MODULAR GAS-PRESSURED NEEDLED-LESS INJECTOR

Abstract: A needle-less injector suitable for injecting fluid through a surface includes a housing, a driver, an engine and a trigger. The housing contains a fluid and the engine contains a compresser gas. Upon application of sufficient force to the trigger, the compressed gas is released from the engine forcing the driver through the interior of the housing, expelling the liquid from the housing at a speed sufficient to pierce and injection surface. In one embodiment, the needle-less injector includes a mechanism for mitigating the kickback associated with releasing compressed gas from the engine. In another embodiment, the housing includes finger rests that provide stability and resistance to activate the device. In another embodiment, a safety clamp is included on the housing, preventing accidental activation of the device.

Description: MODULAR GAS-PRESSURED NEEDLE-LESS INJECTOR RELATED APPLICATIONS This application is related to U.S. patent application serial No. 09/566,928, filed May 6, 2000. Further, this application generally relates to U.S. patent application serial No. 09/215,769, filed December 19, 1998, now U.S. Patent No. 6,063,053, which is a continuation of U.S. patent application serial No. 08/727,911, filed October 9, 1996, now U.S. Patent No. 5,851,198, which is a continuation-in-part of U.S. patent application serial No. 08/719,459, filed September 25, 1996, now U.S. Patent No. 5,730,723, which is a continuation-in-part of U.S. patent application serial No. 08/451,470, filed October 10, 1995, now abandoned. This application is also generally related to U.S. patent application serial No. 09/192,079, filed November 14, 1998, now U.S. Patent No. 6,080,130, and to U.S. patent application serial No. [attorney docket No. 69816-0250782], filed March 14, 2001. FIELD OF THE INVENTION This invention relates to needle-less injectors, and in particular, modular gas- pressured needle-less injectors and methods of performing needle-less injections using the same. BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION: Traditionally, fluids such as medications are injected into patients, either subdermally or intradermally, using hypodermic syringe needles. The body ofthe syringe is filled with the injectable fluid and, once the needle has pierced the patient's skin, the syringe plunger is depressed so as to expel the injectable fluid out of an opening in the needle. The person performing the injection is usually a trained medical services provider, who manually inserts the hypodermic needle between the layers of a patient's skin for an intradermal injection, or beneath the skin layers for a subcutaneous injection. Intradermal or subdermal delivery of a medication through the use of a hypodermic needle requires some skill and training for proper and safe administration. In addition, the traditional method of intradermal injections requires actual physical contact and penetration of a needle through the skin surface ofthe patient, which can be painful for the patient. Traditional needle injectors, such as hypodermic syringes, are also expensive to produce and difficult to use with prepackaged medication doses. Needle injectors also suffer from increased danger of contamination exposure to health care workers administering the injections, and to the general public when such injectors are not properly disposed of. Jet injectors are generally designed to avoid some or all of these problems. However, not only are conventional jet injectors cumbersome and awkward, but, existing conventional jet injectors are only capable of subcutaneous delivery of a medication beneath the skin layers of a patient. Conventional jet injectors are also somewhat dangerous to use, since they can be discharged without being placed against the skin surface. With a fluid delivery speed of about 800 feet per second (fps) and higher, a conventional jet injector could injure a person's eye at a distance of up to 15 feet. In addition, jet injectors that have not been properly sterilized are notorious for creating infections at the injection site. Moreover, if a jet injector is not positioned properly against the injection site, the injection can result in wetting on the skin surface. Problems associated with improper dosage amounts may arise as well, if some portion ofthe fluid intended for injection remains on the skin surface following an injection, having not been properly injected into and/or through the skin surface. Typically, needle-less medication injectors use either an expansion spring or a compressed inert gas to propel the fluid medication (via a push rod plunger) through a small orifice (an injector nozzle) which rests perpendicular to and against the injection site. The fluid medication is generally accelerated at a high rate to a speed of between about 800 feet per second (fps) and 1 ,200 fps (approximately 244 and 366 meters per second, respectively). This causes the fluid to pierce through the skin surface without the use of a needle, resulting in the medication being deposited in a flower pattern under the skin surface. It should be noted, however, that compression spring propelled jet injectors do not offer linear delivery speeds (constant speed ofthe fluid being injected). In addition to this problem, spring propelled jet injectors with weak (e.g., deteriorated) springs often slow fluid delivery speed down while an injection is being administered, resulting in improper fluid penetration. Reduced speed ofthe fluid can cause improper dosing and bruising at the injection site when the injection surface is the skin of a human recipient. In a jet injector, if the inert gas is not quickly and properly expelled, fluid may be improperly injected, as with those devices employing a compression spring. Conventional disposable needle-less injectors, such as those shown in U.S. Patent No. 4,913,699 to Parsons and U.S. Patent No. 5,009,637 to Newman et al. show a gas-containing, breakable tube that is shattered or cracked open by a side mounted trigger. Difficulties arise in the need to maintain tight tolerances on the breakable member, since minor changes in thickness can dramatically effect the pressure needed to deploy the gas from the gas chamber ofthe device. In addition, the broken shards ofthe breakable member are ejected at high speed when the gas is expelled and these shards can occasionally jam between the plunger driver and the housing, thereby preventing proper operation ofthe needle-less injector. Attempts to prevent small shards from being formed would obviate some of this potential, but tend to make activation ofthe device more difficult. U.S. Patent No. 6,080,130, U.S. Patent No. 6,063,053, U.S. Patent No. 5,851,198 and U.S. Patent No. 5,730,723 describe needle-less injectors incorporating a gas power source, thus obviating some ofthe limitations inherent in compression spring injectors and addressing many ofthe concerns of conventional jet injectors. The injectors described therein have a pre-fiUed and self-contained compressed gas for providing pressure to inject medication into the skin surface of a patient without the use of a needle. Gas power sources for needle-less injectors that employ either pop valves or breakaway tab valves to release the inert gas stored in their respective gas chambers, however, may only be opened once, thereby presenting difficulty with regard to quality control testing measures. Further, operation of many injectors requires a user to depress a trigger, relying mainly on resistance force from the injection surface to initiate an injection. Where the underlying surface is sensitive, applying such pressure may not be advantageous. Further, if the injection surface is slippery such a device may slide out of place during an injection rendering its use potentially injurious and possibly resulting in improper fluid delivery. SUMMARY OF THE DISCLOSURE It is therefore an object of an embodiment ofthe instant invention to provide gas- pressured needle-less injectors that obviate, for practical purposes, the above-mentioned limitations. In one embodiment ofthe instant invention, a needle-less injector suitable for injecting fluid through an injection surface includes a housing, a trigger, an engine, and a driver. The housing contains a fluid and the engine contains a compressed gas. Upon application of a sufficient amount of force to the trigger, the compressed gas is released from the engine forcing the driver through the interior ofthe housing, expelling the liquid from the housing at a speed sufficient to pierce an injection surface. In another embodiment ofthe instant invention, the needle-less injector includes a mechanism for mitigating the kickback associated with releasing compressed gas from the engine. Grips may be included on the engine, mechanically coupling the engine to an element ofthe needle-less injector that is affixed to the housing, thereby preventing the engine from separating from the housing upon release of compressed gas from the engine. Also, retainer hooks on the interior ofthe trigger corresponding to latch retainer mechanisms on the exterior ofthe housing further prevent the engine from separating from the housing. In yet another embodiment ofthe instant invention, the housing ofthe needle-less injector includes finger rests that provide stability in administering an injection and provide resistance to activate the needle-less injector. Thus, a user need not rely solely on resistance from the injection surface to initiate the administration of an injection. The finger rests may be included on opposing sides ofthe housing, designed to comfortably receive the fingers of a user without substantial slippage. In yet another embodiment ofthe instant invention, the engine ofthe needle-less injector is fitted with a reusable valve. The valve may contain a rubber head that is held against a fixed element ofthe engine such that depression ofthe trigger separates the head from the fixed element, releasing the compressed gas from the engine and, further, forcing the driver to expel liquid from the housing. A spring may be included in the valve to help maintain a proper airtight seal with the canister holding the compressed gas. In yet another embodiment ofthe instant invention, a safety clamp is included on the exterior ofthe housing ofthe needle-less injector, preventing accidental activation of the device. The safety clamp must be removed prior to use and may be made of a sufficiently elastic material such that a user need only deform the clamp, aided by grips included thereon, to remove the clamp from the housing. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS FIGS, la-le illustrate a needle-less injector in accordance with an embodiment of the instant invention. FIG. la is a side perspective view prior to administration of an injection, shown at 0° rotation about the central axis ofthe injector, FIG. lb is a side cross- sectional view, the injector having been rotated 90° about the central axis, FIG. lc is a side perspective view at 0° rotation about the central axis, FIG. Id is a side perspective view after administration of an injection, shown at 180° rotation about the central axis ofthe injector and FIG. le is a side partial cross-sectional view after administration of an injection, the injector having been rotated 90° about the central axis. FIGS.2a-2c illustrate the housing of a needle-less injector in accordance with an embodiment ofthe instant invention. FIG. 2a is a side perspective view at 180° rotation about the central axis ofthe injector, FIG. 2b is a proximate end perspective view and FIG. 2c is a distal end perspective view. FIGS. 3a-c illustrate the ampoule cap of a needle-less injector in accordance with an embodiment ofthe instant invention. FIG. 3a is a side perspective view, FIG. 3b is a side cross-sectional view and FIG. 3 c is a proximate end perspective view. FIGS. 4a-c illustrate the plunger of a needle-less injector in accordance with an embodiment ofthe instant invention. FIG. 4a is a side perspective view, FIG. 4b is a side cross-sectional view and FIG. 4c is a proximate end perspective view. FIGS. 5a-d illustrate the piston of a needle-less injector in accordance with an embodiment ofthe instant invention. FIG. 5a is a side perspective view, FIG. 5b is a side cross-sectional view, FIG. 5c is a proximate end perspective view and FIG. 5d is a distal end perspective view. FIGS. 6a-d illustrate the diffuser of a needle-less injector in accordance with an embodiment ofthe instant invention. FIG. 6a is a side perspective view, FIG. 6b is a side cross-sectional view, FIG. 6c is a proximate end perspective view and FIG. 6d is a distal end perspective view. FIGS. 7a-i illustrate various configurations of channels in the diffuser of a needle- less injector in accordance with embodiments ofthe instant invention. FIGS. 8a-d illustrate the trigger of a needle-less injector in accordance with an embodiment ofthe instant invention. FIG. 8a is a side perspective view at 0° rotation about the central axis ofthe trigger, FIG. 8b is a side cross-sectional view at 90° rotation, FIG. 8c is a proximate end perspective view and FIG. 8d is a distal end perspective view. FIGS. 9a-b illustrate the safety clamp of a needle-less injector in accordance with an embodiment ofthe instant invention. FIG. 9a is a proximate end perspective view and FIG. 9b is a side perspective view. FIGS. lOa-d illustrate the engine housing of a needle-less injector in accordance with an embodiment ofthe instant invention. FIG. 10a is a side perspective view, FIG. 10b is a side cross-sectional view, FIG. 10c is a proximate end perspective view and FIG. 1 Od is a distal end perspective view. FIGS. 1 la-d illustrate the valve body of a needle-less injector in accordance with an embodiment ofthe instant invention. FIG. 1 la is a side perspective view, FIG. 1 lb is a side cross-sectional view and FIG. 1 lc is a proximate end perspective view. FIGS. 12a-c illustrate the closing ferrule of a needle-less injector in accordance with an embodiment ofthe instant invention, prior to the closing ferrule being mechanically fitted around a valve body and an engine housing. FIG. 12a is a side perspective view, FIG. 12b is a side cross-sectional view and FIG. 12c is a proximate end perspective view. FIGS. 13a-d illustrate the threaded valve stem guide of a needle-less injector in accordance with an embodiment ofthe instant invention. FIG. 13a is a side perspective view in partial cross-section, FIG. 13b is a side cross-sectional view, FIG. 13c is a proximate end perspective view and FIG. 13d is a distal end perspective view. FIGS. 14a-c illustrate the valve stem of a needle-less injector in accordance with an embodiment ofthe instant invention. FIG. 14a is a side perspective view, FIG. 14b is a side cross-sectional view prior to the distal end being shaped and FIG. 14c is a proximate end perspective view. FIGS. 15a-b illustrate the valve spring of a needle-less injector in accordance with an embodiment ofthe instant invention. FIG. 15a is a side perspective view in the relaxed state, FIG. 15b is a side perspective view in the compressed state. FIG. 16 is a graph depicting the velocity of the driver of an embodiment of the instant invention during administration of an injection. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS As shown in the drawings for purposes of illustration, the invention is embodied in a gas-pressured needle-less injector. In preferred embodiments ofthe present invention, the gas-pressured needle-less injector is pre-loaded with medication and is adapted for a single use. Preferably, the needle-less injector is for use with human beings or other animals. However, it will be recognized that further embodiments ofthe invention may be used in other applications requiring needle-less injection, such as passing injectable materials through a porous membrane or the like. Also, embodiments ofthe present invention may be used to inject other fluids or injectants such as proteins, vitamins, hormones, drugs, vaccines, medications, lyophilized medications, medication cocktails, or the like, and such are contemplated as being within the scope ofthe term "liquid" as used herein. In preferred embodiments, the liquids used in accordance with the present invention are de-gassed prior to filling into the needle-less injector or are of sufficient chemical properties such that the liquids de-gas immediately upon or soon after filling, as described in U.S. patent application serial No. [attorney docket No. 69816-0250782], filed March 14, 2001. In either of such preferred embodiments, substantially no gas pocket develops in the interior cavity where the liquid resides during storage ofthe needle-less injector, prior to use. For ease in describing the various elements ofthe instant invention, the following spatial coordinate system will apply thereto. As depicted in FIG. lc, a central axis is defined through the length of a gas-pressured needle-less injector 100. This central axis 1 has one terminus at the proximate end 2 ofthe needle-less injector 100, defined as that end ofthe device in contact with an injection surface during normal operation ofthe injector. The other terminus ofthe central axis is at the distal end 3 ofthe injector 100, defined as that end ofthe device furthest from the injection surface when the injector is positioned perpendicular to the injection surface. Thus, various elements ofthe device ofthe instant invention may be described with reference to their respective proximate and distal portions, as well as their central axes. As depicted in FIG. 1, a gas-pressured needle-less injector 100 includes a housing 201. The housing 201 may be of any suitable shape, though in preferred embodiments it is roughly cylindrical about the central axis. The housing 201 preferably has a varying interior diameter along its length to accommodate the elements that reside and operate therein when the injector 100 is fully assembled. The housing 201 depicted in FIG. 2a has four such interior diameters: an ampoule diameter 202, a piston diameter 203, a diffuser diameter 204 and an engine diameter 205, respectively. Embodiments ofthe instant invention preferably do not have an ampoule that is a mechanical element separate and distinct from the housing 201, yet the housing 201 may act as an ampoule for various purposes such as filling with liquid. The exterior portion 206 ofthe proximate end surface ofthe housing 201 may be flat, though in preferred embodiments it is of a shape that maximizes injector efficacy. Efficacy is optimal when substantially all liquid contained in the injector 100 is delivered through the injection surface, leaving substantially no liquid on either the injection surface or the exterior portion 206 ofthe proximate end surface ofthe housing 201 after an injection is complete (see FIGS. Id and le). To that end, in the embodiment depicted in FIG. 2a, the exterior portion 206 ofthe proximate end ofthe housing 201 is adapted to pinch and stretch the surface through which an injection is to be administered, as the exterior portion 206 ofthe proximate end surface ofthe housing 201 is brought into contact with an injection surface. Thus, the exterior portion 206 ofthe proximate end of -l i¬ the housing 201 preferably has a conical shape about the central axis, and further possesses an elevated rim 207 around its circumference. The interior portion 208 ofthe proximate end ofthe housing 201 may be of any appropriate shape. It may conform roughly to the shape ofthe exterior portion 207, or have a design independent thereof. In one embodiment, the interior portion 208 is flat, though preferably, as depicted in FIG. 2a the interior portion 208 is roughly conical, with at least one orifice 209 at or near the vertex 210. The needle-less injector 100 depicted in FIG. 1 is shown with only one orifice. The at least one orifice 209 provides fluid communication between the interior 214 ofthe housing 201 and the surface through which an injection is administered. The number of orifices 209 may be varied depending on the delivery parameters ofthe liquid to be injected. One such parameter is the depth to which a liquid must penetrate a recipient's tissue, when the device is used for the injection of a medicament into a human being. For example, in one embodiment it may be desirable to inject a liquid just beneath the outermost skin layers of a recipient, and multiple orifices may best suit that end. Alternatively, a single orifice may be most desirable for an injection that requires deeper penetration for maximum drug efficacy. An exhaust passage 211 may be created through the housing 201, from the interior wall 212 to the exterior wall 213, preferably within the section ofthe housing 201 of ampoule diameter 202. The exhaust passage 211 allows gas to vent from the interior 214 ofthe housing 201 preferably only after an injection has been administered. Thus, most preferably, the exhaust passage 211 is located at a point in the housing 201 at or immediately distal to the location ofthe piston 500 (see FIGS. Id and le) after administration of an injection. In these most preferred embodiments, gas may not vent from the interior 214 ofthe housing 201 through the exhaust passage 211 until after substantially all liquid contained in the housing 201 has been discharged from the needle- less injector 100, with the piston 500 at rest in its final position. Liquid stored in the needle-less injector 100, prior to administration of an injection, is preferably contained in the interior 214 ofthe housing 201 in the region bounded by the interior portion 208 ofthe proximate end ofthe housing 201, the interior wall 212 ofthe housing 201 and the proximate end 403 ofthe plunger 400 (see FIG. la and 2a). As depicted in FIG. 2a, the housing 201 may further include finger rests 215. In preferred embodiments, two such finger rests 215 are formed on the exterior wall 213 of the housing 201 at opposing locations. Most preferably, the finger rests 215 are located directly opposite one another. In preferred embodiments, each finger rest 215 has an arc 216 on the proximate side thereof to accommodate proper finger placement for either self- administration of an injection or assisted administration by a health care professional or the like. In the most preferred embodiments, the arcs 216 ofthe finger rests 215 further contain a non-slip, textured surface 217. When the needle-less injector 100 is used by an individual performing self- administration of an injection, the individual's thumb and middle finger may be placed in the arcs 216 ofthe finger rests 215 on opposing sides ofthe housing 201 for stabilization ofthe device, with the index finger operably placed against the trigger 800 at the distal end ofthe injector 100. Another manner in which a user may perform self-administration of an injection, which is also the manner preferred when the needle-less injector 100 is operated by an individual other than the recipient of an injection, involves the index and middle fingers being placed in the arcs 216 ofthe finger rests 215 on opposing sides ofthe housing 201 for stabilization ofthe device, with the thumb operably placed against the trigger 800 at the distal end ofthe injector 100. The housing 201 may further contain at least one latch retainer mechanism 218 near the distal end. The at least one latch retainer mechanism 218 may be comprised of a single set of saw tooth ridges that encircle the exterior wall 213 of the housing 201 around its central axis. More preferably, there are two latch retainer mechanisms 218 comprising two sets of saw tooth ridges 219, disposed opposite one another on the exterior wall 213 of the housing 201, though any appropriate number of latch retainer mechanisms 218 may be utilized. Preferably, as shown in FIG. lb, the housing 201 further contains a clamp indentation 220 that is defined on its proximate end by a ridge 221 and on its distal end by the at least one latch retainer mechanism 218 and the proximate end ofthe trigger 800. The proximate end ofthe housing 201 may further be fit with an ampoule cap 300, as depicted in FIG. 3, which serves to maintain sterility ofthe exterior portion 206 ofthe proximate end surface ofthe housing 201 while the needle-less injector 100 is stored. Further, when de-gassed liquids are used in accordance with the present invention, the ampoule cap 300 provides the requisite airtight seal between the at least one orifice 209 in the proximate end ofthe housing 201 and the local atmosphere, such that the de-gassed liquids may remain gas-free during storage. Referring again to FIG. 3, the interior 301 of the ampoule cap 300 is preferably designed to conform substantially to the exterior surface 206 ofthe proximate end ofthe housing 201, while the exterior 302 ofthe ampoule cap 300 may be of any convenient configuration. As depicted in FIG. 4, the housing 201 may be fit with a plunger 400. Preferably, the plunger 400 is pressure-fit within the housing 201, as its diameter is equivalent to or slightly greater than the ampoule diameter 202 ofthe housing 201. The plunger 400 is preferably constructed of a sufficiently elastic material such that the pressure-fit creates an air and liquid-tight seal with the interior wall 212 ofthe housing 201. The plunger 400 is preferably cylindrical to mirror the shape ofthe interior wall 212 ofthe housing 201, though other shapes may be suitable especially where the interior wall 212 ofthe housing 201 is not cylindrical. Moreover, the wall 401 ofthe plunger 400 may have multiple ridges 402 disposed thereupon. Preferably, there are at least two such ridges 402, and most preferably there are three ridges 402. These ridges 402 provide stability to the plunger 400 such that its direction of travel during administration of an injection remains substantially linear along the central axis, without rotational motion around any axis other than the central axis. The proximate end 403 ofthe plunger 400 may be of any suitable shape, including a flat surface, though in preferred embodiments it roughly mirrors the shape ofthe interior wall 208 ofthe proximate end ofthe housing 201. However, the elastic properties ofthe plunger material may allow the proximate end 403 ofthe plunger 400 to conform to the shape of a surface different than its own when mechanically forced against such a surface. Thus, the shape ofthe proximate end 403 ofthe plunger 400 need not mirror the shape of the interior wall 208 ofthe proximate end ofthe housing 201, yet the plunger proximate end 403 may conform to the shape ofthe interior wall 208 when forced against it during or after an injection is administered. In most preferred embodiments, however, the proximate end 403 ofthe plunger 400 is roughly conical in shape. The distal end 404 ofthe plunger 400 may similarly be of any suitable shape, and is received by the proximate end ofthe piston 500. In preferred embodiments, the plunger 400 is symmetrical in shape along a plane perpendicular to the central axis. Thus, in preferred embodiments, the distal end 404 ofthe plunger 400 is roughly conical in shape. The housing 201 may be fit with a piston 500, as depicted in FIG. 5. The piston 500 preferably is of roughly cylindrical shape along the length of its central axis with a flared portion 501 toward its distal end, though other shapes may be appropriate especially in those embodiments where the interior wall 212 ofthe housing 201 is non-cylindrical. Preferably, the proximate end 502 ofthe piston 500 is shaped such that it mechanically receives the distal end 404 ofthe plunger 400. Thus, in most preferred embodiments, the proximate end 502 ofthe piston 500 is a roughly conical indentation. In preferred embodiments, the piston 500 further includes a chamber 503 that extends from the vertex ofthe conical indentation 502 along the central axis ofthe piston 500. The exterior ofthe distal section ofthe piston is preferably a flared portion 501, terminating in an expansion cup rim 504. In most preferred embodiments, the distal section ofthe piston further has a hollow expansion cup 505. This expansion cup 505 is not in gaseous communication with the chamber 503 that extends from the proximate end 502 ofthe piston 500 along the piston central axis, as the chamber 503 does not extend entirely through the piston 500 to the expansion cup 505. Referring to FIGS. 2a and 5, the distal section ofthe piston 500 may be pressure-fit within the portion ofthe housing 201 of piston diameter 203, such that the diameter ofthe expansion cup rim 504 ofthe piston 500 is substantially equivalent to the piston diameter 203 ofthe housing 201. Alternatively, the diameter ofthe expansion cup rim 504 may be slightly less than the piston diameter 203 ofthe housing 201. During use ofthe needle- less injector 100, the expansion cup 505 may expand radially due to the force of compressed gas pushing upon it. This serves to optimize the performance ofthe piston 500, as a substantially airtight seal is thus formed between the expansion cup rim 504 and the interior wall 212 ofthe housing 201. The housing 201 may be fit with a diffuser 600, as depicted in FIG. 6. The diffuser 600 is preferably affixed to the housing 201 along the interior wall 212 thereof at the portion of diffuser diameter 204. Affixing may be performed by high frequency welding or other suitable means. Most preferably, the diffuser 600 is affixed to the housing 201 only after the plunger 400 and piston 500 have been fit within the housing 201. The diffuser 600 preferably further contains at least one channel 601 that provides gaseous communication between the distal end 602 ofthe diffuser 600 and the base ofthe diffuser cup 603. The at least one channel 601 is sized and positioned to optimize the injection delivery parameters of a particular liquid. In preferred embodiments, as illustratively depicted in FIG. 7, the diffuser 600 may contain between two and eight channels 601, which may be ofthe same or different diameter, and may be symmetrically or non-symmetrically oriented about the central axis ofthe diffuser 600. Selection of various combinations of channels 601 in the diffuser 600 will affect the delivery performance ofthe needle-less injector 100, altering, for example, the initial acceleration ofthe driver ofthe needle-less injector 100. The velocity ofthe driver ofthe preferred embodiment ofthe instant invention is depicted in FIG. 16. Notably, the compressed gas engine ofthe instant invention allows for a substantially constant delivery velocity during the bulk ofthe injection. Referring to FIG. 6b, a valve stem support depression 604 may further be included on the distal end 602 ofthe diffuser 600, located at the diffuser central axis. The diffuser 600 may further contain a locking ring 605 around its outer circumference. Preferably the locking ring 605 is angled on its distal surface 606, but is flat on its proximate surface 607. The housing 201 may further be fit with a trigger 800, as depicted in FIG. 8. The trigger 800 is preferably roughly cylindrical, to match the shape ofthe exterior wall 213 of the housing 201. The distal end ofthe trigger 800 may have a depression 801 therein, and in preferred embodiments this depression 801 may further be textured for non-slip finger placement during operation ofthe needle-less injector 100. The trigger 800 preferably contains at least one retainer hook mechanism 802 used both for securing the trigger 800 to the housing 201 and for mitigating the kickback associated with deploying the compressed gas stored in the engine housing 1000. Without such a safety feature, the force created by release of gas stored in the engine housing 1000 may cause the engine assembly to separate from the remainder ofthe needle-less injector 100, potentially resulting in both an improper injection and injury to the user. The at least one retainer hook mechanism 802 operably mates with the at least one latch retainer mechanism 218 located near the distal end ofthe housing 201 as the retainer hook 803 at the proximate end ofthe retainer hook mechanism 802 locks around consecutive saw tooth ridges 219 that preferably comprise the latch retainer mechanism 218. In preferred embodiments, there are two retainer hook mechanisms 802, located opposite one another on the trigger 800, that spatially correspond to two latch retainer mechanisms 218 on the exterior wall 213 ofthe housing 201. The at least one retainer hook mechanism 802 and at least one latch retainer mechanism 218 preferably prevent the trigger 800 from rotating about its central axis. In a most preferred embodiment, the sides 804 ofthe at least one retainer hook mechanism 802 fit around the sides 222 ofthe at least one latch retainer mechanism 218, preventing such rotation. The housing 201 may further be fit with a safety clamp 900, as depicted in FIG. 9. The safety clamp 900 prevents the needle-less injector 100 from being discharged accidentally. The safety clamp 900 is preferably roughly semi-cylindrical in shape to conform to the exterior wall 213 ofthe housing 201, and resides around the exterior wall 213 ofthe housing 201 in the clamp indentation 220 that is defined on its proximate end by a ridge 221 and on its distal end by the at least one latch retainer mechanism 218 and the proximate end ofthe trigger 800 (see FIG. lb). The safety clamp 900 preferably does not completely encircle the housing 201, but rather encircles only at least half of the housing 201, allowing for easy removal while preventing the clamp 900 from simply falling off of the injector 100. Most preferably, the safety clamp 900 is constructed of a sufficiently elastic material such that temporarily deforming the clamp 900 permits removal thereof from the exterior wall 213 ofthe housing 201. To aid in this removal, a grip 901 and feet 902 may be included on the safety clamp 900. The housing 201 is preferably fit with an engine assembly 101, as depicted in FIG. lb. The engine assembly 101 may further contain an engine housing 1000, as depicted in FIG. 10. The engine housing 1000 is preferably constructed of a material impermeable to a compressed gas stored therein, and has a hollow interior chamber 1003. Most preferably, the engine housing 1000 is comprised of stainless steel or a similar metal. A compressed inert gas is preferably used to drive the needle-less injector 100 and is stored within the engine housing 1000 prior to use. The most preferred gas is carbon dioxide, though other suitable gases may be employed, as well. In most preferred embodiments, the engine assembly 101 is overcharged (i.e., excess compressed gas is stored therein) to allow for use at variable altitudes without hampering the performance characteristics of the needle-less injector 100. The engine housing 1000 is preferably roughly cylindrical in shape to match the interior wall 212 ofthe housing 201, though alternate configurations may be utilized. Referring to FIG. 10, the engine housing 1000 may have a portion of wide diameter 1001 and a portion of small diameter 1002, wherein the portion of small diameter 1002 is proximate to the portion of wide diameter 1001. The distal end ofthe engine housing 1000 may contain a circular depression 1004 and may rest against the trigger 800 (see FIG. lb). The proximate end ofthe engine housing 1000 contains an opening 1005, and in preferred embodiments, a closing ridge 1006 encircles the opening 1005. The engine assembly 101 preferably further contains a valve body 1100, as depicted in FIG. 11. The valve body 1100 is preferably roughly cylindrical in its overall shape, and more preferably resides at least partially within the engine housing 1000. The valve body 1100 most preferably has a closing rim 1101 around its outer circumference that rests against the closing ridge 1006 encircling the opening 1005 ofthe proximate end ofthe engine housing 1000. Most preferably, a closing ferrule 1200 is wrapped around both the closing rim 1101 and closing ridge 1006 to secure the valve body 1100 and engine housing 1000 to one another (see FIG. lb). The closing ferrule 1200 is shown in FIG. 12 prior to its distal portion 1201 being mechanically bent around the closing rim 1101 and closing ridge 1006. The proximate portion 1202 ofthe closing ferrule 1200 is of substantially the same diameter as the exterior ofthe valve body 1100, such that solely bending the distal portion mechanically couples the valve body 1100 to the engine housing 1000. In FIG. 1, the distal portion 1201 ofthe closing ferrule 1200 is shown in the bent state. The valve body 1000 preferably has a depression 1102 around its circumference adapted to fit a gasket 1103 (shown in FIG. lb). The gasket 1103 helps ensure that an airtight seal is maintained between the interior ofthe engine housing 1000 which contains the gas and the internal atmosphere ofthe needle-less injector 100. Referring to FIG. 11, the interior ofthe valve body 1100 is preferably hollow and comprised of several distinct portions. The distal interior portion 1104 ofthe valve body 1100 may contain a screw thread engagement 1105, preferably extending from the distal end ofthe valve body 1100 to the distal end of a first axial cavity 1106. The first axial cavity 1106 may be bounded on its proximate end by a shoulder 1107 that separates this first axial cavity 1106 from a second axial cavity 1108, which is preferably of smaller diameter than the first axial cavity 1106. In preferred embodiments, the shoulder 1107 is an angled edge. Also in preferred embodiments, at least one valve stem guide 1109 protrudes from the wall ofthe second axial cavity 1108. In a most preferred embodiment, there are at least three such valve stem guides 1109 that serve to substantially prevent the valve stem 1400 from moving in any direction other than along the central axis ofthe needle-less injector 100 during administration of an injection. The proximate end ofthe second axial cavity 1108 preferably terminates at a diffuser-receiving chamber 1110 that is of sufficient diameter such that it encircles a distal end 602 ofthe diffuser 600. After administration of an injection with the needle-less injector 100, the distal end 602 ofthe diffuser 600 is most preferably at rest within the diffuser-receiving chamber 1110. The proximate end ofthe diffuser-receiving chamber 1110 preferably has at least one grip 1111 extending therefrom. Preferably, the at least one grip 1111 locks around another suitable element of a needle-less injector 100 as the gripping element 1112 is situated on the interior side ofthe grip 1111. In alternative embodiments, however, the at least one grip 1111 may lock within another element as the gripping element 1112 may be disposed on the exterior side ofthe grip 1111. In most preferred embodiments, there are two grips 1111 disposed opposite one another each of which contains a gripping element 1112 situated on the interior side ofthe grip 1111 . In these most preferred embodiments, the two grips 1111 are slid over and lock around the locking ring 605 ofthe diffuser 600 upon administration of an injection. The combination of a locking ring 605 and grips 1111 assists in mitigating the kickback associated with deploying the compressed gas stored in the engine assembly 101 and ensures that a user fully and properly depresses the trigger 800, since an injection is preferably not deployed until the grips 1111 slip past the locking ring 605. The valve body 1100 preferably further contains a threaded valve guide 1300, as depicted in FIG. 13. The threaded valve guide 1300 is preferably cylindrical in shape and threaded around its exterior wall 1301, such that it may be screwed into the distal interior portion 1104 ofthe valve body 1100 by interacting with the screw thread engagement 1105. Most preferably, the threading on the exterior wall 1301 ofthe threaded valve guide 1300 extends along the entirety ofthe exterior wall 1301 from the distal to the proximate end ofthe threaded valve guide 1300. The threaded valve guide 1300 may also contain a cylindrical interior cavity 1302 that is unobstructed at the proximate end. The distal end, however, is preferably partially covered with a valve stem guide pane 1303. The valve stem guide pane 1303 preferably provides at least one vent 1304 allowing gaseous communication between the interior cavity 1302 ofthe threaded valve guide 1300 and the hollow interior chamber 1003 ofthe engine housing 1000 at the distal end ofthe threaded valve guide 1300. Also preferably, the valve stem guide pane 1303 includes a hole 1305 at the central axis slightly larger in diameter than the valve stem 1400 that resides therein. Most preferably, the valve stem guide pane 1303 further includes a spring seat 1306 on its proximate surface that is comprised of at least one ridge 1307 that maintains the valve spring 1500 in proper position. The valve body 1100 preferably further contains a valve stem 1400, as depicted in FIG. 14. The valve stem 1400 is preferably comprised of a substantially cylindrical rod 1401 having a proximate end 1402 which is flat and a distal end 1403 which is preferably pressed or hammer-forged. The distal end 1403 is shown after hammer-forging in FIG. 14a and prior to hammer-forging in FIG. 14b. Most preferably, there is also included a spring ridge 1404 that extends radially from the rod 1401, and a roughly conical valve head 1405 affixed to the proximate and exterior surfaces ofthe spring ridge 1404 as well as that portion ofthe rod 1401 immediately proximate to the spring ridge 1404. Most preferably, the valve head 1405 is comprised of a rubber material such as semi-permeable, silicon-based rubber that is sufficiently malleable for use in accordance with the needle- less injector 100. In most preferred embodiments, the angle between the proximate surface ofthe valve head 1405 and the central axis is substantially similar to the angle of the shoulder 1107 located between the first axial cavity 1106 and second axial cavity 1108 ofthe valve body 1100. The valve body 1100 may further contain a valve spring 1500, as depicted in FIG. 15. The valve spring 1500 is preferably composed of wire and semi-conical in shape, wherein the proximate end 1501 is smaller in diameter than the distal end 1502. The proximate end 1501 ofthe valve spring 1500 preferably rests against the distal surface of the spring ridge 1404 on the valve stem 1400, while the distal end 1502 ofthe valve spring 1500 preferably rests against the proximate surface ofthe valve stem guide pane 1303 and is held in place radially by the spring seat 1306. Furthermore, the valve ofthe instant invention may be repeatedly opened and closed without being destroyed, thus it may be inspected for quality control determinations by opening and closing at least one time prior to the engine assembly 101 being filled with compressed gas. A faulty valve is a concern in any device employing such a mechanism, though it is of particular import in the context of a needle-less injector useful in medical applications, where such a faulty valve may result in the improper dosage of medication. During the administration of an injection with the needle-less injector, several mechanisms act to mitigate the kickback associated with releasing compressed gas from the engine housing. The grips on the valve body operatively couple with the locking ring on the exterior surface ofthe diffuser and the retainer hooks on the retainer hook mechanisms operatively lock at each successive saw tooth ofthe latch retainer mechanisms. Such safety features not only function to avoid potential injury, but further insure proper delivery of liquid through an inj ection surface. EXAMPLE Operation of a Needle-less Injector Prior to use, a needle-less injector is assembled in accordance with the instant invention, all elements thereof being gamma sterilized with the exception ofthe engine assembly. The engine assembly is checked for quality control purposes by opening and closing the valve, and thereafter the engine housing is filled with a suitable compressed gas. The interior portion ofthe housing between the proximate end ofthe housing and the proximate end ofthe plunger is then filled with 0.5 ml. of liquid. The needle-less injector is then assembled and stored for a prolonged period of time. When ready for use (see FIG. la), the ampoule cap is removed from the proximate end ofthe housing by the user. Subsequently, the user also removes the safety clamp by bending and/or distorting the clamp. The user is performing self-administration of an injection and elects to employ the following configuration: the user's index and middle fingers are placed in the arcs ofthe finger rests for stabilization ofthe device, with the thumb operably placed against the trigger. The proximate end ofthe needle-less injector is then positioned roughly perpendicular to the injection surface. The user then depresses the trigger until the proximate end ofthe trigger comes to rest against the ridge defining the proximate end ofthe clamp indentation. During this movement ofthe trigger, the retainer hook mechanisms and latch retainer mechanisms interact as the retainer hooks lock past consecutive saw teeth that comprise the latch retainer mechanisms. Forward, axial movement ofthe trigger causes the engine housing, valve body and threaded valve guide to move, as well. Thus, the grips at the proximate end ofthe valve body proceed to lock around the locking ring ofthe diffuser as the distal portion ofthe diffuser concurrently slides into and partially through the diffuser-receiving cavity ofthe valve body, coming to rest therein. Simultaneously, the valve stem moves along with the trigger, however, once it comes into mechanical contact with the valve stem support depression in the diffuser it remains stationary relative to the housing. The valve stem and diffuser reach such mechanical contact approximately when the grips slide over and past the locking ring ofthe diffuser. When the valve stem and diffuser come into mechanical contact, the valve spring is compressed and the valve opens as the valve head is separated from the shoulder residing between the first and second axial cavities ofthe valve body. Compressed gas (previously stored in the engine housing, the interior cavity ofthe threaded valve guide and the first axial cavity ofthe valve body) may then rush through the gap created between the valve head and the shoulder. The gas rushes through the second axial cavity, past the valve stem guides, through the diffuser-receiving chamber and through the at least one channel in the diffuser. The gas then fills the space defined by the diffuser cup and the expansion cup ofthe piston, which rest near or against one another prior to gas forcing the two elements apart. The introduction of gas into this space forces the piston in the proximate direction, pushing the plunger through the interior ofthe housing and correspondingly forcing the liquid from the injector through the at least one orifice in the proximate end ofthe injector and into and/or through the injection surface. The piston and plunger act in concert as a driver. Once the plunger comes to rest against the proximate end ofthe housing, excess gas may escape through the exhaust passage in the housing. The user may then dispose ofthe needle-less injector, the injection having been completed. While the description above refers to particular embodiments ofthe present invention, it should be readily apparent to people of ordinary skill in the art that a number of modifications may be made without departing from the spirit thereof. The accompanying claims are intended to cover such modifications as would fall within the true spirit and scope ofthe invention. The presently disclosed embodiments are, therefore, to be considered in all respects as illustrative and not restrictive, the scope ofthe invention being indicated by the appended claims rather than the foregoing description. All changes that come within the meaning of and range of equivalency ofthe claims are intended to be embraced therein.

Claims: CLAIMS WHAT IS CLAIMED IS: 1. A needle-less injector suitable for injecting a fluid through a surface, said needle-less injector comprising: a housing containing the fluid, said housing further containing at least one orifice; at least one latch retainer mechanism disposed on the exterior of said housing; an engine fitted within said housing, said engine further containing a gas; a driver that forces said fluid out of said housing, said driver being slidably disposed within said housing; a trigger coupled to said housing; and at least one retainer hook mechanism disposed on said trigger, said at least one retainer hook mechanism being aligned to interact with said latch retainer mechanism. 2. The needle-less injector in accordance with claim 1, wherein said at least one retainer hook mechanism and said at least one latch retainer mechanism operably interact allowing said trigger to only move axially in the direction of said at least one orifice. 3. The needle-less injector in accordance with claim 1, said engine further comprising a valve. 4. The needle-less injector in accordance with claim 3, said needle-less injector further comprising a diffuser affixed to said housing, said diffuser having disposed therein at least one channel, and said valve comprising: a valve stem having a circular ridge; a valve head affixed to said valve stem and said circular ridge; a valve stem guide affixed to said engine; and a spring having a first end resting against said circular ridge and a second end resting against said valve stem guide. 5. The needle-less injector in accordance with claim 4, wherein said valve opens upon depression of said trigger. 6. The needle-less injector in accordance with claim 1, said driver comprising: a piston; and a plunger. 7. The needle-less injector in accordance with claim 6, wherein said plunger is symmetrical; and said plunger forms a substantially airtight seal with said housing. 8. The needle-less injector in accordance with claim 6, said plunger comprising: a conical front end; a conical back end; and a cylindrical body. 9. The needle-less injector in accordance with claim 8, said plunger further comprising at least one ridge surrounding said cylindrical body. 10. The needle-less injector in accordance with claim 6, said piston comprising an expansion cup. 11. The needle-less injector in accordance with claim 1, further comprising an ampoule cap removably attached to said housing, wherein said ampoule cap forms an airtight seal over said orifice of said housing. 12. The needle-less injector in accordance with claim 1 , said housing further comprising an exhaust passage. 13. The needle-less injector in accordance with claim 1 , said trigger further comprising an end with a non-slip surface. 14. The needle-less injector in accordance with claim 4, said diffuser further comprising a locking ring and said engine further comprising at least one grip. 15. The needle-less injector in accordance with claim 1 , further comprising a safety clamp removably attached to said housing, wherein said safety claim prevents said trigger from moving relative to said housing in the axial direction of said at least one orifice. 16. The needle-less injector in accordance with claim 1, said housing further comprising at least one finger rest. 17. The needle-less injector in accordance with claim 1, said housing further comprising two finger rests disposed opposite one another, said finger rests further comprising a non-slip surface. 18. A needle-less injector suitable for injecting a fluid through a surface, said needle-less injector comprising: a housing containing the fluid, said housing further containing at least one orifice; an engine fitted within said housing, said engine further containing a gas; a driver that forces said fluid out of said housing, said driver being slidably disposed within said housing; a trigger coupled to said housing; and a valve attached to said engine; wherein depression of said trigger causes said valve to open; and wherein said valve can survive being repeatedly opened. 19. The needle-less injector in accordance with claim 18, said valve comprising: a valve stem having a circular ridge; a valve head affixed to said valve stem and said circular ridge; a valve stem guide affixed to said engine; and a spring having a first end resting against said circular ridge and a second end resting against said valve stem guide. 20. The needle-less injector in accordance with claim 18, said needle-less injector further comprising a diffuser affixed to said housing, said diffuser having disposed therein at least one channel. 21. The needle-less injector in accordance with claim 18, said driver comprising: a piston; and a plunger. 22. The needle-less injector in accordance with claim 21 , wherein said plunger is symmetrical; and said plunger forms a substantially airtight seal with said housing. 23. The needle-less inj ector in accordance with claim 21 , said plunger comprising: a conical front end; a conical back end; and a cylindrical body. 24. The needle-less injector in accordance with claim 23, said plunger further comprising at least one ridge surrounding said cylindrical body. 25. The needle-less injector in accordance with claim 21, said piston comprising an expansion cup. 26. The needle-less injector in accordance with claim 18, further comprising an ampoule cap removably attached to said housing, wherein said ampoule cap forms an airtight seal over said orifice of said housing. 27. The needle-less injector in accordance with claim 18, said housing further comprising an exhaust passage. 28. The needle-less injector in accordance with claim 18, said trigger further comprising an end with a non-slip surface. 29. The needle-less injector in accordance with claim 18, said trigger further comprising at least one retainer hook mechanism and said housing further comprising at least one latch retainer mechanism. 30. The needle-less injector in accordance with claim 20, said diffuser further comprising a locking ring and said engine further comprising at least one grip. 31. The needle-less injector in accordance with claim 18, further comprising a safety clamp removably attached to said housing, wherein said safety claim prevents said trigger from moving relative to said housing in the axial direction of said at least one orifice. 32. The needle-less injector in accordance with claim 18, said housing further comprising at least one finger rest. 33. The needle-less injector in accordance with claim 18, said housing further comprising two finger rests disposed opposite one another, said finger rests further comprising a non-slip surface. 34. A needle-less injector suitable for injecting a fluid through a surface, said needle-less injector comprising: a housing containing the fluid, said housing further containing at least one orifice; an engine fitted within said housing, said engine further containing a gas; a driver that forces said fluid out of said housing, said driver being slidably disposed within said housing; a trigger coupled to said housing; and at least one grip disposed on said engine. 35. The needle-less injector in accordance with claim 34, said engine further comprising a valve. 36. The needle-less injector in accordance with claim 35, said needle-less injector further comprising a diffuser affixed to said housing, said diffuser having disposed therein at least one channel, and said valve comprising: a valve stem having a circular ridge; a valve head affixed to said valve stem and said circular ridge; a valve stem guide affixed to said engine; and a spring having a first end resting against said circular ridge and a second end resting against said valve stem guide. 37. The needle-less injector in accordance with claim 36, wherein said valve opens upon depression of said trigger. 38. The needle-less injector in accordance with claim 34, said driver comprising: a piston; and a plunger. 39. The needle-less injector in accordance with claim 38, wherein said plunger is symmetrical; and said plunger forms a substantially airtight seal with said housing. 40. The needle-less injector in accordance with claim 38, said plunger comprising: a conical front end; a conical back end; and a cylindrical body. 41. The needle-less injector in accordance with claim 40, said plunger further comprising at least one ridge surrounding said cylindrical body. 42. The needle-less injector in accordance with claim 38, said piston comprising an expansion cup. 43. The needle-less injector in accordance with claim 34, further comprising an ampoule cap removably attached to said housing, wherein said ampoule cap forms an airtight seal over said orifice of said housing. 44. The needle-less injector in accordance with claim 34, said housing further comprising an exhaust passage. 45. The needle-less injector in accordance with claim 34, said trigger further comprising an end with a non-slip surface. 46. The needle-less injector in accordance with claim 34, said trigger further comprising at least one retainer hook mechanism and said housing further comprising at least one latch retainer mechanism. 47. The needle-less injector in accordance with claim 36, said diffuser further comprising a locking ring and said needle-less injector comprising at least two grips. 48. The needle-less injector in accordance with claim 34, further comprising a safety clamp removably attached to said housing, wherein said safety claim prevents said trigger from moving relative to said housing in the axial direction of said at least one orifice. 49. The needle-less injector in accordance with claim 34, said housing further comprising at least one finger rest. 50. The needle-less injector in accordance with claim 34, said housing further comprising two finger rests disposed opposite one another, said finger rests further comprising a non-slip surface.

Inventors: CASTELLANO THOMAS P, CASTELLANO, THOMAS, P.
Applicants: PENJET CORP, PENJET CORPORATION
Application year: 2001
Main classification: A61M5
IPC codes: A61M5