Abstract:
Device for installing and/or injecting a cannula includes a body, a needle holding member arranged in the body and comprising a needle, and a spring structured and arranged to move the needle holding member to a retracted position within the body. At least one of the spring is pre-tensioned or expanded and the spring is arranged on a side of the needle holding member opposite the needle. A method of using the device includes injecting insertion cannula to a skin surface and causing the needle holding member to retract into the body. A method of making the device includes placing the spring in an pre-tensioned or expanded position inside the body and connecting one end of the spring to the needle holding member. This Abstract is not intended to define the invention disclosed in the specification, nor intended to limit the scope of the invention in any way.

Description:
CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS 
     The instant application is a US non-provisional Application based on U.S. provisional application No. 61/159,635, filed Mar. 12, 2009, the disclosure of which is hereby expressly incorporated by reference hereto in its entirety. 
    
    
     BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION 
     1. Field of the Invention 
     The invention relates generally to devices used to collect fluid samples from, e.g., patients. More specifically, this invention relates to an IV infusion device having a retractable needle. The invention also relates to a tool for installing and/or injecting an IV collection tip. The tip can be used to deliver drugs into, e.g., a patient. The tool can be a single-use and/or disposable tool. The invention also relates to a method of collecting a fluid sample with the device as well as a method of making the device. The invention also relates to a blood sample collection system that utilizes a device which can retract the insertion needle into the device. 
     2. Discussion of Background Information 
     The following relate to infusion devices: U.S. Pat. No. 6,090,078 to ERSKINE; U.S. Pat. No. 6,641,555 to BOTICH et al.; U.S. Pat. No. 5,746,215 to MANJARREZ; and U.S. Pat. No. 7,097,633 to BOTICH et al. The entire disclosure of each of these documents is hereby expressly incorporated by reference in their entireties. The invention provides improvements over such devices such as using a pre-tensioned spring to cause retraction of the insertion or puncturing needle. 
     SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION 
     According to one non-limiting aspect of the invention there is provided a device for installing and/or injecting a cannula comprising a body, a needle holding member arranged in the body and comprising a needle or cannula, and a spring structured and arranged to move the needle holding member to a retracted position within the body, wherein at least one of the spring is pre-tensioned or expanded and the spring is arranged on a side of the needle holding member opposite the needle or cannula. 
     According to one non-limiting aspect of the invention the device further comprises a cannula hub arranged on a front end of the body. 
     According to one non-limiting aspect of the invention the device further comprises a removable cannula hub arranged on a front end of the body. 
     According to one non-limiting aspect of the invention the device further comprises a device for triggering movement of the needle holding member. 
     According to one non-limiting aspect of the invention, there is provided a device for installing and/or injecting a cannula comprising a body, a removable cannula hub arranged on a front end of the body and comprising a insertion cannula, a needle holding member arranged in the body and comprising a needle or cannula sized and configured to extend into the insertion cannula, and a spring structured and arranged to move the needle holding member to a retracted position within the body, wherein at least one of the spring is pre-tensioned or expanded and the spring is arranged on a side of the needle holding member opposite the needle or cannula. 
     According to one non-limiting aspect of the invention, there is provided a device for installing and/or injecting a cannula comprising a body, a removable cannula hub arranged on a front end of the body and comprising a insertion cannula, a needle holding member arranged in the body and comprising a needle or cannula sized and configured to extend into the insertion cannula, a device for allowing a user to trigger movement of the needle holding member, and a spring structured and arranged to move the needle holding member to a retracted position within the body, wherein at least one of the spring is pre-tensioned or expanded and the spring is arranged on a side of the needle holding member opposite the needle or cannula. 
     According to one non-limiting aspect of the invention, there is provided a device for installing and/or injecting a cannula comprising at least one feature disclosed in the instant application. 
     According to one non-limiting aspect of the invention, there is provided a method of using any one of the devices disclosed herein, the method comprising injecting insertion cannula to a skin surface and causing the needle holding member to retract into the body. 
     According to one non-limiting aspect of the invention, there is provided a method of making any one of the devices disclosed herein, the method comprising placing the spring in an pre-tensioned or expanded position inside the body and connecting one end of the spring to the needle holding member. 
     Other exemplary embodiments and advantages of the present invention may be ascertained by reviewing the present disclosure and the accompanying drawing. 
    
    
     
       BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS 
       The present invention is further described in the detailed description which follows, in reference to the noted plurality of drawings by way of non-limiting examples of exemplary embodiments of the present invention, in which like reference numerals represent similar parts throughout the several views of the drawings, and wherein: 
         FIG. 1  shows a side cross-section view of a first non-limiting embodiment of the device according to the invention. The device is shown in an original prior-use and/or packaged configuration. The puncturing needle is not shown in cross-section; 
         FIG. 2  shows a side cross-section view of a removable protective cap used on the device of  FIG. 1 ; 
         FIG. 3  shows a side view of the removable protective cap of  FIG. 2 ; 
         FIG. 4  shows a rear side view of the removable protective cap of  FIG. 2 ; 
         FIG. 5  shows a side cross-section view of the first non-limiting embodiment of  FIG. 1  with the protective cap removed. The device is shown in a ready-to-use configuration. In this configuration, a user of the device may inject the device into the skin; 
         FIG. 6  shows an enlarged view of a triggering/retaining portion of the device of  FIG. 5 ; 
         FIG. 7  shows the side cross-section view of  FIG. 5  during a triggering of the device. Triggering occurs when a user applies the force indicated by arrows. The triggering typically occurs when the device is injected into the skin; 
         FIG. 8  shows the side cross-section view of  FIG. 7  after triggering of the device. As is apparent, the spring which was in tension or axially expanded in  FIG. 7  has assumed a relaxed or axially contracted stage thereby withdrawing the puncturing needle into the body of the device; 
         FIG. 9  shows the side cross-section view of  FIG. 8  after the cannula portion is disconnected from the device body. Once disconnected, the cannula portion can remain injected into the skin while the body portion of the device can be removed and safely discarded with the puncturing needle safely retained and fully enclosed by the body of the device so as to prevent inadvertent pricking of those who might handle the body of the device; 
         FIG. 10  shows a side view of the puncturing needle/trigger hub member used on the device of  FIG. 1 ; 
         FIG. 11  shows a side cross-section view of the puncturing needle/trigger hub member shown in  FIG. 10 ; 
         FIG. 12  shows a side view of the puncturing needle/trigger hub member shown in  FIG. 10 , but rotated 90 degrees; 
         FIG. 13  shows a rear side view of the puncturing needle/trigger hub member shown in  FIG. 10 ; 
         FIG. 14  shows a side view of the body used on the device of  FIG. 1 , but rotated 90 degrees; 
         FIG. 15  shows a side cross-section view of the body of  FIG. 14 , but rotated 90 degrees back to the position shown in  FIG. 1 ; 
         FIG. 16  shows the side cross-section view of the cannula portion connected to a connector and with the connector being coupled to a fluid containing and/or draining container via a conduit. With the cannula portion injected into the skin, fluid can be drained from or delivered into via the cannula portion. Although not shown, such a system preferably utilizes one or more valves or devices to ensure flow in only one desired direction; 
         FIGS. 17-19  show side partial cross-section views of an embodiment of the device according to the invention in which the cannula portion (which in this embodiment would be in an injected state) can be connected to a fluid collection device such those that utilize a blood collection tube or vial or vacutainer type collection tube.  FIG. 17  shows the fluid collection device prior to being connected to the cannula portion.  FIG. 18  shows the fluid collection device connected to the cannula portion.  FIG. 19  shows the fluid collection device connected to the cannula portion and having a blood collection tube inserted therein; 
         FIG. 20  shows an enlarged view of a puncturing end of the device of  FIG. 5 ; 
         FIG. 21  shows an enlarged view of optional rear end configuration for the device of  FIG. 1 . In this embodiment, the rear flange portion of the body may be separately formed from a main body portion. This configuration facilitates manufacturing assembly of the device; 
         FIG. 22A  shows a modified version of  FIG. 21  that utilizes a cap to cover a rear opening in the body; 
         FIG. 22B  shows a modified version of  FIG. 22A  that utilizes a living hinge to connect the rear flange portion to the main body portion which allows both portions to be formed as a one-piece member; 
         FIG. 23  shows an enlarged view of optional front end configuration for the device of  FIG. 1 . In this embodiment, the front flange portion of the body is separately formed from a main body portion. This configuration facilitates manufacturing assembly of the device; 
         FIG. 24  shows a side cross-section view of another non-limiting embodiment of the device with the protective cap removed. The device is shown in a ready-to-use configuration. This configuration is an injection configuration; 
         FIG. 25  shows the side cross-section view of  FIG. 24  after triggering of the device. As is apparent, the spring which was in tension or axially expanded in  FIG. 24  has assumed a relaxed or axially contracted stage thereby withdrawing the puncturing needle into the body of the device; 
         FIG. 26  shows a side cross-section view of still another non-limiting embodiment of the device with the protective cap removed. The device is shown in a ready-to-use configuration. This configuration is an injection configuration; 
         FIG. 27  shows the side cross-section view of  FIG. 26  during release of a safety prior to triggering of the device. With the safety retracted, the device can be triggered in the same manner as was shown in  FIG. 7 ; 
         FIG. 28  shows a side cross-section view of still another non-limiting embodiment of the device with the protective cap removed. The device is shown in a ready-to-use configuration. This configuration is an injection configuration. In this embodiment, the device is triggered by axial movement of a trigger ring against the biasing force of a trigger spring; 
         FIG. 29  shows a side cross-section view of still another non-limiting embodiment of the device with the protective cap removed. The device is shown in a ready-to-use configuration. This configuration is an injection configuration. In this embodiment, the device is triggered by axial movement of the trigger ring against the biasing force of a biasing ring; 
         FIG. 30  shows an enlarged partial side cross-section view of still another non-limiting embodiment of the device with the protective cap removed. The device is shown in an almost ready-to-use configuration. Once the user removes a safety tape/ring that will allows for axial movement of the trigger ring, the device can be injected into the skin. In this embodiment, the device may also be triggered by axial movement of the trigger ring; 
         FIG. 31  shows an enlarged partial side cross-section view of still another non-limiting embodiment of the device with the protective cap removed. The device is shown in a ready-to-use configuration. This configuration is an injection configuration. In this embodiment, the device is triggered by rotating the trigger ring so that engagement between its internal threads and the external threads of the body cause axial movement of the trigger ring to the point where the device is triggered; 
         FIGS. 32 and 33  show a modified version of the device of  FIG. 31 . In  FIG. 32 , the device is shown before triggering by axial movement of the trigger ring. In  FIG. 33 , the device is shown during triggering by axial movement of the trigger ring; 
         FIG. 34  shows a side cross-section view of still another non-limiting embodiment of the device with the protective cap removed. The device is shown in a ready-to-use configuration. This configuration is an injection configuration. In this embodiment, the device is triggered by axial movement of, i.e., by depressing, the rearward extending trigger button; 
         FIG. 34   a  shows an enlarged view of a triggering arrangement of the device of  FIG. 34 ; 
         FIG. 35  shows a side cross-section view of still another non-limiting embodiment of the device with the protective cap removed. The device is shown in a ready-to-use configuration. This configuration is an injection configuration. In this embodiment, the device is triggered by axial movement of, i.e., by depressing, the rearward extending trigger button; 
         FIG. 35   a  shows an enlarged view of a breakable section forming the triggering arrangement of the device of  FIG. 35 ; 
         FIG. 36  shows a side cross-section view of still another non-limiting embodiment of the device with the protective cap removed. The device is shown in a ready-to-use configuration. This configuration is an injection configuration. In this embodiment, the device is triggered by axial movement of a trigger sleeve against the biasing force of a trigger spring; 
         FIG. 36   a  shows an enlarged view of a triggering/retaining portion of the device of  FIG. 36 ; 
         FIG. 36   b  shows an enlarged view of a rear portion of the triggering sleeve of the device of  FIG. 36 ; 
         FIG. 37  shows a side cross-section view of the trigger sleeve used in the device of  FIG. 36 ; 
         FIG. 38  shows a rear side view of the trigger sleeve shown in  FIG. 37 ; 
         FIG. 39  shows an enlarged view of optional front end configuration for any of the devices shown above such as that shown in  FIG. 1 . In this embodiment, the front flange portion of the body is separately formed from a main body portion. The puncturing needle hub also has modified configuration. This configuration facilitates manufacturing assembly of the device; 
         FIG. 40  shows an enlarged view of optional rear end configuration for the device of  FIG. 1 . In this embodiment, the rear flange portion of the body is separately formed from a main body portion. This configuration facilitates manufacturing assembly of the device; 
         FIG. 41  shows a side cross-section view of a cannula assembly that can be used on any of the devices shown above such as that shown in  FIG. 1 . In this embodiment, the cannula utilizes a butterfly type member; 
         FIG. 42  shows the side cross-section view of the butterfly member shown in  FIG. 41 ; 
         FIG. 43  shows the side cross-section view of the cannula portion shown in  FIG. 41 ; 
         FIG. 44  shows the side cross-section view of another embodiment of the device according to the invention. The device is shown after triggering of the device. Unlike the device shown in  FIG. 1 , this device uses a luer lock type connection between the cannula portion and the body of the device; 
         FIG. 45  shows the side cross-section view of  FIG. 44  after the cannula portion is disconnected from the device body. Once disconnected, the cannula portion can remain injected into the skin while the body portion of the device can be removed and safely discarded with the puncturing needle safely retained and fully enclosed by the body of the device so as to prevent inadvertent pricking of those who might handle the body of the device; 
         FIGS. 46 and 47  show side cross-section views of another embodiment of the device according to the invention. The device is shown after triggering of the device. Unlike the device shown in  FIG. 45 , this device can be used after it is utilized to install a cannula portion.  FIG. 46  shows that the device being used again by connecting it to a different cannula portion. Since the puncturing needle remains safely disposed in the body, there is no danger of pricking by re-using the device; 
         FIG. 48  shows a side cross-section view of still another non-limiting embodiment of the device with the protective cap removed. The device is shown in a ready-to-use configuration. This configuration is an injection configuration. In this embodiment, the device is triggered by axial movement of a trigger sleeve. The device and/or trigger sleeve is then rotated to allow the device to be disconnected from the cannula portion; 
         FIG. 49  shows an enlarged view of a triggering/retaining portion of the device of  FIG. 48 ; 
         FIG. 50  shows a front end view of the trigger sleeve used on the device of  FIG. 48 ; 
         FIG. 51  shows a side cross-section view of the trigger sleeve used in the device of  FIG. 48 ; 
         FIG. 52  shows a side cross-section view of the cannula portion used in the device of  FIG. 48 ; 
         FIG. 53  shows a rear end view of the cannula portion used on the device of  FIG. 48 ; 
         FIG. 54  shows an enlarged side cross-section view of still another non-limiting embodiment of the device. The device is shown in a ready-to-use configuration. This configuration is an injection configuration. In this embodiment, the device is triggered by axial movement of a trigger ring against the biasing force of a trigger spring. The trigger ring ensures that the deflectable retaining members of the body engage with the puncturing needle hub; 
         FIG. 55  shows the device of  FIG. 54  during triggering. As is apparent in  FIG. 55 , when the trigger ring is moved back, retaining members of the body deflect outwards to a relaxed position and disengage from the puncturing needle hub which can then be moved along the direction of arrow via the spring disposed inside the body of the device; 
         FIG. 56  shows a side view the device of  FIG. 55 , but rotated 90 degrees; 
         FIG. 57  shows a side view the puncturing needle/hub used in the device of  FIG. 54 , but rotated 90 degrees; 
         FIG. 58  shows an enlarged side cross-section view of still another non-limiting embodiment of the device. The device is similar to that of  FIG. 49  except that the trigger sleeve is configured to be removed from the body of the device and/or has no flange to retain the trigger sleeve on the body; 
         FIG. 59  shows an enlarged side cross-section view of still another non-limiting embodiment of the device. The device is similar to that of  FIG. 1  except that it utilizes a sealing member to ensure that body fluid does not pass into the body of the device after triggering. A sealing ring ensures that sealing is provided between the puncturing needle and the body of the device; and 
         FIG. 60  shows an enlarged side cross-section view of still another non-limiting embodiment of the device. The device is similar to that of  FIG. 1  except that it utilizes a resealable and puncturable sealing member to ensure that body fluid does not pass into the body of the device after triggering. 
     
    
    
     DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION 
     Referring now to the drawings and first to  FIGS. 1-15  which shows a first embodiment of a device for inserting a cannula member into skin. The tool or device includes three main parts; a tool portion TP, a removable safety or protective cap  10 , and a cannula hub portion CHP. 
     The safety cap  10  is shown in  FIGS. 2-4 . The safety cap  10  includes a reduced diameter section  10   a  having a closed end  10   c  and an enlarged diameter section  10   b  whose internal generally cylindrical section  10   d  is sized and configured to frictionally engage with (when installed on) the front end section  20 A (see  FIGS. 14 and 15 ) of the body  20 . The safety cap  10  protects the user from pricking him/her self when the device if removed from its package (not shown). By way of non-limiting example, the safety cap  10  can be made of a medical grade synthetic resin such as those typically utilized for syringes. 
       FIG. 5  shown the tool portion TP with the cannula member portion CHP installed thereon in the ready to use position. The safety cap  10  has been removed. As can be seen in  FIG. 5 , the cannula member portion CHP includes a cannula member  30 . The tool portion TP includes a body  20 , a puncturing needle member or needle hub  40 , and a spring  50 . The spring  50  has a front end  50 A coupled to a rear end portion of the hub of the needle hub  40  and another end  50 B coupled to an internal shoulder of the body  20 . In the configuration shown in  FIG. 5 , the spring  50  is under tension and biases the needle hub  40  towards the rear end of the body  20 . 
     As can be seen in  FIG. 6 , oppositely arranged deflectable retaining members  40 B 6  of the needle hub  40  engage with openings  20 D 1  of the body  20  so as to retain the needle hub  40  in the position shown in  FIG. 5 . To ensure the each deflectable retaining members  40 B 6  of the needle hub  40  remains engaged with opening  20 D 1  of the body  20 , each deflectable retaining member  40 B 6  has a movable tapered locking surface MTLS which engages with a fixed tapered locking surface FTLS. During triggering of the device TR, each deflectable retaining member  40 B 6  is moved inwardly so as to cause disengagement of the movable tapered locking surface MTLS from the fixed tapered locking surface FTLS, as shown in  FIG. 7 . Triggering occurs in  FIG. 7  when a user applied a force (indicated by arrows) to each deflecting member  40 B 6  sufficient to allow disengagement between surfaces MTLS and FTLS. This can occur by the user applying these forces with the thumb and forefinger. When the device TP is triggered, the movable tapered sliding surface MTSS will slidably engage with the fixed tapered sliding surface FTSS (causing more inward deflection of the members  40 B 6 ) as the spring  50  moves the needle hub  40  to the fully retracted or withdrawn position shown in  FIG. 8 . 
       FIG. 9  shows how the cannula portion  30  can be disconnected from the device TR. Once disconnected, the cannula portion  30  can remain injected into the skin while the device TP can be removed and safely discarded with the puncturing member  40  (and especially the needle  40 A) safely retained and fully enclosed by the body  20  of the device TP so as to prevent inadvertent pricking of those who might handle the device TR. The cannula member  30  can be of any conventionally known type such as those used for, e.g., used for IV infusion. In embodiments, the cannula member  30  includes at least a hollow needle portion  30 A and a hub portion  30 B. 
       FIGS. 10-13  show the needle hub or puncturing needle member  40  includes at least a needle portion  40 A and a hub portion  40 B. The hub portion  40 B is, in embodiments, a generally cylindrical member and includes, in embodiments, two oppositely arranged deflectable retaining members  40 B 6  which function as described above. The generally cylindrical surface  40 B 1  is sized and configured to freely and slidably engage with an inner cylindrical surface of the body  20  as it moves within with space  20 E (see  FIG. 15 ). Each deflectable retaining member  40 B 6  is made deflectable by virtue of being coupled (or integrally formed with) a deflectable arm  40 B 5  whose opposite end is coupled (or integrally formed with) the hub  40 B. The hub portion  40 B also includes, in embodiments, a generally annular front surface  40 B 2 , a generally annular rear surface  40 B 3 , and an opening  40 B 4  which receives therein a portion of the spring  50  as described above. The deflectable retaining members  40 B 6 / 40 B 5  assume the position shown in  FIGS. 10 ,  11  and  13  in the original/uninstalled/relaxed position. Once installed in the body  20  as shown in  FIGS. 5 and 6 , this ensures that they retain the needle hub  40  in the extended position and prevent the spring  50  from retracting the same fully into the device TP until triggering. The needle portion  40 A includes a front puncturing end  40 A 1 , a main shaft or body portion  40 A 2 , and a rear end portion  40 A 3  which is fixedly secured to the hub  40 B. The needle portion  40 A can be of any conventionally known type such as those used for, e.g., used for IV infusion. 
       FIGS. 14 and 15  show the body  20  of the device TR. The body  20  includes a generally cylindrical cannula hum receiving section  20 A, a main body portion  20 B, and a rear flange  20 C. The main body portion  20 B is, in embodiments, a generally cylindrical member and includes, in embodiments, two oppositely arranged through openings  20 D 1  and  20 D 2  which are sized and configured to receive therein deflectable retaining members  40 B 6  which function as described above. A generally cylindrical space  20 E arranged inside the body  20  and is sized and configured to receive therein the needle hub  40  and spring  50 . A retaining flange  20 F is arranged with the space  20 E and in an area of the rear end of the body  20 . A rear end of the spring  50  is coupled/secured to the flange  20 F such that the flange  20 F serves to anchor the non-movable end of the spring  50 . A through opening  20 G is disposed at a rear end of the body  20  in order to serve as a vent and to facilitate assembly of the device TR. 
       FIG. 16  shows one non-limiting way in which the cannula portion CHP (whose cannula  30 A has been previously injected into tissue) can be connected to a connector IHCP by, e.g., inserting one end of the connector IHCP into the hub  30 B. Another end of the connector IHCP is coupled to a fluid containing and/or draining container IB, such as an IV infusion bag, via a conduit IH. With the cannula portion CHP injected into the skin, fluid can be drained from or delivered into the tissue via the cannula portion CHP. Although not shown, such a system preferably utilizes one or more valves or devices to ensure flow in only one desired direction. As such valves are well known, no additional details are herein provided. 
       FIGS. 17-19  show one non-limiting way in which the cannula portion  30  can be used after the cannula portion  30  is injected into tissue via the device TP of the invention. While the cannula portion  30  is in an injected state, it can be connected to a fluid collection device CS such those that utilize a blood collection tube or vial or vacutainer type collection tube CV.  FIG. 17  shows the fluid collection device CS prior to being connected to the cannula portion  30 .  FIG. 18  shows the fluid collection device CS connected to the cannula portion  30 .  FIG. 19  shows the fluid collection device CS connected to the cannula portion  30  and having a blood collection tube CV inserted therein. The devices CS and CV can be of any conventional type provided that they can interface with the cannula portion  30 . 
       FIG. 20  shows an enlarged view of a puncturing end of the device shown  FIG. 5  and illustrates how the puncturing needle  40 A passes through an open end of the cannula  30 A. The puncturing needle  40 A functions to puncture the skin and, once withdrawn, allows fluid to flow through the cannula  30 A. 
       FIG. 21  shows an enlarged view of optional rear end configuration for the device of  FIG. 1 . In this embodiment, the rear flange portion  20 ′C and the main body  20 ′B are separately formed and connected together via, e.g., a circumferential engaging recess and projection. This configuration facilitates manufacturing assembly of the device since it allows the needle hub  40  and spring  50  to be inserted into the body from a rear end thereof. Like the embodiment of  FIG. 1 , a through opening  20 ′G is disposed at a rear end of the body  20 ′ in order to serve as a vent and to facilitate assembly of the device. 
       FIG. 22A  shows a modified version of  FIG. 21  that utilizes a cap SP to cover a rear opening  20 ′G in the body.  FIG. 22B  shows a modified version of  FIG. 22A  that utilizes a living hinge LH to connect the rear flange portion to the main body portion and which allows both portions to be formed as a one-piece member. 
       FIG. 23  shows an enlarged view of optional front end configuration for the device of  FIG. 1 . In this embodiment, a front flange portion  20 ″A is separately formed from a main body portion  20 ″B. The needle nub  40 ′ is also modified to utilize a front tapered portion  40 ′B 7 . This configuration facilitates manufacturing assembly of the device since it allows the needle hub  40 ′ and spring  50  to be inserted into the body from a front end thereof. 
       FIGS. 24 and 25  show another non-limiting embodiment of the device, which like that of  FIG. 5 , utilizes a cannula portion  30  and a tool portion TP′. In  FIG. 24 , the device is shown in a ready-to-use configuration. This is the configuration which allows a user of the device to inject it into the skin.  FIG. 25  shows the device of  FIG. 24  after triggering. As is apparent, the spring  50  which was in tension or axially expanded in  FIG. 24  has assumed a relaxed or axially contracted state thereby withdrawing the puncturing needle  40 ″ into the body  200  of the device. In this embodiment, only one deflectable retaining member  40 ″B 6 a is used to retain, via opening  200 D 1 , the needle hub  40 ″ in the trigger-set position shown in  FIG. 24 . Once triggered, another deflectable retaining member  40 ″B 6 b is used to retain, via opening  200 D 2 , the needle hub  40 ″ in the retracted position shown in  FIG. 25 . In embodiments, the features of  FIGS. 1 and 24  can be combined so that two openings of the type, e.g.,  20 D 1 , shown in  FIG. 1  and utilized as well as two openings of the type, e.g.,  200 D 2 , are used with the latter openings being offset by 90 degrees. In this embodiment, the needle hub  40 / 40 ″ would utilize four deflectable retaining members (not shown). 
       FIGS. 26 and 27  show another non-limiting embodiment of the device, which like that of  FIG. 5 , utilizes a cannula portion  30  and a tool portion TP″. In  FIG. 26 , the device is shown in a ready-to-use or trigger-set configuration. This is the configuration which allows a user of the device to inject the cannula portion  30  into the skin and/or tissue.  FIG. 27  shows the device of  FIG. 26  after a trigger safety  60  is retracted against the biasing force of the a spring  70  so as to ready the device for triggering. To trigger the device, the user can use his or her thumb and forefinger to first retract the ring  70  and then cause triggering of the device in the same way as shown in  FIG. 7 . 
       FIG. 28  shows another non-limiting embodiment of the device, which like that of  FIG. 5 , utilizes a cannula portion  30  and a tool portion TP′″. In  FIG. 28 , the device is shown in a ready-to-use or trigger-set configuration. This is the configuration which allows a user of the device to inject the cannula portion  30  into the skin and/or tissue. This embodiment allows a user to use axial movement of a trigger ring  60 ′ to cause triggering of the device. Thus, triggering occurs when the trigger ring  60 ′ is moved against the biasing force of the a spring  70  to the point where the ring  60 ′ causes the deflectable retaining members of the needle hub  40 B to disengage from the openings of the body. To trigger the device, the user can use his or her thumb and forefinger to move the ring  60  forwards until the deflectable retaining members to disengage from the openings of the body. 
       FIG. 29  shows another non-limiting embodiment of the device, which like that of  FIG. 5 , utilizes a cannula portion  30  and a tool portion TP IV . In  FIG. 29 , the device is shown in a ready-to-use or trigger-set configuration. This is the configuration which allows a user of the device to inject the cannula portion  30  into the skin and/or tissue. This embodiment allows a user to use axial movement of a trigger ring  60 ′ to cause triggering of the device. Thus, triggering occurs when the trigger ring  60 ′ is moved against the biasing force of the an elastic ring  70 ′ to the point where the ring  60 ′ causes the deflectable retaining members of the needle hub  40 B to disengage from the openings of the body. To trigger the device, the user can use his or her thumb and forefinger to move the ring  60 ′ forwards until the deflectable retaining members to disengage from the openings of the body. 
       FIG. 30  shows another non-limiting embodiment of the device, which like that of  FIG. 5 , utilizes a cannula portion  30  and a tool portion. In  FIG. 30 , the device is shown in a ready-to-use or trigger-set configuration. This is the configuration which allows a user of the device to inject the cannula portion into the skin and/or tissue. This embodiment allows a user to use axial movement of a trigger ring  60 ′ to cause triggering of the device. First, however, the user must remove a removable trigger safety tape or safety ring  70 ″ which prevents forward movement of the trigger ring  60 ′. Thus, triggering occurs when the user removes the safety tape  70 ″ and then moves trigger ring  60 ′ to the point where the ring  60 ′ causes the deflectable retaining members of the needle hub  40 B to disengage from the openings of the body. To trigger the device, the user can use his or her thumb and forefinger to move the ring  60 ′ forwards until the deflectable retaining members to disengage from the openings of the body. In a manner similar to the embodiments of  FIGS. 28 and 29 , the trigger ring  60 ′ has an internal tapered surface which engages with the movable tapered sliding surface MTSS of each deflectable retaining member of the need hub  40 B. 
       FIG. 31  shows another non-limiting embodiment of the device, which like that of  FIG. 5 , utilizes a cannula portion  30  and a tool portion TP V . In  FIG. 31 , the device is shown in a ready-to-use or trigger-set configuration. This is the configuration which allows a user of the device to inject the cannula portion into the skin and/or tissue. This embodiment allows a user to use axial and rotating (i.e., threading) movement of a trigger ring  60 ″ to cause triggering of the device. The threaded engagement between internal threads IT of the ring  60 ″ and external threads ET of the body form a safety which prevents mere axial movement of the ring  60 ″ from triggering the device. Thus, triggering occurs when the user threadably rotates the trigger ring  60 ″ to the point where the ring  60 ″ causes the deflectable retaining members of the needle hub  40 B to disengage from the openings of the body. To trigger the device, the user can use his or her thumb and forefinger to rotate the ring  60 ″ so that it moves axially forwards until the deflectable retaining members to disengage from the openings of the body. In a manner similar to the embodiments of  FIGS. 28-30 , the trigger ring  60 ″ has an internal tapered surface which engages with the movable tapered sliding surface MTSS of each deflectable retaining member of the need hub  40 B. 
       FIGS. 32 and 33  show another non-limiting embodiment of the device, which like that of  FIG. 5 , utilizes a cannula portion  30  and a tool portion TP VI . In  FIG. 32 , the device is shown in a ready-to-use or trigger-set configuration. This is the configuration which allows a user of the device to inject the cannula portion into the skin and/or tissue. This embodiment is different from that of  FIG. 31  in that the need hub  40 ′″B utilizes different configured deflecting arms connecting the deflectable retaining members to the needle hub  40 ′″B. This embodiment similarly allows a user to use axial and rotating (i.e., threading) movement of a trigger ring  60 ″ to cause triggering of the device as shown in  FIG. 33 . The threaded engagement between internal threads of the ring  60 ″ and external threads of the body  20   IV  form a safety which prevents mere axial movement of the ring  60 ″ from triggering the device. Thus, triggering occurs when the user threadably rotates the trigger ring  60 ″ (from the position shown in  FIG. 32 ) to the point where the ring  60 ″ causes (in the position shown in  FIG. 33 ) the deflectable retaining members of the needle hub  40 B to disengage from the openings of the body  20   IV . To trigger the device, the user can use his or her thumb and forefinger to rotate the ring  60 ″ so that it moves axially forwards until the deflectable retaining members to disengage from the openings of the body  20   IV . In a manner similar to the embodiments of  FIGS. 28-31 , the trigger ring  60 ″ has an internal tapered surface which engages with the movable tapered sliding surface of each deflectable retaining member of the need hub  40 ′″B. 
       FIGS. 34 and 34   a  show still another non-limiting embodiment of the device, which like that of  FIG. 5 , utilizes a cannula portion  30  and a tool portion TP VII . In  FIG. 34 , the device is shown in a ready-to-use or trigger-set configuration. This is the configuration which allows a user of the device to inject the cannula portion into the skin and/or tissue. The device utilizes a trigger including a first part  80   a  and a second part  80   b . A spring TRS biases the first part  80   a  towards the second part  80   b  A circumferential projection engages with a tapered surface of the member  80   b  (as shown in  FIG. 34   a ). In this embodiment, the device is triggered by axial forward movement of, i.e., by depressing, a rearward extending trigger button of the member  80   b  which causes the end of the member  80   a  having the projection (see  FIG. 34   a ) to pass into the hollow space of the member  80   b . Once the engagement shown in  FIG. 34   a  fails, the spring  50  causes the needle member  40   IV B to retract into the body  20   V . 
       FIGS. 35 and 35   a  show still another non-limiting embodiment of the device, which like that of  FIG. 5 , utilizes a cannula portion  30  and a tool portion TP VIII . In  FIG. 35 , the device is shown in a ready-to-use or trigger-set configuration. This is the configuration which allows a user of the device to inject the cannula portion into the skin and/or tissue. The device utilizes a trigger including a first part  80 ′a and a second part  80 ′b. A breakable section BS (see  FIG. 35   a ) connects these sections. A spring TRS biases the first and second parts towards the read side of the device. In this embodiment, the device is triggered by axial forward movement of, i.e., by depressing, a rearward extending trigger button of the member  80 ′b which causes the end of the forward end of the member  80 ′a to move forwards and compress the spring TRS. This, in turn, allows the deflectable retaining members of the needle hub  40   IV B to deflect inwardly a slight amount and disengage from the openings of the body  20   V . As the needle nub  40   IV B is retracted by the spring  50 , the members  80 ′a and  80 ′b are caused to move rearwards until the area of the breakable section BS reaches the opening  20   V G. As this point, the user cab deflect the  80 ′b until the section BS breaks and discard the same. 
       FIGS. 36-38  show another non-limiting embodiment of the device, which like that of  FIG. 5 , utilizes a cannula portion  30  and a tool portion TP IX . In  FIG. 36 , the device is shown in a ready-to-use or trigger-set configuration. This is the configuration which allows a user of the device to inject the cannula portion  30  into the skin and/or tissue. This embodiment allows a user to use axial movement of a trigger sleeve  60 ′″ to cause triggering of the device. Thus, triggering occurs when the trigger ring  60 ′″ is moved back against the biasing force of the a spring  70  to the point where the ring  60 ′″ causes the deflectable retaining members of the needle hub  40   V B to disengage from the openings of the body  20   VI . To trigger the device, the user can use his or her thumb and place it on the rear surface of the flange of the body  20   VI  and then place the forefinger and middle finger in front of the flange  60 ′″d of the trigger sleeve  60 ′″. The user can then use a squeezing motion (similar to that used with an injection syringe) to move the ring  60 ′″ rearwards until the deflectable retaining members of the hub  40   V B to disengage from the openings of the body  20   VI .  FIGS. 37 and 38  show the trigger sleeve  60 ′″ used in the device of  FIG. 36 . The trigger sleeve  60 ′″ includes a tapered surface  60 ′″a configured to engage with a tapered surface of the deflectable retaining members of the hub  40   V B, a circumferential groove receive therein the deflectable retaining members of the hub  40   V B, a generally cylindrical portion  60 ′″c, a flange  60 ′″d, and a rear recess  60 ′″e. 
       FIG. 39  shows an enlarged view of optional front end configuration for the device of  FIG. 23 . In this embodiment, the device has a tool portion TP X  that utilizes a needle nub  40   VI  having a front tapered portion  40   VI B 7  and a rear projection  40   VI B 8  for connecting to a front end  50 A of the spring  50 . This configuration facilitates manufacturing assembly of the device since it allows the needle hub  40 ′ and spring  50  to be inserted into the body  20 ″ from a front end thereof. 
       FIG. 40  shows an enlarged view of optional rear end configuration for the device of  FIG. 1 . In this embodiment, the rear flange portion and the body  20   VII  are separately formed and connected together via, e.g., a circumferential engaging recess and projection. This configuration facilitates manufacturing assembly of the device since it allows the needle hub and spring  50  to be inserted into the body from a rear end thereof. Like the embodiment of  FIG. 1 , a through opening is disposed at a rear end of the body  20   VII  in order to serve as a vent and to facilitate assembly of the device. 
       FIGS. 41-43  show a cannula assembly that can be used on any of the devices shown herein such as that shown in  FIG. 1 . In this embodiment, the cannula  30  utilizes a butterfly type member  90  to allow the cannula to be more securely retained on a user&#39;s skin. Butterfly type devices are well known and are therefore not described herein in detail. 
       FIGS. 44 and 45  show another embodiment of the device according to the invention. The device is shown after triggering of the device. The device is similar to that of  FIG. 1 . However, unlike the device shown in  FIG. 1 , this device uses a known luer lock type connection between the cannula portion  300  and the tool portion TP XII . As is apparent, the spring which was, prior to triggering, in tension or axially expanded has assumed a relaxed or axially contracted state thereby withdrawing the puncturing needle into the body  20   VIII  of the device. 
       FIGS. 46 and 47  show another embodiment of the device according to the invention. The device is shown after triggering of the device. Unlike the device shown in  FIGS. 45 and 46 , this device can be used after it is utilized to install a cannula portion shown in  FIGS. 44 and 45 .  FIG. 46  shows that the tool portion TP XII  can be used again by connecting it to a different cannula portion  100 . Since the puncturing needle remains safely disposed in the body of the tool portion TP XII , there is no danger of pricking by re-using the device TP XII . 
       FIGS. 48-53  show another non-limiting embodiment of the device, which like that of  FIG. 5 , utilizes a cannula portion  30 ′ and a tool portion TP XIII . In  FIG. 48 , the device is shown in a ready-to-use or trigger-set configuration. This is the configuration which allows a user of the device to inject the cannula portion  30 ′ into the skin and/or tissue. This embodiment allows a user to use axial movement of a trigger sleeve  60   IV  to cause triggering of the device. Thus, triggering occurs when the trigger ring  60   IV  is moved forwards to the point where the sleeve  60   IV  causes the deflectable retaining members of the needle hub  40 B to disengage from the openings of the body  20 ′″. To trigger the device, the user can use his or her thumb and forefinger to move the ring  60   IV  forwards until the tapered surfaces MTSS are contacted and moved by the corresponding surfaces of the trigger sleeve  60   IV  to the point where the deflectable retaining members to disengage from the openings of the body. After triggering, the user can disconnect the cannula portion  30 ′ and the tool portion TP XIII  by either rotating the sleeve  60   IV  and/or rotating the tool portion TP XIII  to the point wherein the projections  30 ′B 1  and  30 ′B 2  align with the recesses DS. Then, the user can withdraw the tool portion TP XIII  axially away from the cannula portion  30 ′. 
       FIGS. 54-57  show another non-limiting embodiment of the device, which like that of  FIG. 5 , utilizes a cannula portion  30  and a tool portion TP XIV . In  FIG. 54 , the device is shown in a ready-to-use or trigger-set configuration. This is the configuration which allows a user of the device to inject the cannula portion  30  into the skin and/or tissue. This embodiment allows a user to use axial movement of a trigger sleeve  60   V  to cause triggering of the device. Thus, triggering occurs when the trigger ring  60   V  is moved back against the biasing force of the a spring  70  to the point where the ring  60   V  causes the deflectable retaining members  20   IX J of the body  20   IX  to disengage from the openings  40   VII B 9  of the needle hub  40   VII . The spring  70  is arranged axially compressed between a flange  20   IX H and the trigger ring  60   V . To trigger the device, the user can use his or her thumb and forefinger on or in front of the trigger ring  60   V . The user can then move the ring  60   V  rearwards until the arms  20   IX I of the deflectable retaining members  20   IX J deflect outwardly and the deflectable retaining members  20   IX J disengage from the openings  40   VII B 9  of the needle hub  40   VII  (see  FIG. 55 ). As can be seen in  FIG. 57 , the two oppositely arranged openings  40   VII B 9  are arranged on the generally cylindrical portion  40   VII B 1  of the needle hub  40   VII  and, as in previous embodiments, the needle member  40   VII  includes a puncturing needle  40   VII A. 
       FIG. 58  shows still another non-limiting embodiment of the device. The device is similar to that of  FIG. 49  except that the trigger sleeve  60   IV  is configured to be removed from the body  20  of the device and/or has no flange to retain the trigger sleeve  60   IV  on the body  20 . 
       FIG. 59  shows an enlarged side cross-section view of still another non-limiting embodiment of the device. The device is similar to that of  FIG. 1  except that the tool portion utilizes a sealing member SM 1  to ensure that body fluid(s) do not pass into the front portion  20 A of the tool portion after triggering. A sealing ring SR ensures that sealing is provided between the puncturing needle  40 A and the tool portion. Such an arrangement can be used on any of the herein described embodiments. 
       FIG. 60  shows an enlarged side cross-section view of still another non-limiting embodiment of the device. The device is similar to that of  FIG. 1  except that it utilizes a resealable and puncturable sealing member SM 2  to ensure that body fluid does not pass into the front portion  20 A of the tool portion after triggering. 
     The devices described herein can also utilize one or more features disclosed in the prior art documents expressly incorporated by reference herein. The invention also contemplates using one or more features from one disclosed embodiment on one or more other disclosed embodiments. For example, the rear configuration shown in  FIGS. 21-22  can be used on any of the herein disclosed embodiments. Furthermore, one or more of the various parts or features of the tool portion can preferably be made as one-piece structures by e.g., injection molding, when doing so reduces costs of manufacture. Non-limiting materials for most of the parts include synthetic resins such as those approved for syringes, blood collection devices, or other medical devices. Furthermore, the invention also contemplates that any or all disclosed features of one embodiment may be used on other disclosed embodiments, to the extent such modifications function for their intended purpose. 
     It is noted that the foregoing examples have been provided merely for the purpose of explanation and are in no way to be construed as limiting of the present invention. While the present invention has been described with reference to an exemplary embodiment, it is understood that the words which have been used herein are words of description and illustration, rather than words of limitation. Changes may be made, within the purview of the appended claims, as presently stated and as amended, without departing from the scope and spirit of the present invention in its aspects. Although the present invention has been described herein with reference to particular means, materials and embodiments, the present invention is not intended to be limited to the particulars disclosed herein; rather, the present invention extends to all functionally equivalent structures, methods and uses, such as are within the scope of the appended claims.