U.S. patent application number 08/930335 was filed with the patent office on 2002-04-18 for substance delivery device.
Invention is credited to JELLIE, HUGH PHILIP.
Application Number | 20020045883 08/930335 |
Document ID | / |
Family ID | 27353742 |
Filed Date | 2002-04-18 |
United States Patent
Application |
20020045883 |
Kind Code |
A1 |
JELLIE, HUGH PHILIP |
April 18, 2002 |
SUBSTANCE DELIVERY DEVICE
Abstract
According to one aspect of the present invention there is
provided a substance delivery device (1) capable of insertion into
a body cavity of an animal, including delivery apparatus (11)
capable of actively being controlled to deliver a substance to an
outlet, and retention apparatus (2, 3) capable of retaining the
substance delivery device within the body cavity of an animal. In
one embodiment, a microprocessor (18) can be remotely programmed to
enable control over the delivery device after it is placed in the
animal. The microprocessor (18) can also communicate with an
external device to enable the operation of the delivery device to
be determined. The invention may also include sensors to monitor
the environment around the delivery device, to determine when a
substance should be delivered into the body.
Inventors: |
JELLIE, HUGH PHILIP;
(CAMBRIDGE, NZ) |
Correspondence
Address: |
DARBY & DARBY
805 THIRD AVENUE
NEW YORK
NY
100227513
|
Family ID: |
27353742 |
Appl. No.: |
08/930335 |
Filed: |
December 22, 1997 |
PCT Filed: |
March 25, 1996 |
PCT NO: |
PCT/NZ96/00024 |
Current U.S.
Class: |
604/514 ;
604/104 |
Current CPC
Class: |
A61D 7/00 20130101; A61M
31/002 20130101; A61D 17/002 20130101; A61M 37/0069 20130101; A61M
2205/50 20130101 |
Class at
Publication: |
604/514 ;
604/104 |
International
Class: |
A61K 009/22; A61M
031/00 |
Foreign Application Data
Date |
Code |
Application Number |
Mar 23, 1995 |
NZ |
270794 |
Mar 24, 1995 |
NZ |
270806 |
Apr 6, 1995 |
NZ |
270876 |
Claims
The claims defining the invention are:
1. Substance delivery device capable of insertion into a body
cavity of an animal, including delivery apparatus, capable of
actively being controlled to deliver a substance to an outlet, and
retention apparatus capable of retaining the substance delivery
device within the body cavity of an animal.
2. Substance delivery device as claimed in claim 1 wherein the
retention apparatus is located at at least one end of the substance
delivery device.
3. Substance delivery device as described in any one of the
preceding claims wherein the retention apparatus capable of
insertion into a body cavity of an animal includes multiple arms
capable of retaining said device within said body cavity of an
animal, characterised in that the arms are substantially
flexible.
4. Retention apparatus for a device capable of insertion into a
body cavity of an animal which includes multiple arms capable of
retaining said device within said body cavity of an animal,
characterised in that the arms are substantially flexible.
5. Substance delivery device as claimed in claim 3 wherein the arms
of the retention apparatus are capable of being substantially
aligned with each other and the longitudinal axis of the body of
the substance delivery device to which the retention apparatus is
attached, for ready insertion or withdrawal of said substance
delivery device into a body cavity of an animal.
6. Substance delivery device as claimed in claim 5 wherein the arms
of the retention apparatus are capable of being aligned
substantially parallel to the body of the substance delivery device
to which the retention apparatus is attached, ready for insertion
or withdrawal of said substance delivery device into a body cavity
of an animal.
7. Substance delivery device as claimed in any one of the preceding
claims wherein the arms of the retention apparatus are capable of
being extended to retain the substance delivery device within a
body cavity of an animal into which said substance delivery device
is inserted.
8. Substance delivery device as claimed in claim 7 wherein the arms
of the retention apparatus are operable between either an aligned
inserting, or aligned withdrawal position and an extended retaining
position.
9. Substance delivery device as claimed in any one of the preceding
claims wherein the arms of the retention apparatus are capable of
being locked in an extended retaining position.
10. Substance delivery device as claimed in claim 9 wherein the
arms of the retaining apparatus occupy a plane substantially
perpendicular to the body of the substance delivery device inserted
into a body cavity of an animal, when locked in an extended
retaining position.
11. Substance delivery device as claimed in claim 10 wherein the
arms of the retention apparatus attain a substantially radial
arrangement when said arms are locked in an extended retaining
position.
12. Substance delivery device as claimed in any one of the
preceding claims wherein locking apparatus is capable of locking
the arms of the retention apparatus in a retaining position.
13. Substance delivery device as claimed in claim 12 wherein the
locking apparatus of the retention apparatus includes either one or
both of biasing apparatus and plunging apparatus.
14. Substance delivery device as claimed in any one of the
preceding claims wherein the arms of the retention apparatus
include a body portion and a distal portion.
15. Substance delivery device as claimed in claim 14 wherein the
distal portions of the arms of the retention apparatus have a
substantially greater cross-section of the body portion.
16. A method for retaining a substance delivery device within a
body cavity of an animal into which the substance delivery device
is inserted, by use of retention apparatus.
17. A method of inserting a substance delivery device into and
withdrawing a substance delivery device from a body cavity of an
animal.
18. A method of operating multiple arms of retention apparatus of a
substance delivery device, between an aligned inserting
configuration and an extended retaining configuration.
19. Delivery device for delivering a substance to an outlet
including at least one conduit capable of containing the substance,
at least one pressure device capable of applying pressure to the
conduit, and valve means, characterised by the application of
pressure by the pressure device and activation of the valve means
causing the substance within the conduit to move along the conduit
to the outlet.
20. Substance delivery device as claimed in any one of the
preceding claims wherein delivery apparatus for delivering a
substance to an outlet including at least one conduit capable of
containing the substance, at least one pressure device capable of
applying pressure to the conduit, and valve means, characterised by
the application of pressure by the pressure device and activation
of the valve means causing the substance within the conduit to move
along the conduit to the outlet.
21. Substance delivery device as claimed in claim 20 wherein the
valve means of the delivery apparatus operates on a reversed
magnetic polarity principle.
22. Substance delivery device as claimed in claims 20 and 21
wherein the valve means of the delivery apparatus includes a
magnetised moving armature, a fixed armature, a coil member capable
of being magnetised, tension apparatus, and a chamber capable of
receiving a substance from a conduit.
23. A method for delivering a substance to an outlet of a substance
delivery device, including at least one conduit capable of
containing the substance, at least one pressure device capable of
applying pressure to the conduit and valve means, characterised by
the steps of applying pressure to the conduit and activating valve
means, causing the substance within the conduit to move along the
conduit to the outlet.
24. Delivery apparatus for delivering a substance to an outlet
including at least one flexible conduit capable of containing the
substance, at least one pressure device capable of applying
pressure to the flexible conduit at variable points along the
conduit, characterised by the application of pressure by the
pressure device causing the substance within the conduit to move
along the conduit to the outlet.
25. Substance delivery device as claimed in any one of the
preceding claims wherein the delivery apparatus for delivering a
substance to an outlet includes at least one flexible conduit
capable of containing the substance, at least one pressure device
capable of applying pressure to the flexible conduit at variable
points along the conduit, characterised by the application of
pressure by the pressure device, causing the substance within the
conduit to move along the conduit to the outlet.
26. Substance delivery device as claimed in claim 25 wherein the
delivery apparatus for delivering a substance to an outlet includes
at least one flexible conduit capable of containing the substance,
at least one pressure device capable of applying pressure to the
flexible conduit at variable points along the conduit, and
characterised by the application of pressure by the pressure device
causing the substance within the conduit to move along the conduit
to the outlet, wherein the pressure device is composed of a piezo
pump or a combination of piezo pump and any other type of pump.
27. Substance delivery device as claimed in claim 26 wherein a
sequence of pressure devices operates such that the activity of one
pressure device does not cease until the next pressure device in
the sequence is activated.
28. Substance delivery device as claimed in any one of the
preceding claims wherein the delivery apparatus is powered by an
energy source.
29. Substance delivery device as claimed in any one of the
preceding claims wherein the action of the delivery apparatus is
controlled by a control mechanism.
30. Substance delivery device as claimed in claim 29 wherein the
action of the control mechanism of the delivery apparatus is
capable of regulating the timing of and volume of substance
released from the substance delivery device.
31. Substance delivery device as claimed in claim 30 wherein the
control mechanism of the delivery apparatus includes
microprocessor(s).
32. Substance delivery device as claimed in claim 31 wherein the
control mechanism of the delivery apparatus may be programmed to
also respond to environmental changes around the substance delivery
device.
33. Substance delivery device as claimed in claim 32 wherein
environmental changes around the substance delivery device may be
detected via sensors in the substance delivery device.
34. Substance delivery device as claimed in any one of the
preceding claims wherein the action of the controlled delivery
apparatus may be remotely programmed and operated.
35. A method for delivering a substance to an outlet of a substance
delivery device, including at least one flexible conduit capable of
containing the substance, at least one pressure device capable of
applying pressure to the flexible conduit at variable points along
the conduit, and characterised by the step of using the pressure
device to apply pressure to the conduit causing the substance
within the conduit to move along the conduit to the outlet.
36. A method of delivering a substance to a body characterised by
the step of using delivery apparatus including at least one
flexible conduit capable of containing the substance, at least one
pressure device capable of applying pressure to the flexible
conduit at varying points along the conduit, characterised by the
application of pressure by the pressure device, causing the
substance within the conduit to move along the conduit to an outlet
and into the body.
37. A method of delivering a substance to a body characterised by
the step of using a pressure device of the delivery apparatus to
apply pressure to the conduit of the delivery apparatus, causing
the substance within the conduit to move along the conduit to an
outlet and into a body.
38. A method of introducing a substance into an animal
characterised by the step of controlling the operation of the
substance delivery device so that the substance is actively
introduced into the animal.
39. A method of introducing a substance into an animal from a
substance delivery device as claimed in any one of claims 21, 36 to
38, characterised by the step of controlling the operation of the
delivery apparatus so that the substance is actively introduced
into the animal.
40. A method of controlling the delivery apparatus of a substance
delivery device as claimed in any one of claims 21, 36 to 39
characterised by the step of introducing predetermined amounts of
substance at predetermined times into the body of an animal.
41. A method of controlling the introduction of a substance into an
animal from a substance delivery device as claimed in any one of
claims 21, 36 to 40, characterised by utilising energy sources in
the environment surrounding the substance delivery device.
42. Substance delivery device substantially as claimed herein
described with reference to and as illustrated by the accompanying
drawings.
43. A method of retaining a substance delivery device within a body
cavity of an animal substantially as claimed herein described with
reference to and as illustrated by the accompanying drawings.
44. A method of operating multiple arms of retention apparatus of a
substance delivery device substantially as claimed herein described
with reference to and as illustrated by the accompanying
drawings.
45. A method of inserting into and withdrawing from a body cavity
of an animal a substance delivery device substantially as claimed
herein described with reference to and as illustrated by the
accompanying drawings.
46. A method for delivering a substance into a body substantially
as claimed herein described with reference to and as illustrated by
the accompanying drawings.
Description
TECHNICAL FIELD
[0001] This invention relates to a substance delivery device which
incorporates a controlled delivery apparatus and retention
apparatus for said substance delivery device.
[0002] Reference throughout this specification shall be made to the
substance delivery device as being for the introduction of
substances within a body cavity, for example such as intravaginal,
intraruminal devices and the like for domestic animals, such as
cows. It should be appreciated however, that the principles of the
present invention can apply to far wider applications than this and
can be used with respect to delivery devices where some control is
required.
[0003] In particular, it is envisaged that the retention apparatus
will enable the substance delivery device to be most commonly used
in situations where said device, capable of insertion into a
passage or body cavity of an animal, is required to be retained in
said passage or body cavity. Such passages or body cavities are
generally associated with the reproductive or digestive systems of
an animal, and include the vagina, uterus, stomach, rumen, and so
forth. Such devices are inserted into an animal's body cavity where
control of parasites, nutrition, reproduction, growth, and so forth
are desired, and where this control is effected through chemical
and/or hormonal intervention.
[0004] However, the present invention could have applications
outside this field. Accordingly, these delivery devices may not
necessarily be within the body of animals or humans, but may
interact with other environments such as horticultural, industrial,
domestic and so forth.
BACKGROUND ART
[0005] Commonly, substance delivery devices inserted into a living
animal for dispensing substances to the animal also employ
retention apparatus. Accordingly, a range of retention apparata
exist for retaining the substance delivery device within a passage
or body cavity of an animal.
[0006] Some systems commonly used for retaining delivery devices
capable of being inserted into a body cavity of an animal,
incorporate a compressible helical coil, such as in U.S. Pat. Nos.
228,382 and 190,350. The compressible coil is frequently capable of
returning to the required shape after the device has been inserted
into the animal's body cavity.
[0007] However, such coils rely on the overall bulk of the coil to
retain the coil within the body cavity of an animal. Accordingly,
the bulkiness of the coil may impede the flow of body secretions
which may not be desirable. An unimpeded flow of body secretions is
necessary for the normal biological functioning of the animal. Such
body secretions include mucus, where such a device is used
intravaginally.
[0008] In addition, the coil is typically capable of expanding and
pressing against a considerable area of the wall of a body cavity
of an animal, to the extent that it may be too bulky to pass back
through passages leading into or out of the body cavity.
Accordingly, when the functional utility of the device has been
exhausted, removal of the device may be difficult.
[0009] Other systems commonly employed for retaining devices within
the body cavity of an animal have incorporated a number of lobes,
similar to those of U.S. Pat. Nos. 193,976 and 200,564. These lobes
are often flexible enough to fold over onto each other for
insertion into a body cavity of an animal and then spring open
after the device is inside the animal. Frequently, the lobes
perform a dual purpose of retaining the device within an animal's
body cavity and of releasing an active ingredient, often
impregnated into the lobe or in the coating around the lobe, into
the animal's body cavity. Accordingly, the lobes may have a
substantial, even rippled, surface area to ensure that sufficient
active ingredient is available to perform the required function. In
addition, the lobes are often specifically designed to provide a
large surface area to enable the animal's body fluids to act on
those surfaces to leach out active ingredients contained within the
lobes.
[0010] However, the surface area of these devices is again capable
of impeding the flow of body secretions. In addition, the natural
elasticity of the lobes enables the lobes to be folded over onto
each other to enable the device to be inserted into and removed
from the animal's body cavity. However, an operator may be required
to manually hold the lobes in the folded orientation, during
insertion of the device into the animal's body cavity.
[0011] Further systems incorporate hinged legs or branched members,
as in U.S. Pat. Nos. 215,635 and 230,023, which may extend from one
or both ends of the body of a device inserted into the body cavity
of an animal. Again, these legs or members, as well as the body of
the device, are typically impregnated with active ingredients
required to be dispensed into the animal. Accordingly, it is
desirable that the legs or members add to the overall surface area
of the device to enable the active ingredients to be more
efficiently leached from the device and into the animal. Again, the
common problem associated with such devices and retention systems
for these devices, is that initially the increased surface area may
impede the flow of the animal's internal body secretions.
Particularly, the flow of mucus in the vagina of the animal.
[0012] However, with time, erosion of the polymer layers which
contain the active ingredients, effectively reduces the surface
area, overall size, and overall weight of the device. A problem is
therefore that as the device gets smaller and lighter it does not
have the same retentive ability.
[0013] In addition, such systems typically require an applicator,
such as those described in U.S. Pat. Nos. 215,483 and 207,341.
These applicators hold the legs or members into a required position
to enable the device and the retention apparatus to be inserted
into the animal's body cavity.
[0014] Often the applicators are complex or bulky structures, and
are separate from the devices which they are capable of inserting.
Inclusion of an applicator with the device may increase the costs
of manufacture, and require insertion of the device into the
applicator thereby extending the time associated with inserting
devices into the animals.
[0015] Yet other systems may incorporate a number of distensible
ribs, such as in U.S. Pat. No. 173,926. The ribs are capable of
being distended into a possible retaining position by the action of
a plunger system. When the plunger system is released the
distensible ribs return to the undistended position for withdrawal.
However, these devices are typically used for single applications
of pharmaceutical formulations into the body cavity of an animal
and are not intended to, nor are suitable for, retaining device
over longer periods. The bulkiness of the plunger system, if left
attached to the device could be a source of discomfort to the
animal; the distensible ribs are typically unsuited to retaining a
device in a larger body cavity; and the surface area of the ribs
would impede the body's flow of secretions.
[0016] Yet other retention devices may be of sufficient dimensions
to be retained in the body cavity of an animal by relying on muscle
tension around the retention device. Such devices are typically
used as intra-vaginal contraceptive devices for animals, such as in
U.S. Pat. No. 173,808. However, the dimensions of the retention
device may prevent penile insertion during attempted intermission
by the male animal, and/or impede flows of body secretions,
particularly vaginal mucus.
[0017] Accordingly, it would be desirable if the retention
apparatus of a substance delivery device enabled the delivery
device to be easily inserted and removed, yet was reliably retained
for required periods, and did not impede flow of body secretions or
adversely affect normal functioning by its mere physical
presence.
[0018] Similarly, a range of delivery apparata for delivering
substances are well known, and have broad application.
[0019] Many incorporate pumps and are used to dispense common
substances such as petrol and air. Some delivery apparata are used
inside a living animal to dispense useful substances such as
chemicals or drugs.
[0020] For example, there are a number of delivery apparata known
that introduce substances such as hormones intravaginally to cows.
The purpose of such apparata is to promote with some accuracy the
onset of oestrus. This enables the farmer to artificially
inseminate the cows at a time when they are most fertile.
[0021] For example, New Zealand Patent No. 228382 discloses such a
delivery apparatus. The device disclosed consists of a helical coil
made up of a number of segments. These segments contain useful
substances which are either impregnated into or coated onto.
[0022] The substance to be administered to the animal is gradually
released from the segments of the apparatus over a period of time
by the action of body fluids. Accordingly, such apparatus relies on
the natural processes of diffusion, dissolution, or osmosis to
dispense the substance.
[0023] Various other delivery apparata as described in New Zealand
Patent Nos. 207341, 200564 and 215635 all release drugs into the
body cavity passively, as consequence of the action of body
fluids.
[0024] However, when controlling oestrus in animals for example,
different hormones or concentrations need to be released into the
animal's body at different times. To effect this, previous delivery
apparata have had a number of layers, perhaps with different
thicknesses, containing both passive and active substances. These
enter the body by the diffusion, dissolution or osmosis, all these
processes being dependent upon the body fluids surrounding the
substance delivery device or delivery apparata within the
device.
[0025] For example, it may be desirable to introduce into the body
for a period of ten days a certain hormone, then no hormone for
another ten days and then introduce another hormone for another
period of time. The delivery device could have layers of
thicknesses proportional to the time it is estimated that these
layers will take to dissolve into the body system.
[0026] Unfortunately, there are problems associated with these
devices incorporating such delivery apparata. All of these devices
are passive devices dependent upon the body fluids surrounding them
for the introduction of the active substances into the body.
[0027] However, the rate of introduction of these substances is
dependent upon a number of factors such as the temperature, mucus
concentration, salt concentration, kinetic action and so forth of
the body fluids. These factors are variable from animal to animal
which leads to variable timing and concentration of the substances
being introduced into the body.
[0028] Further, with the substances being exposed to the body's
environment, it is possible for the layers to be chipped and a
completely inappropriate substance introduced into the body at the
wrong time. Hence, such systems tend to restrict themselves to
delivery of a single active material or if more than one, the
second material is introduced at the start.
[0029] In addition, once these delivery devices are inserted into
an animal, the delivery of substance into the animal cannot be
controlled as it is totally dependent upon the environment that it
is in.
[0030] The ability to control the amount and timing of dispensation
of a substance with any degree of accuracy is difficult, as there
is a dependence upon the external environment to provide the
conditions necessary for dispensation to occur, with the conditions
determining the volume and rate of dispensation. Accordingly,
delivery apparatus reliant on osmosis, diffusion, and dissolution
all suffer from inaccuracy in dispensing and inherently have little
timing precision.
[0031] Alternately, conventional pumps are often large and
complicated. They contain moving parts, complex valve systems, are
usually difficult to operate with any degree of accuracy, and are
often not suitable for insertion into an animal's body. Further,
conventional pumps often require regular maintenance.
[0032] It would therefore be desirable if there could be provided a
delivery device which was small and simple, contained no complex
parts, was maintenance free, and which could be used in animal's
bodies or other such environments.
[0033] It would also be desirable if there could be provided a
device which included delivery apparatus capable of being
accurately operated to deliver substances into an animal in precise
concentrations and with precise timing, and where such a apparatus
could operate independently of the environment, or the apparatus
could release substances into the environment only when the
environment was ideal.
[0034] In addition, it would be desirable if there could be
effected some control over the delivery apparatus after the device
is placed in the animal, and/or if there was some way of
determining what was happening within the animal with respect to
the operation of the device and associated delivery apparatus.
[0035] It is an object of the present invention to address the
above problems or at least to provide the public with a useful
choice.
[0036] Further objects and advantages of the present invention will
now be discussed by way of example only.
DISCLOSURE OF INVENTION
[0037] According to one aspect of the present invention there is
provided a substance delivery device capable of insertion into a
body cavity of an animal, including delivery apparatus capable of
actively being controlled to deliver a substance to an outlet, and
retention apparatus capable of retaining the substance delivery
device within the body cavity of an animal.
[0038] In preferred embodiments of the present invention the body
of the substance delivery device is configured to include a chamber
capable of receiving delivery apparatus and associated controlling
apparatus, and the attachment and/or operational means of the
retention apparatus.
[0039] The body of the substance delivery device may also be so
configured to improve the ease with which the substance delivery
device is inserted into and withdrawn from the body of an animal.
Accordingly, the body of the substance delivery device may be
substantially circular in cross-section, be tapered along its
length, may include a thread or so forth for pulling the device out
of the animal's body, and so forth.
[0040] In preferred embodiments of the present invention the
retention apparatus is attached to the body of the substance
delivery device which is capable of being inserted into and
required to be retained in a passage or body cavity of an
animal.
[0041] For ease of reference the substance delivery device capable
of insertion into a body cavity or passage of an animal shall now
be referred to simply as the device, although it should be
appreciated that this term is not intended to be seen as
limiting.
[0042] According to another aspect of the present invention there
is provided a method for retaining a substance delivery device
substantially as described above within a body cavity of an animal
into which the substance delivery device is inserted, via use of
retention apparatus.
[0043] In preferred embodiments of the present invention the
retention apparatus is attached to the device capable of being
inserted into the vagina of an animal. Although, in other
embodiments of the present invention the retention apparatus may
also be attached to a device capable of being inserted into other
body cavities or passages of an animal.
[0044] In preferred embodiment of the present invention the
retention apparatus is an integral part of the body of a device to
which the retention apparatus is attached. Having the retention
apparatus as an integral part of a device obviates problems of
having to attach the retention apparatus as a separate portion at a
later stage of construction. Further, it enables the same material
to be used for both the body of the device and the retention
apparatus. Therefore, where the retention apparatus is moulded as
an integral part of the body of a device, the expense and time
associated with construction of the retention apparatus and device
may be reduced.
[0045] However, in other embodiments of the present invention the
retention apparatus may be a separate portion. Having a retention
apparatus which is a separate portion, enables the retention
apparatus to be attached to a device at a later stage of
construction; enables the retention apparatus to be made of
different materials to the body of the device; may enable a
particular form of retention apparatus to be used on a number of
different devices; or enables one device to be fitted with any one
of a range of retention apparatus depending on the body cavity into
which the device is to be inserted.
[0046] According to another aspect of the present invention there
is provided a substance delivery device substantially as described
above wherein the retention apparatus is located at at least one
end of the substance delivery device.
[0047] In preferred embodiments of the present invention the
retention apparatus is located towards at least one end of the
device to which the retention apparatus is attached. Having the
retention apparatus attached to at least one end of the device
being retained, obviates problems associated with the retention
apparatus impeding the flow of body secretions, such as
intravaginal mucus, which may occur where there are retention
apparatus located at a number of points along the device.
[0048] However, in some embodiments of the present invention the
retention apparatus may be located at either end, or at any point
along the body of the device. This may be particularly useful in
situations where the flow of internal body secretions is not
adversely affected by the retention apparatus. In addition,
positioning the retention apparatus at other locations may be
required where the strength of internal peristaltic waves within an
animal's body cavity is such that a number of retention apparatus,
or a need for retention apparatus located in particular positions
along the body of the device is required to enable the device to be
more reliably retained within the animal's body cavity.
[0049] In preferred embodiments of the present invention the
retention apparatus is located towards the leading end of the
device to which the retention apparatus is attached. Locating the
retention apparatus at the leading end of the device is a
configuration which is frequently adapted and found to be
practically suited for insertion of the device into or through a
passage leading to an animal's body cavity, such as the vagina.
[0050] In some embodiments of the present invention the retention
apparatus may be located at the trailing end, each end, or at any
point along the body of the device to which the retention apparatus
is attached, depending on the method of insertion of the device,
and the passage or body cavity into which the device is to be
attached.
[0051] According to another aspect of the present invention there
is provided a substance delivery device substantially as described
above wherein the retention apparatus capable of insertion into a
body cavity of an animal includes, multiple arms capable of
retaining said device within said body cavity of an animal,
characterised in that the arms are substantially flexible.
[0052] In preferred embodiments of the present invention the
retention apparatus includes multiple arms. Having multiple arms
increases the potential points of contact between the retention
apparatus and the walls of the animal's body cavity, into which the
retention apparatus has been inserted. Increased points of contact
contribute to the ability of the retention apparatus to remain in
the appropriate passage or body cavity, without being dislodged by
the animal's internal peristaltic movements.
[0053] In some embodiments of the present invention the number of
arms of the retention apparatus may vary, depending on the passage
or body cavity into which the device is to be inserted and any
corresponding peristaltic movements within the passage or body
cavity.
[0054] In preferred embodiments of the present invention the
retention apparatus is made of polymer plastic materials, such as
Hytrel.TM.. The flexibility of this material is an important
consideration, as it is able to be compressed or subjected to
tensile stress without the shape becoming distorted. The ability of
this polymer plastic material to revert to its original shape is
known as "compressive creep modulus". In addition, this material is
durable, it does not crack when bent, has smooth surfaces after
moulding which seems to decrease risks of contamination to the
animal, is capable of being moulded, capable of being sterilised
for hygienic reasons, is lightweight, chemically resistant, can
withstand wet environments, and is economical.
[0055] However, in other embodiments of the present invention the
retention apparatus may be made of other materials, such as rubber,
or a material which is capable of degrading after a known period of
time. The use of a degradable material for the retention apparatus
could be used to enable devices for which the functional utility
has been exhausted, to be more easily removed from a body cavity or
passage of an animal.
[0056] In preferred embodiments of the present invention the arms
of the retention apparatus are substantially flexible. The
substantial flexibility of the arms of the retention apparatus
enables the arms to flex in both a vertical plane and a horizontal
plane in response to changes in the size of the animal's body
cavity due to internal peristaltic waves. Thus the arms are capable
of remaining in contact with the internal walls of the animal's
body cavity without the arms of the retention apparatus snapping or
becoming permanently bent. Accordingly, after the peristaltic wave
has passed, the substantially flexible arms are capable of
returning to their original shape.
[0057] In other embodiments of the present invention the degree of
flexibility of the arms of the retention apparatus may be varied in
response to the conditions existing within the body cavity into
which the retention apparatus is to be inserted.
[0058] According to another aspect of the present invention there
is provided a substance delivery device substantially as described
above wherein the arms of the retention apparatus include a body
portion and a distal portion.
[0059] In preferred embodiments of the present invention each arm
of the retention apparatus includes a body portion and a distal
portion.
[0060] For ease of reference the body portion and the distal
portion of the arms of the retention apparatus shall now be
referred to as the shaft and the tip, respectively. Although, it
should be appreciated that these terms are not intended to be
limiting.
[0061] In preferred embodiments of the present invention the shaft
of each arm is substantially elongate. Substantially elongate
shafts enable the retention apparatus to engage with walls of a
body cavity of an animal. Engagement of the arms of the retention
apparatus with the walls of the animal's body cavity enables the
arms of the retention apparatus to maintain contact with the walls
of the body cavity throughout changes to the dimensions of the body
cavity in response to peristaltic waves moving through the
musculature of the walls of the body cavity. Those peristaltic
waves otherwise cause the retention apparatus to be dislodged.
[0062] In other embodiments of the present invention the shafts of
the arms of the retention apparatus may be extendible
telescopically. Telescopic extension of the arms may enable the
arms of the retention apparatus to be adapted to suit a range of
sizes of body cavities or passages into which the retention
apparatus may be inserted.
[0063] In preferred embodiments of the present invention the shaft
of each arm of the retention apparatus has a substantially limited
cross-sectional dimension.
[0064] For ease of reference the substantially limited
cross-sectional feature of the shaft of each arm of the retention
apparatus shall now be referred to as thin, although the use of
this term is not intended to be limiting.
[0065] A thin shaft enables the retention apparatus to have
multiple arms, which enhance the retention capability of the device
without the shafts of the arms impeding the flow of body
secretions. An unimpeded flow of body secretions is necessary for
the normal biological functioning of an animal's reproductive
system, digestive system, and so forth.
[0066] In some embodiments of the present invention however, the
shaft of each arm of the retention apparatus may be thicker, or the
arms may have varying cross-sectional dimensions, depending on the
strength of the peristaltic waves in the body cavities into which
the retention apparatus is inserted and depending on the types of
body secretions present in the different body cavities of an
animal.
[0067] In preferred embodiments of the present invention the shaft
of each arm of the retention apparatus is substantially circular.
Having a substantially circular shaft avoids the possibility of
sharp edges causing irritation of the interior walls of the
animal's body cavity. In addition, substantially circular, thin
shafts are inherently stronger than thin, flat shafts or lobes, for
example, and are more capable of withstanding the forces of the
internal peristaltic waves within the animal's body cavity.
Further, a rounded surface is less likely to impede flows of body
secretions to the same extent that a flat surface might.
[0068] However, in other embodiments of the present invention, the
shafts may be flat, V-shaped, U-shaped, hexagonal, and so forth,
depending on the internal conditions of the body cavity into which
the retention apparatus is inserted, and the corresponding shaft
strength required.
[0069] In preferred embodiments of the present invention the arms
of the retention apparatus are substantially straight. Straight
arms may enable the arms of the retention apparatus to be more
compactly aligned with the body of the device, for easier insertion
into an animal's body cavity. Although, in other embodiments the
arms may be curved, undulating, and so forth, to meet the
particular needs associated with different body cavities.
[0070] According to another aspect of the present invention there
is provided a substance delivery device substantially as described
above wherein the distal portions of the arms of the retention
apparatus have a substantially greater cross-section than the body
portion.
[0071] In preferred embodiments of the present invention the tip of
each arm of the retention apparatus has a substantially greater
cross-sectional dimensions than the shaft of the arm. The greater
cross-sectional dimension of the tip provides a greater surface
area for the arm to contact the internal walls of the animal's body
cavity, than would be available if the tip retained the same
cross-sectional dimension of the shaft. The greater the contact
with the body cavity walls, the better the retention of the
apparatus, and of the device to which the retention apparatus may
be attached, within the animal's body cavity. In addition, the
greater cross-sectional dimension of the tip is capable of reducing
the likelihood of injury to the animal, that might otherwise occur
where a thin shaft contacts the soft tissue.
[0072] However, in other embodiments of the present invention,
where it is necessary for the shaft of the arm of the retention
apparatus to be thicker to compensate for stronger internal
peristaltic waves of the animal's body cavity, the tip and the
shaft of the arm of the retention apparatus may have the same
cross-sectional dimension. In addition, in other embodiments only
some of the tips of the arms of the retention apparatus may have
greater cross-sectional dimensions, depending on the number of arms
of the retention apparatus, and/or body cavity into which the
retention apparatus is inserted.
[0073] In preferred embodiments of the present invention the tip of
each arm of the retention apparatus is substantially bulbous. The
rounded surface of the substantially bulbous tip is capable of
increasing the surface area of contact between the retention
apparatus and the internal walls of the animal's body cavity,
thereby improving the potential retentive ability of the retention
apparatus. In addition, the rounded edges of the bulbous tip
obviates problems of irritation of, or injury to, the internal
walls of the animal's body cavity, which may occur with tips that
have sharper edges.
[0074] In other embodiments of the present invention the tip of
each or any arm may be flattened so as to be substantially
perpendicular to the shaft, or may be substantially tapered, and so
forth, depending on the internal structure of the body cavity into
which the retention apparatus is inserted.
[0075] According to another aspect of the present invention there
is provided a substance delivery device substantially as described
above wherein the arms of the retention apparatus are capable of
being substantially aligned with each other and the longitudinal
axis of the body of the substance delivery device to which the
retention apparatus is attached, for ready insertion or withdrawal
of said substance delivery device into a body cavity of an
animal.
[0076] According to another aspect of the present invention there
is provided a substance delivery device substantially as described
above wherein the arms of the retention apparatus are capable of
being aligned substantially parallel to the body of the substance
delivery device to which the retention apparatus is attached, ready
for insertion or withdrawal of said substance delivery device into
or from a body cavity of an animal.
[0077] According to another aspect of the present invention there
is provided a method of inserting into and withdrawing from a body
cavity of an animal, a substance delivery device substantially as
described above.
[0078] In one preferred embodiment of the present invention the
arms of the retention apparatus are capable of being aligned
substantially parallel to the body of a device required to be
inserted into an animal's body cavity. Alignment of the arms
substantially parallel to the body of the device enables the device
and retention apparatus to be more easily inserted into an animal's
body cavity through a passage, or be inserted for retention within
a passage, such as the vagina. When the arms of the retention
apparatus are on the leading edge of the device, pressure of the
walls and the opening of a passage way or of an animal's body
cavity may be relied on to maintain the arms in a parallel
arrangement with the body of the device. Insertion of the retention
apparatus and the device configured in this way, obviates problems
of having to hold the arms of the retention device together to
avoid the arms splaying out during insertion, as would be required
if the arms protruded forward of the device.
[0079] Alternatively, an applicator or even the packaging of the
device, may be used to align the arms parallel to the body of the
device.
[0080] In another preferred embodiment of the present invention the
arms of the retention apparatus are capable of being substantially
aligned with each other and the longitudinal axis of the body of
the device to which they are attached. Again, this alignment of the
arms of the retention apparatus with the body of the device allows
the device and retention apparatus to be more easily inserted
through or into a passage way or into an animal's body cavity. The
retention apparatus may rely on some initial pressure applied by an
operator's hands to maintain alignment of the arms of the retention
apparatus prior to insertion into the animal. As insertion
commences, the pressure of the walls of the passage way or opening
of the animal's body cavity will maintain the arms in a
longitudinally aligned position.
[0081] Alternatively, where the retention apparatus and device are
to be specifically inserted into a passage such as the vagina of an
animal, a removable band may maintain the longitudinal alignment of
the arms of the retention apparatus. On insertion of the retention
apparatus and device, the removable band may roll back down the
arms of the retention apparatus to rest on a portion of the body of
the device.
[0082] In addition, an applicator may be used to align the arms
with each other along the longitudinal axis of the body. The
applicator may be specifically designed for use with the retention
apparatus and device required to be retained in an animal's body
cavity, or may merely be the packaging in which the retention
apparatus and device are supplied.
[0083] In preferred embodiments of the present invention the
retention apparatus is capable of being removed from the passage or
body cavity of an animal. Once the functional utility of the device
to which the retention apparatus is attached has been exhausted,
the device may be withdrawn assisted by the pressure exerted by the
walls of the passage or the opening to the body cavity. The
pressure, in combination with the substantial flexibility of the
arms of the retention apparatus, enables the arms to become aligned
with each other and to the longitudinal axis of the body of the
device, or aligned substantially parallel to the body of the
device. The device may then be withdrawn with minimum discomfort to
the animal.
[0084] According to another aspect of the present invention there
is provided a substance delivery device substantially as described
above wherein the arms of the retention apparatus are capable of
being extended for retaining the substance delivery device within a
body cavity of an animal into which said device is inserted.
[0085] According to another aspect of the present invention there
is provided a substance delivery device substantially as described
above wherein the arms of the retention apparatus are operable
between either an aligned inserting or an aligned withdrawal
position and an extended retaining position.
[0086] According to another aspect of the present invention there
is provided a method of operating multiple arms of retention
apparatus of a substance delivery device substantially as described
above, between an aligned inserting configuration and an extended
retaining configuration.
[0087] In preferred embodiments of the present invention the arms
of the retention apparatus are capable of being operable between an
aligned inserting position and an extended retaining position.
[0088] In a preferred embodiment of the present invention the end
of the shaft opposite the tip of each arm of the retention
apparatus is moulded to the body of the device form a substantially
resilient hinge at that junction between the arm of the retention
apparatus and the body of the device. The resilient hinge enables
the arms of the retention apparatus to be more closely aligned to
the body of the device, for insertion of the retention apparatus
into a body cavity or passage of an animal. In addition, after
insertion, the substantially resilient hinge enables the arms of
the retention apparatus, in conjunction with locking apparatus, to
assume the extended retaining position of the retention
apparatus.
[0089] In some embodiments of the present invention other hinges
known in the prior art may be adapted for use with the present
retention apparatus.
[0090] In another preferred embodiment each arm is completely
moulded onto the body of a device. In this configuration of the
retention apparatus the substantially flexible arms of the
retention apparatus are capable of being flexed to enable the arms
to be aligned for insertion of the retention apparatus into an
animal's body cavity. After insertion, the substantially flexible
arms of the retention apparatus are able to assume their extended
retaining position.
[0091] According to another aspect of the present invention there
is provided a substance delivery device substantially as described
above wherein the arms of the retention apparatus are capable of
being locked in an extended retaining position.
[0092] According to another aspect of the present invention there
is provided locking apparatus capable of locking the arms of the
retention apparatus of a substance delivery device, substantially
as described, above in a retaining position.
[0093] According to a further aspect of the present invention there
is provided locking apparatus for retention apparatus of a
substance delivery device substantially as described above wherein
said locking apparatus includes either one or both of biasing
apparatus and plunging apparatus.
[0094] In preferred embodiments of the present invention the arms
of the retention apparatus are capable of being maintained in an
extended retaining position by the action of locking apparatus.
[0095] In preferred embodiments of the present invention the
locking apparatus includes either or both of biasing apparatus and
plunger apparatus. However, a number of locking apparatus exists in
the prior art and may be adapted for use with the retention
apparatus.
[0096] For ease of reference the biasing apparatus and plunger
apparatus shall now be referred to as a spring-loaded collar and
plunger apparatus, respectively, although it should be appreciated
that these terms are not to be seen as limiting.
[0097] In preferred embodiments of the present invention the
spring-loaded collar is capable of operating between a biased
position and an unbiased position. When the retention apparatus is
in its inserting position the spring-loaded collar is cocked in its
biasing position by the alignment of the arms of the retention
apparatus. At a point during the process of insertion, removal of
the pressure required to align the arms of the retention apparatus
with the device, enables the arms to move towards the extended
retaining position. This initial movement of the unrestrained arms
causes the spring-loaded collar to be activated.
[0098] On activation the spring-loaded collar moves in a direction
towards the junction where the arms of the retention apparatus meet
the device, and in a direction which is substantially in line with
the longitudinal axis of the device to which the retention
apparatus is attached. In embodiments which includes a plunger, the
plunger is open when the arms are in the inserting position, when
the spring-loaded collar is activated the plunger is closed.
Accordingly, the arms of the retention apparatus are thereby held
in the extended retaining position by either or both of the
spring-loaded collar and the plunger apparatus.
[0099] In preferred embodiments of the present invention the
spring-loaded collar and plunger are incorporated into the leading
edge of the device capable of insertion into an animal's body
cavity. However, in other embodiments, the spring-loaded collar and
plunger may be located at the trailing end of the device.
Alternatively, the spring-loaded collar may be located at points
along the body of the device, in conjunction with the retention
apparatus located at that location.
[0100] According to another aspect of the present invention there
is provided a substance delivery device substantially as described
above wherein the arms of the retaining apparatus occupy a plane
substantially perpendicular to the body of the substance delivery
device inserted into a body cavity of an animal when locked in an
extended retaining position.
[0101] According to another aspect of the present invention there
is provided retention apparatus substantially as described above
wherein the arms of the retention apparatus attain a substantially
radial arrangement when said arms are locked in an extended
retaining position.
[0102] In preferred embodiments of the present invention the arms
of the retention apparatus are locked into a substantially radial
arrangement around the portion of the body of the device to which
the retention apparatus is attached, when the arms are in the
extended retaining position.
[0103] In preferred embodiments of the present invention the
spring-loaded collar of the retention apparatus operates to lock
the arms of the retention apparatus in a plane substantially
perpendicular to the body of the device inserted into the body
cavity of an animal. This arrangement enables the device, to which
the retention apparatus is attached, to operate unimpeded by the
walls of the body cavity into which the device has been inserted.
Where such devices release an active ingredient, the retention
apparatus maintains the device in a position whereby the active
ingredient released from the body of the device, may be free to mix
with appropriate bodily secretions, or be absorbed through the
walls of the body cavity into which the device has been
inserted.
[0104] According to a further aspect of the present invention there
is provided delivery apparatus for delivering a substance to an
outlet of a substance delivery device substantially as described
above wherein the delivery apparatus includes at least one conduit
capable of containing the substance, at least one pressure device
capable of applying pressure to the conduit, and valve means
characterised by application of pressure by the pressure device and
activation of the valve means causing the substance within the
conduit to move along the conduit to the outlet.
[0105] According to a further aspect of the present invention there
is provided a method for delivering a substance to an outlet of a
substance delivery device substantially as described above
including at least one conduit capable of containing the substance,
at least one pressure device capable of applying pressure to the
conduit and valve means, characterised by the steps of applying
pressure to the conduit and valve means, causing the substance
within the conduit to move along the conduit to the outlet.
[0106] The delivery apparatus itself may take many forms as long as
it can be controlled to actively deliver the substance. The
mechanism by which the delivery apparatus actively introduces the
substance is via a pressure device, and/or valve means.
[0107] The term substance used in this specification shall mean any
substance including liquid or gas.
[0108] The term pressure used in this specification shall mean the
application of force, and the term pressure device shall include
any mechanism used to apply force (such as a pump or spring and
plunger system).
[0109] The term conduit used in this specification shall mean any
apparatus capable of conveying a substance and may in some
instances be a reservoir.
[0110] The flexible conduit may be divided into two ends. One end,
hereinafter referred to as the inlet, is connected to the substance
source. The opposite end, hereinafter referred to as the outlet, is
connected to the outlet of the delivery apparatus, of the substance
delivery device.
[0111] The term valve used in this specification shall mean any
means, including automatic or other device, used to apply force to,
or capable of conveying, a substance from the conduit to the
outlet. In some embodiments the valve means may be different from
and/or replace one or all of alternate pressure devices.
[0112] The term armature used in this specification shall mean any
apparatus of suitable material, capable of being treated, or
capable of responding to a magnetic or other force field, and when
placed in the vicinity of a magnet or other force, has its
operational capability increased.
[0113] The term coil member used in this specification shall mean
any apparatus capable of responding to an energy supply, such that
a magnetic field, or other force field is created in the vicinity
of the coil member.
[0114] In conventional substance delivery devices for use inside
bodies or other such environments the substance is passively
delivered by the natural process of osmosis, diffusion, or
dissolution. The rate and volume of substance delivery are
determined by the natural processes. Thus, the rate and volume of
substance delivery cannot be controlled or varied by artificial
means. It is believed that the pressure devices and/or valve means
provide a means of actively delivering the substance. Active
delivery of a substance provides a means of controlling the rate
and volume of the substance delivered.
[0115] In one preferred embodiment the valve means is a metering
valve system, which operates on a reversed magnetic polarity
principle, and includes a moving and a fixed armature.
[0116] Preferably, the armatures are made from materials capable of
being magnetised.
[0117] The metering valve system also preferably includes a coil
member which is capable of being activated. On activation of the
coil member, a solenoidal effect is produced which causes the
moving armature to be attached to and seal against the stationary
armature. Deactivation of the coil member enables the moving
armature to move away from the fixed armature.
[0118] In preferred embodiments the structural configuration of the
metering valve system creates a chamber within the conduit.
Accordingly, movement of the moving armature towards and away from
the fixed armature enables some of the substance which has passed
into this chamber to move along the conduit to the outlet.
[0119] The metering valve system also preferably incorporates
tension apparatus, such as a spring, to ensure that the valve
system is able to reliably seal, when required.
[0120] According to another aspect of the present invention there
is provided delivery apparatus for delivering a substance to an
outlet of a substance delivery device substantially as described
above wherein the delivery apparatus includes at least one flexible
conduit capable of containing the substance, at least one pressure
device capable of applying pressure to the flexible conduit at
variable points along the conduit, characterised by the application
of pressure by the pressure device causing the substance within the
conduit to move along the conduit to the outlet.
[0121] According to a further aspect of the present invention there
is provided a method for delivering a substance to an outlet of a
substance delivery device substantially as described above,
including at least one flexible conduit capable of containing the
substance, at least one pressure device capable of applying
pressure to the flexible conduit at variable points along the
conduit characterised by the step of using the pressure device to
apply pressure to the conduit causing the substance within the
conduit to move along the conduit to the outlet.
[0122] According to a further aspect of the present invention there
is provided a method of delivering a substance to a body
characterised by the step of using delivery apparatus and/or method
as previously described.
[0123] The action of the delivery apparatus in delivering the
substance shall now be referred to as peristaltic.
[0124] While in one embodiment there may be one or two pressure
devices, in another preferred embodiment there are three pressure
devices.
[0125] In the alternative preferred embodiment the three pressure
devices are positioned sequentially along flexible conduit.
[0126] The first pressure device may be located closest to the
inlet. The second pressure device may be located between the first
pressure device and the third pressure device. The third pressure
device is located closest to the outlet.
[0127] When the first pressure device applies pressure to the
conduit the substance is pushed along the flexible conduit by the
application of pressure. The substance is moved as a consequence
into the vicinity of the second pressure device. The pressure from
the first pressure device remains applied. The second pressure
device then applies pressure causing the substance to be moved
further along the flexible conduit and into the vicinity of the
third pressure device. The first pressure device may be released.
The third pressure device may then apply pressure moving the
substance towards the outlet. This sequence may be continued to
move sufficient substance out of the delivery apparatus of the
delivery device as required.
[0128] Releasing one pressure device after the next pressure device
in the sequence has been applied prevents flow back and ensures
that the flow of the substance towards the outlet continues.
[0129] The pressure devices may be controlled by any controlling
mechanism such as a microprocessor.
[0130] The pressure devices which operate as described above are
capable of controlling the flow of substance through the flexible
conduit. Conventionally, conduits require valves to prevent back
flow. The capability of the pressure devices to control the flow of
substance removes any need for separate valves to prevent such back
flow.
[0131] In some embodiments of the present invention the conduit may
be greater in length and there may be two or more sets of three
pressure devices.
[0132] According to a further aspect of the present invention there
is provided a substance delivery device substantially as described
above, wherein a delivery device for delivering a substance to an
outlet including at least one flexible conduit capable of
containing the substance, at least one pressure device capable of
applying pressure to the flexible conduit at variable points along
the conduit, characterised by the application of pressure by the
pressure device causing the substance within the conduit to move
along the conduit to the outlet, wherein the pressure device is
composed of a piezo pump or a combination of piezo pump and any
other type of pump.
[0133] Piezo pumps contain crystals move upon the application of
electrical current. These can be quite small devices which can be
controlled to a high degree of accuracy. As the operation of the
piezo pump is dependent on current only, few moving parts are
required and the construction is simple.
[0134] In preferred embodiments there are three piezo electric
pumps, but there may be any number.
[0135] For ease of reference the pressure devices shall now also be
referred to as pumps. However, it should be appreciated that use of
this term is not intended to be limiting.
[0136] Piezo pumps are small in the preferred embodiment, having a
diameter of 6.4 millimeters at their widest point and a length of
12 millimeters. Thus, piezo pumps are well suited to delivery
devices where space is limited, such as inside bodies.
[0137] Piezo pumps are economical pressure devices which have a low
power draw and therefore can be readily battery powered.
[0138] According to a further aspect of the present invention there
is provided a means of utilising energy sources in the surrounding
environment. The energy sources may include kinetic, chemical, or
thermal energy.
[0139] It can be seen that the present invention has a number of
advantages over the prior art.
[0140] The pressure devices are small, simple, and require little
maintenance, and are thus suitable to pit inside bodies or other
such environments.
[0141] According to another aspect of the present invention there
is provided a method of introducing a substance into an animal from
a substance delivery device substantially as described above,
characterised by the step of controlling the operation of the
delivery apparatus so that the substance is actively introduced
into the animal.
[0142] The pump and/or valve means of the delivery apparatus may be
controlled by a variety of means. In preferred embodiments, the
means of control is a microprocessor. It should be appreciated
however that other control mechanisms such as an `ASIC`
(Application Specific Integrated Circuit) may be used.
[0143] The advantages of having active control over the
introduction of the substance is readily apparent. The pressure
devices are actively operated by the controlling mechanism and thus
the rate and volume of substance delivered may be controlled.
Accordingly, active delivery means that there is greater control so
that the precise concentration of the substance can be delivered at
the precise time, independent of the environment surrounding the
substance delivery device, or delivery apparatus.
[0144] The means by which the microprocessor can control this pump
can vary. The pump may be powered by an energy source (perhaps a
battery, an external source such as the animal's body, a magnetic
field, a spring or the like) and the action of the microprocessor
may be merely to connect or disconnect the pumps from the energy
source.
[0145] Alternatively, the microprocessor may control the valve or
valves which permit or prevent the flow of substance from the
delivery apparatus, and substance delivery device.
[0146] In one embodiment of the present invention, the
microprocessor may be programmed to control the release of varying
doses of differing hormones into the animal at predetermined times,
thus allowing for accurate determination of when oestrus
occurs.
[0147] According to a further aspect of the present invention there
is provided a method of controlling the delivery apparatus of a
substance delivery device substantially as described previously
characterised by the step of introducing predetermined amounts of
substance at predetermined times into the body of an animal.
[0148] There are further advantages of having an active control
delivery of substance to an animal. For example, there may be
provided sensors which monitor the environment around the substance
delivery device or delivery apparatus. The sensors may determine
when the environment is ideal for the introduction of a substance
into the body of the animal. This information may be then acted
upon by the microprocessor to control the delivery apparatus to
introduce those substances.
[0149] For example, the sensors could determine factors in the body
fluid surrounding the substance delivery device and/or delivery
apparatus, such as temperature, acidity. viscosity or even odour.
These physiological indicators may in some instances be more
accurate than a calendar date for determining when certain
substances should be introduced into the animal. With active
control, an accurate response to these physiological conditions is
possible.
[0150] In some embodiments of the present invention the
microprocessor may actually alter the size of the dose as well as
the timing depending upon the environment the device is in.
[0151] In other embodiments of the present invention the action of
the delivery apparatus may be remotely activated. For example, the
device may remain inactive within the animal for a period of time
until the farmer wishes to start the fertility cycle. At which
stage, the farmer may have an external device to the animal which
triggers the action of the delivery apparatus or wakes up the
microprocessor. This external device may come in many forms, for
example it may be a radio transmitter, an ultrasonic transmitter, a
magnet and so forth.
[0152] In some embodiments of the present invention, remote
programming of the microprocessor may be possible from outside the
animal or at time of insertion.
[0153] In other embodiments of the present invention the
microprocessor may be able to communicate to an external device.
For example, the microprocessor may feed back data as to how much
substance has been delivered, the temperature of the environment
and so forth.
[0154] An appropriate microprocessor for use with the present
invention is a four bit microprocessor or an 8 bit single chip
microprocessor such as a pic 16c54 or Z8 or Motorola 6805.
[0155] It should be appreciated that although reference throughout
this specification has been made to the use of the present
invention as a substance delivery device or delivery apparatus for
use within animals, the delivery apparatus, control mechanisms, and
retention apparatus described may be used in substance delivery
devices in other environments, particularly in environments which
it is not possible to directly access the substance delivery
device.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF DRAWINGS
[0156] Further aspects of the present invention will become
apparent from the ensuing description which is given by way of
example only and with reference to the accompanying drawings in
which:
[0157] FIG. 1 is a diagrammatic perspective view of a retention
apparatus in accordance with one embodiment of the present
invention, and
[0158] FIG. 2 is a diagrammatic perspective view of a retention
apparatus in accordance with another embodiment of the present
invention, and
[0159] FIG. 3 is a diagrammatic top plan view of a retention
apparatus in accordance with another embodiment of the present
invention, and
[0160] FIG. 4 is a diagrammatic cross section of the retention
apparatus in FIG. 3, in accordance with that embodiment of the
present invention, and
[0161] FIG. 5 is a diagrammatic cross-sectional view of a retention
apparatus in accordance with one embodiment of the present
invention, and
[0162] FIG. 6 is a diagrammatic cross-sectional view of a retention
apparatus in accordance with another embodiment of the present
invention, and
[0163] FIG. 7 is a diagrammatic cross-sectional view of a retention
apparatus in accordance with another embodiment of the present
invention, and
[0164] FIG. 8 is a diagrammatic cross-sectional view of a retention
apparatus in accordance with another embodiment of the present
invention, and
[0165] FIG. 9 is a diagrammatic cross-sectional view of a retention
apparatus in accordance with another embodiment of the present
invention, and
[0166] FIG. 10 is a diagrammatic cross-sectional view of a
retention apparatus in accordance with another embodiment of the
present invention, and
[0167] FIG. 11 is a diagrammatic cross-sectional view of a
retention apparatus in accordance with another embodiment of the
present invention, and
[0168] FIG. 12 is a diagrammatic cross-sectional view of a
retention apparatus in accordance with another embodiment of the
present invention, and
[0169] FIG. 13 is a diagrammatic view of a peristaltic device
fitted in accordance with one embodiment of the present invention,
and
[0170] FIG. 14 is a view of the pressure device action on the
flexible conduit, and
[0171] FIG. 15 is a diagrammatic view of a delivery apparatus which
can be used in accordance with one embodiment of the present
invention, and
[0172] FIG. 16 is a diagrammatic view of a valve of a delivery
apparatus used in accordance with a preferred embodiment of the
present invention, and
[0173] FIG. 17 is a diagrammatic cross-sectional view of a delivery
apparatus used in accordance with a preferred embodiment of the
present invention, and
[0174] FIG. 18 is a diagrammatic view of an open valve of a
delivery apparatus used in accordance with a preferred embodiment
of the present invention, and
[0175] FIG. 19 is a diagrammatic view of a closed valve of a
delivery apparatus used in accordance with a preferred embodiment
of the present invention, and
[0176] FIG. 20 is a graphical representation of a possible cycle
which can be initiated with the present invention.
BEST MODES FOR CARRYING OUT THE INVENTION
[0177] With reference to the diagrams by way of example only there
is provided substance delivery device generally indicated by arrow
1. The substance delivery device 1 includes retention apparatus
generally indicated by arrow 2. The substance delivery device 1 is
capable of insertion into a body cavity or passage of an
animal.
[0178] The retention apparatus 2 includes multiple arms 3
characterised in that the arms 3 are substantially flexible.
[0179] FIGS. 1 and 2 are diagrammatic perspective views of the
retention apparatus 2 for a device 1 capable of insertion into a
body cavity of an animal, according to one embodiment of the
present invention.
[0180] The multiple arms 3 of the retention apparatus 2 are
substantially straight, thin and substantially circular to reduce
the interference with the normal flow of body secretions, such as
mucus in the vagina.
[0181] The shaft 4 of each arm 3 is substantially elongate to
enable the retention apparatus 2 to engage with the walls of a body
cavity of an animal. The tip 5 of each arm 3 has a substantially
greater cross-sectional dimension than the shaft 4 of the arm 3. In
preferred embodiments, the tip 5 is substantially bulbous which
obviates problems of irritation of the internal walls of the
animal's body cavity.
[0182] The arms 3 of the retention apparatus 2 are substantially
flexible, which enables the arms 3 to be aligned for insertion into
the body cavity of an animal, and also enables the arms 3 to
withstand the forces of the internal peristaltic waves within the
body cavity of the animal. The substantial flexibility of the arms
3 enables the arms 3 to bend in response to the peristaltic waves
without breaking, and enables the arms 3 to return to their fully
extended retaining position once the peristaltic waves have
passed.
[0183] The arms 3 of the retention apparatus 2 are moulded as an
integral part of the body of a device 1 to which the retention
apparatus 2 is attached. In one preferred embodiment the arms 3 of
the retention apparatus 2 are resiliently hinged 6 at the junction
7 between the shaft 4 of the arm 3 and the body of the device 1 (as
in FIGS. 7 to 10 inclusive). Or in another preferred embodiment,
the arms 3 are completely moulded to the body of the device 1 (as
in FIGS. 5, 6, 11 and 12).
[0184] The arms 3 of the retention apparatus 2 are operable between
an aligned inserting position (as in FIGS. 5, 7, 9 and 11) and an
extended retaining position (as in FIGS. 6, 8, 10 and 12). In the
inserting position, the arms 3 are capable of being aligned
substantially parallel to the body of the device 1 as shown in
FIGS. 5 and 7. Alternatively, in other preferred embodiments the
arms 3 of the retention apparatus 2 may be aligned with each other
and the longitudinal axis of the device 1, as in FIGS. 9 and
11.
[0185] The arms 3 of the retention apparatus 2 are capable of being
locked into the extended retaining position by the action of a
spring-loaded collar 8. When the retention apparatus 2 is in its
inserting position, the spring-loaded collar is cocked, as shown in
FIGS. 5, 7, 9 and 11. During the process of insertion, when
pressure is no longer applied to the arms 3 by an operator, an
applicator, or the walls of the opening of the passage or body
cavity into which the device is inserted, the arms 3 of the
retention apparatus 2 are capable of moving towards the extended
retaining position. This movement of the arms 3 activates the
spring-loaded collar 8 to move in a direction substantially in-line
with the longitudinal axis of the body of the device 1, and towards
the arms 3. The spring-loaded collar 8 may operate in conjunction
with the resiliently hinged arms 3 as in FIG. 8, or in conjunction
with the substantially flexible arms 3, as in FIG. 6; by the action
of the spring-loaded collar 8 in conjunction with a plunger 9 and
resiliently hinged arms 3 as in FIG. 10, or by the action of a
spring-loaded collar 8 in conjunction with plunger 9 and the
substantial flexibility of the arms 3, as in FIG. 12.
[0186] The spring-loaded collar 8 operates to lock the arms 3 of
the retention apparatus 2 in a plane substantially perpendicular to
the body of the device 1. When locked in the extended retaining
position the arms 3 of the retention apparatus 2 are located in a
substantially radial arrangement around the body of the device 1 as
in FIGS. 1 and 2.
[0187] Removal of the retention apparatus 2 may be effected by
withdrawal of the device 1. During withdrawal of the substantially
flexible arms 3 of the retention apparatus 2 may be realigned into
a position substantially parallel to, or in line with the
longitudinal axis of the body of the device 1. This alignment may
be achieved through pressure exerted on the arms 3 by the walls of
the animal's passage or body cavity through which the device is
removed.
[0188] With respect to FIG. 13 there is illustrated a peristaltic
device generally indicated by arrow 10 fitted into a delivery
apparatus generally indicated by arrow 11.
[0189] The delivery apparatus 11 comprises a housing 12 containing
reservoirs 13 containing the substances to be delivered by the
delivery apparatus 11. The reservoirs 13 have connection lines 14
to three pressure devices in the form of piezo pumps 15.
[0190] A flexible conduit 16 leads to the outlet 17 of the delivery
apparatus 1 1. The conduit 16 fits between three piezo pumps 15 and
a pressure device controlling mechanism 18.
[0191] In this device 1 the controlling mechanism 18 is a
microprocessor.
[0192] Also inside the housing 12 is an energy source 19 in the
form of a battery and an inlet 20 that allows air into the housing
12 preventing the creation of a vacuum.
[0193] FIG. 14 illustrates the action of the piezo pumps 15 on the
flexible conduit 16.
[0194] If pressure from each pump 15 is sequentially applied to the
flexible conduit 16, the substance 21 is forced along flexible
conduit 16. The pumps 15 have restraints 22.
[0195] Operation of the present invention may occur as follows. The
connection lines 14 may cause substance holding bodies 13 to
release substance into the flexible conduit 16. The pressure
devices 15 apply pressure to the flexible conduit 16 to move the
substance along the flexible conduit 16 to the substance outlet
17.
[0196] FIG. 15 also illustrates the construction of a delivery
apparatus 11. The delivery apparatus 11 has an outer housing 12, an
active delivery means in the form of a pump 23. a control means in
the form of a microprocessor 18, an energy source in the form of a
battery 19, and reservoirs 13 to hold the substances to be
delivered.
[0197] In this embodiment, the reservoirs 13 are flexible walled
and situated near one end of the delivery apparatus 11.
[0198] The inlet 20 comprises a one way valve 13 situated at the
end of the housing 12. The inlet 20 leads into an air space 24
adjacent the reservoirs 13.
[0199] The reservoirs 13 are connected by conduits to the pump 23,
which in turn is connected to an outlet 17 at the opposite end of
the housing 12 to the one way valve 20.
[0200] In operation, the pump 13 and the microprocessor 18 are
powered by the battery 19. The microprocessor 18 turns on the pump
13 and selects which of the substances in the reservoirs 13 are to
be pumped through the conduits to the outlet 17 at a predetermined
time. The pumping action causes air to enter the one way valve 20
and to air space 24. This allows the flexible wall containers to
collapse under the air pressure as the substance is being pumped
therefrom.
[0201] FIGS. 16, 17, 18 and 19 illustrates a metering valve 20 of a
preferred embodiment of the present invention which operates on a
reversed magnetic polarity principle.
[0202] The metering valve 20 consists of a moving armature 25 and a
stationary armature 26. The armature 25 and 26 are preferably made
out of soft iron or other magnetised material.
[0203] In this preferred embodiment, the reservoir 13 contains an
active substance to be dispensed. The active substance is dissolved
or suspended in a fluid, such that the resultant solution is of a
low to modest viscosity, such as is found with weak aqueous
solutions, alcohol, or light oil.
[0204] The reservoir 13 is pressurised. The pressure may be applied
by a number of means, such as a spring and plunger system.
[0205] This embodiment relies on activation of a coil member 27.
The coil member 27 is preferably operated at a low frequency and at
a very low duty cycle. Typically however, the on off times of the
coil member 27 will be greater than one second.
[0206] When the coil member 27 is activated, a solenoid action
occurs. This in turn causes the moving armature 25 to be attracted
to the stationary armature 26. When the coil member 27 is turned
off, the magnetising circuit decays. When the magnetising circuit
decays, a volume of the active fluid solution which has passed from
the reservoir 13 into a dosing chamber 29, and is equal in volume
to the displaced diameter of the moving armature 25, is then pushed
out of the outlet 17. The valve 20 includes a disk which acts as a
non-return valve. Accordingly, this causes the displaced fluid to
be pushed forward when the coil member 27 is de-energised.
[0207] While the coil member 27 is activated, the moving armature
25 is sealed against the stationary armature 26. This seal prevents
the dosing chamber from being refilled from the reservoir 13.
Accordingly. the dosing volume is relatively independent of the
fluid reservoir pressure and the operating time of the valve
20.
[0208] A spring 28 is used to keep the moving armature 25 and the
metering valve 20 seated on the outlet 17. The force of this spring
28 needs only be sufficient to ensure that the valve 20 seals
reliably.
[0209] In some embodiments, metal laminations around the coil
member 17 and within the outlet 17, may be used to improve the
efficiency of the metering system.
[0210] Preferably, the stationary armature 26 is in contact with
the fluid held in the reservoir 13. Accordingly, a suitable
protective coating may be used to protect the stationary armature
26, and also the moving armature 25 from the effects of the fluid
being dispensed.
[0211] In other embodiments of the present invention the moving
armature 25 may be differently configured, to include a flat plate
with laser drilled, or chemically milled cavities which form the
dosing chamber(s).
[0212] FIG. 20 illustrates a possible dosing scenario showing
different doses of different hormones (indicated by different fill
colours) being dispensed over predetermined times with the date of
oestrus being positively defined.
[0213] Aspects of the present invention have been described by way
of example only and it should be appreciated that modifications and
additions may be made thereto without departing from the scope
thereof, as defined in the appended claims.
* * * * *