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Optimizing Wearable Insulin Pump Design
Design engineers face competing constraints when developing wearable insulin pumps that enhance patient acceptance and adherence to therapy. These pumps must be smaller and more discreet to improve user comfort, facilitate easier concealment and provide greater freedom of movement. It is also necessary to maintain high levels of functionality, calculating accurate and consistent insulin delivery for effective diabetes management while meeting stringent safety regulations.
Engineers look to new methods of miniaturization and advanced signal integrity capabilities, to help ensure accurate measurement and delivery of insulin doses that drive patient acceptance and adherence. Early consideration of regulatory compliance is essential to align the development process with safety standards and ensure a successful wearable insulin pump.
Molex offers specialized expertise and hardware solutions to give design engineers the latest capabilities in miniaturization and space-saving techniques. Recognizing the importance of providing high-quality connectors engineered for superior signal integrity and longer product life, Molex incorporates features like impedance matching and shielding to maintain accuracy. Together with Phillips Medisize, Molex has established rigorous quality management systems compliant with regulatory standards such as ISO 13485, ensuring high-quality design and execution to meet market approval requirements.
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Main Electronics and Power
Reducing the size and weight of a wearable insulin pump design improves user comfort and convenience, making the device easier to wear discreetly. This can be achieved in part by employing lighter-weight materials and more compact components that maintain the electrical performance required for core functionality. Molex options for low-profile connectors minimize protrusions from the surface of the pump device, reducing the risk of snagging and discomfort for the wearer, while affording a sleeker, more streamlined profile.
Configuration | Pitch | Circuits | Actuator Style | |
---|---|---|---|---|
FFC / FPC Connectors | Wire-to-board | 0.20 to 2.00mm | 2 to 120 |
Front flip, back flip, non-ZIF, slider, flexi-latch, one-touch |
Configuration | Pitch | Max Derating Current | Voltage (Max) | Termination Style | |
---|---|---|---|---|---|
Pico-EZmate Connectors | Wire-to-board |
1.00, 1.20, 1.80mm | 3.0, 5.0A |
50V | SMT |
Communications
Electromagnetic interference (EMI) from power supplies or external wireless devices can compromise signal integrity and the reliability of communications in wearable insulin pumps. Design engineers can use proper shielding, grounding and signal routing techniques to help ensure optimal performance and user safety. Proven wearable insulin pump connectors from Molex offer shielding options, such as metalized shells or plates, to help protect against EMI and crosstalk.
Configuration | Pitch | Circuits | Current Rating | |
---|---|---|---|---|
USB Type-C Connectors | Wire-to-board | 0.50mm | 4 to 24 | 6.0A |
Configuration | Frequency | |
---|---|---|
5G mmWave RF Flex-to-Board Connectors | Signal: 2 to 4 Ground: 4 to 6 Power: 4 to 0 |
15 GHz 25 GHz |
Insulin Reservoir and Infusion Set
The structures in wearable insulin pump designs demand precise injection molding and careful assembly processes to effectively perform their intended functions. Quality control measures at every manufacturing step ensure that each component meets the highest standard. This exceptional attention to detail and adherence to safety protocols extends to integrating metal sharps, such as needles or cannulas. Quality management programs developed by Molex and Phillips Medisize specifically address the many production and assembly issues of medical wearables, including tests for patient safety, usability and reliable insulin delivery.
Human Factors
Human factor considerations are a high priority when developing wearable insulin pump designs, often warranting detailed research and testing of user needs, preferences and limitations. Phillips Medisize, a Molex company, has specialized expertise in connected health product development, emphasizing usability and human-centric design — helping ensure wearable insulin pumps and Continuous Glucose Monitors (CGMs) seamlessly integrate.