, the at least one holding element 35, 35' is pivoted inwardly around its lower end 41, 41 'in the direction of the central axis 55, As I said, the free end 43, 43 'of the at least one holding element 35, 35', the protective cap 5 detected from the outside. After the stripping device 1 has been displaced into the closed state shown in FIG. 2, once again a relative movement takes place between the stripping device 1 and the injection needle 7. It is possible to displace the stripping device 1 upwards along the central axis 55 and / or the injection needle 7 downward. Due to the fact that the holding device 3 holds the protective cap 5 in the closed state of the pull-off device 1, the protective cap 5 is pulled off the injection needle 7 during this relative movement into a second functional position. In the exemplary embodiment shown here, the protective cap 5 is therefore pulled off the needle holder 23 so that there is no longer any non-positive connection between the protective cap 5 and the structure carrying the injection needle 7. It will be clear that the operation of the stripper 1 is independent of whether it is used in connection with a carpule 9 shown here or with a syringe.

In order to be able to remove the protective cap 5 from the injection needle 7, the forces exerted on the protective cap 5 by the holding device 3 must be large enough to overcome the holding forces which hold the protective cap 5 in its position in which the protective cap 5 the injection needle 7 surrounds protective.

The sufficient holding forces of the at least one holding element 35, 35 'can be applied by exerting sufficiently large forces on the outer surface 41 of the protective cap 5 when pivoting the at least one holding element from its free end 43, 43'. The holding forces can be increased by the fact that on the outer surface 61 touching Surface of the free ends 43, 43 'a corrugation or an adhesion-increasing layer is provided. This can also be realized on the outer surface 61 of the protective cap 5. It is also conceivable to provide ribbing or coating on both sides, that is to say both on the contact surface of the free ends 43, 43 ', and on the outer surface 61.

It is preferably provided that the protective cap 5 has at its upper end 33 at least one protrusion 63 protruding beyond the outer surface 61, preferably a circumferential edge which preferably protrudes all the way over the outer surface 61. The at least one holding element 35, 35 'engages in the closed state of the stripping device 1, so when applying the free end 43, 43' to the outer surface 61, the projection 63. In this way, when the stripping device 1 and the injection needle 7 apart, the protective cap 5 particularly safe from the at least one holding element 35, 35 'held and withdrawn. In particular, it is provided that is omitted in this embodiment, the above-mentioned measures to increase the holding forces. The stripping device 1 is preferably designed so that the protective cap 5 is held even after removal from the injection needle 7. It is therefore not lost after removal, but can be disposed of in a targeted manner.

Figure 3 shows in longitudinal section a second embodiment of a stripper 1 in the open state, as shown in Figure 1 with reference to the first embodiment. It turns out that the structure of the stripper 1 differs from the first embodiment. Incidentally, it is also provided here, for example, to provide the stripping device 1 on a pen 25, which receives a carpule 9 here. But it is also possible to provide a syringe instead of the carpule 9. The same parts are provided with the same reference numerals, so that reference is made to the description of the preceding figures.

The stripping device 1 here also has a holding device 3 with at least one holding element 35. Here, by way of example, two holding elements 35 and 35 'are provided, which are arranged opposite one another. They are also shaped like a boomerang, as explained with reference to FIG. The number of holding elements may also be three or more.

The structure of the holding device 3 differs from that in FIG. 1 in the following:

The at least one holding element 35, 35 'can not be displaced from the open state of the pull-off device 1 by a pivoting movement into the closed state, as shown in FIG. Rather, it is provided that the at least one holding element 35, 35 'is displaced more or less in the radial direction to the center axis 55, so that the distance of the free end 41 or 41' of the at least one holding element 35, 35 'to the central axis 55 is reduced , During the displacement of the at least one holding element 35, 35 ', a guide is preferably realized in order to realize a defined displacement path. For this purpose, each of a holding element 35, 35 'associated receiving elements 65, 65' in a suitable manner during the Ver storage in the direction of the central axis 55, preferably also in an opposite displacement guided. Such a guide can be realized for example by a base plate with radially extending slots, or in other suitable manner known to a person skilled in the art.

The stripping device 1 is held by a fixed to the pen 25 base member 39, which does not here, as shown in Figures 1 and 2, rests on the upper end 27 of the pen 25 and is fixed there, but on a preferably cylindrical extension set 67 of the housing 29 of the pen 25 is fixed.

In the withdrawal device 1 shown in FIG. 3, which is in the open state, the protective cap 5 of an injection needle 7 is arranged in such a way that it is protected inside the withdrawal device 1 or the housing 29 or the needle guard of the pen 25 and is not readily accessible is. This ensures that the protective cap 5 is in its state slipped over the injection needle 7 and prevents injury to the tip of the injection needle 7.

With regard to the carpule 9, at which the injection needle 7 is located with the protective cap 5, reference is made to the description of Figures 1 and 2. It should be pointed out, however, that it is irrelevant to the invention whether the injection needle 7 is with its protective cap 5 on a carpule 9, as shown here, or on a syringe, not shown. In order to be able to detect the protective cap 5 by means of the at least one holding element 35, 35 'of the holding device 3, again takes place a relative movement between the stripping device 1 and the holding device 3 on the one hand and the protective cap 5 together with the injection needle 7 on the other hand instead, until the upper end 33 of the protective cap 5 is arranged above the holding device 3. Then the holding device 3 is brought into its closed functional position, so that the protective cap 5 can be detected by the at least one holding element 35, 35 '. When the peeling device 1 or its holding device is in the closed state, the free ends 43 and 43 'of the at least one holding element 35, 35' lie on the outer surface 61 of the protective cap 5.

4 shows that the at least one holding element 35, 35 'is displaced radially inward by means of a drive device, not shown here, designed as an electromagnet or motor, ie in the direction of the central axis 55 and thus also the at least one associated free end 43, 43 '. The same parts are provided with the same reference numerals, so reference is made to the preceding description. The inwardly directed movement of the at least one retaining element 35, 35 'is limited here by the fact that the receiving element 65, 65' assigned to the at least one retaining element 35, 35 'abuts against the base element 39. It is conceivable also another stop. However, the construction shown here, in which the receiving elements 65, 65 'directly abut the base element 39, is particularly simple.

In the closed state of the stripper 1, as shown in Figure 4, the protective cap 5 of the injection needle 7th taken. This first functional position of the stripping device 1 in FIG. 4 also corresponds to the first functional position of the first exemplary embodiment of the stripping device 1 according to FIG. 2, so that reference is made to the preceding description. It is important that the protective cap 5 is held securely in the first functional position by the holding device 3 or the at least one holding element 35, 35 '. Therefore, ribbing or a non-slip coating can be provided on the surface of the at least one holding element 35, 35 'facing the outer surface 61 of the protective cap 5 in order to increase the holding forces. In addition or instead, ribbing or coating may also be provided on the outer surface 61. Here, too, it is preferably provided that the protective cap 5 additionally or preferably instead of measures increasing the holding forces has at least one protrusion 63 projecting beyond its outer surface 61, which cooperates with the at least one holding element 35, 35 '. It is preferably provided that at the upper end 33, a circumferential edge is provided on the protective cap 5, which is closed at the top, which securely encloses the injection needle 7, so that injuries are prevented.

The at least one projection 63 causes the at least one holding element 35, 35 'the holding device 3 holds the protective cap 5 particularly safe, in turn, if a relative movement between the puller 1 and held by this cap 5 on the one hand and the injection needle 7 on the other hand causes so that the protective cap 5 from the injection needle 7, is deducted in particular from the associated carpule 9 or a syringe, not shown here.

After peeling off, the protective cap 5 is held securely at least temporarily by the holding device 3, so that the protective cap 5 can be disposed of in a targeted manner. For this purpose, the protective cap 5 is released by the holding device 3.

Figure 5 shows a third embodiment of a peeling device in the open state. Parts which correspond to those in the preceding figures or have the same function are given the same reference numerals. In this respect, reference is made to the preceding description.

The stripping device 1 is also used here by way of example together with a pen 25 and is arranged and fastened at its upper end 27. The housing 29 of the pen 25 is here preferably designed such that it receives the peeling device 1 at least in certain areas. It is expressly pointed out that the withdrawal device 1 can also be used independently of a pen 25 for any injection devices with an injection needle 7 and a protective cap 5. Moreover, it is irrelevant to the function of the stripper 1 in the embodiment shown here, as well as in all other illustrated and illustrated embodiments, whether it is attached to a housing 29 of the pen 25, as shown in Figure 5, or at one of the needle housing cap attached to the housing 29 of the pen 25, which is preferably displaceable in the direction of the central axis 55 relative to this. Also, the embodiment shown here has a holding device 3, which comprises at least one holding element 35 designed as a holding arm. By way of example, two opposite holding elements 35 and 35 'are provided, which have a lower end 41, 41' and an opposite free end 43, 43 '. The holding elements 35, 35 'are here formed by way of example at right angles and have a first leg 51 or 51' and a second leg 53 or 53 '. The number of holding elements can also be three or more here. The at least one holding element 35, 35 'is designed to be movable relative to the central axis 55 and in the embodiment shown here, as in the embodiment according to Figures 3 and 4, displaceable in the radial direction to the central axis 5, preferably relative to the force of an elastic member 69 - Higher 69 ', wherein the elastic member 69, the holding element 35 and the elastic member 69' associated with the holding element 35 '. Both retaining elements 35, 35 'can be assigned a single elastic element, for example an annular spring element introduced into the inner space enclosed by the first legs 51, 51'. Preferably, however, each of the holding elements 35 or 35 'associated with a separate elastic element 69 or 69', which may be formed in particular as a helical spring. The decisive factor, however, is that the elastic element 69, 69 'urges the at least one holding element 35, 35' into the position shown here, which defines the open state of the pull-off device 1. The free ends 43, 43 'of the at least one retaining element 35, 35' are located at a great distance from the central axis 55. The inwardly directed movement of the at least one retaining element 35, 35 'in the direction of the central axis 55 can be effected by a suitable drive device A. This is designed and arranged such that it causes a displacement of the at least one holding element 35, 35 'in the direction of the central axis 5. If, as described here, an elastic element 69 or 69 'is provided, the drive device A only needs to build up inwardly directed forces, by means of which the at least one holding element 35, 35' is moved in the direction of the center axis 55. It is also conceivable to dispense with the elastic element 69 or 69 'and also to effect the outward movement of the at least one retaining element 35, 35', ie a movement directed away from the central axis 55. Finally, it is possible to effect a movement directed away from the center axis by means of a drive device, this movement preferably taking place counter to the force of an elastic element.

In the exemplary embodiment illustrated here, the drive device A comprises, as an actuator, a first magnet 71 assigned to the at least one holding element 35 and possibly a further first magnet 71 'which is assigned to the further holding element 35'.

Correspondingly, the drive device A has a second magnet 73, which is assigned to the at least one holding element 35, and optionally a further second magnet 73 ', which is assigned to the holding element 35'.

At least one of the associated magnets is switchable, for example, designed as an electromagnet to defined forces on the at least one holding element 35, 35 'exercise to move it in the direction of the central axis 55. If necessary, outwardly directed forces can also be realized by means of the switchable magnet which act in addition to the elastic element 69, 69 'or cause an outward movement even when the elastic element 69, 69' is omitted. In addition to or instead of the electromagnets, the actuator may also have electric motors, in particular servomotors.

FIG. 6 shows a longitudinal section through the third exemplary embodiment in the closed state. The same parts are provided with the same reference numerals, so that reference is made to the preceding description.

A comparison of FIGS. 5 and 6 shows that, in the illustration according to FIG. 6, a relative movement of the protective sleeve 5 with the injection needle 7 has taken place with respect to the cartridge 25 described here by way of example with respect to the pen 25. It is also irrelevant here whether the pen 25 against the protective cover 5 or whether the protective cover 5 was moved relative to the pen 25. Also a simultaneous relative movement of both elements is very possible lent. It is crucial that the protective cover 5 projects so far beyond the stripping device 1 and its holding device 3, that the at least one holding element 35, 35 'of the holding device 1 can detect the protective cap 5 from the outside to this in their on the injection needle 7, here at the needle holder 3 fixed position to seize. In the closed state of the puller 1 shown here, the at least one holding element 35, 35 'is of the open position shown in FIG. 5 in the direction of the Moves center axis 55, so that the free end 43, 43 'of the at least one holding element 35, 35' on the outer surface 61 of the protective cap 5 is applied and this engages. In this first functional position of the holding device 3, the protective cap 5 can no longer be displaced downwards relative to the peeling device 1.

In the embodiment shown here, the protective cap 5 is provided at its upper end 33 with at least one projection 63, preferably with a peripheral edge which projects beyond the outer surface 61. The protective cap 5 can therefore no longer move downwards in the closed state of the puller 1.

In the contact region between the free ends 43, 43 'of the at least one holding element 35, 35' and the outer surface 61 of the protective cap 5, means may be provided to increase the holding forces, be it a corrugation or a coating with non-slip material. In this case, only the free ends 43, 43 'or only the outer surface 61 may be designed accordingly, or both parts. In such an embodiment, if necessary, the projection 63 on the protective cap 5 can be dispensed with. However, it can also be provided to provide both the specific embodiment of the free end 43, 43 'and the outer surface 61 mentioned here, and also the projection 63. Here, as in the preceding exemplary embodiments, this is realized by a rim projecting peripherally over the outer surface 61 i- siert. Preferably, as in the other exemplary embodiments, means for increasing the holding forces are dispensed with here and only the at least one projection 63 is provided, preferably the peripheral edge.

The stripping device 1 is designed such that it holds the protective cap 5 in such a way that it is held securely even with a relative movement of the stripping device 1 or the protective cap 5 on the one hand and the injection needle 7 with the carpule 9 preferably described here. When, therefore, the injection needle 7 is retracted into the pen 25, or when the pen 25 is displaced upward relative to the injection needle 7 in the direction of the central axis 55, the withdrawing device 1 or its holding device 3 holds the protective cap 5 so tightly that it slides away the injection needle 7 is withdrawn, in this case from the needle holder 23rd

Preferably, the stripping device 1 or its holding device 3 is designed such that the protective cap 5, even after removal from the injection needle 7 or the protective cap 23, the protective cap 5 is securely held. In this way it is possible to specifically release and dispose of them.

FIG. 7 shows in longitudinal section a fourth exemplary embodiment of a stripping device in a first relative position to a protective cap 5, which overlaps an injection needle 7. The same parts are provided with the same reference numerals, so reference is made to the preceding description.

It can be seen from the longitudinal section illustration according to FIG. 7 that the stripping device 1 is here also used by way of example in connection with a pen 25 which comprises a housing 29, or but a needle guard, which is displaceable relative to the housing 29. The stripping device 1 is arranged at the upper end 27 of the pens 25, here preferably an integral part of the pens 25, regardless of whether the upper end 27, the upper end of a housing 29 as shown in FIG 7, or the upper end of a relative to a housing in the direction of the central axis 55 displaceable needle guard.

The stripping device 1 has a holding device 3 with at least one holding element 35 designed as a holding arm. In the exemplary embodiment illustrated here, by way of example, two opposing holding elements 35, 35 'are provided, which are of identical design. The explanations regarding the right holding element 35 in FIG. 7 therefore apply correspondingly to the opposite holding element 35 ', which, however, is formed in mirror image with respect to the holding element 35. It is also possible here to provide more than two holding elements 35.

The at least one holding element 35, 35 'starts from a base element 75, which is realized here at the upper end 27 of the pen 25. The base member 75 is preferably formed as a substantially cylindrical approach. The at least one retaining element 35, 35 'projects beyond the upper end 77 of the base element 75 and is designed as a free, pivotable arm. In other words, the holding element 35, 35 'merges with its lower end 41, 41' into the base element 75. It is clear that the pen 25 may also have at its upper end 27 a flat lid with a central recess 79, the inner dimensions are selected so that the protective cap 5 through the recess 79th can pass through. The holding elements 35, 35 'designed here as elastic arms can then spring directly on the horizontal lid at the upper end 27 of the pen 25. It is crucial that the at least one holding element 35, 35 'is designed here as a resilient arm, which is pivotable exclusively relative to the lower end 41, 41' due to its inherent elasticity. In FIG. 7, the at least one retaining element 35, 35 'is in its starting position, in which a free space 81 remains between the two opposing retaining elements 35, 35'. In the illustration according to FIG. 7, the protective cap 5 is in a first position, in which it is arranged protected inside the peeling device 1 or the pen 25, so that manipulations on the protective cap 5 are practically impossible and thus an injury through the injection needle 7 is ruled out.

By way of example, the protective cap 5 is illustrated here in use with a carpule 9, the injection needle 7 of which is arranged securely inside the protective cap 5. Instead of the carpule 9 explained in detail above with reference to the figures, a syringe with an injection needle 7 and a protective cap 5 can also be used in connection with the puller 5 shown here. The embodiment of the peeling device according to FIG. 7 is, as is also the case in the preceding embodiments, independent of whether the protective cap 5 is placed on an injection needle 7 in a carpule 9 or syringe. Incidentally, it should again be noted that the basic function of the peeling device according to FIGS. 7 and 8, as well as in the case of the above-explained Embodiments, regardless of whether the stripper 1 is used in conjunction with a pen 25 or other device that receives a carpule or syringe, also of whether they directly with the housing 29 of a pen 25 or with a needle guard in combination which is used in connection with the Pen 25.

It can be seen in FIG. 8 that the withdrawal device 1 shown in longitudinal section is arranged with the holding device 3 in a different position relative to the protective cap 5. The same parts are provided with the same reference numerals, so reference is made to the preceding description.

Comparing FIGS. 7 and 8, it can be seen that a relative movement has taken place between the holding device 3 and the protective cap 5, in which case the holding device 3 has been displaced downwards from the position shown in FIG. It is also conceivable to displace the protective cap 5 upwards relative to the holding device 3, or else to simultaneously move the holding device 3 and the protective cap 5 toward one another in order to arrange the protective cap 5 in the position shown in FIG. 8 with respect to the holding device 3.

As a result of the relative displacement of the puller 1 relative to the protective cap 5, it is achieved that the latter is gripped by the at least one holding element 35, 35 'in the position fixed to the injection needle 7. This happens because the upper end 33 of the protective cap 5 moves into the free space 81 between the upper free ends 43, 43 'of the at least one retaining element 35, 35'. The clear width of the free space 81 is selected so that the at least one holding elements 35, 35 'are arranged at a distance from each other which is smaller than the outer dimension of the protective cap 5, when the protective cap 5 is not retracted between the holding elements 35, 35'. In the exemplary embodiment illustrated here, the protective cap 5 has at its upper end at least one projection 63 projecting beyond its outer surface 61. Preferably, a circumferential, the outer surface 61 superior edge at the upper end 33 of the protective cap 5 is provided, under which the holding elements 35, 35 'engage. The protective cap 5 thus passes through the free space 81 so far that the at least one projection 63, preferably a peripheral edge at the upper end 33 above the free ends 43, 43 'is arranged.

It is sufficient if the upper free ends 43, 43 'of the holding elements 35, 35' only rest with a slight pressure on the outer surface 61 of the protective cap 5, if the at least one projection 63 or a peripheral edge is provided. This ensures that, when the stripper 1 and the injection needle 7 are pulled apart, the protective cap 5 can not be moved down again by the clearance 81. Rather, the protective cap 5 is held securely by the at least one holding element 35, 35 'in the position shown in FIG. 8, so that the protective cap 5 is pulled off the injection needle 7. Basically, it is possible, as in the embodiments described above, on the outer surface 61 of the protective cap 5 to increase the holding forces a corrugation and / or a grippy To provide stratification. This may instead or additionally also on the protective cap 5 facing side of the at least one holding elements 35, 35 'happen. Preferably, additional measures to increase the holding forces is dispensed with and only the at least one projection 63, or the peripheral edge provided, which projects beyond the outer surface 61 of the protective cap 5.

If the protective cap 5, as shown in the embodiments shown here, at its upper end 33 has at least one projection 63 or a circumferential edge projecting the outer surface 61, the at least one retaining element 35 only needs to rest on the outer surface 61 of the protective cap 5. A displacement of the same with respect to the free end 43 of the at least one holding element 35 down is then excluded with maximum security, because the free end 43, 43 'engages under the at least one projection 63 and the peripheral edge.

Preferably, it is provided that at least two holding elements 35, 35 'rest on the outer surface 61 of the protective cap 5 with a minimum of a pressing force. This ensures that the free ends 43, 43 'securely engage under the at least one projection 63 or the peripheral edge. In addition, it is ensured that a protective cap 5 which has been removed from the carpule 9 or the needle holder 23 is also retained by the holding device 3. In this way, the disposal of the peeled cap can be done by a user defined. As with the other embodiments, it is provided that the stripping device 1 is displaced from the first functional position shown in FIG. 8, in which the stripping device 1 is in a second relative position to the protective cap 5 of the injection needle 7, into a second functional position by a relative movement between the stripper 1 with the protective cap 5 on the one hand with respect to the injection needle 7 on the other hand. During this displacement, the protective cap 5, as described above, securely held by the at least one holding element 35, 35 'in the position shown in Figure 8, so that the injection needle 7 exits the bottom of the protective cap 5.

As said, the protective cap 5 is held securely by the peeling device 1 or the holding device 3 even after removal from the injection needle 7 or the needle holder 23 of the carpule 9 of the at least one holding elements 35, 35 ', so that a targeted disposal is possible.

It can be seen from the illustrations according to FIGS. 7 and 8 that the at least one holding element 35, 35 'in the region of the free end 43, 43' comprises at least one holding finger 83, 83 'projecting in the direction of the center axis 55. In the embodiment of the puller 1 shown here, it is provided that each holding element has three such holding fingers 83, 83 ', which are preferably of identical design. For reasons of clarity, only one of the three retaining fingers 83, 83 'is provided with a reference numeral. It is expressly pointed out that the number of retaining fingers can be adapted to the required holding forces. These arise among other things from the elasticity of the at least one holding elements 35, 35 '. It is envisaged that the holding elements 35, 35 'when passing through the protective cap 5 by the free space 81 to the outside, that is pushed away from the central axis 55. As soon as the at least one projection 63, in particular a peripheral edge at the upper end 33 of the protective cap 5, has swept over the free end 43, 43 ', the at least one holding element 35, 35' can spring back in the direction of the outer surface 61 of the protective cap 5.

It is clear from the explanations of the four exemplary embodiments and the relative positions between stripping device 1 and protective cap 5 that the stripping device 1 or its holding device 3 reliably removes a protective cap 5 from an injection needle 7 and detects it in a first functional position. In order to make this possible, the protective cap 5, which is initially arranged inside the stripping device 1 or an associated pens 25 or the like, which is practically inaccessible to a user, is moved into a position by a relative movement between the stripping device 1 or the holding device 3 and the protective cap 5 Relocated position in which the protective cap 5 can be securely grasped by the holding device 3. In particular, the protective cap 5 is grasped in such a way that, in the case of a relative movement taking place after gripping, the pulling device 1 or the holding device 3 with the protective cap 5 is held securely with respect to the injection needle 7 and withdrawn from an injection needle 7 against the fastening forces. Even after removal, the protective cap 5 is preferably held securely so that they can be disposed of in a defined manner and - if necessary, by release by the holding device 3 - can be dropped. The stripping device 1 of all embodiments preferably has a drive device, not shown in the figures, which is adapted to effect a controlled and / or controlled relative movement between the holding device 3 as held by this cap 5 on the one hand to the injection needle 7 on the other hand, so that the protective cap 5 defines can be withdrawn from the injection needle 7 or a connected thereto carpule 9 or a syringe. In this case, the pull-off forces and also the removal speed can be controlled in order to ensure a defined mode of operation, by which a secure removal of the protective cap 5 from the injection needle 7 can take place without the protective cap 5 being inadvertently lost or unwanted relative movements between the protective cap 5 and 5 the injection needle 7 are caused, which possibly lead to damage to the injection needle 7 or the associated carpule 9 or a syringe or to a risk to a user.

The stripping device 1 preferably has a control device which is suitable for activating the drive device, not shown, and for effecting the defined relative movement between the stripping device 1 and the protective sheath 5 of the injection needle 7.

Preferably, a position detection device is provided, which is set up to detect the relative position of the protective cap 5 with respect to the holding device 3. This embodiment makes it possible to insert the protective cap 5 in a defined manner into the holding device 3 such that its at least one holding element 35, 35 ' Protective cap 5 can safely detect, as can be seen from Figures 1 and 2, 3 and 4, 5 and 6 and 7 and 8.

Finally, it is provided that the exemplary embodiments of the peeling device 1 explained with reference to the figures preferably comprise at least one sensor which detects the determination of the spatial position and the orientation of the holding device 3 and is operatively connected to the control device, so that by processing the sensor data a control and / or regulation of the relative displacement between the holding device 3 on the one hand and protective cap 5 on the other hand is made possible to ensure a safe transfer of the protective cap 5 in the holding device 3, where this is then held in a first functional position.

Particularly preferably, the stripping device 1, as described here in the various embodiments, is used with a pen 25 which comprises a housing 29 to which the stripping device 1 is fastened. It is also conceivable that the stripping device 1 of the type described here is also combined with a needle guard of the pen 25.

In the following, the method for operating a stripping device 1 for a protective cap 5 of a hypodermic needle 7 for medical purposes, as described in more detail above with reference to FIGS. 1 to 8, will be discussed.

The holding device 3 with the at least one holding element 35 or 35 'detects the protective cap 5 of an injection needle 7 in its position fixed to the injection needle 7, as shown in FIGS. 2, 4, 6 and 8. To enable this detection, a relative movement between the stripper 1 with holding device 3 on the one hand relative to the protective cap 5 on the other hand effected, preferably by means of a drive device of the type described above, the protective cap 5 from the protected position shown in Figures 1, 3, 5 and 7 inside the stripping device 1 to shift to the first functional position in which the holding device 3 can grip the protective cap 5.

The protective cap 5 grasped by the holding device 3 is held so that during a relative displacement it is held between the peeling device 1 and the holding device 3 with the protective cap 5 opposite the injection needle 7 or a carpule 9 or syringe provided with this injection needle 7 is taken by this relative displacement a second functional position and the protective cap 5 is withdrawn from the injection needle 7. Preferably, the method is performed such that the holding device 3 holds the protective cap 5 even after removal from the injection needle 7, so that a targeted disposal of the protective cap 5 can be disposed of safely and defined.

Particularly preferably, the method is carried out such that the holding device 3 preferably selectively releases the protective cap 5 after removal. The word "targeted" is intended here to clarify that the release of the protective cap is not undefined and without the will of a user, but that this defined at a certain place, for example, in a collection container is released by the holding device 3, a sensor can be used, which detects the spatial position and orientation of the holding device 3. For example, it is possible in this way to arrange the stripping device 1 above a collecting container in a defined position detectable by the sensor, for example to hold it obliquely downwards, whereby the holding device 3, by the interaction of the sensor with a control device, holds the previously held, withdrawn from the injection needle 7 protective cap 5 releases, so they can be disposed of in a targeted manner. Overall, it turns out that the stripping device 1, as has been explained with reference to FIGS. 1 to 8, has a very simple design and can therefore be realized without interference. In addition, it can be realized inexpensively. Incidentally, it is not only usable with a pen 25 of the type described here, but, as already explained, also with other injection devices, in particular auto-injectors, which have a protective cap 5 and an injection needle 7 for medical purposes.

In particular, it is possible to realize the stripping device 1 on the housing 29 or a needle guard of a pen 25 in a simple manner.

After all, it also shows that the withdrawal device 1 explained with reference to FIGS. 1 to 8 permits the removal of a protective cap 5 and an injection needle 7, without a user or medical operating personnel having to touch the protective cap 5. Moreover, the stripping device 1, the protective cap 5 with a corresponding embodiment of the stripping device 1 and a drive device, which a relative movement between the Pulling device 1 or the holding device and the protective cap 5 with respect to the injection needle 7 causes pulling off the protective cap 5 and an injection needle 7 perform fully automatically. A misbehavior or misuse by a user can be virtually eliminated in this way.

It has been explained above that the peeling device 1 can also be connected to a needle guard of a pen 25. In cases where the needle guard is displaceable relative to a housing 29 of the pen 25, it is possible in a simple manner to effect a relative displacement between the peeling device 1 and the holding device 3 relative to a protective cap 5 placed on an injection needle 7, but also a relative movement between held by the stripper 1 and the associated holding device 3 protective cap 5 with respect to the injection needle 7, which is placed on a carpule 9 or a syringe.

Claims

claims

1 . Pulling device (1) for a protective cap (5) of a syringe body (7) for medical purposes, provided with a syringe body or a carpule (9), having - a holding device (3) arranged in operative connection with the protective cap (5) to step,

- To grip in a first functional position, the protective cap (5) in its on the injection needle (7) fixed position and

- See the protective cap (5) during a relative displacement between see the holding device (3) and with the protective cap

(5) provided syringe or carpule (9) so that the protective cap (5) is withdrawn from the injection needle (7).

2. stripping device (1) according to claim 1, characterized in that the holding device (5) has at least one holding element (35,35 ') which is adapted for reversibly setting the protective cap (5) on the holding device (3), wherein the Protective cap (5) on the holding device (3) by a reversible positive and / or non-positive connection of the at least one holding elements (35,35 ') with the protective cap (5) can be fixed.

3. stripping device according to claim 1 or 2, characterized in that the stripping device (1) has a drive device which is adapted to effect a controlled and / or controlled relative displacement between the holding device (3) protective cap (5).

4. stripping device according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the drive device comprises at least one actuator - preferably an electric motor and / or an electromagnet - and / or at least one prestressed elastic element which the relative displacement between the holding device (3) and protective cap (5 ) causes.

5. stripping device according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the stripping device (1) comprises a control device which is adapted to drive the drive means.

6. stripping device according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the control device has an operative connection to a position detection device which is adapted to detect the relative position of the Schutzkap- pe (5) to the holding device (3).

The stripping device according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the stripping device (1) comprises at least one sensor,

- Is set up to determine the spatial position and orientation of the holding device (3), and

- Which is operatively connected to the control device, wherein the control device is adapted to process the sensor data for controlling and / or regulating the relative displacement between the holding device (3) and protective cap (5).

8. peeling device according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the stripping device (1) is formed as part of a pen (25), wherein the stripping device (1) with a housing (29) or with a needle guard of the pen (25) is.

9. A method for operating a stripping device (1) for a protective cap (5) of an injection needle (7) for medical purposes, in particular a stripping device (1) according to one of claims 1 to 7, wherein - a holding device (3) in a first functional position the protective cap (5) engages in its position fixed to the injection needle (7) and

- The protective cap (5) during a relative displacement between the holding device (3) and syringes body or carpule (9) for the acquisition of a second functional position of the injection needle (7) subtracts.

10. The method according to claim 9, characterized in that the holding device (3) holds the withdrawn protective cap (5).

1 1. A method according to claim 9, characterized in that the holding device (3) releases the protective cap after removal, preferably in a targeted manner.