Jet injector with data logging system for use in compliance and dose monitoring programs

Abstract

An integral data logging system for a jet injector includes at least one electrical switch that changes state (e.g. from OFF to ON) during an injection procedure. The switch(es) are connected to an electrical circuit having a microprocessor, a clock and an electronic memory. When a switch changes state, this information along with the applicable date and time is recorded in the electronic memory. A communications link is provided to upload the stored data to a remote computer for subsequent manipulation and analysis to determine compliance with a prescribed dosing regimen. In one implementation, the injection duration is logged by using a trigger release switch and an end-of-stroke switch. The end-of-stroke switch is configured to change state after the drive bar of the injector transits through the injector tube. The injection duration is indicative of dose amount and can be used to distinguish between valid and invalid injections.

1 . A system for determining the dose amount of an injection for use in an injection monitoring program, said system comprising: 
 a fluid medicament injector having a fluid chamber and a syringe plunger for expelling fluid medicament form said fluid chamber;    means for sensing position information about said syringe plunger prior to an injection; and    means connected to said sensing means for recording said position information to determine an injection dose amount.    
   
   
       2 . A system as recited in  claim 1  wherein said sensing means comprises a plurality of position detectors with each said position detector having a light emitter for emitting a light beam and a light sensor to receive said light beam when said plunger does not lie along the path of said light beam.  
   
   
       3 . A system as recited in  claim 1  further comprising a microprocessor and electronic memory mounted on said injector to electronically store said position information.