Patent ID: 6719739
Filing Date: 2004-04-13
Classification: A61M,Y10T

Abstract:
A method of assembling an implantable infusion pump having a reservoir for storing fluid, an outlet port, a metering system for metering fluid in the reservoir to the outlet port, a bulkhead for positioning the reservoir and metering system, the bulkhead having an outer periphery; a first case having a bottom surface and a first case side wall, the first case side wall terminating in a first case terminal end, the first case having a thickness; and a second case having a top surface and an second case side wall, the second case side wall having an inner surface and an outer surface, the second case side wall terminating in an second case terminal end and having an ultimate end near the second case terminal end, the second case having a thickness, the method connecting the second case to the bulkhead and the first case to the second case and comprising the steps of:forming an inward bend in the second case side wall to form a displaced end portion substantially parallel, although inwardly displaced, to the second case side wall opposite the inward bend, the amount of displacement of the displaced end portion being about equal to the thickness of the first case; locating and connecting the second case terminal end to the bulkhead whereby the inner surface of the second case side wall near the second case terminal end is in contact with the bulkhead, the step of locating and connecting the second case terminal end to the bulkhead including welding the second case terminal end to the bulkhead; and locating and sealingly connecting the first case terminal end to the outside surface of the displaced end portion whereby the first case is connected to the second case, the step of locating and sealingly connecting the first case terminal end to the outside surface of the displaced end portion including welding the first case terminal end to the second case side wall.