Experimental device for simulating local drug release behavior of drug
By designing a controlled release container and a micropump drug release unit in an experimental device that simulates drug release behavior, combining a carrier unit of a transparent fixture, a fluid power unit of an adjustable speed fluid pump and a flexible fluid pipeline, and a variety of sensors The detection unit and the control unit of the microprocessor and wireless communication module solve the problem that existing devices cannot accurately simulate the joint release behavior of multiple drugs, and realize the precise control and automated management of the drug release process.
Patent Information
- Application Number
- CN202411645143.8
- Authority / Receiving Office
- CN · China
- Patent Type
- Applications(China)
- Current Assignee / Owner
- Filing Date
- 2024-11-18
- Publication Date
- 2025-02-14
- Estimated Expiration
- Not applicable · inactive patent
AI Technical Summary
The existing experimental devices that simulate drug release behavior have limitations when simulating multidrug combined release behavior, and it is impossible to accurately deliver different types or doses of drugs according to predetermined rates and order.
A drug release unit including a controlled release container and a micropump is designed to accommodate different types or doses of drugs through multiple compartments and deliver to the fluid passage at a predetermined rate and sequence through the micropump. At the same time, the carrier unit of a transparent fixture, the fluid power unit of an adjustable speed fluid pump and a flexible fluid pipeline, the detection unit of a variety of sensors, and the control unit of a microprocessor and wireless communication module are used to achieve accurate control of the drug release process. and automated management.
Accurate simulation of the combined release behavior of multiple drugs is achieved, ensuring the controllability and accuracy of the drug release process, and providing effective experimental tools for pharmacokinetic research.
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Figure CN119423701A_ABST
Abstract
Description
Technical Field
[0001] The invention relates to the technical field of medicines, in particular to an experimental device for simulating the local drug release behavior of a drug. Background Art
[0002] With the continuous progress of pharmaceutical science, the research on drug delivery systems has attracted more and more attention. Especially for the research on multi-drug combination therapy, how to accurately simulate the release behavior of drugs in the body has become a key topic in pharmacokinetic and pharmacodynamic research. The experimental device that simulates the local release of drugs in the human body can provide researchers with a platform to control and observe the drug release process, so as to better understand the mechanism of action of drugs and optimize drug release strategies.
[0003] Existing experimental devices for simulating drug release behavior usually include a drug release unit, a fluid power unit, and a detection unit. These devices can simulate the release process of a single drug in a fluid and control the flow of the fluid through the fluid power unit. However, these devices have certain limitations when simulating the combined release behavior of multiple drugs, which are mainly reflected in the design of the drug release unit and the complexity of the control system. In addition, the existing devices also have shortcomings in automatic control and remote monitoring, and the data management and operational convenience during the experiment need to be improved.
[0004] Existing experimental devices for simulating local drug release behavior have obvious deficiencies in simulating the combined release of multiple drugs, specifically the inability to accurately deliver different types or doses of drugs according to a predetermined rate and sequence. This problem limits the in-depth development of pharmacokinetic research. Summary of the invention
[0005] In view of the deficiencies of the prior art, the present invention provides an experimental device for simulating the local drug release behavior, which solves the problem that traditional devices cannot accurately deliver different types or doses of drugs according to a predetermined rate and sequence.
[0006] To achieve the above objectives, the present invention is implemented by the following technical solutions: an experimental device for simulating local drug release behavior, comprising: A drug release unit, the drug release unit comprising a controlled-release drug container and a micropump connected thereto, the controlled-release drug container having a plurality of compartments, each compartment being used to contain drugs of different types or doses, and the drugs are delivered to the fluid channel at a predetermined rate and sequence by the micropump to simulate the combined release behavior of multiple drugs in the human body; A carrier unit, the carrier unit comprising a transparent fixing frame, on which a plurality of mounting points are arranged, for fixing the drug release unit, the fluid power unit and the detection unit, the transparent fixing frame allowing real-time observation of each unit during the experiment, and connected to a stable base through an adjustable support rod to ensure the stability and adjustability of the experimental device; A fluid power unit, the fluid power unit comprising an adjustable speed fluid pump, a fluid reservoir and a set of flexible fluid pipes, the fluid pump being used to extract fluid from the fluid reservoir and deliver it to the drug release unit and the fluid channel through the flexible fluid pipes to simulate the environment and conditions of fluid flow in the human body; A detection unit, the detection unit comprising a plurality of optical and electrochemical sensors, the sensors being mounted at different locations in the fluid channel for real-time monitoring of drug concentration, fluid flow rate and electrolyte levels in the fluid, the detection unit also comprising a data acquisition device for recording and analyzing sensor data to provide detailed data support during the experiment; A control unit, the control unit includes a microprocessor, a control panel and a wireless communication module, the microprocessor is used to execute the control program and coordinate the operation of the drug release unit, the fluid power unit and the detection unit, the control panel is used for user input and display of device status, and the wireless communication module is used to remotely monitor and control the operation of the experimental device to achieve automated and intelligent management of the experimental process.
[0007] Preferably, the micro pump is an electromagnetic pump or a piezoelectric pump, and is connected to the inlet of the fluid channel through a flexible pipe.
[0008] Preferably, the multiple compartments of the controlled-release drug container are independently controlled by a programmable control system, and each compartment can release different drugs at different time points to simulate the process of multi-drug combination therapy. The multiple compartments of the controlled-release drug container are independently controlled by a programmable control system, and each compartment can release different drugs at different time points to simulate the process of multi-drug combination therapy.
[0009] Preferably, the adjustable speed fluid pump realizes a constant flow rate or a pulse flow rate of the fluid in the fluid pipeline through precise control of the control unit.
[0010] Preferably, the flexible fluid conduit simulates the elastic properties of human blood vessels to provide a more realistic fluid dynamics environment.
[0011] Preferably, the optical sensor is used to detect the drug concentration in the fluid, and the electrochemical sensor is used to detect the ion concentration and pH value in the fluid.
[0012] Preferably, the optical sensor includes a fluorescence sensor and an ultraviolet-visible spectrum sensor, and the electrochemical sensor includes a potentiometer and an ammeter.
[0013] Preferably, the microprocessor is connected to the drug release unit, the fluid power unit and the detection unit via a communication bus to achieve synchronous control of each unit.
[0014] Preferably, the fluid reservoir comprises a liquid level sensor, which is used to monitor the liquid level in the fluid reservoir and feed the data back to the control unit to achieve accurate control of the fluid amount.
[0015] Preferably, the fluid reservoir comprises a liquid level sensor, which is used to monitor the liquid level in the fluid reservoir and feed the data back to the control unit to achieve accurate control of the fluid amount.
[0016] Working principle: The device includes a drug release unit, a carrier unit, a fluid power unit, a detection unit and a control unit. The drug release unit consists of a controlled release drug container and a micropump connected to it. The controlled release drug container has multiple compartments, each compartment is used to hold different types or doses of drugs. Through a programmable control system, each compartment can release different drugs at different time points. The micropump delivers the drug to the fluid channel at a predetermined rate and sequence through a flexible pipe to simulate the combined release behavior of multiple drugs in the human body. This design ensures the accuracy and controllability of the drug release process, thereby providing reliable experimental conditions for pharmacokinetic research; the carrier unit adopts a transparent fixed frame design, and multiple mounting points are set on the fixed frame for fixing the drug release unit, the fluid power unit and the detection unit. The transparent fixed frame allows real-time observation of each unit during the experiment, and is connected to a stable base through an adjustable support rod to ensure the stability and adjustability of the experimental device. The purpose of this design is to provide a flexible experimental environment, so that researchers can adjust the position and angle of each unit at any time according to the experimental needs, so as to better observe and record the experimental process; the fluid power unit includes an adjustable speed fluid pump, a fluid reservoir and a set of flexible fluid pipes. The fluid pump extracts fluid from the fluid reservoir and delivers it to the drug release unit and the fluid channel through the flexible fluid pipe. The rate of the fluid pump is precisely controlled by the control unit to achieve a constant flow rate or a pulse flow rate of the fluid in the fluid pipe. The flexible fluid pipe simulates the elastic properties of human blood vessels to provide a more realistic fluid dynamic environment, thereby ensuring the accuracy of the experimental results; the detection unit is equipped with multiple optical and electrochemical sensors, which are installed at different positions in the fluid channel for real-time monitoring of drug concentration, fluid flow rate and electrolyte level in the fluid. Optical sensors include fluorescence sensors and ultraviolet-visible spectrometer sensors for detecting drug concentration in the fluid; electrochemical sensors include potentiometers and ammeters for detecting ion concentration and pH value in the fluid. The detection unit also includes a data acquisition device for recording and analyzing sensor data and transmitting data to the control unit through a communication bus for real-time processing and storage. This multi-parameter monitoring and data acquisition function provides researchers with detailed experimental data support, which is convenient for subsequent analysis and research; the control unit is the core part of the entire device, including a microprocessor, a control panel and a wireless communication module. The microprocessor is used to execute the control program and coordinate the operation of the drug release unit, the fluid power unit and the detection unit. The control panel is used for user input and display of device status, which is convenient for operators to set parameters and monitor the progress of the experiment. The wireless communication module supports remote monitoring and management, which significantly improves the automation and intelligence of the experimental process.The control unit also includes a data storage module, which can record and save all data during the experiment, facilitate subsequent analysis and research, and improve the efficiency and reliability of data management; in addition, the device is also equipped with a temperature control unit, including a heater and a temperature sensor. The heater is installed on the fluid pipeline, and the operation of the heater is controlled by a microprocessor to achieve precise regulation of the fluid temperature. The temperature sensor monitors the temperature of the fluid in real time and feeds back the data to the control unit to ensure the stability of the temperature during the experiment. This is crucial for the accuracy of simulating drug release behavior, because temperature changes may affect the release rate and effect of the drug; a liquid level sensor is also provided in the fluid reservoir to monitor the liquid level in the fluid reservoir in real time and feed back the data to the control unit. Through the monitoring of the liquid level sensor, the amount of fluid can be accurately controlled to ensure the continuous supply of the fluid, and the experimental process will not be interrupted due to insufficient liquid. This design ensures the continuity and reliability of the experiment; finally, each unit is integrated in a portable housing, equipped with internal wiring and interface modules, and equipped with a portable power supply, which is convenient to carry and use. The system integration design improves the practicality and convenience of the device and is suitable for a variety of experimental scenarios. Through the coordinated work of various units, the experimental device can accurately simulate the local drug release behavior in the human body, providing a powerful and easy-to-operate experimental platform for pharmacokinetic and pharmacodynamic studies.
[0017] The present invention provides an experimental device for simulating the local drug release behavior of a drug, which has the following beneficial effects: 1. The present invention accurately simulates the combined release behavior of multiple drugs. The controlled-release drug container and micropump in the drug release unit accurately deliver different types or doses of drugs to the fluid channel according to a predetermined rate and sequence, thereby achieving the combined release behavior of multiple drugs in the human body and providing an effective tool for pharmacokinetic research.
[0018] 2. The control unit of the present invention includes a microprocessor, a control panel and a wireless communication module, which realizes the automatic control of the drug release unit, the fluid power unit and the detection unit, supports remote monitoring and management, improves the automation and intelligence of the experimental process, and facilitates experimental operation and data management. 3. The fluid power unit of the present invention includes an adjustable-speed fluid pump and a flexible fluid pipeline, which accurately controls the flow rate and flow pattern of the fluid in the fluid channel, simulates the real environment of liquid flow in the human body, and ensures the accuracy of the experimental results. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
[0019] Figure 1 It is the main framework diagram of the present invention; Figure 2 is a flow chart of the carrier unit of the present invention; Figure 3 is a flow chart of the detection unit of the present invention; Figure 4 It is a flow chart of the data acquisition device of the present invention. DETAILED DESCRIPTION
[0020] The following will be combined with the drawings in the embodiments of the present invention to clearly and completely describe the technical solutions in the embodiments of the present invention. Obviously, the described embodiments are only part of the embodiments of the present invention, not all of the embodiments. Based on the embodiments of the present invention, all other embodiments obtained by ordinary technicians in this field without creative work are within the scope of protection of the present invention.
[0021] Embodiment 1: Please see attached Figure 1-4 The embodiment of the present invention provides an experimental device for simulating local drug release behavior, comprising: The drug release unit includes a controlled-release drug container and a micropump connected thereto. The controlled-release drug container has multiple compartments, each compartment is used to contain drugs of different types or doses, and the drugs are delivered to the fluid channel at a predetermined rate and sequence by the micropump to simulate the combined release behavior of multiple drugs in the human body; The carrier unit includes a transparent fixing frame, on which a plurality of mounting points are arranged, for fixing the drug release unit, the fluid power unit and the detection unit. The transparent fixing frame allows real-time observation of each unit during the experiment, and is connected to a stable base through an adjustable support rod to ensure the stability and adjustability of the experimental device; A fluid power unit, the fluid power unit includes an adjustable speed fluid pump, a fluid reservoir and a set of flexible fluid pipes, the fluid pump is used to extract fluid from the fluid reservoir and transport it to the drug release unit and the fluid channel through the flexible fluid pipes to simulate the environment and conditions of fluid flow in the human body; A detection unit, which includes a plurality of optical and electrochemical sensors installed at different positions of the fluid channel for real-time monitoring of drug concentration, fluid flow rate and electrolyte level in the fluid. The detection unit also includes a data acquisition device for recording and analyzing sensor data to provide detailed data support during the experiment; The control unit includes a microprocessor, a control panel and a wireless communication module. The microprocessor is used to execute the control program and coordinate the operation of the drug release unit, the fluid power unit and the detection unit. The control panel is used for user input and display of device status. The wireless communication module is used to remotely monitor and control the operation of the experimental device to achieve automated and intelligent management of the experimental process.
[0022] In one embodiment, the drug release unit includes a controlled release drug container and a micro pump connected thereto. The controlled release drug container is provided with a plurality of compartments, each compartment being used to contain drugs of different types or doses. The micro pump delivers the drugs to the fluid channel at a predetermined rate and sequence through a flexible pipe to simulate the joint release behavior of multiple drugs in the human body; drug loading: drugs of different types or doses are respectively loaded into each compartment of the controlled release drug container; program control: the drug release time point and release rate of each compartment are set through a programmable control system; micro pump drive: according to the set program, the micro pump is started to deliver the drugs to the fluid channel through the flexible pipe; joint release: drugs in multiple compartments are jointly released in a predetermined order and rate to simulate the joint release behavior of multiple drugs in the human body; the carrier unit is composed of a transparent fixing frame, on which a plurality of mounting points are provided for fixing the drug release unit, the fluid power unit and the detection unit. The transparent fixing frame is connected to a stable base through an adjustable support rod.
[0023] The micropump is an electromagnetic pump or a piezoelectric pump, and is connected to the fluid channel inlet through a flexible pipe; the multiple compartments of the controlled-release drug container are independently controlled by a programmable control system, and each compartment can release different drugs at different time points to simulate the process of multi-drug combination therapy. The multiple compartments of the controlled-release drug container are independently controlled by a programmable control system, and each compartment can release different drugs at different time points to simulate the process of multi-drug combination therapy.
[0024] In one embodiment, a flexible pipe is connected to the inlet of the fluid channel. The electromagnetic pump uses the magnetic field force generated by the electromagnetic coil being energized to drive the fluid, while the piezoelectric pump realizes the pumping of the fluid by the deformation of the piezoelectric material under the action of the electric field. The use of flexible pipes ensures the smooth transmission of the fluid, and can be bent as needed to adapt to different installation environments; the micropump drives the fluid and transmits it to the controlled release drug container through the flexible pipe, and each compartment is precisely controlled by the control system to ensure that different drugs are released at different time points. This design principle utilizes the driving ability of the micropump and the precise control ability of the control system to achieve diversified release of drugs, thereby improving the accuracy and effect of treatment, optimizing the treatment plan, and reducing the side effects and interaction risks of drugs. The integrated design of the overall system ensures the simplicity and reliability of operation.
[0025] The adjustable speed fluid pump achieves a constant flow rate or a pulsed flow rate of the fluid in the fluid pipeline through precise control of the control unit; the flexible fluid pipeline simulates the elastic properties of human blood vessels to provide a more realistic fluid dynamics environment; the optical sensor is used to detect the drug concentration in the fluid, and the electrochemical sensor is used to detect the ion concentration and pH value in the fluid.
[0026] In one embodiment, the concentration change of the drug is determined by measuring the absorption or scattering of light of a specific wavelength. Electrochemical sensors are used to detect the ion concentration and pH value in the fluid. These sensors accurately monitor the chemical properties of the fluid by measuring the change in electrode potential. The overall system achieves comprehensive monitoring and regulation of fluid dynamics and chemical properties through a precisely controlled adjustable speed fluid pump, a flexible pipe with biomimetic properties, and highly sensitive optical and electrochemical sensors.
[0027] The optical sensors include fluorescence sensors and ultraviolet-visible spectrum sensors, and the electrochemical sensors include potentiometers and ammeters; the microprocessor is connected to the drug release unit, the fluid power unit and the detection unit through a communication bus to achieve synchronous control of each unit; the fluid reservoir includes a liquid level sensor, which is used to monitor the liquid level in the fluid reservoir and feed back the data to the control unit to achieve precise control of the fluid amount; the fluid reservoir includes a liquid level sensor, which is used to monitor the liquid level in the fluid reservoir and feed back the data to the control unit to achieve precise control of the fluid amount.
[0028] In one embodiment, the adjustable speed fluid pump achieves a constant flow rate or a pulse flow rate of the fluid in the fluid pipeline through precise control of the control unit. The control unit uses advanced control algorithms and sensor feedback to accurately adjust the operating parameters of the fluid pump, thereby achieving stable delivery of the fluid or simulating pulse flow to meet different experimental needs. Flexible fluid pipelines simulate the elastic properties of human blood vessels to provide a more realistic fluid dynamics environment. These pipelines are made of highly elastic materials and can be deformed when the fluid pressure changes, thereby more realistically simulating the flow behavior of blood in human blood vessels. Optical sensors are used to detect the drug concentration in the fluid, and electrochemical sensors are used to detect the ion concentration and pH value in the fluid. This design not only improves the accuracy and reliability of experiments and treatments, but also provides test conditions that are closer to the actual physiological environment, thereby optimizing the effects of drug delivery and biomedical research.
[0029] Comparative Example 1: Dialysis bag method: Principle: The drug-containing preparation or carrier is placed in a dialysis bag, which has a selective permeable membrane that allows small molecule drugs to pass through, but not large molecule carriers. The dialysis bag is placed in a container containing a drug release medium, and the concentration gradient inside and outside the dialysis bag promotes drug release.
[0030] Experimental steps: Pre-treat the dialysis bag with pure water or corresponding solution.
[0031] The drug carrier is placed in a dialysis bag and the bag opening is sealed.
[0032] Place the dialysis bag in a container containing the drug release medium and maintain a constant temperature (usually 37°C).
[0033] Samples were taken at set time points to analyze the drug concentration in the release medium.
[0034] Comparative Example 2: Diffusion cell method: Principle: The diffusion cell consists of two compartments, upper and lower, separated by a barrier (such as skin, mucous membrane, artificial membrane, etc.). The drug carrier is placed in the upper chamber and diffuses through the barrier to the lower chamber, which contains the receiving solution. The drug concentration in the receiving solution is sampled and analyzed regularly.
[0035] Experimental steps: Prepare the diffusion cell assembly and calibrate the temperature (usually 37 °C).
[0036] Fix the barrier material (such as artificial membrane, animal skin, etc.) in the diffusion cell.
[0037] The drug carrier is added to the upper chamber and the receiving solution is added to the lower chamber.
[0038] Start the experiment, take samples of the receiving solution from the lower chamber at regular intervals, and measure the drug concentration.
[0039] Comparative Example 3: Flow cytometry: Principle: Using a flow cell device, the drug release medium passes through cells containing drug carriers at a constant flow rate to simulate the flow environment of blood or other body fluids in vivo, and the drug release behavior is evaluated by analyzing the changes in drug concentration in the effluent.
[0040] Experimental steps: Load the drug carrier into the flow cell.
[0041] Adjust the medium flow rate and start the experiment.
[0042] Effluent samples were collected regularly and analyzed for drug concentration.
[0043] Experiment Type Drug concentration Fluid flow rate Electrolyte levels Embodiment 1 25.6 (mg / L) 5.0 (mL / min) 135 (mEq / L) Comparative Example 1 22.3 (mg / L) 4.8 (mL / min) 132 (mEq / L) Comparative Example 2 20.8 (mg / L) 5.1 (mL / min) 130 (mEq / L) Comparative Example 3 21.7 (mg / L) 4.9 (mL / min) 133 (mEq / L) Table 2 By comparing the experimental results, it can be seen that the experimental device of Example 1 shows higher stability and consistency in terms of drug concentration, fluid flow rate, electrolyte level and pH value. This verifies the effectiveness of the experimental device in simulating the local drug release behavior and shows its potential advantages in drug delivery and biomedical research.
[0044] Although embodiments of the present invention have been shown and described, it will be appreciated by those skilled in the art that various changes, modifications, substitutions and variations may be made to the embodiments without departing from the principles and spirit of the present invention, and that the scope of the present invention is defined by the appended claims and their equivalents.
Claims
1. An experimental device for simulating local drug release behavior, characterized in that: include: A drug release unit, the drug release unit comprising a controlled-release drug container and a micropump connected thereto, the controlled-release drug container having a plurality of compartments, each compartment being used to contain drugs of different types or doses, and the drugs are delivered to the fluid channel at a predetermined rate and sequence by the micropump to simulate the combined release behavior of multiple drugs in the human body; A carrier unit, the carrier unit comprising a transparent fixing frame, on which a plurality of mounting points are arranged, for fixing the drug release unit, the fluid power unit and the detection unit, the transparent fixing frame allowing real-time observation of each unit during the experiment, and connected to a stable base through an adjustable support rod to ensure the stability and adjustability of the experimental device; A fluid power unit, the fluid power unit comprising an adjustable speed fluid pump, a fluid reservoir and a set of flexible fluid pipes, the fluid pump being used to extract fluid from the fluid reservoir and deliver it to the drug release unit and the fluid channel through the flexible fluid pipes to simulate the environment and conditions of fluid flow in the human body; A detection unit, the detection unit comprising a plurality of optical and electrochemical sensors, the sensors being mounted at different locations in the fluid channel for real-time monitoring of drug concentration, fluid flow rate and electrolyte levels in the fluid, the detection unit also comprising a data acquisition device for recording and analyzing sensor data to provide detailed data support during the experiment; A control unit, the control unit includes a microprocessor, a control panel and a wireless communication module, the microprocessor is used to execute the control program and coordinate the operation of the drug release unit, the fluid power unit and the detection unit, the control panel is used for user input and display of device status, and the wireless communication module is used to remotely monitor and control the operation of the experimental device to achieve automated and intelligent management of the experimental process.
2. The experimental device for simulating local drug release behavior according to claim 1, characterized in that: The micro pump is an electromagnetic pump or a piezoelectric pump, and is connected to the inlet of the fluid channel through a flexible pipe.
3. The experimental device for simulating local drug release behavior according to claim 1, characterized in that: The multiple compartments of the controlled-release drug container are independently controlled by a programmable control system, and each compartment can release different drugs at different time points to simulate the process of multi-drug combination therapy. The multiple compartments of the controlled-release drug container are independently controlled by a programmable control system, and each compartment can release different drugs at different time points to simulate the process of multi-drug combination therapy.
4. The experimental device for simulating local drug release behavior according to claim 1, characterized in that: The adjustable speed fluid pump realizes a constant flow rate or a pulse flow rate of the fluid in the fluid pipeline through precise control of the control unit.
5. The experimental device for simulating local drug release behavior according to claim 1, characterized in that: The flexible fluid conduit simulates the elastic properties of human blood vessels to provide a more realistic fluid dynamics environment.
6. The experimental device for simulating local drug release behavior according to claim 1, characterized in that: The optical sensor is used to detect the drug concentration in the fluid, and the electrochemical sensor is used to detect the ion concentration and pH value in the fluid.
7. The experimental device for simulating local drug release behavior according to claim 1, characterized in that: The optical sensor includes a fluorescence sensor and an ultraviolet-visible spectrum sensor, and the electrochemical sensor includes a potentiometer and an ammeter.
8. The experimental device for simulating local drug release behavior according to claim 1, characterized in that: The microprocessor is connected with the drug release unit, the fluid power unit and the detection unit through a communication bus to achieve synchronous control of each unit.
9. The experimental device for simulating local drug release behavior according to claim 1, characterized in that: The fluid reservoir includes a liquid level sensor, which is used to monitor the liquid level in the fluid reservoir and feed the data back to the control unit to achieve accurate control of the fluid amount.
10. The experimental device for simulating local drug release behavior according to claim 1, characterized in that: The fluid reservoir includes a liquid level sensor, which is used to monitor the liquid level in the fluid reservoir and feed the data back to the control unit to achieve accurate control of the fluid amount.