SYSTEMS AND METHODS FOR DELIVERING A THERAPEUTIC AGENT USING MECHANICAL ADVANTAGE

摘要

Devices and methods for delivering a therapeutic agent to a patient are disclosed herein. In one embodiment, a delivery system includes a reservoir containing a fluid and a fluid communicator in fluid communication with the reservoir. An actuator is coupled to the reservoir and configured to displace and exert a force on the reservoir for a time period upon actuation such that fluid within the reservoir is communicated through the fluid communicator. An amplification mechanism is coupled to the actuator. The amplification mechanism is configured to increase at least one of the force, the displacement, or the time period the force is exerted by the actuator on the reservoir. In some embodiments, a transfer structure is disposed between the amplification mechanism and the reservoir. The transfer structure is configured to contact the reservoir upon actuation of the actuator. In some embodiments, the actuator can be an electrochemical actuator.

主权项

1. An apparatus, comprising:
a reservoir configured to contain a fluid; a fluid communicator configured to be placed in fluid communication with the reservoir; an actuator configured to be actuated such that a force is exerted on the reservoir for a time period upon actuation such that fluid within the reservoir is communicated through the fluid communicator; and an amplification mechanism operatively coupled to the actuator, the amplification mechanism configured to at least one of increase the force exerted by the actuator on the reservoir or increase an overall stroke of the apparatus.