Detection system for flow control device

Abstract

A flow control apparatus includes a housing that can receive a portion of a supply assembly, a pumping device configured to receive the supply assembly and can create a fluid flow in the supply assembly and deliver the fluid to a subject, an ultrasonic sensor that can be configured to generate a sensor signal indicative of a condition of the supply assembly, and a control circuit in communication with the ultrasonic sensor for receiving the sensor signal indicative of the condition of the supply assembly from the ultrasonic sensor. The ultrasonic sensor can include a plurality of sensor components that can be configured to emit ultrasonic signals across the supply assembly in a first direction and in a second direction opposite the first direction.

Description

[0001] Cross-reference to related applications

[0002] This application claims priority to U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 63 / 028,951, filed May 22, 2020, the contents of which are incorporated herein by reference in their entirety. Technical Field

[0003] This disclosure generally relates to a flow control device capable of detecting the condition of a pump assembly installed on the device. Background Technology

[0004] Administering fluids containing drugs or nutrients to patients is well known in the art. Typically, the fluid is delivered to the patient via a pump assembly received by a flow control device (such as a pump) connected to the fluid source that delivers the fluid to the patient. Prior art flow control devices are also capable of monitoring and detecting fluid flow conditions that may occur within the loaded application supply assembly during operation of the flow control device. Typically, prior art flow monitoring systems capable of monitoring and detecting flow conditions rely on sensors arranged relative to the application supply assembly. Summary of the Invention

[0005] The following provides a simplified overview of one or more embodiments of this disclosure to offer a basic understanding of these embodiments. This overview is not a comprehensive summary of all contemplated embodiments and is neither intended to identify key or essential elements of all embodiments nor to define the scope of any or all embodiments. Its sole purpose is to present some concepts of one or more embodiments of this disclosure in a simplified form as a prelude to the more detailed description that follows.

[0006] In one aspect, this disclosure provides a system, method, and a non-transitory computer-readable medium storing computer-executable instructions executable by a processor for detecting fluid flow via a control device. The system, method, and non-transitory computer-readable medium may include a housing capable of receiving a portion of a supply component. The system, method, and non-transitory computer-readable medium may also include a pumping device associated with the housing and positioned to engage the supply component when received by the housing, such that the pumping device engages the supply component to generate fluid flow in the supply component, thereby delivering fluid to an object. The system, method, and non-transitory computer-readable medium may also include an ultrasonic sensor arranged relative to the pumping device to generate a sensor signal indicative of the condition of the supply component, wherein the ultrasonic sensor may include a plurality of sensor elements such that the ultrasonic sensor is configured to emit an ultrasonic signal from one of the plurality of sensor elements through the supply component in a first direction and to emit an ultrasonic signal from another of the plurality of sensor elements through the supply component in a second direction opposite to the first direction. The system, method, and non-transitory computer-readable medium may also include control circuitry in communication with the ultrasonic sensor for receiving the sensor signal indicative of the condition of the supply component from the ultrasonic sensor.

[0007] In one aspect, this disclosure provides a system, method, and a non-transitory computer-readable medium storing computer-executable instructions executable by a processor for detecting fluid flow via a control device. The system, method, and non-transitory computer-readable medium may include emitting a first ultrasonic signal through a portion of a pump assembly in a first direction. The system, method, and non-transitory computer-readable medium may also include emitting a second ultrasonic signal through that portion of the pump assembly in a second direction opposite to the first direction. The system, method, and non-transitory computer-readable medium may further include detecting the first ultrasonic signal to determine a first sensor reading. The system, method, and non-transitory computer-readable medium may further include detecting the second ultrasonic signal to determine a second sensor reading. The system, method, and non-transitory computer-readable medium may further include comparing the amplitude of the first sensor reading with the amplitude of the second sensor reading. The system, method, and non-transitory computer-readable medium may further include detecting the condition of the pump assembly based on the comparison of the first sensor reading and the second sensor reading.

[0008] In one aspect, this disclosure provides a system, method, and a non-transitory computer-readable medium storing computer-executable instructions executable by a processor for detecting fluid flow via a control device. The system, method, and non-transitory computer-readable medium may include emitting a first ultrasonic signal via a first sensor component along a first direction through a portion of a pump assembly. Emitting a second ultrasonic signal via a second sensor component along a second direction through the same portion of the pump assembly, the second direction being opposite to the first direction. The system, method, and non-transitory computer-readable medium may further include detecting the first ultrasonic signal to determine a first sensor reading. The system, method, and non-transitory computer-readable medium may further include detecting a second ultrasonic signal to determine a second sensor reading. The system, method, and non-transitory computer-readable medium may further include comparing the amplitude of the first sensor reading with the amplitude of the second sensor reading. The system, method, and non-transitory computer-readable medium may further include detecting the condition of the pump assembly based on the comparison of the first sensor reading and the second sensor reading.

[0009] In one aspect, this disclosure provides a system, method, and a non-transitory computer-readable medium storing computer-executable instructions executable by a processor for detecting fluid flow via a control device. The system, method, and non-transitory computer-readable medium may include a housing configured to receive a supply assembly. The system, method, and non-transitory computer-readable medium may also include a pumping device configured to generate fluid flow in the supply assembly. The system, method, and non-transitory computer-readable medium may further include an ultrasonic sensor including a first sensor component and a second sensor component, the first sensor component being configured to emit a first ultrasonic signal in a first direction through a portion of the supply assembly, and the second sensor component being configured to emit a second ultrasonic signal in a second direction through a portion of the supply assembly. The system, method, and non-transitory computer-readable medium may further include control circuitry configured to switch between a first configuration and a second configuration, wherein the first configuration includes the first sensor component emitting a first ultrasonic signal directed towards the second sensor component for detection by the second sensor component, and wherein the second configuration includes the second sensor component emitting a second ultrasonic signal directed towards the first sensor component for detection by the first sensor component.

[0010] In one aspect, this disclosure provides a system, method, and a non-transitory computer-readable medium storing computer-executable instructions executable by a processor for detecting fluid flow via a control device. The system, method, and non-transitory computer-readable medium may include a housing configured to receive a supply assembly. The system, method, and non-transitory computer-readable medium may also include a pumping device configured to generate fluid flow in the supply assembly. The system, method, and non-transitory computer-readable medium may also include a first ultrasonic sensor configured to generate a first sensor signal indicating a first condition of a first portion of the supply assembly. The system, method, and non-transitory computer-readable medium may also include a second ultrasonic sensor configured to generate a second sensor signal indicating a first condition of a second portion of the supply assembly. The system, method, and non-transitory computer-readable medium may also include a pressure sensor configured to generate a pressure signal indicating a third condition of the supply assembly. The system, method, and non-transitory computer-readable medium may also include control circuitry that communicates with a first ultrasonic sensor, a second ultrasonic sensor, and a pressure sensor and is configured to receive a first sensor signal, a second sensor signal, and a pressure signal, wherein the control circuitry is configured to provide an initial indication of the presence of fluid in the supply assembly based on the first sensor signal or the second sensor signal, or to provide an initial indication of blockage in the nutrient supply assembly based on the pressure signal.

[0011] In one aspect, this disclosure provides a system, method, and a non-transitory computer-readable medium storing computer-executable instructions executable by a processor for detecting fluid flow via a control device. The system, method, and non-transitory computer-readable medium may include generating a first sensor signal indicating a first condition of a first portion of a supply assembly. The system, method, and non-transitory computer-readable medium may also include generating a second sensor signal indicating a first condition of a second portion of the supply assembly. The system, method, and non-transitory computer-readable medium may also include generating a pressure signal indicating a third condition of the supply assembly. The system, method, and non-transitory computer-readable medium may also include receiving the first sensor signal, the second sensor signal, and the pressure signal. The system, method, and non-transitory computer-readable medium may also include generating an initial indication of the presence of fluid in the supply assembly based on the first sensor signal or the second sensor signal, or providing an initial indication of blockage in the nutrient supply assembly based on the pressure signal.

[0012] Additional advantages and novel features associated with embodiments of this disclosure will be set forth in part in the description which follows, and will become more apparent in part to those skilled in the art upon studying the following or upon learning by practice. Attached Figure Description

[0013] The novel features believed to be characteristic of this disclosure are set forth in the appended claims. Throughout the following description and drawings, similar portions are designated with the same numerals. The drawings are not necessarily drawn to scale, and some figures may be shown in an exaggerated or generalized manner for clarity and brevity. However, the disclosure itself, its preferred uses, further objects, and advancements will be better understood when read in conjunction with the accompanying drawings, by referring to the following detailed description of illustrative aspects of this disclosure, wherein:

[0014] Figure 1 This is a perspective view of a segment of an example enteric supply pump and a supply assembly received on the pump, according to an aspect of this disclosure.

[0015] Figure 2 yes Figure 1 A perspective view showing that the housing of the supply component has been removed;

[0016] Figure 3 yes Figure 2 A perspective view in which the supply components have been removed;

[0017] Figure 4 This is a block diagram illustrating the elements of an example enteral supply pump including a flow monitoring system according to aspects of this disclosure;

[0018] Figures 5A-5C This is an example illustration of a conduit in a sensor track for receiving data according to aspects of this disclosure;

[0019] Figures 6A-6B This is an example illustration of a deflection pipe within a sensor track, according to aspects of this disclosure;

[0020] Figure 7 This is a flowchart of an example calibration method according to aspects of this disclosure;

[0021] Figure 8 This is an example diagram of a conduit within a sensor track for receiving data according to aspects of this disclosure;

[0022] Figure 9 This is a flowchart of an example calibration method according to an embodiment of the present disclosure;

[0023] Figure 10 This is an enlarged fragment perspective view of an example enteric supply pump according to aspects of this disclosure;

[0024] Figure 11 This is a flowchart of an example method of a fluid detection routine according to an embodiment of the present disclosure;

[0025] Figure 12This is a flowchart of an example method for a blockage detection routine according to an embodiment of the present disclosure;

[0026] Figure 13A , Figure 13B and Figure 13C It shows the relationship with the data. Figure 6A and Figure 6B An example illustration of a deflection pipe received within the sensor track, along with associated example results;

[0027] Figure 14A , Figure 14B , Figure 14C , Figure 14D , Figure 14E and Figure 14F It shows the relationship with the data. Figure 5A , 5B 5C and Figure 8 Example illustrations of pipes receiving signals within the sensor track, along with associated example results;

[0028] Figure 15 These are example block diagrams illustrating various hardware components and other features of a computer system capable of operating an access control system according to aspects of this disclosure; and

[0029] Figure 16 It is a block diagram of various example system components used in accordance with aspects of this disclosure.

[0030] Throughout the accompanying drawings, corresponding reference numerals denote the respective parts. Detailed Implementation

[0031] Now for reference Figure 1-3 In the example illustrated schematically, the enteral supply pump (broadly, "flow control device") and, consequently referred to interchangeably as "pump" throughout this disclosure, is generally indicated by 1. Pump 1 may include a housing 3 configured to house a box generally indicated by 5 and a supply assembly (broadly referred to as "pump assembly"), a segment generally indicated by 7, which is removably received within the box. Supply assembly 7 may include conduit generally indicated by 77, which provides a fluid path between a nutrient fluid source and a flushing fluid. Figure 1 Pipeline 83 provides a fluid path from pump 1 to the user. In this disclosure, the end user may be either a patient or one of the administrators of the enteral supply pump. As will be explained in more detail below, pump 1 may include a flow monitoring system 6 (…). Figure 4 It can detect and identify the condition of the supply assembly 7 mounted on the pump. As used herein, the term "mounted" means that the supply assembly 7 is engaged with the pump 1, making the supply assembly ready to operate with the pump to deliver fluid to the patient.

[0032] In the aspects shown, the box 5 is removably received in the box recess 8 in the housing 3. Figure 3 As will be appreciated, the “casing” as used herein can include many forms of support structures (not shown), including but not limited to multi-part structures and structures that do not enclose or house the working parts of the pump 1. Furthermore, various aspects and features of this disclosure can be implemented without the recess 8. The pump 1 may also include a display screen 9 on the housing 3, capable of displaying information about the pump's status and operation. One or more buttons 11, which may be located near the display screen 9, may be provided for controlling the pump 1 and obtaining information from the pump 1, and one or more light-emitting devices (“LEDs”) 13 may provide status information for the pump. In one aspect of this disclosure, the light-emitting device may be any form of light-emitting device, such as an optical fiber, a light-emitting diode, etc. For example, the LED 13 may indicate the correct or incorrect functioning of the pump 1. Additionally, for example, the LED may also indicate when fluid flows correctly or incorrectly through or not through the supply assembly 7. Legs (not shown) may be provided at the bottom of the housing 3 to support the housing such that the display screen 9 is angled slightly upwards for easy viewing by the user.

[0033] The display 9 may be part of the front panel of the housing 3 (generally indicated by 19) and may be removably attached to the housing. The pump 1 may also include a pumping unit, generally indicated by 23, which includes a pump motor 27 connected to the rotor shaft. Figure 4 A battery (not shown) may be received in housing 3 for powering the pump motor. A power source other than a battery may be used to power the pump, including one or more prime movers that drive the pumping unit via a rotor shaft. Another example of a pump with a rotor shaft is disclosed in U.S. Patent Publication No. 2020 / 0352827, the entire disclosure of which is incorporated herein by reference.

[0034] Pumping unit 23 may have a rotor (typically indicated as 37) that may be coupled to a rotor shaft. Rotor 37 may include an inner disk 39, an outer disk 41, and rollers 43 (preferably four, but only two are indicated). The inner disk 39 and outer disk 41 are preferably located in parallel planes, spaced apart from each other, and rotatable about a common axis. Rollers 43 are mounted between the inner disk 39 and outer disk 41 for planetary rotation about the common axis of the disks 39, 41. Each roller 43 is also mounted to the disks 39, 41 for relative rotation about its own longitudinal axis ( ). Figure 2 and 3 The roller 43 rotates about the axis of the discs 39 and 41, and this longitudinal axis can be parallel to the common axis of the discs 39 and 41. When the roller 43 rotates about the axis of the discs 39 and 41, they engage the tube 45 of the supply assembly 7. Figure 2This allows fluid to be delivered to the patient via peristaltic engagement when the supply assembly is received in the cartridge 5 and the cartridge is attached to the housing 3. Other numbers of rollers are also conceivable and implementable. For example, but not limited to, five or six rollers may be used without departing from the scope of the invention.

[0035] Roller 43 can engage the supply assembly 7 for moving fluid through the supply assembly. In the aspects shown, pump motor 27, rotor shaft, and rotor 37 can be broadly considered as "pumping devices." These components can be individually considered "pumping devices." It should be understood that peristaltic pumps using mechanisms other than rollers can fall within the scope of this disclosure. However, other pumping devices (e.g., non-rotating devices) are also conceivable.

[0036] As used herein, the portion of the conduit 77 leading to the supply assembly 7 of rotor 37 is referred to as “upstream,” while the portion of the conduit 83 leading away from rotor 37 to the patient is referred to as “downstream.” The rotation of rotor 37 compresses the conduit 45 of supply assembly 7 to drive fluid (e.g., nutrient solution) from the upstream side to the downstream side of the supply assembly in the patient direction. Although an example supply assembly 7 is shown, other configurations of supply assemblies and other types of pump sets (not shown) may also be used.

[0037] refer to Figure 2-4 Monitoring System 6 ( Figure 4 This device can detect and identify the condition of the supply component 7 mounted on the equipment. For example, the condition of the supply component 7 may relate to the flow of liquid through the component, whether the component is correctly installed on the pump, the presence of blockages, or other conditions related to the supply component or its operation. For example, the flow of liquid through the component may include a lack of liquid or incorrect flow through the component. Additionally, for example, if the component is not correctly installed on the pump, fluid may not flow correctly through the component. Furthermore, for example, when the component is not correctly installed on the pump, blockages may occur in the piping.

[0038] Pump 1 may also include a microprocessor 62 associated with and in communication with sensor 64. Microprocessor 62 can control and manage the operation of various components of pump 1. Software subsystem 66 may be operatively associated with microprocessor 62 and operatively associated with monitoring system 6 to provide means for pump 1 to detect and identify the condition of supply component 7. It should be understood that, in the described aspects, flow monitoring system 6, software subsystem 66, pump electronics 68, microprocessor 62, and memory 70 can be broadly considered as “control circuitry.” These components can be individually considered as “control circuitry.” Furthermore, other types of control circuitry can be used within the scope of this disclosure. See below for reference. Figure 15 and 16 The control circuit can be implemented relative to various components.

[0039] Sensor 64 may include one or more ultrasonic sensors. Sensor 64 may be located on the housing 3 of pump 1 and positioned to detect the presence of fluid and one or more properties of the fluid in the supply assembly 7, such as fluid blockage in the supply assembly. In the illustrated aspect, sensor 64 is positioned in a recess 8 and, when the supply assembly 7 is mounted on pump 1, is adapted to securely receive a portion of tube 45 therein. For sensor 64 to detect the presence of fluid in tube 45 of the supply assembly 7, the tube may be engaged and held in sensor track 105 (…). Figure 3 Within the sensor track 105, the sensor rail 105 is configured to receive the upstream and downstream portions of the tube 45. Once the tube 45 is engaged within the sensor rail 105 and the remainder of the supply assembly 7 is engaged with the pump 1, the monitoring system 6 becomes operable. For example, the monitoring system 6 can become operational when the complete engagement of the tube 45 within the sensor rail 105 has been identified by receiving an acceptable signal (e.g., an ultrasonic signal) from one or more detectors or receivers. The sensor 64 can be positioned perpendicular to the direction of the supply assembly 7. For example, the sensor 64 can be positioned for horizontal reading, while the supply assembly 7 can be positioned to allow fluid to flow vertically. In one aspect of this disclosure, the sensor 64 is positioned at a 90-degree angle relative to the supply assembly 7. As described in more detail below, although attempts can be made to position the sensor 64 for horizontal reading of the tube 45 of the supply assembly 7 engaged in the sensor rail 105, the tube 45 or the sensor 64 may be misaligned, resulting in a less than ideal reading. As mentioned above, the sensor may output erroneous indications, such as indicating an incorrect condition.

[0040] In one aspect of this disclosure, sensor 64 may include first sensor components 107, 109 and second sensor components 107, 109, the first sensor components 107, 109 being configured to emit ultrasonic signals through the upstream and downstream portions of tube 45, respectively, and the second sensor components 107, 109 being configured to receive and detect the ultrasonic signals emitted from the first sensor components. Upon receiving ultrasonic signals from the first sensor components 107, 109, the second sensor components 107, 109 may detect the presence of fluid within tube 45 based on the characteristics of the ultrasonic signals received by the second sensor components and transmitted to microprocessor 62. The first and second sensor components 107, 109 may each include the same or substantially the same sensor configuration. For example, each sensor component 107, 109 may include an ultrasonic crystal, thereby allowing each sensor component to operate as a transmitter for emitting ultrasonic signals or as a detector for detecting ultrasonic signals, depending on how the component is excited. Therefore, the direction of the ultrasonic signals is not limited to a single direction between sensor components 107, 109, but may be oriented in two directions between the sensor components.

[0041] Sensor 64 can detect the presence or absence of fluid in the pipe to provide a basic indication of the operating status of pump 1. Ultrasonic signals emitted from sensor components 107, 109 can respond to the presence of fluid in pipe 45 such that the presence of fluid in the pipe will produce an increase in signal amplitude compared to a signal without fluid in the pipe. Therefore, ultrasonic signals traveling through an all-air medium will not generate a signal at the detector. Based on the characteristics of the received ultrasonic signals transmitted to microprocessor 62, software subsystem 66 can determine the presence of fluid within supply assembly 7. Other types of sensors, besides ultrasonic sensors, used for measuring one or more fluid properties or characteristics (including viscosity), can be used. Flow monitoring system 6 can also detect other conditions of supply assembly 7, the fluid within supply assembly, and fluid coupled to supply assembly, without departing from the scope of this disclosure.

[0042] refer to Figures 5A-5C When the pipe is Figure 3 When the sensor track 105 is skewed, the signal strength of the ultrasonic sensor "US" will produce errors and inaccurate readings. In one aspect of this disclosure, tube T1 should be... Figure 3 The sensor track 105 is positioned in a substantially vertical orientation, such that the conduit spans the entire width between sensor components E and D of the sensor US. Figure 5A Sensor components E and D are considered as the transmitter and detector, respectively. In this case, the ultrasonic signal S does not pass through air before or after passing through tube T1. Therefore, the sensor reading generated by sensor US produces the expected output reading / result based on the presence of fluid within tube T1. In this aspect of the disclosure, it is assumed that sensor US is performing correctly. In other words, sensor US is constructed and manufactured without gaps or air on either side or inside of E and D. If gaps or cavitation exist on either side or inside of E or D, then even if tube T1 is in... Figure 3 Even with the sensor US positioned in a substantially vertical orientation within the sensor track 105, it may still obtain erroneous or inaccurate readings regarding the presence or absence of fluid. In another aspect of this disclosure, described in more detail below, gaps or cavitation that introduce errors into the readings can be compensated for, in order to correct or adjust for erroneous and inaccurate readings.

[0043] In another aspect of this disclosure, when pipes T2 and / or T3 are deflected toward either sensor component E or D, the sensor US reading may be inaccurate, for example, higher or lower than expected, leading to erroneous readings. Specifically, if pipe T2 is deflected toward the transmitter side E of sensor US (… Figure 5B Then the signal received at detector D will be deflected compared to the detector side D of pipe T3 facing the sensor. Figure 5CIn the case of [missing information], the effect is stronger. As a result, for example, when pipe T3 is deflected toward the detector side D of sensor US, the sensor reading may indicate the absence of fluid in the pipe (i.e., low signal) even when fluid is actually present in the pipe. For example, when pipe T3 is deflected toward the detector side D, the X reading of sensor US can be determined. The X reading can then be compared to a threshold Y. When the reading X is below the threshold Y, the pump can determine that no fluid is present in pipe T3 and, as described below, warn the user when fluid is actually present. This provides time-consuming, costly, and distrustful false and erroneous readings and outputs. In another aspect of this disclosure, for example, when pipe T2 is deflected toward the transmitter side E of sensor US, the sensor reading may indicate the presence of fluid in the pipe (i.e., high signal). For example, when pipe T2 is deflected toward the transmitter side E, the X reading of sensor US can be determined. The X reading can then be compared to a threshold Y. When the reading X is above the threshold Y, the pump can determine that fluid is present in T2. This method can provide fewer false and erroneous readings and outputs that waste time, money, and erroneous user confidence.

[0044] refer to Figure 4 , 6A In addition to 6B, the pump electronics 68 includes one or more switches 72 configured to control which sensor components 107, 109 operate as transmitters E for emitting ultrasonic signals S, and which sensor component operates as detectors D for receiving and detecting ultrasonic signals. Therefore, the pump 1 is configured to suit the orientation and / or size of the tube 45 of the pump assembly 7 to optimize the performance of the sensor 64. One or more switches 72 are electrically connected to the sensor 64 for reconfiguring the circuitry to selectively excite one of the sensor components 107, 109, thereby configuring the excited component as the ultrasonic transmitter E. Thus, depending on the position of the tube 45 in the sensor track 105, the pump 1 can select which sensor component 107, 109 operates as transmitter E and which sensor component operates as detector D to maximize signal strength. For example, see the following reference... Figure 13A , 13B As described in 13C, based on switching sensor components 107, 109 between operation as transmitter E or detector D, pump 1 can acquire two different readings on a single pipe orientation to determine a higher sensor US reading. As a result, pump 1 solves the problems that conventional pumps may encounter when the transmitter and detector are preset and the pipe position or orientation changes in certain situations (e.g., reduces) the expected sensor reading. Figure 5C For example, tube 45 can be configured such that the tube lies within sensor track 105 along... Figure 6AThe direction shown is skewed. If pump electronics 68 is configured such that the left sensor components 107, 109 operate as transmitters and the right sensor components 107, 109 operate as detectors, then for a given fluid condition, especially if pump 1 is calibrated assuming that pipe 45 is positioned substantially vertically across the sensor path, the sensor signal S will be lower than the expected signal strength. However, to address this potential misalignment of pipe 45, pump 1 can activate one of one or more switches 72 to excite the right sensor components 107, 109, causing them to operate as transmitters and the left sensor component as detectors. Figure 6B As a result, the signal strength of the ultrasonic signal S will increase and will be closer to the ideal state of approximately vertical pipe orientation. Therefore, the situation where a low signal might erroneously indicate the absence of fluid in pipe 45 when fluid is actually present in the pipe is alleviated. Consequently, supply pipes in various conditions can be used without compromising the accuracy of the supply assembly detection. Furthermore, the need to squeeze or flatten the pipe to achieve a better fit within the sensor track is alleviated. Therefore, this processing assembly, which could potentially compromise pipe integrity, is eliminated.

[0045] Furthermore, according to another aspect of this disclosure, pump 1 addresses problems that can arise with conventional pumps when the sensor US contains defects (gap, cavitation, etc.) present within the transmitter or detector that are generated during the manufacturing process. As mentioned above, although more accurate readings are generally obtained when the tube is deflected toward the transmitter E, sensor components 107, 109 may have defects such as cavitation and / or gaps, which will provide erroneous readings of the signal S. For example, refer to... Figure 6B If pump electronics 68 is configured such that the left sensor components 107, 109 operate as transmitters and the right sensor components 107, 109 operate as detectors, then for a given fluid condition, especially if pump 1 is calibrated to assume that pipe 45 is positioned substantially vertically across the sensor path, the sensor number S should be expected to have a lower signal strength than anticipated. However, as stated above, to address this potential misalignment of pipe 45, pump 1 can activate one or more switches 72 to excite the right sensor components 107, 109, causing them to operate as transmitters and the left sensor component as detectors. Figure 6BAs a result, the signal strength of the ultrasonic signal S is expected to increase and become closer to the ideal condition of approximately vertical pipe orientation. In one aspect of this disclosure, a manufacturing defect exists within the right sensor components 107, 109, thereby injecting a large error into the signal S, which provides a lower result than expected. Therefore, although the result of deflecting the pipe closer to the transmitter E would generally provide a higher and more accurate result regarding fluid flow, in this example, when the left sensor components 107, 109 operate as transmitters and the right sensor components 107, 109 operate as detectors based on the defect of the left sensor components 107, 109, the system provides a higher and more accurate result from the reading. Through this process, pump 1 selects the reading with the highest result, regardless of the pipe orientation and the operation / configuration of sensor components 107, 109. As a result, supply pipes in various conditions and sensor components with various defects can be utilized without compromising the accuracy of the supply assembly detection. Furthermore, the need to compress or flatten the pipe to obtain a better fit within the sensor track is alleviated. Thus, this processing component that could compromise the integrity of the pipe is eliminated. Furthermore, it alleviates the need for quality control testing of sensors to obtain accurate results.

[0046] In another aspect of this disclosure, the operation of pump 1 can enable the automatic execution (e.g., each power cycle or when a new cartridge is connected) or the initiation of a sensor calibration routine in response to a user-activated command to calibrate sensor 64, taking into account the position / orientation of tube 45. For example, and referring to Figure 7 The sensor calibration routine can be initiated after pump 1 confirms that the supply component 7 has been loaded onto the pump and / or at the start of each supply cycle. Other actions to initiate the calibration routine are also conceivable. In the first step 301, the first sensor components 107, 109 are excited to emit ultrasonic signals toward the second sensor components 107, 109 opposite to the first sensor components. In 303, the signal strength detected by the second sensor components is measured and stored in memory 70. In 305, the second sensor components 107, 109 are excited to emit ultrasonic signals toward the first sensor components. Then, in 307, the signal strength detected by the first sensor components 107, 109 is measured and stored in memory 70. Then, in 309, the signal strength at the second sensor components 107, 109 is compared with the signal strength at the first sensor components 107, 109. In 311, the sensor components 107, 109 with the strongest signals are configured to operate as detectors in the sensor pair during operation of pump 1 to deliver fluid to the patient through the tubing.

[0047] refer to Figure 8In another aspect of the ultrasonic sensor according to this disclosure, typically indicated by 164, the sensor includes a first pair of sensor components 207A, 209A and a second pair of sensor components 207B, 209B. Each sensor pair is configured identical to the aforementioned sensor components 107, 109. Furthermore, the sensor pairs can be located on both the upstream and / or downstream sides of a sensor track, for the upstream and downstream portions of a receiving tube. The first (top) pair of sensor components 207A, 209A can be configured such that the right sensor component operates as a transmitter and the left sensor component operates as a detector. The second (bottom) pair of sensor components 207B, 209B can be configured such that the left sensor component operates as a transmitter and the right sensor component operates as a detector. Therefore, no switch is required to toggle the transmitter / detector function between the sensor components. Conversely, the pump can operate two pairs of sensor components 207A, 209A and 207B, 209B separately, and utilize sensor readings from the sensor pairs that generate the strongest signal on the detector side of the sensor pair in any determination of the pump assembly. According to one aspect of this disclosure, the strongest signal can be determined by comparing the sensor readings with a threshold and / or with each other. Additionally or alternatively, one or more switches can be operably connected to the paired sensor components 207A, 209A and 207B, 209B respectively for switching the transmitter / detector function between the sensor components of the sensor pair.

[0048] refer to Figure 9 The sensor calibration routine can also be performed using sensor 164. In the first step 401, sensor components 207A and 209A of the first sensor pair are excited to emit ultrasonic signals toward the other sensor component 207A and 209A in the pair opposite to the transmitter component. In 403, the signal strength detected by the detector component is measured and stored in the pump memory. In 405, sensor components 207B and 209B of the second sensor pair are excited to emit ultrasonic signals toward the other sensor component 207B and 209B in the pair opposite to the transmitter component. Then, in 407, the signal strength detected by the detector component of the second pair of sensor components 207B and 209B is measured and stored in the pump memory. Then, in 409, the signal strength between the second pair of sensor components 207B and 209B is compared with the signal strength between the first pair of sensor components 207A and 209A. At point 411, pairs of sensor components 207A, 207B and 209A, 209B, respectively, with the strongest signals, will be configured to operate as control sensors during pump operation to deliver fluid to the patient through the tubing. It will be understood that more than two pairs of sensors may be used.

[0049] refer to Figure 10In another aspect of this disclosure, pump 501 may include at least one ultrasonic sensor 564, which includes a first pair of sensor elements 507, a second pair of sensor elements 509, and a pressure sensor 530, which, in conjunction with the ultrasonic sensor, is used to detect the force exerted by fluid flowing within the pump assembly. In one aspect, pressure sensor 530 is located downstream of sensor track 505. In another aspect, pressure sensor 530 is located upstream of sensor track 505. Pressure sensor 530 is configured to measure expansion of the pipe in sensor track 505 in response to fluid flow in the pipe. For example, fluid flow in the pipe may cause the pipe to expand by a first amount and press against pressure sensor 530, while blockage in the pipe may cause the pipe to expand by a greater amount as the fluid pressure in the pipe increases. Thus, detecting a pressure above a first threshold may transmit a signal of fluid flow in the pipe, and detecting a pressure above a second threshold may transmit a signal of blockage in the pipe, the second threshold being higher than the first threshold. Pressure sensor 530 may also be configured to detect the presence of a supply assembly independently of whether fluid flows through it. Therefore, pressure sensor 530 can detect when the supply component is loaded onto pump 501.

[0050] The ultrasonic sensor 564 can be operated to detect various states of the supply assembly mounted on the pump 501. A first sensor pair 507 is positioned on the upstream side of the rotor, and a second sensor pair 509 is positioned on the downstream side of the rotor. The dual-sensor system provides the ability to distinguish between upstream blockage, downstream blockage, and empty bag conditions. For example, when a blockage occurs upstream of the pump rotor, fluid will drain from the upstream portion of the pipe but not from the downstream portion. In this case, the pump 501 will continuously detect fluid at the second sensor pair 509 but will not detect fluid at the first sensor pair 507. When this sequence occurs, the pump 501 identifies it as an upstream blockage. In the case of an empty bag, fluid will drain from the upstream portion of the pipe and then from the downstream portion. In this case, the pump 501 will initially detect fluid at both sensor pairs 507 and 509. Next, the pump 501 will observe periods where the second downstream sensor pair 509 detects fluid but the first sensor pair 507 does not. Finally, the pump 501 will detect no fluid at either sensor pair 507 or 509. When this occurs, a bag empty error may result. When downstream blockage occurs, the downstream portion of the pipe will expand, thereby increasing the conductivity of the signal at point 509 of the second sensor through the fluid. In this case, pump 501 will detect a significant increase in the sensor signal at the second sensor pair, which is interpreted as downstream blockage. Therefore, pump 501 has the ability to detect blockage in real time.

[0051] Additionally, pump 501 can be configured to detect a first pressure P1 within a first pressure range, measured by pressure sensor 530, to indicate that the supply assembly is not installed on the pump. Pump 501 can be configured to detect a second pressure P2 within a second range, measured by pressure sensor 530, to indicate that the supply assembly is installed on the pump but fluid is not flowing through the supply assembly. Pump 501 can be configured to detect a third pressure P3 within a third range, measured by pressure sensor 530, to indicate that the supply assembly is installed on the pump and fluid is present in the supply assembly but not flowing. Pump 501 can be configured to detect a fourth pressure P4 within a fourth range, measured by pressure sensor 530, to indicate that the supply assembly is installed on the pump and fluid is flowing through the supply assembly.

[0052] The fluid pressure P3 and fluid flow pressure P4 within the pipe can also be monitored to determine if there is a blockage in the pipe. For example, during operation of pump 501 delivering fluid through the supply assembly, the pressure in the supply assembly can rise from the P3 range to the P4 range. During proper operation of pump 501, stopping the pump to deliver fluid through the supply assembly will cause the pressure to drop from the P4 range back to the P3 range. If a blockage exists in the supply assembly, the pressure will remain within the P4 range after pump 501 stops. However, this pressure distribution can occur even when there is no blockage. This is because the fluid flow pressure P4 is based on the properties of the pipe and the fluid being pumped through it. Therefore, factors such as fluid thickness, viscosity, and pipe size can alter the fluid flow pressure P4. Thus, depending on the fluid thickness and viscosity, and / or pipe size, the pressure can rise to a level indicating a blockage (i.e., within the P4 range) when the fluid flow through the pipe is not actually blocked. Additionally, the fluid properties of the nutrient liquid flowing through the supply assembly can also affect the readings from the ultrasonic sensor 564, as bubbles and solid particles in the liquid can alter the signal readings, leading to erroneous indications.

[0053] The combined use of pressure sensor 530 and ultrasonic sensor 564 can provide verification of the presence of fluid in a pipe, as well as verification of a blockage in the pipe after one of the sensors makes an initial indication. For example, ultrasonic sensor 564 can be operated to determine the presence of fluid in the pipe. If ultrasonic sensor 564 indicates the presence of fluid, such as through a sensor reading above a predetermined threshold, an initial indication of fluid in the pipe can be made. After this initial indication, pressure sensor 530 can then be operated to measure the force exerted on the pressure sensor by the pipe. If a pressure reading of P2 or P3 is measured, pressure sensor 530 can confirm the presence of fluid in the pipe. Pump 501 can provide calibration information or an alarm in response to the initial fluid detection by ultrasonic sensor 564, or only after pressure sensor 530 verifies the presence of fluid in the pipe.

[0054] More specifically, pump 501 is configured to run a fluid detection routine ( Figure 11 Therefore, at 601, ultrasonic sensor 564 is operated to emit ultrasonic signals through a portion of the pipe to determine the condition of the supply component. If the sensor reading is higher than a predetermined threshold, at 603, the pump provides an initial indication of the presence of fluid in the pipe. If the sensor reading is equal to or lower than the predetermined threshold, at 605, pump 501 provides an indication that no fluid is present in the pipe. If the system determines the presence of fluid in the pipe at 603, a verification subroutine V is initiated. During the verification routine, at 607, pressure sensor 530 is operated to measure the force in the downstream portion of the pipe. If the measured force exceeds a predetermined threshold, at 609, the pump confirms the presence of fluid in the pipe. The pump can then provide a warning or store the presence of fluid in the pipe in memory. If the measured force is equal to or lower than the predetermined threshold, at 611, the initial fluid detection indication is not confirmed. The pump can restart the fluid detection routine or provide an alarm indicating that it cannot detect fluid in the pipe. Therefore, pump 501 is configured to go through a series of steps to provide an initial indication of the presence of fluid in the supply assembly, as well as an auxiliary indication / confirmation using sensor readings from two different sensor types.

[0055] Similarly, blockage detection can be performed by first operating pressure sensor 530 to measure the force at the downstream side of the pipe. If pressure sensor 530 measures a force distribution consistent with a blockage (e.g., pressure rises from range P3 to range P4 during operation of pump 501, and remains within range P4 after a preset time period since the pump has stopped), initial blockage detection can be performed. Pump 501 can then operate pressure sensor 530 to provide verification of the initial blockage detection. If readings from ultrasonic sensor 564 also indicate a blockage, the initial blockage detection is confirmed. Following initial blockage confirmation from pressure sensor 530, or only after confirmation from ultrasonic sensor 564, pump 501 can warn the user of a blockage.

[0056] More specifically, pump 501 is configured to run a blockage detection routine ( Figure 12At 701, pressure sensor 530 is operated to measure the force in the downstream portion of the pipe during pump operation to deliver fluid through the pipe. If pressure sensor 530 detects that the pressure in the pipe rises above a predetermined threshold during pump operation and then remains at the elevated pressure after pump stop, at 703, the pump provides an initial indication of a blockage in the pipe. If pressure sensor 530 detects that the pressure remains below the predetermined threshold or rises above the predetermined threshold during pump operation but then falls below the predetermined threshold once pump stop, at 705, the pump provides an indication that there is no blockage in the pipe. If the system determines a blockage in the pipe at 703, a verification subroutine V is initiated. During the verification routine, at 707, an ultrasonic sensor is operated to emit an ultrasonic signal through a portion of the pipe. If ultrasonic sensor 564 detects a sensor reading above a predetermined threshold, at 709, pump 501 confirms a blockage in the pipe. Pump 501 can then provide an alarm or store the presence of a blockage in the pipe in memory. If the signal reading from ultrasonic sensor 564 is equal to or lower than a predetermined threshold, then at 711, the initial blockage detection indication is not acknowledged. Pump 501 may restart the blockage detection routine or provide an alarm indicating that a blockage indication cannot be made.

[0057] In one aspect of this disclosure, the alarm can be visual, auditory, or a combination thereof. A visual alarm can be detected via a display screen 9 ( Figure 1 An alarm may be provided to the user via an LED 13 and / or an audible alarm may be provided to the user via a speaker. Alarms may be provided to the user to correct, repair, or adjust system problems.

[0058] Turn Figures 13A-13C It shows the reception in Figure 6A and Figure 6B An example illustration of a skewed pipe within a sensor track, along with associated sample results. Specifically, Figure 13A Ten separate tests are shown to indicate the reading of the signal S of sensor US by switching the transmitter and detector sides. For example, Test 1 first provides a transmitter operating on the left side of the pipe and a detector operating on the right side, obtaining a value of 358. Test 1 then switches the operation of sensor US, with the transmitter operating on the right side of the pipe and the detector operating on the left side, obtaining a value of 494. Based on the obtained results, the system adopts the higher value of 494 and determines that fluid is flowing through the pipe. Additionally, as mentioned above, the higher value of the transmitter on the right side of the pipe and the detector on the left side confirms that the pipe is biased to the right towards the pipe track, for example, as... Figure 5CAs shown. Perform tests 2-10 using the same procedure. For tests 2, 3, 6, and 8, it can be assumed that the tube is biased to the right of the tube track during transmitter operation. For tests 4, 5, 7, 9, and 10, it can be assumed that the tube is biased to the left of the tube track during transmitter operation. Figure 13B The chart shows Figure 13A The result.

[0059] Figure 13C The diagram illustrates a scenario where the value obtained from signal S is also compared to a threshold. According to one aspect of this disclosure, the reading obtained by sensor US must at least meet a minimum threshold, such as 74, before being considered a usable value. For example, if both trials 3 yield readings below 74, the system will immediately determine that a problem has occurred.

[0060] Thresholds can be set / determined during the production phase or during operation to take into account the materials of the pipes and sensors, as well as the fluid flowing through the pipes.

[0061] refer to Figure 14A , Figure 14B , Figure 14C , Figure 14D , Figure 14E and Figure 14F These diagrams illustrate the relationship with... Figure 5A , 5B 5C and Figure 8 An example illustration of the pipes received within the sensor track, along with associated sample results. Figure 14A-14F The robustness of the system for obtaining accurate readings and the robustness of the system as a whole are illustrated. For example, according to one aspect of this disclosure, turning to Figure 14A and 14B When the pipe is correctly (centered) within the pipe track, perform Tests 1-5. Furthermore, perform Tests 1-5 based on the positions A and B of the two sensors US, as described above. Figure 8 As described above. For the purposes of this example, it is not important which side of the sensor US is configured to operate as a transmitter or a detector, since the tube is centered within the tube track. Figure 14A and 14B As shown, the maximum value obtained from the two US positions is 805, which has a centrally located tube within the tube track. Furthermore, according to another aspect of this disclosure, turning to... Figure 14C and 14D When the tube is biased toward the transmitter inside the tube track, test 1-5 is performed. As described above, test 1-5 is performed according to the two US positions A and B, as stated above regarding... Figure 8 As described. Figure 14C and 14DAs shown, the maximum value obtained from the two US positions is 1235, where the biased tube is oriented towards the transmitter within the tube track. Furthermore, according to another aspect of this disclosure, turning to... Figure 14E and 14F When the tube is biased toward the detector within the tube track, perform test 1-5. As described above, perform test 1-5 based on the positions A and B of the two sensors US, as per the above description. Figure 8 As described. Figure 14E and 14F As shown, the maximum value obtained from the two sensor positions US is 891, with the biased tube inside the tube track facing the detector. These results confirm that higher and more accurate readings are obtained when the transmitter is biased with the tube facing US.

[0062] The aspects of this disclosure can be described in the general context of computer-executable instructions (such as program modules) that are executed by one or more computers or other devices. Computer-executable instructions can be organized into one or more computer-executable components or modules, including but not limited to routines, programs, objects, parts, and data structures that perform a particular task or implement a particular abstract data type. The aspects of this disclosure can be implemented with any number and organization of such components or modules. For example, the aspects of this disclosure are not limited to the specific computer-executable instructions or specific components or modules shown in the accompanying drawings and described herein. Other aspects of this disclosure may include different computer-executable instructions or components that have more or fewer functions than those shown and described.

[0063] Furthermore, unless otherwise specified, the order in which operations are performed or implemented in aspects of the invention described and illustrated herein is not important. That is, operations may be performed in any order unless otherwise specified, and aspects of this disclosure may include more or fewer operations than those disclosed herein. For example, a particular operation may be performed or implemented before, simultaneously with, or after another operation within the scope of this disclosure.

[0064] In operation, the microprocessor 62 executes computer-executable instructions, such as those shown in the accompanying drawings, to implement aspects of this disclosure. These aspects can also be practiced in a distributed computing environment, where tasks are performed by remote processing components linked via a communication network. In a distributed computing environment, program modules can reside on both local and remote computer storage media, including memory storage devices.

[0065] Various aspects of this disclosure can be implemented using hardware, software, or a combination thereof, and can be implemented in one or more computer systems or other processing systems. One aspect of this disclosure is characterized by being directed to one or more computer systems capable of performing the functions described herein. An example of such a computer system 1500 is as follows... Figure 15 As shown.

[0066] Computer system 1500 includes one or more processors, such as processor 1504. Processor 1504 is connected to communication infrastructure 1506 (e.g., a communication bus, crossbar, or network). Various software implementations are described based on this example computer system. After reading this description, those skilled in the art will understand how to implement embodiments of this disclosure using other computer systems and / or architectures.

[0067] Computer system 400 may include a display interface 1502 that forwards graphics, text, and other data from communication infrastructure 1506 (or from a frame buffer, not shown) for display on display unit 1530. Computer system 1500 also includes main memory 1508, preferably random access memory (RAM), and may also include auxiliary memory 1510. Auxiliary memory 1510 may include, for example, a hard disk drive 1512 and / or a removable storage drive 1514, representing a floppy disk drive, magnetic tape drive, optical disc drive, Universal Serial Bus (USB) flash drive, etc. Removable storage drive 1514 reads from and / or writes to removable storage unit 1518 in a well-known manner. Removable storage unit 1518 represents a floppy disk, magnetic tape, optical disc, USB flash drive, etc., which is read from and written to by removable storage drive 1514. As will be appreciated, removable storage unit 1518 includes a computer-usable storage medium in which computer software and / or data are stored.

[0068] Alternative embodiments of this disclosure may include auxiliary storage 1510 and may include other similar means for allowing computer programs or other instructions to be loaded into computer system 1500. Such means may include, for example, removable storage unit 1522 and interface 1520. Such examples may include program cassette tapes and cassette interfaces (such as those found in video game devices), removable storage chips (such as erasable programmable read-only memory (EPROM) or programmable read-only memory (PROM)) and associated sockets, as well as other removable storage units 1522 and interfaces 1520 that allow software and data to be transferred from removable storage unit 1522 to computer system 1500.

[0069] Computer system 1500 may also include a communication interface 1524. Communication interface 1524 allows software and data to be transferred between computer system 1500 and external devices. Examples of communication interface 1524 may include a modem, a network interface (such as an Ethernet card), a communication port, a PCMCIA slot, and cards. Software and data transmitted via communication interface 1524 are in the form of signals 1528, which may be electronic, electromagnetic, optical, or other signals that can be received by communication interface 1524. These signals 1528 are provided to communication interface 1524 via a communication path (e.g., a channel) 1526. This path 1526 carries signals 1528 and may be implemented using wires or cables, optical fibers, telephone lines, cellular links, radio frequency (RF) links, and / or other communication channels. In this document, the terms "computer program medium" and "computer-usable medium" are used generically to refer to media such as removable storage unit 1518, a hard disk installed in hard disk drive 1512, and signals 1528. These computer program products provide software to computer system 1500. Embodiments of this disclosure are directed to such computer program products.

[0070] The computer program (also referred to as computer control logic) is stored in main memory 1508 and / or auxiliary memory 1510. The computer program may also be received via communication interface 1524. When executed, such a computer program enables the computer system 1500 to perform features according to embodiments of the present disclosure as discussed herein. Specifically, when executed, the computer program enables the processor 1504 to perform features according to embodiments of the present disclosure. Therefore, such a computer program represents the controller of the computer system 1500.

[0071] In one aspect of this disclosure, software is used to implement the disclosure. This software may be stored in a computer program product and loaded into a computer system 1500 using a removable storage drive 1514, a hard disk drive 1512, or a communication interface 1520. The control logic (software), when executed by the processor 1504, causes the processor 1504 to perform the functions described herein. In another aspect of this disclosure, the system is primarily implemented in hardware using, for example, hardware components such as application-specific integrated circuits (ASICs). It will be apparent to those skilled in the art that implementing a hardware state machine to perform the functions described herein is appropriate.

[0072] Figure 16 These are block diagrams of various example system components according to aspects of this disclosure. Figure 16A communication system 1600 is illustrated, comprising one or more accessors 1660 (which may also be interchangeably referred to herein as one or more “users”) and one or more terminals 1642. Terminals 1642 may include systems 100 and / or 200 as described above, or related systems, etc. In one aspect, data for use according to the aspects described herein may be input and / or accessed by accessors 1660 via terminals 1642, such as personal computers (PCs), minicomputers, mainframes, microcomputers, telephone devices, or wired / wireless devices, such as personal digital assistants (“PDAs”) and RFID readers (e.g., handheld, mobile, cabinet, etc.), coupled to a server 1643, such as a PC, minicomputer, mainframe, microcomputer, or other device having a processor and a data storage library and / or connected to the data storage library via a network 1644 (such as the Internet or an intranet), and couplings 1645, 1646, and 1664. Couplings 1645, 1646, and 1664 may include wired, wireless, or fiber optic links. In another example variant, the methods and systems according to the aspects described herein operate in an independent environment, such as on a single terminal.

[0073] The aspects discussed herein can also be described and implemented in the context of computer-readable storage media storing computer-executable instructions. Computer-readable storage media include computer storage media and communication media, and can be flash drives, digital versatile optical discs (DVDs), compact optical discs (CDs), floppy disks, and magnetic tape cassettes. Computer-readable storage media can include volatile and non-volatile, removable and non-removable media implemented with any method or technique for storing information such as computer-readable instructions, data structures, modules, or other data.

[0074] While the aspects described herein have been described in conjunction with the exemplary aspects outlined above, various alternatives, modifications, variations, improvements, and / or substantial equivalents, whether known, currently unforeseen, or unforeseen, will become apparent to those skilled in the art. Therefore, the exemplary aspects described above are intended to be illustrative and not restrictive. Various changes may be made without departing from the spirit and scope of this disclosure. Therefore, this disclosure is intended to encompass all known or hereafter developed alternatives, modifications, variations, improvements, and / or substantial equivalents.

[0075] Therefore, the claims are not intended to be limited to the aspects shown herein, but are to be consistent with the full scope of the language of the claims, wherein, unless specifically stated otherwise, the use of the singular to denote an element is not intended to mean "one and only one," but rather "one or more." All structural and functional equivalents of elements throughout the various aspects described herein that are known to or will be known hereafter by one of ordinary skill in the art are expressly incorporated herein by reference and are intended to be covered by the claims. Furthermore, nothing disclosed herein is intended to be offered to the public, whether or not such disclosure is expressly stated in the claims. No claim element is to be interpreted as means plus function unless the element is expressly stated using the phrase "means for..."

[0076] It should be understood that the specific order or hierarchy of the disclosed process / flowchart is an illustration of the exemplary method. Based on design preferences, it should be understood that the specific order or hierarchy in the process / flowchart can be rearranged. Furthermore, some features / steps can be combined or omitted. The appended method claims present elements of various features / steps in an exemplary order, but this does not imply limitation to the specific order or hierarchy presented.

[0077] Furthermore, the word "example" is used herein to mean "serving as an example, instance, or illustration." Any aspect described herein as an "example" is not necessarily to be construed as preferred or advantageous over other aspects. Unless otherwise specified, the term "some" means one or more. Combinations such as "at least one of A, B, or C," "at least one of A, B, and C," and "A, B, C, or any combination thereof" include any combination of A, B, and / or C, and may include multiples of A, multiples of B, or multiples of C. Specifically, combinations such as "at least one of A, B, or C," "at least one of A, B, and C," and "A, B, C, or any combination thereof" may be simply A, only B, only C, A and B, A and C, B and C, or A and B and C, wherein any such combination may contain one or more members of A, B, or C. Nothing disclosed herein is intended to be offered to the public, whether or not such disclosure is expressly stated in the claims.

Claims

1. A flow control device, comprising: The housing is configured to receive the supply components; A pumping device configured to generate fluid flow in the supply assembly; An ultrasonic sensor configured to generate a sensor signal indicating the condition of a supply assembly based on a first ultrasonic signal or a second ultrasonic signal, wherein the ultrasonic sensor includes a plurality of sensor components, and is further configured to emit a first ultrasonic signal from a first sensor component along a first direction through a portion of the supply assembly, and to emit a second ultrasonic signal from a second sensor component along a second direction opposite to the first direction through the portion of the supply assembly; and A control circuit that communicates with the ultrasonic sensor is configured to receive a sensor signal from the ultrasonic sensor indicating the status of the supply component. The sensor signal is generated based on a comparison between the first ultrasonic signal and the second ultrasonic signal; The comparison involves comparing the amplitude of the detected first ultrasonic signal with the amplitude of the detected second ultrasonic signal, and determining the higher amplitude; and The pumping device is further configured to operate only the first sensor component or the second sensor component among the plurality of sensor components based on a determined higher amplitude.

2. The flow control device of claim 1, wherein, The control circuit is configured to switch between a first sensor configuration and a second sensor configuration, wherein in the first sensor configuration, a first sensor component of the plurality of sensor components emits an ultrasonic signal directed toward a second sensor component of the plurality of sensor components for detection by the second sensor component, and in the second sensor configuration, the second sensor component emits an ultrasonic signal directed toward the first sensor component for detection by the first sensor component.

3. The flow control device according to claim 2 further includes a switch connected to the ultrasonic sensor for switching between the first sensor configuration and the second sensor configuration.

4. The flow control device of claim 1, wherein, The plurality of sensor components further include: a first sensor pair, comprising a first sensor component and a second sensor component, for transmitting ultrasonic signals between the first sensor component and the second sensor component; and a second sensor pair, comprising a third sensor component and a fourth sensor component, for transmitting ultrasonic signals between the third sensor component and the fourth sensor component.

5. The flow control device according to claim 4 further includes one or more switches operably connected to the ultrasonic sensor for switching between a first direction and a second direction.

6. The flow control device of claim 5, wherein, A portion of the supply component is a pipe.

7. The flow control device of claim 1, wherein, The plurality of sensor components further include a third sensor component for detecting a first ultrasonic signal emitted from the first sensor component, and a fourth sensor component for detecting a second ultrasonic signal emitted from the second sensor component.

8. The flow control device of claim 1, wherein, The condition of the supply component indicates at least one of the following: fluid flow in the supply component is blocked, the supply component is not properly installed in the housing, the supply component is empty, and fluid flow in the supply component is operating correctly.

9. A method for detecting the condition of a pump unit using a flow control device, the method comprising: A first ultrasonic signal is emitted along a first direction via a first sensor component and passes through a portion of the pump assembly; A second ultrasonic signal is emitted via a second sensor component in a second direction, which is opposite to the first direction, through the portion of the pump assembly. The first ultrasonic signal is detected to determine the reading of the first sensor; The second ultrasonic signal is detected to determine the second sensor reading; The amplitude of the first sensor reading is compared with the amplitude of the second sensor reading; The condition of the pump unit is detected by comparing the readings of the first sensor and the second sensor. The condition of the pump unit is detected by the flow control device based on the larger of the amplitudes of the first sensor reading and the second sensor reading. and Based on the larger reading in the amplitude, only the first sensor component or the second sensor component is operated.

10. The method of claim 9, further comprising: It switches between emitting a first ultrasonic signal along a first direction and emitting a second ultrasonic signal along a second direction.

11. The method of claim 9, wherein, Emitting a first ultrasonic signal in a first direction includes transmitting the first ultrasonic signal from a first sensor component to a second sensor component, and transmitting a second ultrasonic signal in a second direction includes transmitting the second ultrasonic signal from a second sensor component to a first sensor component.

12. The method of claim 9, wherein, Emitting a first ultrasonic signal in a first direction includes transmitting the first ultrasonic signal between the components of a first sensor pair, and transmitting a second ultrasonic signal in a second direction includes transmitting the second ultrasonic signal between the components of a second sensor pair.

13. The method of claim 9, wherein, The pump assembly consists of pipes, and the flow control device is configured to supply fluid to the user.

14. The method of claim 13, wherein, The condition of the pump set indicates at least one of the following: the fluid flow in the pipe is blocked, the fluid is not flowing correctly in the pump set, the fluid for the user is depleted, and the fluid flow in the pump set is operating correctly.

15. A flow control device, comprising: Memory; and At least one processor, coupled to the memory, is configured to: A first ultrasonic signal is emitted along a first direction and passes through a portion of the pump unit; A second ultrasonic signal is emitted along a second direction, which is opposite to the first direction, through the portion of the pump assembly. The first ultrasonic signal is detected to determine the reading of the first sensor; The second ultrasonic signal is detected to determine the second sensor reading; The amplitude of the first sensor reading is compared with the amplitude of the second sensor reading; The condition of the pump unit is detected by comparing the readings of the first sensor and the second sensor. The condition of the pump unit is detected based on the larger of the amplitudes of the first sensor reading and the second sensor reading. and Based on the larger reading in the amplitude, only the first ultrasonic signal along the first direction or the second ultrasonic signal along the second direction is operated.

16. The flow control device of claim 15 is further configured to switch between emitting a first ultrasonic signal in a first direction and emitting a second ultrasonic signal in a second direction.

17. The flow control device of claim 15, wherein, Emitting a first ultrasonic signal in a first direction includes transmitting the first ultrasonic signal from a first sensor component to a second sensor component, and transmitting a second ultrasonic signal in a second direction includes transmitting the second ultrasonic signal from a second sensor component to a first sensor component.

18. The flow control device according to claim 15, wherein, Emitting a first ultrasonic signal in a first direction includes transmitting the first ultrasonic signal between the components of a first sensor pair, and transmitting a second ultrasonic signal in a second direction includes transmitting the second ultrasonic signal between the components of a second sensor pair.

19. The flow control device of claim 15, wherein, The pump assembly consists of pipes, and the flow control device supplies fluid to the user.

20. The flow control device of claim 19, wherein, The condition of the pump set indicates at least one of the following: blockage of fluid flow in the pipes, incorrect fluid flow in the pump set, depletion of fluid for the user, and correct fluid flow in the pump set.

21. A flow control device, comprising: The housing is configured to receive the supply components; A pumping device configured to generate fluid flow in a supply assembly; An ultrasonic sensor includes a first sensor component and a second sensor component, the first sensor component being configured to emit a first ultrasonic signal in a first direction through a portion of a supply assembly, and the second sensor component being configured to emit a second ultrasonic signal in a second direction through a portion of the supply assembly. and A control circuit is configured to switch between a first configuration and a second configuration, wherein the first configuration includes a first sensor component emitting a first ultrasonic signal directed at a second sensor component for detection by the second sensor component, and The second configuration includes the second sensor component emitting a second ultrasonic signal directed at the first sensor component for detection by the first sensor component; The ultrasonic sensor is further configured to generate a sensor signal indicating the condition of the supply component based on the first ultrasonic signal or the second ultrasonic signal. The sensor signal is generated based on a comparison between the first ultrasonic signal and the second ultrasonic signal; The comparison involves comparing the amplitude of the detected first ultrasonic signal with the amplitude of the detected second ultrasonic signal, and determining the higher amplitude; and The control circuit includes a switch for switching between the first configuration and the second configuration, wherein the determined higher amplitude is configured to set the switch only in the first configuration or the second configuration for operation of the flow control device.

22. The flow control device of claim 21, further comprising one or more switches operably connected to the ultrasonic sensor for switching between a first direction and a second direction.

23. The flow control device of claim 21, wherein, The portion of the supply component is a pipe.

24. The flow control device of claim 21, wherein, The control circuit is further configured to receive a sensor signal indicative of the supply assembly condition from the ultrasonic sensor.

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