Continuous Multi-Fluid Delivery System and Method

Abstract

A fluid pump device is operable by a drive and actuating system. The fluid pump device includes a pump manifold, a plurality of pump cylinders, a plunger reciprocally operable in each of the pump cylinders, and at least one inlet selector valve. The pump cylinders may extend proximally from the pump manifold and are in selective fluid communication with the pump manifold via, for example, respective inlet and outlet check valves. The plungers are reciprocally operable within the pump cylinders and are independently and reciprocally operable by respective piston linear actuators provided in the drive and actuating system. The inlet selector valve is used to establish selective fluid communication between one or more fluid source containers and the pump manifold to control fluid flow into the pump manifold. The inlet selector valve may be located laterally outboard of the pump cylinders and extend generally parallel to the pump cylinders.

Description

CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS[0001]This application claims the benefit of U.S. Provisional Application No. 61 / 537,371, filed Sep. 21, 2011 and entitled “Continuous Multi-Fluid Delivery System and Method”, and which is incorporated herein in its entirety.BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION[0002]1. Field of the Invention[0003]The invention described herein is directed to a fluid delivery system comprising a fluid pump device and an associated drive and actuating system for continuous multi-fluid delivery applications in medical diagnostic and therapeutic procedures wherein one or more fluids are infused / injected into a patient.[0004]2. Description of Related Art[0005]In the medical field, fluid delivery devices used to provide fluids to patients are generally well-known and exist in many different forms. A system commonly used for this purpose is a gravity-feed system wherein a fluid containing bag is supported above the level of the patient's body and wherein the flow rate to the p...

AI Technical Summary

Benefits of technology

The patent describes a fluid pump device that is used in a drive and actuating system. The device includes a plurality of pump cylinders, a plunger, and an inlet selector valve. The invention provides an improved design for the inlet selector valve that allows for selective fluid communication between a fluid source and the pump cylinders. The invention also includes methods for assembling and operating the fluid pump device. The technical effects of the invention include improved fluid control, improved pump efficiency, and improved system performance.

Problems solved by technology

One limitation of a syringe-based fluid injection system is the need to refill and replace the disposable syringes prior to each patient procedure.

While this system eliminates the need to replace disposable syringes after each patient, the use of a roller-type peristaltic pump inherently limits the pressure capability of the system to approximately 200 psi.

Unfortunately, many CT procedures and virtually all angiographic procedures require fluid to be delivered at higher pressures.

There are several disadvantages present in positive displacement pump platforms known in the medical field for fluid delivery to a patient.

One disadvantage is that these pump platforms are, typically, limited to pumping a single fluid type.

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