Automatic Insulin Dispenser with Smart Functions

Grinn has completed a project for an insulin dispenser that will significantly improve the quality of life for insulin-dependent individuals and also assist doctors in determining the precise dosage of the drug and in diagnosis. Insulin, a medication taken daily, sometimes multiple times a day, requires accurate dosage calculations, much like any life-saving medicine. Traditionally, patients needed to meticulously record the administered medication amount and subsequent blood sugar levels for dosage determination. However, this requires a certain level of discipline and precision. This project addresses these challenges by incorporating smart features into the familiar insulin pen. In this innovative device developed by Grinn, information about the exact dosage and administration time is stored in the dispenser, accessible to doctors through a smartphone application.

Insulin, stored at a low temperature of 4 - 8°C, is equipped with a temperature monitoring function to prevent spoilage. The dispenser informs users of elevated temperatures, displaying the maximum and minimum recorded temperatures on its information screen. This ensures users are aware if the drug has been exposed to unsuitable conditions and needs replacement. The screen displays crucial information, including: • Selected dosage by the patient • Time of the last injection • Whether an injection was administered • Maximum and minimum temperatures recorded on the device The LCD screen was specially developed for this project, as it needed to be compact yet information-rich and easily readable.

Due to the pen's small size, there was limited space for electronics. The STM32WB processor, featuring built-in Bluetooth and a screen control system, was chosen for this project. At the time of development, this processor was relatively new, with Grinn being among the first to incorporate it. Overcoming challenges such as patent rights for similar devices, Grinn's team explored three measurement technology options that wouldn't violate patents. One of these options was implemented in the project and subsequently patented. Furthermore, developing a mechanism for gradual drug administration post-release button press was crucial. We specially built mechanical simulator to reduce the number of injection molds produced and at the same time accelerate hardware and software development.

Grinn handled hardware design, software development, and testing for this project, involving a team of 6 people. The result is a modern and convenient solution for insulin administration, providing significant benefits for both physicians and patients. The device is set to hit the market soon.