Self-torque clamp for an infusion pump and method of use thereof

Abstract

A clamp device and methods of use thereof are described herein. A clamp device includes a clamp body and a clamp mechanism. The clamp body includes an opening including a slot traversing an inner wall of at least a portion of the opening. The slot is configured to prevent a clamp member from traversing the opening when the clamp member passes through the opening and a protruding key member of the clamp member is not aligned with the slot. A clamp mechanism includes the clamp member, a fastener, a hand member, the protruding key member, and a spring element. While the clamp mechanism is in a pre-engaging position, the spring element is a first length for decoupling a medical device from a structure, and while the clamp mechanism is in an engaged position, the spring element is a second length for coupling the medical device with the structure.

Description

FIELD OF THE INVENTION

[0001] The present disclosure generally relates to a clamp for coupling a medical device to a structure, and, in particular, a spring actuated clamp for coupling an infusion pump with an intravenous line (IV) pole. BACKGROUND

[0002] Medical devices can be coupled different structures as needed. Existing solutions for coupling the medical devices to structures use manual clamps that require users to adjust a torque applied by the manual clamps to the structures. The torque applied by the manual clamps can be inconsistent, which can lead to non-rigid clamping or over torquing. This results in the medical devices falling or slipping from the structure, or difficulty in removing the medical devices from the structure or damage to the structure.

[0003] As such, there is a need for clamps that provide consistent forces for coupling a medical device to a structure. SUMMARY

[0004] The disclosed subject matter relates to a spring actuated clamp that is configured to couple a medical device, such as an infusion pump, with a structure. The spring actuated clamp is easy to use, reduces or eliminates user error, reduces the amount of time and effort needed to couple the medical device with a structure, allows the medical device to be coupled at different heights, and reduces or eliminates damage to a structure. The spring actuated clamp is configured to hold a mechanism (e.g., a medical device) in place and ensures that the right amount of force is applied each time the mechanism is coupled (e.g., clamped) with a structure.

[0005] In accordance with some implementations, a clamp device is provided. The clamp device includes a clamp body and a clamp mechanism. The clamp body includes an opening including a slot traversing an inner wall of at least a portion of the opening. The slot is configured to prevent a clamp member from traversing the opening when the clamp member passes through the opening and a protruding key member of the clamp member is not aligned with the slot. The clamp mechanism includes a clamp member extending through the opening, a fastener coupled to a first portion of the clamp member, on a first side of the opening, adjacent to a first end of the clamp member, a hand member coupled to a second end of the clamp member, opposite the first side of the opening and opposite the first end, a protruding key member extending from a second portion of the clamp member and configured to be received via the slot, and a spring element disposed on the clamp member between the fastener and the first side of the opening such that the spring element is compressed or elongated between the fastener and the first side of the opening when a position of the clamp mechanism is changed. The second portion is at an intermediary portion of the clamp member between the first and second ends of the clamp member. While the clamp mechanism is in a pre-engaging position, the spring element is a first compressed length for decoupling a medical device from a structure, and while the clamp mechanism is in an engaged position, the spring element is a second compressed length causing the clamp member to extend through the opening to engage the structure to couple the medical device with the structure. The second compressed length being greater than the first compressed length.

[0006] In accordance with some implementations, a system includes a medical device and a clamp device coupled with the medical device. While the clamp mechanism of the clamp device is in a pre-engaging position, a spring element of the clamp mechanism is a first compressed length for decoupling a medical device from a structure, and while a clamp mechanism of the clamp device is in an engaged position, the spring element of the clamp mechanism is a second compressed length causing a clamp member to extend through the opening to engage the structure to couple the medical device with the structure. The second compressed length is greater than the first compressed length.

[0007] In accordance with some implementations, a method for coupling a medical device with a structure using a clamp device includes, at the clamp device, adjusting a clamp mechanism of the clamp device to a pre-engaging position, such that while the clamp mechanism of the clamp device is in the pre-engaging position, a spring element of the clamp mechanism is a first compressed length such that a gap is formed. The gap is configured to receive a structure or decouple a medical device from the structure. The method further includes coupling the clamp device to the structure; aligning a protruding key member of the clamp mechanism of the clamp device with a slot of a clamp body of the clamp device to allow the clamp mechanism to move from the pre-engaging position to an engaged position; and adjusting the clamp mechanism of the clamp device to the engaged position. While the clamp mechanism of the clamp device is in the engaged position, the spring element of the clamp mechanism is a second compressed length causing the clamp member of the of the clamp mechanism to extend through the opening to engage the structure to couple the medical device with the structure. The second compressed length is greater than the first compressed length.

[0008] In accordance with some implementations, a method for forming a clamp device includes providing a clamp body, providing a clamp mechanism, and coupling the clamp body with the clamp mechanism. The clamp body includes an opening including a slot traversing an inner wall of at least a portion of the opening. The slot is configured to prevent a clamp member from traversing the opening when the clamp member passes through the opening and a protruding key member of the clamp member is not aligned with the slot. The clamp mechanism includes a clamp member extending through the opening, a fastener coupled to a first portion of the clamp member, on a first side of the opening, adjacent to a first end of the clamp member, a hand member coupled to a second end of the clamp member, opposite the first side of the opening and opposite the first end, the protruding key member extending from a second portion of the clamp member and configured to be received via the slot, and a spring element disposed on the clamp member between the fastener and the first side of the opening. The second portion being at an intermediary portion of the clamp member between the first and second ends of the clamp member.

[0009] Note that the various implementations described above can be combined with other implementations described herein. The features and advantages described in the specification are not all inclusive and, in particular, additional features and advantages will be apparent to one of ordinary skill in the art in view of the drawings, specification, and claims. Moreover, it should be noted that the language used in the specification has been principally selected for readability and instructional purposes. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0010] So that the present disclosure can be understood in greater detail, a more particular description may be had by reference to the features of various implementations, some of which are illustrated in the appended drawings. The appended drawings, however, merely illustrate pertinent features of the present disclosure. The description may admit to other effective features as the person of skill in this art will appreciate upon reading this disclosure.

[0011] FIG. 1 illustrates an IV pump administering a medical fluid to a patient.

[0012] FIGS. 2A-2C illustrates a clamp device coupled with a medical device, in accordance with some implementations.

[0013] FIGS. 3A-3D illustrate different components of the clamp device, in accordance with some implementations.

[0014] FIGS. 4A-4E illustrate a clamp mechanism traversing an opening of a clamp mechanism, in accordance with some embodiments.

[0015] FIG. 5 is a flowchart illustrating a method for forming a clamp device, according to some implementations.

[0016] In accordance with common practice, the various features illustrated in the drawings are not drawn to scale. Accordingly, the dimensions of the various features may be arbitrarily expanded or reduced for clarity. In addition, some of the drawings may not depict all of the components of a given system, method or device. Finally, like reference numerals denote like features throughout the specification and figures. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0017] Numerous details are described herein in order to provide a thorough understanding of the example implementations illustrated in the accompanying drawings. However, some implementations may be practiced without many of the specific details, and the scope of the claims is only limited by those features and aspects specifically recited in the claims. Furthermore, well-known processes, components, and materials have not been described in exhaustive detail so as to avoid obscuring pertinent aspects of the implementations described herein.

[0018] FIG. 1 illustrates an IV pump administering a medical fluid to a patient. The IV pump 30 includes a controller 32 and one or more pump modules 34. An IV set 20 is connected between a container 36 (e.g., an IV bag) of the medical fluid and the patient 5. During operation, IV pump 30 delivers the medical fluid to the patient 5. The IV pump 30 is configured to administer the medical fluid to the patient at a predetermined and uniform rate. In some implementations, the IV set 20 is utilized to further accelerate a flow of medical fluid from the container 36 (or the IV pump 30) to the patient. For example, a hand pump fluidically coupled with the container 36 and / or the IV set 20 can be used to further accelerate the flow of medical fluid.

[0019] FIGS. 2A-2C illustrates a clamp device coupled with a medical device, in accordance with some implementations. The clamp device 210 includes a clamp body 215 and a clamp mechanism 220. The clamp device 210 is coupled with a medical device 205 (analogous with controller 32 and one or more pump modules 34; FIG. 1), and is configured to mount the medical device 205 with a structure 255, such as an IV pole, post, wall, etc. The clamp device 210 includes a mounting fixture 311 that couples the clamp device 210 with the medical device 205, via a mounting surface 207 of the medical device 205. The mounting fixture 311 of the clamp device 210 aligns an opening 307 of the clamp device 210 with a (planar) surface 206 of the medical device 205 such that the opening 307 is perpendicular to the surface 206 of the medical device 205. By positioning the opening 307 of the clamp device 210 perpendicular to the surface 206 of the medical device 205, a clamp member 325 of the clamp device 210 applies a direct line compression force to the structure 255 between the clamp member 325 and the surface 206 of the medical device 205. The clamp device 210 is discussed in detail below in reference to FIGS. 3A-3D. While the surface 206 of the medical device 205 is described as a planar surface, in some embodiments, the surface 206 is a pocket, a compartment, a slot, a curved portion, a hollow portion, and / or other surface of the medical device 205 with which a structure 255 can be pushed against such that the force (e.g., applied by the clam mechanism 210) that pushes the structure 255 into the medical device 205 couples the medical device 205 to the structure 255.

[0020] In some embodiments, the clamp device 210 (including components thereof) is formed of mild steel. The clamp body 215 and the clamp mechanism 220 are discussed in detail below with reference to FIGS. 3 A-3D.

[0021] In the initial position 200, the clamp mechanism 220 is not engaged and a clamp member 325 (FIG. 3C, e.g., a screw, a rod, etc.) is fully inserted within the clamp body 215 (e.g., via an opening 307; FIGS. 3A and 3B). The clamp mechanism 220 and has a free length substantially equal to a length of clamp member 325. A spring element 335 (FIGS. 3C and 3D) disposed on a portion of the clamp mechanism 220, between a protruding key member 340 and a fastener 330, is not compressed.

[0022] In the pre-engaging position 230, the clamp mechanism 220 is pulled back (e.g., via a hand member 329; FIGS. 3C and 3D) and the spring element 335 is compressed between the clamp body 215 and the fastener 330. The force required to pullback the clamp mechanism 220 is based on a spring rate of the spring element 335. The spring rate is the amount of force required for every inch of compression. The higher the spring rate, the more force is required to pullback the clamp mechanism 220 and compress the spring element 335. When a force is applied to the spring element 335 (e.g., compressing the spring element 335), the spring element 335 is compressed by a compressed length (e.g., based on a distance at that the clamp mechanism 220 is pulled back). In some embodiments, the spring rate is selected such that the compressed length is a predetermined length based on a structure to which the clamp device 210 is configured to couple. For example, the structure can be an IV pole 255 with a predefined radius and the spring rate can be selected such that the clamp mechanism 220 is substantially more difficult for a user to pull back after a compressed length needed to couple the clamp device 210 with the IV pole 255 is reached. Alternatively, or in addition, in some implementations, the protruding key member 340 of the clamp mechanism 220 can be disposed at predetermined locations of the clamp member 325 based on the predefined radius of the IV pole 255 as discussed in detail below in reference to FIG. 3D.

[0023] In the engaged position 250, the clamp mechanism 220 is released such that the clamp mechanism 220 applies a force to a structure (e.g., IV pole 255). In particular, the clamp mechanism 220 attempts to return to its uncompressed state (e.g., the free length) when released, and applies a force on the IV pole 255 to couple the medical device 205 with the IV pole 255. The force applied by the clamp mechanism 220 is based on the spring rate. In particular, the spring element 335 attempts to return the clamp mechanism 220 to the initial position 200 and drives the clamp mechanism 220 in to the IV pole 255.

[0024] In some embodiments, the clamp device 210 is configured to support a weight of at least 9.5 kg. For example, the clamp device 210 can couple a medical device of at least 9.5 kg to the IV pole 255. In some embodiments, a spring rate of the spring element 335 and / or a compression length of the spring element 335 can be adjusted to support more or less weight.

[0025] Figures 3A-3D illustrate different components of the clamp device 210 (FIGS. 2A-2C), in accordance with some implementations. FIGS. 3A and 3B show different views of a clamp body 215, FIG. 3C shows a first embodiment of a clamp mechanism 220, and FIG. 3D shows another example clamp mechanism 350.

[0026] A first view 305 shows an opening 307 of the clamp body 215. The opening 307 (e.g., a hole, aperture, etc.) is configured to receive the clamp mechanism 220 and allow a clamp member 325 of the clamp mechanism 220 to substantially travel through the opening 307. In particular, the opening 307 allows the clamp member 325 of the clamp mechanism 220 to travel from an initial position 200 (FIG. 2A, e.g., a free length) to a preengaging position 230 (FIG. 2B, e.g., a compressed length). The opening 307 includes one or more slots 309 (e.g., key ways or access points). The slots 309 are configured to control travel of the clamp member 325 via the opening 307. Specifically, the slots 309 allow the clamp member 325 to travel via the opening 307 when protruding key members 340 of the clamp member 325 are aligned with the slots 309 as described below in reference to FIGS. 4A-4E. The slots 309 may be positioned along an inner wall of the opening 307. As depicted, two slots 309 may be positioned opposite each other such as to create a channel 317 extending through a center point of the opening, the channel 317 being longer than a diameter of the opening 307 (e.g., length “L” of the channel 317 is greater than diameter “d” of the opening 307). In some implementations, the slots 309 may be positioned at other points within the opening 307, and / or the opening 307 may include one slot or more than two slots.

[0027] The clamp body 215 further includes a mounting fixture 311 for coupling the clamp body 215 to the medical device 205 (FIGS. 2A-2C). As depicted, the mounting fixture 311 may include another opening for securing the clamp body 215 to a portion of the medical device 205 (e.g., a bolt or other mounting fastener on a surface 207 of the medical device 205, such a side wall or rear portion of the medical device 205). As depicted in FIG. 3B, the other opening of the mounting fixture 311 (or the mounting mechanism) may be at a right angle (e.g., 90 degrees) offset from the opening 307 such that, when mounted, the opening 307 is 90 degrees offset from the mounting surface 207 of the medical device 205, which allows the clamp member 325 to be perpendicular to a surface 206 of the medical device 205. Specifically, the opening 307 is on a first face 301 of the clamp body 215 and the mounting fixture 311 is on a second face 303 of the clamp body 215 perpendicular to the first surface. In some implementations, opening 307 may be replaced by a bolt or mounting fastener (according to the clam mechanism described below in reference to FIGS. 3C and 3D).

[0028] Additionally, as shown in FIG. 3 A, the opening 307 is at a height distinct from the mounting fixture 311 (e.g., height delta “h”). The opening 307 can be at a predetermined angle (0) from a centerline of an arm of the first face 301 (e.g., 45 degrees). The opening 307 is also at a predetermined distance (x) extending from an end of the first face 301 (e.g., end proximate to the second face 303. This allows the opening 307 to be aligned with a planar surface 206 of the medical device 205 and / or aligns the opening 307 with a planar surface 206 on the medical device 205.

[0029] A second view 315 shows the opening 307, the one or more slots 309, the channel 317, and a groove 319 of the clamp body 215. As described above, the channel 317 defines an interior passageway disposed within the clamp body 215 such that the clamp member 325 can traverse the opening 307 when the protruding key member 340 of the clamp member 325 are aligned with the slot 309. For example, as shown in the second view 315, the channel 317 (and the opening 307) extends an entire thickness (t) of a portion of the clamp body 215 including opening 307 such that the clamp member 325 can traverse the opening 307.

[0030] In some embodiments, the groove 319 is disposed within the opening 307 and perpendicular to the channel 317. The groove 319 may be disposed along an intermediary portion of the channel 317 (e.g., a portion of the channel 317 extending the thickness (t) of the portion of the clamp body 215 including opening 307). For example, as shown in the second view 315, the groove 319 is disposed at a midpoint of the thickness (t) within the opening 307. The groove 319 may circumscribe the inner wall of the opening 307 and / or define an inner circumference within the opening 307. The groove 319 is configured to receive the protruding key members 340 and lock the clamp member 325 in a predetermined position. In particular, as described in detail below in reference to Figures 4A-4E, when the protruding key members 340 are aligned with the groove 319, the clamp mechanism 220 can be rotated such that the protruding key members 340 enter the groove 319 and the clamp member 325 can no longer traverse the opening 307, locking it in position (e.g., at a predetermined compressed length).

[0031] As shown in the second view 315, the mount fixture 311 includes another opening that is offset from the opening 307 by a predetermined angle (e.g., 90 degrees). The mount fixture 311 coupled the clamp body 215 to a mounting surface 207 of a medical device 205 (Figures 2A-2C). Specifically, the other opening of the mount fixture 311 is configured to receive a fastener that couples the clamp body 215 to the medical device 205. The fastener may be a bolt, a screw, or other fixture for coupling the clamp body 215 to the medical device 205. As described previously, mounting fixture 311 may include a fastener (e.g., a bolt, a screw, a rod, etc.), and the medical device may include an opening for receiving the fastener.

[0032] The clamp mechanism 220, as shown in FIG. 3C, includes a clamp member 325, a fastener 330, a hand member 329, one or more protruding key members 340, and a spring element 335. The clamp member 325 extends through the opening (e.g., a predetermined length, such as a length of the clamp body 215 or a predetermined free length) and includes a first end 327 that contacts and / or applies a compression force to a structure (e.g., for mounting a medical device 205) and a second end that is coupled with the hand member 329. The clamp member 325, when engaged (e.g., the clamp member 325 travels through the opening 307), causes the first end 327 to compress the structure (e.g., an IV pole 255) against the medical device 205 such that the medical device 205 is mounted to the structure.

[0033] As described above, by offsetting the opening 307 from the mounting fixture 311 by 90 degrees (e.g., relative to the first and second faces 301 and 303), the clamp member 325 is perpendicular to a planar surface 206 of the medical device 205 and can provide a linear compression force for mounting the medical device to a structure (e.g., an IV pole). Additionally, as noted above, the opening 307 extends from an end of the first face 301 a predetermined distance (x) and is at a distinct height (e.g., height delta “h”) and at the predetermined angle (0) from the centerline of an arm of the first face 301 (and the mounting fixture 311), which allows the clamp member 325 to be perpendicularly aligned with a planar surface 206 of the medical device 205. Further, because of the distinct height of the opening 307 (compared to the mounting fixture 311 and the centerline of the of the arm of the first face 301) the clamp member 325 generates a moment force that stabilized the medical device 205.

[0034] The hand member 329 allows for users to rotate the clamp mechanism 220 clockwise or counterclockwise to engage or disengage the clamp mechanism 220. Specifically, the hand member 329 is used to align the one or more protruding key members 340 with the channel 317 and / or groove 319 of the clamp body 215. Additionally, the hand member 329 operates as a stopper to prevent the clamp member 325 from being removed from the clamp body 215.

[0035] The fastener 330 is coupled adjacent to the first end 327 of the clamp member 325 and provides a first surface for compressing the spring element 335. The fastener 330 can be formed on or coupled to the clamp member 325. The fastener 330 can be a locknut, a nut, a bolt, or other types of fasteners. Similar to the hand member 329, the fastener 330 operates as a stopper to prevent the clamp member 325 from being removed from the clamp body 215.

[0036] The one or more protruding key members 340 are disposed on an intermediary portion of the clamp member 325 (e.g., between the first end 327 and the second end (represented by the hand member 329)). The protruding key members 340 can be disposed at a predetermined location of the clamp member 325 based on the structure with which the clamp device 210 is configured to couple. Example predetermined locations are described below in reference to FIG. 3D.

[0037] The protruding key members 340 may be positioned on a side of the clamp member 325 (e.g., along the shaft) and extend perpendicular to the clamp member 325, and can have predetermined widths and / or predetermined lengths. The protruding key members 340 operate as one or more keys that are configured to be received by the one or more slots 309 and / or the channel 317 (each of which can have widths and / or lengths equal to or greater than predetermined widths and / or a predetermined lengths of the protruding key members 340). More specifically, when the one or more protruding key members 340 are aligned with the slots 309, the clamp mechanism 220 is able to travel through the opening 307. According to various implementations, the protruding key members 340 may be disposed on opposite sides of the member 325 such as to be received by received by the dual channel 309 of FIG. 3 A.

[0038] Additionally, when the one or more protruding key members 340 are positioned within the channel 317 (e.g., via alignment of the protruding key members 340 with the slots 309 such that clamp member 325 enters the channel 317) and further aligned with the groove 319, the hand mechanism 329 can be rotated such that the protruding key members 340 are positioned within the groove 319, which locks a position of the clamp mechanism 220. In some implementations, as depicted in FIG. 3D, multiple protruding key members 340 may be arranged along the clamp member 325 in series, spaced apart from each other by a predetermined distance, which allows the clamp mechanism 220 to mount the medical device 205 with structures of different sizes (e.g., IV poles 255 of different diameters). Alternatively, as shown in FIG. 3C, the clamp member 325 can include a single set of protruding key members 340 to accommodate a structure of predefined dimensions.

[0039] The spring element 335 is disposed on the clamp member 325 between the fastener 330 and the protruding key members 340. While the spring element 335 is disposed between the fastener 330 and the protruding key members 340, the spring element 335 is uncompressed. As described below in reference to FIGS. 4A-4E, when the clamp mechanism 220 is pulled backwards, the spring element is compressed between the surface of the fastener 330 and a surface of the opening 307.

[0040] The other example clamp mechanism 350 is analogous to the clamp mechanism 220. The example clamp mechanism 350 includes two or more sets of protruding key members. Each set of protruding key members may be disposed at respective predetermined locations of the clamp member 325. For example, a first set of protruding key members 355 may be disposed on a first predetermined location of the clamp member 325, a second set of protruding key members 357 is disposed on a second predetermined location of the clamp member 325, a third set of protruding key members (the one or more protruding key members 340) is disposed on a third predetermined location of the clamp member 325, and a fourth set of protruding key members 359 is disposed on a fourth predetermined location of the clamp member 325. The third predetermined location of the clamp member 325 is associated with an IV pole having a standard diameter (e.g., 18 mm). The fourth predetermined location of the clamp member 325 can be used to couple with a structure including a smaller diameter. The first and second predetermined locations of the clamp member 325 can be used to couple with structures having a larger diameter than the standard diameter.

[0041] In some implementations, when the clamp mechanism 220 is formed with the two or more sets of protruding key members, the spring element 335 is adjusted to be disposed between the fastener 330 and a particular set of protruding key members (e.g., the first, second, third, or fourth set of protruding key members). As described above, the clamp mechanism 220 can be formed with a single set of protruding key members (e.g., the one or more protruding key members 340). When a single set of protruding key members is formed on the clamp mechanism 220, the location of the protruding key members 340 on the clamp member 325 is determined based on the dimensions of the structure with which the clamp device 210 is configured to couple.

[0042] FIGS. 4A-4E illustrate a clamp mechanism traversing an opening of a clamp mechanism, in accordance with some embodiments. FIG. 4A shows the clamp device 210 (FIGS. 2A-2C) at a first point in time 410, FIG. 4B shows the clamp device 210 at a second point in time 420, FIG. 4C shows the clamp device 210 at a third point in time 430, FIG. 4D shows the clamp device 210 at a fourth point in time 440, and FIG. 4E shows the clamp device 210 at a fifth point in time 450.

[0043] At the first point in time 410, the clamp device 210 is in a pre-engaged position (e.g., the clamp mechanism 220 is pulled back). The spring element 335 is compressed between the fastener 330 and an opening 307 of the clamp body 215 (e.g., opening on an opposite face of the clamp body 215 shown). The spring element 335 cannot freely traverse the opening 307. The spring element 335 is compressed such that it has a compressed length as shown in Figure 2B. When the spring element 335 has the compressed length, a structure (e.g., an IV pole) can be placed between the clamp member 325 of the clamp mechanism 210 and the medical device 205 such that when the spring element 335 is elongated a compression force is applied to the structure coupling the medical device 205 to the structure. As further show in Figure 4A, at the first point in time 410, one or more protruding key members 340 of the clamp member 325 are aligned with one or more slots 309 of the opening 307, and the one or more protruding key members 340 are pulled back outside the opening 307.

[0044] At the second point in time 420, the clamp member 325 is released and begins to move inside the opening 307 via the channel 317. Specifically, the one or more protruding key members 340 are received by the slots 309 and traverse the channel 317 such that the clamp member 325 can traverse the opening 307. At the second point in time 420, the spring element 335 begins to partially elongate (attempting to return to its free length or uncompressed length). The clamp member 325 (automatically) traverses the opening 307 until it a first end of the clamp member 325 contacts a structure (e.g., an IV pole). Alternatively, if not structure is present (e.g., between the medical device 205 and the clamp member 325), the clamp member 325 traverses the opening until the spring element 335 reaches its free length. In other words, the spring element 335 automatically actuates the clamp member 325 such that the spring element is at its resting state (uncompressed).

[0045] At the third point in time 430, the one or more protruding key members 340 are within the channel 317 and aligned with a groove 319. In some embodiments, the groove 319 is at a predetermined location along the opening 307 such that the clamp member 325 contacts the structure and a sufficient compression force (e.g., a compression force capable of supporting a weight of at least 9.5 kg) is applied to the structure and the medical device 205. For example, the structure, such as an IV pole, can be standard diameter (18 mm) and the groove 319 can be disposed within the opening 307 such that the clamp member 325 contacts and applied adequate force to the IV pole. As described above, the spring element 335 can be selected such that a force applied by the spring supports a predetermined weight.

[0046] When the clamp device 210 is in an engaged position, one or more protruding key members 340 of the clamp member 325 are aligned with the groove 319 and the clamp mechanism 220 applies a (compression) force to a structure, which couples the medical device 205 (FIGS. 2A-2C) with the structure. The force applied to the structure is constant and based on a spring rate of the spring element 335. In other words, while the protruding key members 340 of the clamp member 325 are aligned with the groove 319, the spring structure 335 is able to partially elongate; however, a structure between the medical device 205 and the clamp member 325 restricts elongation of the spring structure 335 and the spring structure 335 applies a force to the structure based on restricted elongation and the spring rate of the spring structure 335. As such, the clamp device 210 applies the same (compression) force each time the medical device 205 is coupled to the structure via the clamp device 210 (e.g., the spring structure 335 presses down on the structure). The spring structure 335 of clamp device 210 prevents user error by preventing the clamp device from being over tightened (which can cause damage to the structure or make it difficult to decouple the medical device 205 from the structure) or being under tightened (which can cause the medical device 205 to slip or unintentionally decouple from the structure).

[0047] At the fourth point in time 440, a user rotates the hand member 329 such that the one or more protruding key members 340 are received via the groove 319. The hand member 329 can be rotated clockwise or counterclockwise. By rotating the hand member 329 clockwise or counterclockwise while the protruding key members 340 are aligned with the groove 319, a position of the clamp member 325 is locked (e.g., cannot be pulled back decreasing a compression force or pushed inward increasing the compression force).

[0048] At the fifth point in time 450, the one or more protruding key members 340 are disposed within the groove 319. While the one or more protruding key members 340 are disposed within the groove 319, the clamp mechanism 220 is locked such that the clamp device 210 cannot be inadvertently released. In this way, the medical device 205 is not decoupled from the structure accidentally or the force applied to the structure decreased over time.

[0049] To decouple the medical device 205 from the structure, the user can rotate the hand member 329 to align the one or more protruding key members 340 with the channel 317 and the slots 309 and pull back the clamp mechanism 220. After the force applied by the clamp mechanism 220 (or the clamp member 325) to the structure is removed, the structure can be removed from the clamp device 210 and / or the medical device 205.

[0050] FIG. 5 is a flowchart illustrating a method for forming a clamp device, according to some implementations. Methods consistent with the present disclosure may include at least some, but not all, of the operations illustrated in method 500 and / or operations performed in a different sequence. Furthermore, methods consistent with the present disclosure may include at least two or more steps as in method 500 performed overlapping in time, or almost simultaneously.

[0051] Method 500 includes providing (510) a clamp body. The clamp body includes (515) an opening including a slot traversing an inner wall of at least a portion of the opening. The slot is configured to prevent a clamp member from traversing the opening when the clamp member passes through the opening and a protruding key member of the clamp member is not aligned with the slot. For example, as described above in reference to FIGS. 3A-4E, the slots 309 are configured to receive one or more protruding key members 340 of the clamp mechanism 220 to allow the clamp mechanism 220 to traverse opening 307.

[0052] Method 500 further includes providing (520) the clamp mechanism. The clamp mechanism includes (521) a clamp member extending through the opening. The clamp mechanism includes (523) a fastener coupled to a first portion of the clamp member, on a first side of the opening, adjacent to a first end of the clamp member. For example, as shown in FIGS. 3A-4E, a fastener 330 is adjacent to a first end of the clamp member 325 on a first side of the opening 307 such that the fastener 330 operates as a stopper (e.g., to prevent the 13 clamp member 325 from being removed from the clamp mechanism 220). The clamp mechanism includes (525) a hand member coupled to a second end of the clamp member, opposite the first side of the opening and opposite the first end. For example, as shown in FIGS. 3A-4E, a hand member 329 is adjacent to a second end of the clamp member 325 on a second side (opposite the first side) of the opening 307 such that the hand member 329 operates as a stopper (e.g., to prevent the clamp member 325 from being removed from the clamp mechanism 220). The clamp mechanism includes (527) a protruding key member extending from a second portion of the clamp member and configured to be received via the slot. The second portion is at an intermediary portion of the clamp member between the first and second ends of the clamp member. The clamp mechanism further includes (529) a spring element disposed on the clamp member between the fastener and the first side of the opening such that the spring element is compressed or elongated between the fastener and the first side of the opening when a position of the clamp member is changed. For example, when the clamp mechanism 210 is in a pre-engaging position 230 (FIG. 2B, e.g., the clamp member 325 is pulled back or retracted), the spring element 335 is compressed between the fastener 330 and a first side of the opening 307 such that the spring element 335 is a compressed length. When the clamp mechanism 210 is in an engaged position 250 (FIG. 2C), the spring element 335 is partially elongated between the fastener 330 and the first side of the opening 307 such that the spring element 335 attempts to return to its free length as shown in FIG. 2A and applies a compression force on a structure between the medical device 205 and the clamp member 325, coupling the medical device 205 to the structure. Additional examples of the clamp mechanism 220 are described above in reference to FIGS. 3A-4E.

[0053] Method 500 further includes coupling (530) the clamp body with the clamp mechanism. Illustration of Subject Technology as Clauses:

[0054] Various examples of aspects of the disclosure are described as numbered clauses (1, 2, 3, etc.) for convenience. These are provided as examples, and do not limit the subject technology. Identifications of the figures and reference numbers are provided below merely as examples and for illustrative purposes, and the clauses are not limited by those identifications.

[0055] Clause 1. A clamp device including a clamp body and a clamp mechanism. The clamp body includes an opening including a slot traversing an inner wall of at least a portion of the opening. The slot is configured to prevent a clamp member from traversing the opening when the clamp member passes through the opening and a protruding key member of the clamp member is not aligned with the slot. The clamp mechanism includes the clamp member that extends through the opening, a fastener coupled to a first portion of the clamp member, on a first side of the opening, adjacent to a first end of the clamp member, a hand member coupled to a second end of the clamp member, opposite the first side of the opening and opposite the first end, the protruding key member extending from a second portion of the clamp member and configured to be received via the slot, and a spring element disposed on the clamp member between the fastener and the first side of the opening such that the spring element is compressed or elongated between the fastener and the first side of the opening when a position of the clamp mechanism is changed. The second portion is at an intermediary portion of the clamp member between the first and second ends of the clamp member. While the clamp mechanism is in a pre-engaging position, the spring element is a first compressed length for decoupling a medical device from a structure. While the clamp mechanism is in an engaged position, the spring element is a second compressed length causing the clamp member to extend through the opening to engage the structure to couple the medical device with the structure. The second compressed length is greater than the first compressed length.

[0056] Clause 2. The clamp device of Clause 1, the opening further includes a channel disposed adjacent to the slot. While the protruding key member is aligned with the channel, the clamp mechanism can traverse the opening such that the clamp mechanism can be adjusted between the pre-engaging position and the engaged position.

[0057] Clause 3. The clamp device of Clause 2, the opening further includes a groove disposed adjacent to and perpendicular to the channel. While the protruding key member is aligned with the groove, rotation of the hand member causes the protruding key member to be received by the groove such that a position of the clamp mechanism is locked when the protruding key member is within the groove.

[0058] Clause 4. The clamp device of Clause 3, the hand member is configured to be rotated clockwise or counterclockwise.

[0059] Clause 5. The clamp device of any of Clause 1 through Clause 3, the second portion of the clamp member is a predetermined distance from the second of the clamp member based on a diameter of a structure that the clamp device is configured to couple with.

[0060] Clause 6. The clamp device of any of Clause 1 through Clause 4, the clamp device is configured to support a weight of at least 9.5 kg.

[0061] Clause 7. The clamp device of any of Clause 1 through Clause 5, the spring element has a predetermined spring rate.

[0062] Clause 8. The clamp device of any of Clause 1 through Clause 6, the protruding key member is a first protruding key member of a plurality of protruding key members disposed on a side and of the clamp member and linearly spaced apart from each other, the first protruding key member extending and extends from a first predetermined distance from the second of the clamp member. The clamp device further includes a second protruding key member extending from a third portion of the clamp member and configured to be received via the slot. The third portion of the clamp member is a second predetermined distance from the second portion of the clamp member.

[0063] Clause 9. The clamp device of any of Clause 1 through Clause 7, the clamp body further includes a mounting fixture, the mounting fixture configured to couple the clamp device with a medical device.

[0064] Clause 10. The clamp device of Clause 9, the opening is on a first face of the clamp body and the mounting fixture is on a second face of the clamp body. The first face of the clamp body is perpendicular to the second face of clamp body. For example, as shown in FIGS. 3A and 3B, the opening 307 is perpendicular to the mounting fixture 311.

[0065] Clause 11. The clamp device of any of Clause 9 and Clause 10, the opening is at a predetermined angle from a centerline of an arm of the first face. For example, as shown in FIG. 3A, the opening 307 is a predetermined angle from the arm of the first face.

[0066] Clause 12. The clamp device of any of Clause 9 through Clause 11, the opening is at a first height from a centerline of an arm of the first face. For example, as shown in FIG. 3 A, the opening 307 is at a height “h” from the centerline of the arm of the first face.

[0067] Clause 13. The clamp device of any of Clause 1 through Clause 12, the slot has a width greater than or equal to a width of the protruding key member.

[0068] Clause 14. A system including a medical device and a clamp device in accordance with any of Clause 1 through Clause 13 coupled with the medical device. While the clamp mechanism of the clamp device is in a pre-engaging position, a spring element of the clamp mechanism is a first compressed length for decoupling a medical device from a structure. While the clamp mechanism of the clamp device is in a pre-engaging position, the spring element of the clamp mechanism is a second compressed length causing a clamp member to extend through the opening to engage the structure to couple the medical device with the structure, the second compressed length being greater than the first compressed length.

[0069] Clause 15. A method performed at a clamp device in accordance with any of Clause 1 through Clause 13. The method including adjusting a clamp mechanism of the clamp device to a pre-engaging position. While the clamp mechanism of the clamp device is in the pre-engaging position, a spring element of the clamp mechanism is a first compressed length such that a gap is formed. The gap is configured to i) receive a structure (e.g., an IV pole) or ii) decoupling a medical device from the structure. The method includes coupling the clamp device to the structure, aligning a protruding key member of the clamp mechanism of the clamp device with a slot of a clamp body of the clamp device to allow the clamp mechanism to move from the pre-engaging position to an engaged position, and adjusting the clamp mechanism of the clamp device to the engaged position. While the clamp mechanism of the clamp device is in the engaged position, the spring element of the clamp mechanism is a second compressed length causing the clamp member of the of the clamp mechanism to extend through the opening to engage the structure to couple the medical device with the structure. The second compressed length is greater than the first compressed length.

[0070] Clause 16. A method for forming a clamp device in accordance with any of Clause 1 through Clause 13. The method includes providing a clamp body. The clamp body includes an opening including a slot traversing an inner wall of at least a portion of the opening. The slot configured to prevent a clamp member from traversing the opening when the clamp member passes through the opening and a protruding key member of the clamp member is not aligned with the slot. The method includes providing a clamp mechanism. The clamp mechanism includes the clamp member extending through the opening, a fastener coupled to a first portion of the clamp member, on a first side of the opening, adjacent to a first end of the clamp member, a hand member coupled to a second end of the clamp member, opposite the first side of the opening and opposite the first end, the protruding key member extending from a second portion of the clamp member and configured to be received via the slot, and a spring element disposed on the clamp member between the fastener and the first side of the opening. The second portion is at an intermediary portion of the clamp member between the first and second ends of the clamp member. The method further includes coupling the clamp body with the clamp mechanism.

[0071] Further Consideration:

[0072] In some implementations, any of the clauses herein may depend from any one of the independent clauses or any one of the dependent clauses. In one aspect, any of the clauses (e.g., dependent or independent clauses) may be combined with any other one or more clauses (e.g., dependent or independent clauses). In one aspect, a claim may include some or all of the words (e.g., steps, operations, means or components) recited in a clause, a sentence, a phrase or a paragraph. In one aspect, a claim may include some or all of the words recited in one or more clauses, sentences, phrases or paragraphs. In one aspect, some of the words in each of the clauses, sentences, phrases or paragraphs may be removed. In one aspect, additional words or elements may be added to a clause, a sentence, a phrase or a paragraph. In one aspect, the subject technology may be implemented without utilizing some of the components, elements, functions or operations described herein. In one aspect, the subject technology may be implemented utilizing additional components, elements, functions or operations.

[0073] The present disclosure is provided to enable any person skilled in the art to practice the various aspects described herein. The disclosure provides various examples of the subject technology, and the subject technology is not limited to these examples. Various modifications to these aspects will be readily apparent to those skilled in the art, and the generic principles defined herein may be applied to other aspects.

[0074] It will be understood that, although the terms “first,” “second,” etc. may be used herein to describe various elements, these elements should not be limited by these terms. These terms are only used to distinguish one element from another. Terms such as “top,” “bottom,” “front,” “rear” and the like if used in this disclosure should be understood as referring to an arbitrary frame of reference, rather than to the ordinary gravitational frame of reference. Thus, a top surface, a bottom surface, a front surface, and a rear surface may extend upwardly, downwardly, diagonally, or horizontally in a gravitational frame of reference.

[0075] The terminology used herein is for the purpose of describing particular implementations only and is not intended to be limiting of the claims. As used in the description of the implementations and the appended claims, the singular forms “a,” “an” and “the” are intended to include the plural forms as well, unless the context clearly indicates otherwise. It will also be understood that the term “and / or” as used herein refers to and encompasses any and all possible combinations of one or more of the associated listed items. It will be further understood that the terms “comprises” and / or “comprising,” when used in this specification, specify the presence of stated features, integers, steps, operations, elements, and / or components, but do not preclude the presence or addition of one or more other features, integers, steps, operations, elements, components, and / or groups thereof.

[0076] As used herein, the term “if’ may be construed to mean “when” or “upon” or “in response to determining” or “in accordance with a determination” or “in response to detecting,” that a stated condition precedent is true, depending on the context. Similarly, the phrase “if it is determined [that a stated condition precedent is true]” or “if [a stated condition 18 precedent is true]” or “when [a stated condition precedent is true]” may be construed to mean “upon determining” or “in response to determining” or “in accordance with a determination” or “upon detecting” or “in response to detecting” that the stated condition precedent is true, depending on the context.

[0077] The word “exemplary” is used herein to mean “serving as an example or illustration.” Any aspect or design described herein as “exemplary” is not necessarily to be construed as preferred or advantageous over other aspects or designs. In one aspect, various alternative configurations and operations described herein may be considered to be at least equivalent.

[0078] A phrase such as an “aspect” does not imply that such aspect is essential to the subject technology or that such aspect applies to all configurations of the subject technology. A disclosure relating to an aspect may apply to all configurations, or one or more configurations. An aspect may provide one or more examples. A phrase such as an aspect may refer to one or more aspects and vice versa. A phrase such as an “implementation” does not imply that such implementation is essential to the subject technology or that such implementation applies to all configurations of the subject technology. A disclosure relating to an implementation may apply to all implementations, or one or more implementations. An implementation may provide one or more examples. A phrase such an implementation may refer to one or more implementations and vice versa. A phrase such as a “configuration” does not imply that such configuration is essential to the subject technology or that such configuration applies to all configurations of the subject technology. A disclosure relating to a configuration may apply to all configurations, or one or more configurations. A configuration may provide one or more examples. A phrase such a configuration may refer to one or more configurations and vice versa.

[0079] In one aspect, unless otherwise stated, all measurements, values, ratings, positions, magnitudes, sizes, and other specifications that are set forth in this specification, including in the claims that follow, are approximate, not exact. In one aspect, they are intended to have a reasonable range that is consistent with the functions to which they relate and with what is customary in the art to which they pertain.

[0080] In one aspect, the term “coupled” or the like may refer to being directly coupled. In another aspect, the term “coupled” or the like may refer to being indirectly coupled.

[0081] Various items may be arranged differently (e.g., arranged in a different order, or partitioned in a different way) all without departing from the scope of the subject technology. All structural and functional equivalents to the elements of the various aspects described 19 throughout this disclosure that are known or later come to be known to those of ordinary skill in the art are expressly incorporated herein by reference and are intended to be encompassed by the claims. Moreover, nothing disclosed herein is intended to be dedicated to the public regardless of whether such disclosure is explicitly recited in the claims. No claim element is to be construed under the provisions of 35 U.S.C. §112, sixth paragraph, unless the element is expressly recited using the phrase “means for” or, in the case of a method claim, the element is recited using the phrase “step for.” Furthermore, to the extent that the term “include,” “have,” or the like is used, such term is intended to be inclusive in a manner similar to the term “comprise” as “comprise” is interpreted when employed as a transitional word in a claim.

[0082] The Title, Background, Summary, Brief Description of the Drawings and Abstract of the disclosure are hereby incorporated into the disclosure and are provided as illustrative examples of the disclosure, not as restrictive descriptions. It is submitted with the understanding that they will not be used to limit the scope or meaning of the claims. In addition, in the Detailed Description, it can be seen that the description provides illustrative examples and the various features are grouped together in various implementations for the purpose of streamlining the disclosure. This method of disclosure is not to be interpreted as reflecting an intention that the claimed subject matter requires more features than are expressly recited in each claim. Rather, as the following claims reflect, inventive subject matter lies in less than all features of a single disclosed configuration or operation. The following claims are hereby incorporated into the Detailed Description, with each claim standing on its own as a separately claimed subject matter.

[0083] The claims are not intended to be limited to the aspects described herein, but is to be accorded the full scope consistent with the language claims and to encompass all legal equivalents. Notwithstanding, none of the claims are intended to embrace subject matter that fails to satisfy the requirement of 35 U.S.C. §101, 102, or 103, nor should they be interpreted in such a way.

Claims

1. A clamp device, comprising:a clamp body including:an opening including a slot traversing an inner wall of at least a portion of the opening, the slot configured to prevent a clamp member from traversing the opening when the clamp member passes through the opening and a protruding key member of the clamp member is not aligned with the slot; anda clamp mechanism including:the clamp member, the clamp member extending through the opening,a fastener coupled to a first portion of the clamp member, on a first side of the opening, adjacent to a first end of the clamp member,a hand member coupled to a second end of the clamp member, opposite the first side of the opening and opposite the first end,the protruding key member extending from a second portion of the clamp member and configured to be received via the slot, the second portion being at an intermediary portion of the clamp member between the first and second ends of the clamp member, anda spring element disposed on the clamp member between the fastener and the first side of the opening such that the spring element is compressed or elongated between the fastener and the first side of the opening when a position of the clamp mechanism is changed,wherein:while the clamp mechanism is in a pre-engaging position, the spring element is a first compressed length for decoupling a medical device from a structure, andwhile the clamp mechanism is in an engaged position, the spring element is a second compressed length causing the clamp member to extend through the opening to engage the structure to couple the medical device with the structure, the second compressed length being greater than the first compressed length.

2. The clamp device of claim 1, wherein the opening further comprises:a channel disposed adjacent to the slot, wherein:while the protruding key member is aligned with the channel, the clamp mechanism can traverse the opening such that the clamp mechanism can be adjusted between the pre-engaging position and the engaged position.

3. The clamp device of claim 2, wherein the opening further comprises: a groove disposed adjacent to and perpendicular to the channel, wherein:while the protruding key member is aligned with the groove, rotation of the hand member causes the protruding key member to be received by the groove such that a position of the clamp mechanism is locked when the protruding key member is within the groove.

4. The clamp device of claim 3, wherein the hand member is configured to be rotated clockwise or counterclockwise.

5. The clamp device of any one of claims 1-4, wherein the second portion of the clamp member is a predetermined distance from the second end of the clamp member based on a diameter of a structure that the clamp device is configured to couple with.

6. The clamp device of any one of claims 1-5, wherein the clamp device is configured to support a weight of at least 9.5 kg.

7. The clamp device of any one of claims 1-5, wherein the spring element has a predetermined spring rate.

8. The clamp device of any one of claims 1-7, wherein the protruding key member is a first protruding key member of a plurality of protruding key members disposed on a side and of the clamp member and linearly spaced apart from each other, the first protruding key member extending a first predetermined distance from the second end of the clamp member, and the clamp device further comprises:a second protruding key member extending from a third portion of the clamp member and configured to be received via the slot, wherein the third portion is i) at another intermediary portion of the clamp member between the first and second ends of the clamp member and ii) at a second predetermined distance from the second end of the clamp member distinct from the first predetermined distance; andwherein the first predetermined distance from the second of the clamp member is configured to receive a first structure of a first diameter and the second predetermineddistance from the second of the clamp member is configured to receive a second structure of a second diameter distinct from the first diameter.

9. The clamp device of any one of claims 1-8, wherein the clamp body further includes a mounting fixture, the mounting fixture configured to couple the clamp device with a medical device.

10. The clamp device of claim 9, wherein the opening is on a first face of the clamp body and the mounting fixture is on a second face of the clamp body, wherein the first face of the clamp body is perpendicular to the second face of clamp body.

11. The clamp device of any one of claims 9 and 10, wherein the opening is at a predetermined angle from a centerline of an arm of the first face.

12. The clamp device of any one of claims 9-11, wherein the opening is at a first height from a centerline of an arm of the first face.

13. The clamp device of any one of claims 1-12, wherein the slot has a width greater than or equal to a width of the protruding key member.

14. A system, comprising:a medical device; anda clamp device of any of claims 1-9 coupled with the medical device, wherein:while the clamp mechanism of the clamp device is in a pre-engaging position, a spring element of the clamp mechanism is a first compressed length for decoupling a medical device from a structure; andwhile a clamp mechanism of the clamp device is in an engaged position, the spring element of the clamp mechanism is a second compressed length causing a clamp member to extend through the opening to engage the structure to couple the medical device with the structure, the second compressed length being greater than the first compressed length.

15. A method, comprising:at a clamp device of any of claims 1-9:adjusting a clamp mechanism of the clamp device to a pre-engaging position, wherein while the clamp mechanism of the clamp device is in the pre-engaging position, a spring element of the clamp mechanism is a first compressed length such that a gap is formed, the gap being configured to i) receiving a structure or ii) decoupling a medical device from the structure;coupling the clamp device to the structure;aligning a protruding key member of the clamp mechanism of the clamp device with a slot of a clamp body of the clamp device to allow the clamp mechanism to move from the pre-engaging position to an engaged position; andadjusting the clamp mechanism of the clamp device to the engaged position, wherein while the clamp mechanism of the clamp device is in the engaged position, the spring element of the clamp mechanism is a second compressed length causing the clamp member of the of the clamp mechanism to extend through the opening to engage the structure to couple the medical device with the structure, the second compressed length being greater than the first compressed length.

16. A method for forming a clamp device in accordance with any of claims 1-9, the method comprising:providing a clamp body including:an opening including a slot traversing an inner wall of at least a portion of the opening, the slot configured to prevent a clamp member from traversing the opening when the clamp member passes through the opening and a protruding key member of the clamp member is not aligned with the slot;providing a clamp mechanism including:the clamp member extending through the opening,a fastener coupled to a first portion of the clamp member, on a first side of the opening, adjacent to a first end of the clamp member,a hand member coupled to a second end of the clamp member, opposite the first side of the opening and opposite the first end,the protruding key member extending from a second portion of the clamp member and configured to be received via the slot, the second portion being at an intermediary portion of the clamp member between the first and second ends of the clamp member, anda spring element disposed on the clamp member between the fastener and the first side of the opening; andcoupling the clamp body with the clamp mechanism.

Images