Infusion pump with magnetic key lock

Abstract

An infusion pump, in particular a patient-controlled analgesia pump, for analgesia therapy is provided. The infusion pump includes at least one lock that prevents unauthorized operation of the infusion pump. The lock is a magnetic key lock. Further, a magnetic key for an infusion pump and a system including an infusion pump and a magnetic key are provided.

Description

[0001] The present invention relates to an infusion pump, in particular a patient-controlled analgesia pump, which includes at least one lock for preventing unauthorized operation of the infusion pump, a key for the infusion pump, and a system including the infusion pump and the corresponding key.

[0002] The infusion pump is used to administer drugs, anesthetics, and analgesics in a controlled and automated manner. The drugs, anesthetics, or analgesics to be administered are stored in a compartment of the pump. The drugs, anesthetics, or analgesics are provided, for example, in a syringe stored in the pump compartment. To prevent unauthorized operation of such an infusion pump, a safety mechanism is provided on the pump. Usually, the infusion pump is fixed to a pole to prevent the pump from being stolen. In addition, the pump compartment is protected from unauthorized access to prevent the drugs, anesthetics, or analgesics placed therein from being stolen. Preventing unauthorized access is particularly important for analgesic treatment, in which patients may want to increase the administered dose beyond their allowed and healthy dose and injection volume.

[0003] In the prior art, mechanical key locks are used to prevent unauthorized operation of the pump, for example, a mechanical lock is provided to fix the pump to a pole (pole lock mechanism) and / or to lock the pump compartment. In the locked state of the mechanical key lock, a system of cams or wheels, levers, and springs prevents the infusion pump from being removed from the pole (bolt lock). Similarly, the door of the pump compartment cannot be opened in the locked state of the key lock. Inserting and turning a suitable key in the key lock opens the lock and releases the corresponding safety mechanism: the infusion pump can be removed from the pole or the drugs, anesthetics, or analgesics can be taken out of the pump compartment respectively.

[0004] The disadvantage of this system is that the mechanical lock can be pried open by abusing tools available in the hospital environment, such as knives. In these cases, unauthorized access cannot be prevented. The replacement of these locks is complex. In addition, when multiple pumps are arranged on top of each other on the pole of the infusion pump station or on a shelf or stacked on top of each other in some other way, the mechanical lock may be difficult to access, making it troublesome to insert and turn the key. In addition, contact with the liquids present in the hospital environment may cause corrosion that renders the lock inoperable. Another problem is hygiene: it is difficult to keep the lock free of bacteria.

[0005] The object of the present invention is to overcome the above-mentioned deficiencies of the prior art and to provide an infusion pump, a key, and a corresponding system that increase patient safety, are easy to operate, and are more hygienic.

[0006] This object is achieved by an infusion pump for analgesic treatment, in particular a patient-controlled analgesia pump, which includes at least one lock for preventing unauthorized operation of the infusion pump, wherein the magnetic key lock has a locked state and an unlocked state, and wherein the magnetic key lock is configured to switch from the locked state to the unlocked state by placing a magnetic key on or near the magnetic key lock.

[0007] For example, the infusion pump is a syringe infusion pump that includes a pump compartment in which a syringe can be provided. In particular, the infusion pump is used for analgesic treatment. For example, it includes a pump compartment in which a syringe containing an analgesic can be arranged and the contents of which are administered by the pump. In use, the infusion pump is typically clamped to a rod, for example, located at the bedside of a patient. To prevent unauthorized operation of the pump, either or both of the fastening mechanism of the pump to the rod and the pump compartment must be secured. For example, a lock secures the pump to prevent unauthorized removal of the pump from the rod to which it is fastened. Additionally or alternatively, a lock is provided that protects the pump compartment from unauthorized access. Thus, the pump can include multiple locks, for example, two locks. Unauthorized operation includes operation by an unauthorized person, such as a patient or a visitor. At least one lock prevents unauthorized operation, especially in a hospital setting. A magnetic key lock is a lock that relies on magnetic force to implement the locking and unlocking mechanisms as compared to a simple mechanical lock. By placing a suitable or corresponding magnetic key on or near the magnetic key lock, a defined magnetic field is provided at the magnetic key lock. The magnetic force generated causes the unlocking of the magnetic key lock.

[0008] In one embodiment, the magnetic key lock includes an engagement member connected to the housing of the infusion pump and wherein the magnetic key lock includes a locking member connected to a movable part of the infusion pump, wherein the engagement member engages the locking member in a first locked state of the magnetic key lock and releases the locking member in a second unlocked state of the magnetic key lock.

[0009] In one embodiment, the engagement member includes at least one ferromagnetic element, wherein the ferromagnetic element includes a hard ferromagnetic material and / or a soft ferromagnetic material. Through the at least one ferromagnetic element, the engagement member is capable of reacting to a defined magnetic field applied, for example, by placing a magnetic key. In one example, multiple ferromagnetic elements can be provided. The ferromagnetic element is, for example, a permanent magnet. Alternatively, the ferromagnetic element is, for example, an element made of a soft ferromagnetic material, such as iron.

[0010] In one embodiment, the engaging member is movably connected to the housing such that the engaging member switches between a first position and a second position by placing a magnetic key on or near the magnetic key lock, the first position corresponding to the locked state of the magnetic key lock and the second position corresponding to the unlocked state of the magnetic key lock. Thus, unlocking of the magnetic key lock is achieved by applying a defined magnetic field provided by the magnetic key. The defined magnetic field is a magnetic field such that, when this magnetic field is applied, the engaging member switches from the first position to the second position, thus achieving unlocking of the lock. In particular, the defined magnetic field must be strong enough to overcome the forces holding the engaging member in the first position, such as gravity, friction and / or spring force. For example, the engaging member is held in the first position by a spring which is compressed when the engaging member moves to the second position.

[0011] In one embodiment, the engaging member is rotatably connected to the housing such that the engaging member is capable of rotating between a first position and a second position. The rotation is achieved by placing a magnetic key on or near the magnetic key lock. In particular, when no magnetic key is placed on or near the magnetic key lock, especially in the absence of the defined magnetic field, the engaging member rests in the first position, and when a magnetic key is placed on or near the magnetic key lock, especially when the defined magnetic field is applied, the engaging member switches to the second position. By placing a magnetic key on or near the magnetic key lock, especially by applying the defined magnetic field, the magnetic key lock is unlocked, and the magnetic key lock remains locked as long as no magnetic field is applied.

[0012] In one embodiment, the engaging member includes a first protrusion and the locking member includes at least one recess or at least one opening. In the locked state of the magnetic key lock, the first protrusion engages with at least one recess or with at least one opening. In the unlocked state of the magnetic key lock, the first protrusion is removed from at least one recess or from at least one opening. The removal of the first protrusion from at least one recess or from at least one opening is achieved, for example, by rotation of the engaging member, wherein the rotation is initiated by placing a magnetic key on or near the magnetic key lock, especially by applying the defined magnetic field.

[0013] In one embodiment, at least one lock is a lock for a pump compartment of an infusion pump, in particular a syringe infusion pump, wherein the pump compartment is part of the housing of the infusion pump and the movable part is the door of the pump compartment. The pump compartment is a compartment provided in the housing, in which a syringe for, for example, a drug, anesthetic or analgesic can be arranged. The pump compartment is protected by a door in order to prevent unauthorized persons, such as patients, from accessing the syringe. The pump compartment is provided, for example, at the front of the infusion pump. In particular, the door, which is the movable part of the infusion pump, includes a locking member. The locking member is provided, for example, with a recess or an opening, and a protrusion of the engagement member engages with the recess or the opening. In this example, the engagement member includes a ferromagnetic element, such as a permanent magnet, arranged on the top of the engagement member. In the locked position, the protrusion of the engagement member engages with the recess or the opening of the locking member. If a magnetic key is placed on or near the magnetic key lock, in particular if a defined magnetic field is applied, the engagement member is lifted so that the protrusion is removed from the recess or from the opening respectively. The door of the pump compartment can be opened. If the magnetic key and thus the defined magnetic field are removed, the engagement member descends under the influence of gravity or a spring force. For example, the engagement member is held in a first position by a spring, which is compressed when the engagement member moves to a second position. If the door is closed, the protrusion engages with the recess or with the opening again respectively. It is now impossible to open the door. By protecting the pump compartment with a magnetic key lock, it is no longer possible to pry open the pump compartment with simple tools, such as a knife, because the lock is no longer visible and physically accessible to the user. The safety of pump use is thus improved because it makes unauthorized access with tools available in a standard hospital environment more difficult or even impossible. In addition, it becomes more comfortable for authorized personnel to open the pump compartment because only the magnetic key has to be brought close to the lock. There is no need to turn a key in a restricted space. It becomes possible to clean the housing including the pump compartment quickly and easily.

[0014] In one embodiment, the magnetic key lock includes a push member movably connected to the housing. The engagement member engages with the push member in the locked state of the magnetic key lock and releases the push member in the unlocked state of the magnetic key lock. In the unlocked state of the magnetic key lock, the push member exerts a thrust force on the locking member. In particular, if the first protrusion and the second protrusion are disengaged from the recess or the opening of the locking member and the recess or the opening of the push member respectively, the door of the pump compartment springs open. This improves the comfort of the user.

[0015] In one embodiment, at least one lock is a lock for a clamping member of an infusion pump, the clamping member being used to fasten the infusion pump to a rod, and wherein the movable part is the clamping shaft of the clamping member. At least in a conventional hospital environment, the rod lock mechanism makes it more difficult or impossible to remove the pump from the rod.

[0016] In one embodiment, the clamping member is a threaded clamping member, and the clamping shaft is a threaded shaft disposed in a threaded hole of the housing. The clamping jaws are provided, for example, as part of the housing, wherein the clamping jaws have a first arm and a second arm. The threaded hole is provided in the first arm of the clamping jaws such that when the threaded shaft is inserted into the threaded hole, one end thereof points towards the second arm of the clamping jaws. When the clamping shaft, i.e., the threaded shaft, rotates, a clamping force can be applied to a rod in a space disposed between the first arm and the second arm of the clamping jaws. A tip may be provided on one end of the threaded shaft to limit damage to the rod during clamping. Further, in some examples, a locking handle is provided on the opposite end of the threaded shaft to facilitate its rotation.

[0017] In one embodiment, the locking member is a gear including at least one recess, wherein the gear is disposed on the clamping shaft such that the axis of rotation of the gear is aligned with the axis of rotation of the clamping shaft. Then, by placing the magnetic key on or near the magnetic key lock, particularly by applying a defined magnetic field, the engaging member, particularly the protrusion of the engaging member, can be released from its engagement with the locking member, i.e., at least one recess of the gear. Preferably, the locking member and the engaging member form a ratchet, wherein the engaging member serves as a pawl and the locking member serves as the gear of the ratchet. The engaging member is preferably spring-loaded to provide the blocking force of the ratchet. By placing the magnetic key on or near the magnetic key lock, particularly by applying a defined magnetic field, the pawl can be removed from the gear, particularly from at least one recess of the gear. In doing so, the applied magnetic force must overcome the blocking force of the ratchet, particularly the spring force applied to the engaging member. For example, the engaging member includes a first lever arm and a second lever arm, wherein the spring force is applied to the first lever arm, and wherein the second lever arm provides the protrusion of the engaging member. The first lever arm and the second lever arm are arranged at an angle. They are rotatably connected to the housing at their intersection point. Particularly, in the first position, i.e., in the locked state, the spring force applied to the first lever arm holds the second lever arm in at least one recess of the locking member, i.e., the gear. When a defined magnetic field is applied, the spring force is overcome and the engaging member rotates such that the second lever arm disengages from the at least one recess. The gear can move freely and the pump can be removed. For example, the first lever is provided with at least one magnet, and the magnetic key provides a repulsive force on the magnet.

[0018] In one embodiment, the housing includes at least one recess for inserting a magnetic key. The recess provides a receptacle for the key of a magnetic key lock. Alternatively, the housing includes at least one through-hole for inserting a magnetic key. The through-hole has the advantage that liquid and other debris can flow through it. In another alternative embodiment, a guiding portion is provided on the housing to mark the placement area for the key. The placement area is an area on the surface of the housing where the magnetic key must be placed on or near in order to unlock the magnetic key lock. Examples are a frame provided on the surface of the housing, for example protruding from the surface of the housing, or a graphical symbol such as a lock. With the help of the guiding portion, the user can easily identify the key placement area and thus operate the lock quickly. The protruding frame also brings additional robustness to the key solution, for example, preventing the use of a larger magnet - which has an increased air gap generated - such that only a specific key shape can fit into the frame.

[0019] In one embodiment, the infusion pump is provided with two locks: a first lock that secures the door of the pump compartment and a second lock that secures the pump itself to the rod.

[0020] This object is also achieved by means of a magnetic key for an infusion pump and a system of the infusion pump and such a magnetic key, wherein the magnetic key includes a magnet configured to unlock at least one magnetic key lock of the infusion pump. In one embodiment, the magnetic key includes a soft ferromagnetic element, such as an iron yoke. This soft ferromagnetic element increases the magnetic flux caused by the magnet. In one embodiment, the soft ferromagnetic element is arranged in the magnetic key such that it shields the magnet in order to reduce the magnetic flux escaping from the magnet in an undesired direction.

[0021] Furthermore, a method for unlocking a lock of an infusion pump according to an embodiment of the present invention using a magnetic key according to an embodiment of the present invention is disclosed, wherein the magnetic key lock is unlocked only by placing the magnetic key on or near the magnetic key lock. Placing the magnetic key on the magnetic key lock includes, in one example, inserting the key into at least one recess for inserting a magnetic key in the housing, or inserting the key into at least one through-hole for inserting a magnetic key in the housing, or placing the key on the placement area of the housing. Compared with the prior art methods that rely on mechanical locks, there is no need to turn the key. This facilitates unlocking and thus the operation of the pump by authorized personnel.

[0022] Subsequently, the basic idea of the present invention will be described in more detail with respect to the embodiments shown in the drawings. In the drawings:

[0023] Figure 1 shows an infusion pump according to the prior art;

[0024] Figure 2Shows an infusion pump according to an embodiment of the present invention;

[0025] Figure 3 Shows a cross-sectional side view of a part of an infusion pump according to an embodiment of the present invention, wherein the magnetic key lock of the pump is in a locked state;

[0026] Figure 4 Shows Figure 3 A top-front view of a part of the infusion pump of, wherein the magnetic key lock is in a locked state;

[0027] Figure 5 Shows having Figure 3 A cross-sectional side view of a system according to the present invention of a part of an infusion pump of - here, the magnetic key lock is in an unlocked state - and having a magnetic key according to an embodiment of the present invention;

[0028] Figure 6 Shows Figure 5 A top-front view of the system of, wherein the magnetic key lock is in an unlocked state;

[0029] Figure 7 Shows a top-front view of a part of an infusion pump according to an embodiment of the present invention, wherein the magnetic key lock of the pump is in a locked state;

[0030] Figure 8 Shows having Figure 7 A top-front view of a system according to the present invention of a part of an infusion pump of - here, the magnetic key lock is in an unlocked state of the pump - and having a magnetic key according to an embodiment of the present invention;

[0031] Figure 9 Shows a cross-sectional view of a part of an infusion pump according to an embodiment of the present invention, wherein the magnetic key lock of the pump is in a locked state; and

[0032] Figure 10 Shows having Figure 9 A cross-sectional view of a system according to the present invention of a part of an infusion pump of - here, the magnetic key lock is in an unlocked state of the pump - and having a magnetic key according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0033] Figure 1 shows an infusion pump 1 according to the prior art. The infusion pump 1 includes a housing 11. A compartment 13 is provided in the housing 11. A syringe can be arranged in the pump compartment 13, which syringe provides a drug, anesthetic and / or analgesic for infusion. The compartment 13 has a door 12a. The pump 1 can be locked to a rod. For this purpose, a clamping jaw 125 is provided. By rotation of the locking handle 124, the clamping shaft 12b extends into the clamping jaw 125 so that the infusion pump 1 can be fixed to the rod. The infusion pump 1 includes two mechanical locks 4a, 4b in order to prevent unauthorized access to any drug, anesthetic and / or analgesic in the syringe provided in the pump, in particular arranged in the compartment 13.

[0034] First, a mechanical lock 4a is provided to prevent unauthorized opening of the compartment door 12a. The mechanical lock 4a is provided at the top of the compartment 13. By inserting a key and rotating the key in the depicted direction, the mechanical lock 4a is unlocked. The door 12a can be opened and access to the syringe arranged in the compartment 13 can be obtained. A second mechanical lock 4b is provided in order to prevent reverse rotation of the locking handle 124 and thus prevent the clamping jaw 125 from loosening from the rod. Thus, the infusion pump 1 can only be loosened from the rod by authorized personnel. By inserting a key and rotating it in the depicted direction, the mechanical lock 4b is unlocked and the handle 124 can be rotated so that the clamping shaft 12b is removed from the clamping jaw 125.

[0035] A disadvantage of the infusion pump 1 of the prior art is that the mechanical locks 4a, 4b can be pried open by abusing simple tools available in a hospital environment, such as a knife. In addition, liquid can enter the mechanical locks 4a, 4b, which can cause corrosion. This reduces the durability of the mechanical locks 4a, 4b.

[0036] Figure 2 Figure 1 shows an infusion pump 1 according to an embodiment of the present invention. The infusion pump 1 includes a housing 11 that provides a compartment 13. In the compartment 13, a syringe can be provided, which syringe includes, for example, a drug, anesthetic and / or analgesic. A movable part 12 of the housing 11, which is the door 12a in this embodiment, closes the compartment 13. As in the prior art, the pump 1 is provided with a rod locking mechanism, i.e., a mechanism for locking the pump 1 to a rod. For this purpose, a clamping jaw 125 is provided as part of the housing 11. By rotation of the locking handle 124, a movable part 12 of the housing, which is the clamping shaft 12b in this embodiment, extends into the clamping jaw 125 so that the infusion pump 1 can be fixed to the rod.

[0037] In order to prevent unauthorized access to the syringe located in the pump compartment 13, a magnetic key lock for locking the pump compartment 13 is provided. The magnetic key lock is opened by bringing a magnetic key 2 (see, for example Figure 5) It is placed on or near the magnetic key lock to unlock. The guiding portion 117 marks the placement area for placing the magnetic key 2 to guide the user, for example.

[0038] In order to prevent the infusion pump 1 from being removed from the rod without authorization, a second magnetic key lock for preventing the reverse rotation of the clamping shaft 12b is provided.

[0039] By the approach of the magnetic key 2, for example, the same key used to unlock the magnetic key lock of the pump compartment 13, the clamping shaft 12b is released and the clamping jaws 125 can be loosened. The pump 1 can be removed from the rod. Here, the guiding portion 117 is also used to mark the placement area for the magnetic key 2.

[0040] Compared with a conventional mechanical lock, the magnetic key lock cannot be pried open by abusing simple tools available in the hospital environment, such as knives. In addition, there is no need to provide an opening for the keyhole in the housing 11, so that the lock is liquid-proof and hygienic. Therefore, corrosion is prevented and the durability of the pump 1 is improved.

[0041] Figure 3 A partial view of the infusion pump 1 according to an embodiment of the present invention is shown in a side cross-sectional view of the pump 1. In particular, Figure 3Illustrated is an infusion pump 1 having a lock for a pump compartment 13 of the infusion pump 1. The pump compartment 13 is part of a housing 11 of the pump 1. The pump compartment 13 can be accessed via a movable part 12 of the housing 11, which in the present embodiment is a door 12a arranged at the front of the pump 1, in particular its housing 11. The door 12a can be opened and thus the syringe arranged in the pump compartment 13 can be accessed. To prevent unauthorized access to the pump compartment 13, its door 12a is fixed by a magnetic key lock. The magnetic key lock includes an engagement member 111, which is connected to the housing 11. The magnetic key lock further includes a locking member 121, which is connected to the door 12a. The engagement member 111 engages with the locking member 121 in a first position corresponding to the locked state of the magnetic key lock. In one embodiment, the engagement member 111 is held in its first position by an external force, such as a spring force exerted by a suitably arranged spring (not shown) provided inside the housing 11 and forming part of the magnetic key lock. In particular, the engagement member 111 includes a first protrusion 113, which engages with an opening 123 of the locking member 121. Thus, by the interlocking of the engagement member 111 and the locking member 121, the door 12a is fixed to the housing 11 and cannot be opened. It is locked. The engagement member 111 further includes at least one ferromagnetic element 112. The ferromagnetic element 112 can be a permanent magnet or simply an element comprising a soft ferromagnetic material. Importantly, it responds to an external magnetic field. In the presently depicted embodiment, two hard ferromagnetic elements 112 are provided in the form of two permanent magnets 112a, 112b. By arranging a plurality of permanent magnets as hard ferromagnetic elements, a specific magnetic pattern can be generated. For example, an upward magnetic polarization on one element is combined with a downward polarization on another element. If the magnetic key 2 is placed on or near the magnetic key lock, a defined magnetic field is applied and the engagement member 111 moves from the shown first position to a second position, which corresponds to the unlocked state of the magnetic key lock, which will be discussed with respect to Figure 5 As long as there is no magnetic key 2, i.e., no defined magnetic field, the engagement member 111 rests in the first position. Thus, it fixes the door 12a to the housing 11 as long as no magnetic key 2 is placed on or near the magnetic key lock. In the illustrated embodiment, the magnetic key lock further includes a pushing member 14 movably connected to the housing 11. In the first position corresponding to the locked state of the magnetic key lock, the engagement member 111 also engages with the pushing member 14. For example, the engagement member 111 includes a second protrusion 114, which engages with an opening 141 of the pushing member 14.

[0042] Figure 4 Is shown in accordance with Figure 3Part of the infusion pump 1 of the same embodiment, but from a top-down front view for ease of understanding. In this view, the arrangement of the two magnets 112a, 112b can be seen.

[0043] Figure 5 The system 3 of the key 2 and the infusion pump 1 is illustrated. A side cross-sectional view shows a part of the infusion pump 1 according to the same embodiment of the infusion pump 1 as Figure 3 but now in the unlocked state of the magnetic key lock of the pump 1. In the unlocked state of the magnetic key lock shown here, the engaging member 111 releases the locking member. When the engaging member 111 is movably, particularly rotatably, connected to the housing 11, it moves from Figure 3 and Figure 4The first position shown therein is switched to the second position shown herein, and the second position corresponds to the unlocked state of the magnetic key lock. In particular, the engaging member 111 rotates to the second position. The switching from the first position to the second position is achieved by applying a defined magnetic field. Thus, the magnetic key lock is opened by applying a defined magnetic field. The defined magnetic field is a specific magnetic field necessary to effect the switching of the engaging member from the first position to the second position and thus from the locked state to the unlocked state of the magnetic key lock. This requires a specific intensity of the defined magnetic field and / or a specific magnetic pattern of the defined magnetic field. The defined magnetic field is applied by placing a suitable magnetic key 2 on or near the magnetic key lock, wherein the magnetic key 2 includes at least one magnet 21a. The magnet 21a generates a defined magnetic field at the location of at least one ferromagnetic element 112, which in the present embodiment are two permanent magnets 112a, 112b. Thus, the engaging member 111 is subjected to a magnetic force that overcomes the force that holds the engaging member 111 in its first position. These forces can be gravity and, in one embodiment, the spring force provided by a suitably arranged spring (not shown). Under the influence of the defined magnetic field, i.e., through the interaction of the magnets 112a, 112b with the magnet 21a, the engaging member 111 rotates. In the illustrated embodiment, the engaging member 111 rotates from the first position to the second position under the pulling force of the defined magnetic field. The attraction between the magnet 21a of the magnetic key 2 and the magnets 112a, 112b causes the engaging member 111 to move, i.e., rotate, from the first position to the second position. The first protrusion 113 is removed from the opening 123 of the locking member 121. The locking member 121 is no longer engaged with the engaging member 111. The door 12a can be opened. When the pushing member 14 is released by the disengagement of the first protrusion 113, in addition to the rotation of the engaging member 111, the pushing member 14 further pushes the second protrusion 114. The pushing member 14 applies a force to the locking member 121 and thus pushes the door 12a open. The pump compartment 13 can be accessed. Using the pump 1 and the magnetic key 2, a system 3 is provided that restricts access to the pump compartment 13 and thus improves patient safety. In the depicted embodiment, additionally, a soft ferromagnetic element 22, such as an iron yoke, is provided near the magnet 21a of the key 2 to shield the magnet 21a. In particular, the soft ferromagnetic element 22 is provided on the side of the magnet 21a that faces away from the magnets 112a, 112b when the magnetic key 2 is placed on or near the magnetic key lock.

[0044] Figure 6 is shown Figure 5The system in which the magnetic key lock is in its unlocked state, but from a top - front view for ease of understanding. As can be seen, in the second position, the engaging member 111 releases the locking member 121. In fact, the locking member 121 is pushed by the pushing member 14, thus enabling the opening of the door 12a. In this embodiment, the locking member 111 is part of a slider provided on the door 12a. If the magnetic key lock is in its unlocked state, i.e., the engaging member 111 is in its second position, the door 12a can be opened by the movement of the slider. In the shown embodiment, the magnetic key 2 includes a handle and a head, wherein a magnet 21a is arranged in the head of the magnetic key 2. In the depicted embodiment, additionally, a soft ferromagnetic element 22, such as an iron yoke, is provided near the magnet 21a to shield the magnet 21a. In particular, the soft ferromagnetic element 22 is provided on the side of the magnet 21a that faces away from the magnets 112a, 112b when the key 2 is placed on the housing 11 to unlock the lock. Placing the magnetic key 2 on or near the magnetic key lock includes placing the magnetic key 2, in particular the magnet 21a of the key, on or near a part of the housing 11 where the magnetic key lock, in particular the magnets 112a, 112b, is located. There is no need to provide an opening in the housing 11. There is no need to turn the key 2. This facilitates operation and reduces space requirements. In particular, in cases where the space above the pump 1 is restricted, such as when multiple pumps 1 are arranged on top of each other on a single rod or shelf in an infusion pump station or stacked on top of each other in some other way, the key 2 approaching the top of the housing 11 horizontally facilitates manipulation and improves the user experience.

[0045] Figure 7 A part of an infusion pump 1 according to an embodiment of the present invention is shown in a top - front view. In particular, Figure 7 A part of an infusion pump 1 is illustrated, which infusion pump 1 has a lock for a clamping member of the pump 1 for fastening the pump 1 to a rod. For example, the clamping jaws 125 (see, for example Figure 2)is provided as part of the housing 11. The clamping jaw 125 has a first arm and a second arm. A threaded hole 15 is provided in the first arm of the clamping jaw 125 such that the movable part 12 of the housing 11, which is the clamping shaft 12b in the present embodiment, when inserted into the threaded hole 15, points with one end towards the second arm of the clamping jaw 125. The clamping shaft 12b is provided as a threaded shaft, i.e., having an external thread. When the clamping shaft 12b rotates, a clamping force can be applied to a rod in the space arranged between the first arm and the second arm of the clamping jaw 125. A tip can be provided at one end of the clamping shaft 12b in order to limit damage to the rod during clamping. Additionally, in some examples, a locking handle 124 (only its tip is shown in the depicted view) is provided at the opposite end of the clamping shaft 12b in order to ease its rotation. The magnetic key lock includes a locking member 121, which is a gear 121a in the present embodiment. The gear 121a includes at least one recess 122. The engaging member 111, particularly its first protrusion 113, engages with at least one recess 122 of the gear 121a in a first position. This first position corresponds to the locked state of the magnetic key lock. In this first position of the engaging member 111, it is impossible to release the clamping jaw 215 and thus remove the pump 1 from the rod. In this particular embodiment, the engaging member 111 includes a first lever arm 115 and a second lever arm 116, wherein the first protrusion 113 is provided as part of the second lever arm 116. In particular, the engaging member 111 and the gear 121a form a ratchet. The teeth of the gear 121a and the second lever arm 116, particularly the part providing the first protrusion 113, are formed such that the clamping shaft 12b can be rotated in one direction but is blocked in the opposite direction. Thus, when the engaging member 111 is in its first position, i.e., the first protrusion 113 engages with one of the recesses 122 of the gear 121a, the clamping jaw 125 can be tightened without loosening. The engaging member 11 is connected to the housing 111 in a movable manner. In particular, the engaging member 111 is connected to the housing 11 in a rotatable manner such that the engaging member 111 can be moved from its first position, particularly rotated, to a second position. This second position corresponds to the unlocked state of the magnetic key lock, which will be regarding Figure 8Further discussion. In the illustrated embodiment, the first lever arm 115 and the second lever arm 116 intersect and the engagement member 111 is connected to the housing 11 at their intersection point. For example, the engagement member 111 has a V-shaped configuration, where the two legs of the "V" respectively form the first lever arm 115 and the second lever arm 116. For example, bolts are provided for connecting the engagement member 111 to the housing 11 at the intersection point. Then, the engagement member 111 can rotate, where the axis of rotation is perpendicular to the plane spanned by the first lever arm 115 and the second lever arm 116. The engagement member 111 includes at least one ferromagnetic element 112, which in the present example are two magnets 112a, 112b with opposite magnetic polarities. The engagement member 111 can additionally be held in its position by a spring force exerted by a suitably arranged spring 17. By placing a suitable magnetic key 2 on or near the magnetic key lock, i.e., by applying a defined magnetic field, the engagement member 111 is switched from the first position shown to a second position corresponding to the unlocked state of the magnetic key lock. The spring force exerted on the engagement member 111, in particular on its first lever arm 115, must be overcome by the applied magnetic force in order to effect this switching.

[0046] Figure 8 A system 3 of a magnetic key 2 and an infusion pump 1 is illustrated. It shows Figure 7Part of the pump, where the magnetic key lock is in its unlocked state. By the approach of a suitable magnetic key 2, the magnetic key lock is opened, i.e., switched from its locked state to its unlocked state. The magnetic key 2 includes at least one magnet 21a. In the present example, two magnets 21a, 21b are provided. For example, these magnets 21a, 21b are arranged in the head of the magnetic key 2, which is located at the end of the key handle. This allows for comfortable operation when unlocking the magnetic key lock. In the depicted embodiment, additionally, a soft ferromagnetic element 22, such as an iron yoke, is arranged near the magnets 21a, 21b in order to shield the magnets 21a, 21b. In particular, the soft ferromagnetic element 22 is arranged on the side of the magnets 21a, 21b that faces away from the magnets 112a, 112b when the magnetic key 2 is placed on the housing 11 to unlock the lock. In the present embodiment, the placement area for placing the magnetic key 2 is located at the top of the housing 11, enabling easy access, especially since multiple pumps 1 are arranged on top of each other on, for example, a pole or in a shelf of an infusion pump station, or are stacked on top of each other in some other way, and the space above the pump 1 is limited. The magnets 21a, 21b provide a defined magnetic field at the positions of the magnets 112a, 112b. Thus, a force is exerted on the magnets 112a, 112b and thus also on the engagement member 111, causing it to move from its first position to its second position. In the present example, the force is an attractive force, thus effecting the rotation of the engagement member 111. In one embodiment, the force exerted by the magnets 21a, 21b must be large enough to overcome the spring force exerted by the spring 17 on the engagement member 111, especially on its first lever arm 115. The first lever arm 115 is pulled towards the magnetic key 2, and thus, the second lever arm 116 is pushed away from the gear 121a. The first protrusion 113 is removed from the corresponding recess 122 of the gear 121a. The gear 121a can rotate freely. Thus, the clamping shaft 12b can rotate in the opposite direction, causing the clamping jaws 125 to release from the rod. Thus, the infusion pump 1 can be removed.

[0047] Figure 9 A cross-sectional view shows a part of the infusion pump 1 according to an alternative embodiment of the present invention. In particular, Figure 9 The infusion pump 1 is illustrated, which has a lock for the clamping member of the pump 1 that fastens the pump 1 to the rod. The Figure 9 infusion pump is related to Figure 7 and Figure 8The infusion pump and the lock to be explained are largely identical. In the present embodiment, at least one ferromagnetic element 112, in particular a magnet 112a, is provided at the rear of the first lever arm 115. This means that the ferromagnetic element 112, which is a magnet 112a in the present embodiment, is provided on the side of the first lever arm 115 facing away from the gear 121a. The first lever arm 115 is spring-loaded with a traction spring 17. At least one ferromagnetic element 112, namely the magnet 112a, is retracted by the traction spring 17, thus holding the engagement member 111 in its first position corresponding to the locked position of the magnetic key lock. A recess 16 for inserting the magnetic key 2 is provided in the housing 11. The recess 16 is arranged such that the inserted magnetic key 2 is in close proximity to the magnet 112a.

[0048] Figure 10 Figure 4 shows a system 3 of a magnetic key 2 and an infusion pump 1 according to an embodiment of the present invention. It shows Figure 9 a part of the infusion pump 1, in which the magnetic key lock is in the unlocked state. When a suitable magnetic key 2 having a magnet 21a is inserted into the recess 16, a defined magnetic field is applied to the magnet 112a. As a result, the engagement member 111 rotates to its second position under the subsequent magnetic force. The gear 121a can move freely. The magnetic key lock is unlocked. The magnet 21a exerts a repulsive force on the magnet 112a. The first lever 115 is pushed towards the gear 121a, and the second lever 116 is thus removed from the gear 121a. It is not necessary to turn the key 2. Unlocking is achieved only by inserting the key 2 into the corresponding recess 16. The recess 16 is formed in the housing 11. Therefore, it is not necessary to provide a keyhole in the housing 11. The pump 1 remains liquid-tight. The lock can be non-corrosive. In an alternative embodiment (not shown), the recess 16 is replaced by a through-hole. This still provides a receptacle for the magnetic key 2, but allows liquid to flow through.

[0049] List of reference numerals

[0050] 1 Infusion pump

[0051] 11 Housing

[0052] 111 Engagement member

[0053] 112 Ferromagnetic element

[0054] 112a, 112b Magnets

[0055] 113 First protrusion

[0056] 114 Second protrusion

[0057] 115 First lever arm

[0058] 116 Second lever arm

[0059] 117 Guide part

[0060] 12 Movable parts of the pump

[0061] 12a Door

[0062] 12b Clamping shaft

[0063] 121 Locking member

[0064] 121a Gear

[0065] 122 Recess of the locking member

[0066] 123 Opening of the locking member

[0067] 124 Locking handle

[0068] 125 Clamping jaw

[0069] 13 Pump compartment

[0070] 14 Pushing member

[0071] 141 Recess or opening of the pushing member

[0072] 15 Threaded hole

[0073] 16 Recess for inserting a magnetic key

[0074] 17 Spring

[0075] 2 Magnetic key

[0076] 21a, 21b Magnets

[0077] 22 Soft ferromagnetic element of the magnetic key

[0078] 3 System

[0079] 4a, 4b Mechanical locks

Claims

1. An infusion pump (1) for analgesic treatment, in particular a patient-controlled analgesia pump, said infusion pump (1) comprising at least one lock for preventing unauthorized operation of said infusion pump (1), characterized in that, The at least one lock is a magnetic key lock, wherein the magnetic key lock has a locked state and an unlocked state, and wherein the magnetic key lock is configured to switch from the locked state to the unlocked state by placing a magnetic key (2) on or near the magnetic key lock.

2. The infusion pump (1) according to claim 1, characterized in that, The magnetic key lock includes an engagement member (111) connected to a housing (11) of the infusion pump (1), and wherein the magnetic key lock includes a locking member (121) connected to a movable part (12) of the infusion pump (1), wherein the engagement member (111) engages with the locking member (121) in the locked state of the magnetic key lock and releases the locking member (121) in the unlocked state of the magnetic key lock.

3. The infusion pump (1) according to claim 2, characterized in that, The engagement member (111) includes at least one ferromagnetic element (112), wherein the at least one ferromagnetic element (112) includes a hard ferromagnetic material and / or a soft ferromagnetic material.

4. The infusion pump (1) according to any one of claims 2 or 3, characterized in that, The engagement member (111) is movably connected to the housing (11) such that the engagement member (111) switches between a first position corresponding to the locked state of the magnetic key lock and a second position corresponding to the unlocked state of the magnetic key lock by placing a magnetic key (2) on or near the magnetic key lock.

5. The infusion pump (1) according to claim 4, characterized in that, The engagement member (111) is rotatably connected to the housing (11) such that the engagement member (111) can rotate between the first position and the second position.

6. The infusion pump (1) according to claim 4 or 5, characterized in that, The engagement member (111) rests in the first position when no magnetic key (2) is placed on or near the magnetic key lock, and wherein the engagement member (111) switches to the second position when a magnetic key (2) is placed on or near the magnetic key lock.

7. The infusion pump (1) according to claim 4 or 6, characterized in that, The engagement member (111) includes a first protrusion (113), and wherein the locking member (121) includes at least one recess (122) or at least one opening (123), wherein the first protrusion (113) engages with the at least one recess (122) or with the at least one opening (123) in the locked state of the magnetic key lock, and wherein the first protrusion (113) is removed from the at least one recess (122) or from the at least one opening (123) in the unlocked state of the magnetic key lock.

8. The infusion pump (1) according to any one of claims 2 to 7, characterized in that, The at least one lock is a lock of a pump compartment (13) of the infusion pump (1), wherein the pump compartment (13) is a part of the housing (11) of the infusion pump (1), and the movable part (12) is a door (12a) of the pump compartment (13).

9. The infusion pump (1) according to claim 8, characterized in that, The magnetic key lock includes a pushing member (14) movably connected to the housing (11), and wherein the engaging member (111) engages with the pushing member (14) in the locked state of the magnetic key lock, and wherein the engaging member (111) releases the pushing member (14) in the unlocked state of the magnetic key lock, and wherein the pushing member (14) applies a thrust force on the locking member (121) in the unlocked state of the magnetic key lock.

10. The infusion pump (1) according to any one of claims 2 to 10, characterized in that, The at least one lock is a lock of a clamping member of the infusion pump (1), the clamping member being for fastening the infusion pump (1) to a rod, and wherein the movable part (12) is a clamping shaft (12b) of the clamping member.

11. The infusion pump (1) according to claim 9, characterized in that, The clamping member is a threaded clamping member, and wherein the clamping shaft (12b) is a threaded shaft arranged in a threaded hole (15) of the housing (11).

12. The infusion pump (1) according to claims 11 to 12, characterized in that, The locking member (121) is a gear (121a) including at least one recess (122), wherein the gear (121a) is arranged on the clamping shaft (12b), and wherein the axis of rotation of the gear (121a) is aligned with the axis of rotation of the clamping shaft (12b), such that in particular the locking member (121) and the engaging member (111) form a ratchet.

13. The infusion pump (1) according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that, The housing (11) includes at least one recess (16) for inserting the magnetic key (2) or a through hole for inserting the magnetic key (2), or the housing (11) includes a guiding portion (17) marking the placement area for the magnetic key (2).

14. A magnetic key (2) for use with an infusion pump (1) according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that, The magnetic key (2) includes at least one magnet (21a), the at least one magnet (21a) being configured to unlock the magnetic key lock of the infusion pump (1).

15. A system (3), the system (3) comprising an infusion pump (1) according to one of claims 1 to 13 and a magnetic key (2) according to claim 14.

16. A method for unlocking the lock of an infusion pump (1) according to one of claims 1 to 13 by means of a magnetic key (2) according to claim 14, characterized in that, The magnetic key lock is unlocked only by placing the magnetic key (2) on or near the magnetic key lock.

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