Osmotically powered agent dispensing device with filling means
Abstract
Abstract A device is disclosed comprised of a wall formed of a material collapsable in response to mechanical force and surrounding a closed compartment for containing an agent, a dispensing passageway communicates with the compartment and the exterior of the device for dispensing agent therefrom, a filling passageway communicates with the exterior of the device and the compartment for filling the device, a layer of an osmotically effective solute is deposited on the collapsable wall''s outer surface, said solute capable of exhibiting an osmotic pressure gradient against an external fluid and increasing its volume as fluid diffuses by osmosis into the solute, an outer wall surrounding the layer of solute formed of a material having shape retaining properties, permeable to the fluid and substantially impermeable to solute, and wherein the filling passageway houses a material penetrable to a means for filling the compartment which material self closes on removal of the means to maintain the compartment in closed condition for subsequent collapsing thereof in response to mechanical or hydrostatic force generated by osmotic pressure arising in the solute layer, as fluid diffuses therein to increase its volume and generate forces that are exerted between the collapsable wall of the agent containing chamber and the more rigid outer semi-permeable wall, which collapsing force in turn dispenses an agent through the dispensing passageway when the compartment is charged with drug and the device is positioned in the environment of use.
Inventors
- 👤 F Theeuwes
Bibliographic Details
Claims Analysis
Total Claims: 6References Cited (Backward Citations)
USPTO Annuity & Maintenance Windows
| Annuity Stage | Window Opens | Payment Deadline | Surcharge Period Until | Estimated Fee | Status |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 3.5 Years (Year 4) | 1976-09-24 | 1977-03-26 | 1977-09-25 | $2000.00 | Window Closed / Lapsed |
| 7.5 Years (Year 8) | 1980-09-24 | 1981-03-26 | 1981-09-25 | $3760.00 | Window Closed / Lapsed |
| 11.5 Years (Year 12) | 1984-09-24 | 1985-03-26 | 1985-09-25 | $7700.00 | Window Closed / Lapsed |