Fluid analysis and control by image processing

Abstract

A fluid analysis system for analyzing and controlling fluid delivery. The fluid analysis system can include a controller, an optical device, a light source, and a fluid channel. The controller can be communicatively coupled to the optical device. The light source can be disposed adjacent to the optical device. The light source can be configured to generate light that is generated in a viewing region of the optical device such that the optical device can capture images generated by the light generated by the light source. The fluid channel can be disposed adjacent to the optical device and within the viewing region of the optical device, and the fluid channel can be configured to provide a fluid flow path. The controller is configured to store and analyze images provided by the optical device to identify characteristics of fluid flowing through the fluid channel.

Description

Cross-reference to related applications

[0001] This application claims the benefits of U.S. non-provisional application serial number 18 / 958,075, filed November 25, 2024, and U.S. provisional application serial number 63 / 603,415, filed November 28, 2023, which are incorporated herein by reference as fully illustrated. Technical Field

[0002] This disclosure relates to a system and method for fluid analysis and control, and more specifically, to a system and method for medical fluid analysis and control using image processing. Background Technology

[0003] In the medical field, fluids (i.e., liquids) can be delivered to patients for specific applications to improve their health, prevent pain, and for other medical purposes. Fluids that can be delivered include nutrients, medications, pain relievers, and other fluids not specifically listed. Traditionally, to control the amount of fluid delivered, an electrical connection is required between a controller and a fluid source (e.g., a cartridge, tube, bag, etc.). More specifically, an electrical connection is needed with electrodes located within or fluidly coupled to the fluid source to monitor and control the amount of fluid delivered and administered to the patient. The problem with traditional methods is that the electrodes are in direct contact with the fluid, and each fluid source must include electrodes, which increases the overall cost and complexity of the fluid delivery system. Therefore, a new method for monitoring and controlling fluid delivery is needed in the medical field. Summary of the Invention

[0004] According to one aspect, a fluid analysis system for analyzing and controlling fluid transport is disclosed. The fluid analysis system may include a controller, an optical device, a light source, and a fluid channel. The controller may be communicatively coupled to the optical device. The light source may be positioned adjacent to the optical device. The light source may be configured to generate light within the observation area of ​​the optical device, such that the optical device can capture the light generated by the light source. The fluid channel may be positioned adjacent to the optical device and within the observation area of ​​the optical device, and the fluid channel may be configured to provide a fluid flow path. The controller is configured to store and analyze images provided by the optical device to identify characteristics of the fluid flowing through the fluid channel.

[0005] In one aspect, fluid flows from a fluid source through a pipe to a fluid channel.

[0006] In one respect, the fluid source is one or more of a cartridge, tube, bag, and syringe.

[0007] In one aspect, a fluid channel extends through a cartridge that is adjacent to and located within the observation area of ​​the optical device.

[0008] In one aspect, the light source is configured to produce light that illuminates the fluid channel.

[0009] In one respect, the light produced by the light source is polarized light of any wavelength.

[0010] In one aspect, the controller includes a field-programmable gate array (FPGA), memory, and input / output devices, and is configured to receive images from an optical device, store the images in the memory, and analyze the images stored in the memory using the FPGA.

[0011] In one aspect, the field-programmable gate array (FPGA) analysis of images includes: detecting or identifying the inner and outer edges of a fluid channel, and detecting or identifying the foremost fluid edge through which fluid flows.

[0012] In one aspect, the fluid analysis system is configured to analyze and control fluid delivery in a medical fluid delivery system.

[0013] In one respect, fluids are liquid nutrients, liquid medications, or liquid pain relievers / analgesics.

[0014] According to another aspect, a method for monitoring and controlling fluid transport using a fluid analysis system is disclosed. The method may include causing fluid to flow from a fluid source through a fluid channel; capturing images of the fluid channel and the fluid flowing through the fluid channel using an optical device; and storing and analyzing the images using a controller to identify characteristics of the fluid flowing through the fluid channel.

[0015] In one aspect, the characteristics of the fluid flowing through the fluid channel include one or more of the fluid velocity, the leading edge of the fluid, and the type of fluid.

[0016] In one aspect, the method further includes: generating light through a light source that illuminates the fluid channel and the fluid flowing through the fluid channel.

[0017] In one aspect, the method also includes: capturing light generated by a light source using an optical device.

[0018] In one aspect, the method further includes storing the image generated by the optical device in the memory of the controller.

[0019] In one aspect, the method also includes analyzing images stored in the controller's memory via the controller's field-programmable gate array (FPGA).

[0020] In one aspect, analyzing images using a field-programmable gate array (FPGA) includes: detecting or identifying the inner and outer edges of a fluid channel using an FPGA; and detecting or identifying the foremost fluid edge flowing through the fluid channel using an FPGA.

[0021] In one aspect, field-programmable gate arrays can detect or identify the foremost fluid edge of a fluid flowing through a fluid channel, accurate to within 20 micrometers.

[0022] In one aspect, the method further includes: graphically enhancing the inner and outer edges of the graphically enhanced detected fluid channel using a field-programmable gate array (FPGA); graphically enhancing the detected leading fluid edge of the fluid flowing through the fluid channel using a FPGA; and outputting an enhanced image via an input / output device of the controller, the enhanced image graphically showing the inner edge of the fluid channel, the outer edge of the fluid channel, and the leading fluid edge of the fluid flowing through the fluid channel.

[0023] In one aspect, the fluid analysis system is configured to analyze and control fluid delivery in a medical fluid delivery system, where the fluid is a liquid nutrient, liquid medication, or liquid pain reliever / analgesic. Attached Figure Description

[0024] The foregoing description of the invention and the following detailed description will be best understood when read in conjunction with the accompanying drawings, which illustrate preferred embodiments of the present disclosure. In the drawings: Figure 1 This is a perspective view of a fluid analysis system according to exemplary embodiments of the present disclosure.

[0025] Figure 2 yes Figure 1 A schematic block diagram of the controller of the fluid analysis system.

[0026] Figure 3A These are examples of images before and after analysis by a fluid analysis system.

[0027] Figure 3B This is another example of images before and after analysis by a fluid analysis system. Detailed Implementation

[0028] Certain terms used in the following description are for convenience only and not for limitation. The words “front,” “back,” “up,” and “down” indicate directions in the referenced figures. The words “inward” and “outward” refer to directions toward and away from the portions referenced in the figures. “Axial” refers to the direction along the axis of axle, shaft, pin, etc. References to a list of items referred to as “at least one of a, b, or c” (where a, b, and c represent the listed items) include any single item or combination of items a, b, or c. Unless otherwise stated, the terms “about” and “approximately” cover + / -– the indicated values. 10%. The term "approximately" related to the radial direction includes + / 25 degrees. The terminology includes the words specifically mentioned above, their derivatives, and words with similar meanings.

[0029] Figure 1 This is a perspective view of a fluid analysis system 10 according to an exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure. Figure 2 This is a schematic block diagram of the controller 12 of the fluid analysis system 10. It will be discussed together. Figure 1 and Figure 2 Furthermore, in the following text, the fluid analysis system 10 will be referred to as "system 10", but it should be understood that fluid analysis system 10 and system 10 refer to the same part / component.

[0030] System 10 can be configured to monitor and control fluid delivery in the healthcare industry. More specifically, fluids (i.e., liquids) can be delivered to a patient to administer a specific fluid to improve the patient's health and prevent pain, as well as for other medical purposes. Fluids that can be delivered include nutrients, medications, and pain relievers, as well as other fluids not specifically listed. System 10 can be used to analyze and control the amount of fluid delivered from fluid source 22 to the patient. In some examples, fluid source 22 can be a cartridge, tube, bag, or syringe, as well as other options not specifically listed.

[0031] like Figure 1 As shown, system 10 may include a controller 12, an optical device 14, a light source 16, a cartridge 18 including a fluid channel 20, and a fluid source 22. The controller 12 may be communicatively coupled to the optical device 14, enabling the controller 12 to control and guide the operation of the optical device 14, and the controller 12 may receive images and other data from the optical device 14 for analysis and processing, as will be discussed further below. The optical device 14 may be a camera or other device configured to process light waves for observation and analysis. More specifically, the optical device 14 may be a device capable of recording visual images in the form of photographs, film, or video signals, among other options not specifically listed.

[0032] In some examples, as shown, the light source 16 may be positioned adjacent to the optical device 14. In other examples, the light source 16 may not be positioned adjacent to the optical device 14, but rather elsewhere within the system 10. In any case, the light source 16 is configured to produce light that is emitted within the observation area 24 of the optical device 14, such that the optical device 14 can capture the light emitted by the light source 16. It should be understood that the observation area 24 is the volumetric space or region in which the optical device 14 can capture photographic, film, or video signals, as well as other options not specifically listed.

[0033] Furthermore, it should be understood that light source 16 provides light to illuminate the subject matter within the observation area 24 of optical device 14, thereby aiding in the acquisition of a clearer and better image through optical device 14. More specifically, light source 16 is configured to produce light that illuminates the fluid channel 20 of cartridge 18 and the fluid flowing through the fluid channel 20, as will be discussed further below. Light source 16 can produce light in the form of polarized light, white light, or any other color. Thus, light source 16 can produce light in any desired wavelength form or span. The specific form and color of the light produced by light source 16 depends on the specific application of the entire system 10. Although not shown, it should be understood that controller 12 can be communicatively coupled to light source 16, and controller 12 can be configured to control and guide the operation of light source 16.

[0034] The cartridge 18 can be positioned adjacent to the optical device 14, and the fluid channel 20 can extend through the cartridge 18. More specifically, the cartridge 18 can be at least partially positioned within the observation area 24 of the optical device 14, such that the fluid channel 20 extending through the cartridge 18 is at least partially positioned within the observation area 24 of the optical device 14. Thus, in some examples, the fluid channel 20 can be described as being arranged adjacent to the optical device 14 and within the observation area 24 of the optical device 14. Figure 1 As shown, the fluid channel 20 may extend from one end of the cartridge 18 through the cartridge 18 to the other end in a curved, wavy, or other non-linear manner. In other examples not shown, the fluid channel 20 may extend through the cartridge 18 in a straight line from one end to the other end. The fluid channel 20 is adapted to provide a fluid (i.e., liquid) flow path from one end of the cartridge 18 through the other end, which will be discussed further below.

[0035] It should be understood that although the fluid channel 20 is shown and described as extending through the cartridge 18, in other embodiments, the fluid channel 20 may be a separate tube, pipe, or other fluid delivery device that provides a conduit for fluid flow. Therefore, the system 10 is not particularly limited to a fluid channel 20 extending through the cartridge 18. The above are exemplary embodiments, and it should be understood that other embodiments, not shown, may differ. Thus, in some examples, the fluid channel 20 may be a separate tube, pipe, or other fluid delivery device that is at least partially disposed within the observation area 24 of the optical device 14. Furthermore, in such examples, the fluid channel 20 (a separate tube, pipe, or other fluid delivery device) may include a straight, curved, or wavy shape or configuration.

[0036] Additionally, system 10 may include a fluid source 22 fluidly coupled to fluid channel 20 via a tube 26 extending and fluidly coupled to fluid channel 20. Thus, fluid (i.e., liquid) can flow from fluid source 22 through tube 26 and to fluid inlet 28 of fluid channel 20. Fluid can then flow from fluid inlet 28 of fluid channel 20 through fluid channel 20 to fluid outlet 30 of fluid channel 20. Although not shown, it should be understood that fluid outlet 30 may be coupled to another tube or other fluid delivery device to allow fluid to flow to a patient or component / device separate from system 10. As discussed, fluid source 22 may be a cartridge, tube, bag, or syringe, and other options not specifically listed, adapted to store and retain fluid, such as liquid. More specifically, fluid source 22 may be any device or component suitable for storing and maintaining liquid nutrients, liquid medications and liquid pain relievers, as well as other medical and non-medical liquids not specifically listed.

[0037] The disclosed system 10 can be configured for monitoring and controlling fluid delivery in the medical industry. Although this disclosure focuses on examples in which system 10 is used in the medical industry, those skilled in the art will understand that the disclosed system 10 can be used in non-medical applications, such as the industrial fluid delivery industry. In this way, the following disclosure will specifically focus on examples in which system 10 is used in the medical industry for monitoring and controlling fluid delivery. More specifically, system 10 can monitor and control the delivery of fluid (i.e., liquid) from fluid source 22 to a patient. Thus, optical device 14, light source 16, and fluid channel 20 can each be positioned between fluid source 22 and the user / patient to whom the fluid is applied. Furthermore, system 10 is configured to monitor the fluid flowing through fluid channel 20 to identify characteristics of the fluid flowing through fluid channel 20, such as at least fluid flow rate, the leading edge of the fluid, and the type of fluid flowing through fluid channel 20, as further discussed below.

[0038] As discussed, Figure 2 This is a simplified schematic block diagram of some internal components of the controller 12 of system 10. The controller 12 may include at least a field-programmable gate array (FPGA) 32, a memory 34, and input / output devices 36. As discussed, the controller 12 may be communicatively coupled to an optical device 14, and the controller 12 may be configured to control the operation of the optical device 14 and receive images and other data from the optical device 14. Furthermore, as shown, the controller 12 may be communicatively coupled to a display 38 and / or an output device 40. In some examples, the display 38 and / or the output device 40 may be integrally formed with the controller 12, such that the controller 12 and the display 38 and / or the output device 40 are each components of an entire assembly (i.e., a computer or computer system). In other examples, the display 38 and / or the output device 40 may be a separate component from the controller 12, which is set and positioned remotely from the controller 12. In any example, the display 38 and / or the output device 40 may be configured to display and / or transmit data collected and analyzed by system 10 for user viewing, analysis, and interpretation.

[0039] FPGA 32 can be communicatively coupled to each of memory 34 and input / output device 36, allowing data to be transferred between FPGA 32 and memory 34, and between FPGA 32 and input / output device 36. FPGA 32 is circuitry integrated into controller 12, configured to identify the characteristics of the fluid flowing through fluid channel 20. More specifically, FPGA 32 is a component of controller 12 adapted and specifically designed for advanced processing and analysis of images captured, recorded, and provided by optical device 14 to identify the characteristics of the fluid flowing through fluid channel 20, which will be discussed further below.

[0040] Memory 34 is a component of controller 12, adapted to store images captured, recorded, and provided by optical device 14. Thus, images captured, recorded, and provided by optical device 14 are transmitted from optical device 14 to controller 12 and then stored in memory 34 of controller 12 for processing by FPGA 32. Input / output device 36 is a component of controller 12, which can be configured to transmit data collected by controller 12 to devices that are separate from and remote from controller 12 and / or the entire system 10. In some examples, input / output device 36 can transmit data collected by controller 12 via one or more of hardwired / cable connections, Wi-Fi, cellular signals, Bluetooth standards, and cloud-based data transfer services, as well as other options not specifically listed. Furthermore, in some examples, input / output device 36 can be configured to transmit data to display 38 and / or output device 40 for display purposes, for user viewing, analysis, and interpretation.

[0041] During operation, the controller 12 can send a signal to the optical device 14 to activate the optical device 14, causing the optical device 14 to begin capturing and recording images within its observation area 24. Additionally, or simultaneously, the controller 12 can send a signal to the light source 16 to activate the light source 16, causing it to emit light to illuminate a portion of the fluid channel 20 located within the observation area 24 of the optical device 14. Next, the fluid source 22 can be opened or activated to allow fluid to flow from the fluid source 22 through the flow pipe 26 and into the fluid inlet input 28 of the fluid channel 20. The fluid can enter the fluid inlet input 28 of the fluid channel 20, then flow from the fluid inlet input 28 through the fluid channel 20 to the fluid outlet output 30 of the fluid channel 20.

[0042] As fluid flows through fluid channel 20, optical device 14 continuously records or captures images of the fluid channel 20 and the fluid flowing through it within its observation area 24. The images recorded and captured by optical device 14 are transmitted from optical device 14 to controller 12, where they are stored in the memory 34 of controller 12. Once the images are stored in the memory 34 of controller 12, FPGA 32 can access and analyze the images stored in the memory 34 of controller 12, which will refer to... Figures 3A-3B Further discussion.

[0043] Figure 3A These are examples of images before (input image) and after (output image) analysis on FPGA 32 of system 10. Figure 3B This is another example of images before (input image) and after (output image) analysis by FPGA 32 of System 10. They will be discussed together. Figure 3Aand Figure 3B During analysis on FPGA 32, FPGA 32 can utilize advanced processing software / code to detect or identify the inner and outer edges of fluid channel 20 to accurately identify the shape and size of fluid channel 20. Furthermore, during analysis on FPGA 32, FPGA 32 can utilize advanced processing software / code to detect or identify the foremost fluid edge 42 of the fluid flowing through fluid channel 20. Figure 3A In some examples, FPGA 32 can detect or identify the inner and outer edges of fluid channel 20, as well as the foremost fluid edge 42 flowing through fluid channel 20, accurate to within 20 micrometers.

[0044] Furthermore, after the FPGA 32 analyzes the image from the optical device 14, the FPGA 32 can graphically enhance the image or result output by the FPGA 32. More specifically, after the FPGA 32 analyzes the image from the optical device 14, the FPGA 32 can graphically enhance the inner and outer edges of the detected fluid channel 20, and the FPGA 32 can also graphically enhance the leading edge 42 of the detected fluid flowing through the fluid channel 20, to improve the quality of the image or result output by the FPGA 32. The FPGA 32 can then store the output image or result in the memory 34 of the controller 12, and the FPGA 32 can send the output image or result to the input / output device 36. Then, the input / output device 36 of the controller 12 can output the results or enhanced images relating to the inner and outer edges of the fluid channel 20 and the foremost fluid edge 42 through which the fluid flows through the fluid channel 20 in a graphical manner to the display 38 and / or output device 40 for the user to view, analyze and interpret.

[0045] like Figures 3A to 3BAs shown, FPGA 32 can receive input (raw) images from optical device 14 and / or memory 34. FPGA 32 can then identify the inner and outer edges of fluid channel 20 to determine the area / volume within fluid channel 20 through which fluid flows. FPGA 32 can then determine when fluid enters observation area 24 by identifying the leading fluid edge 42 of the fluid flowing through fluid channel 20. After the leading fluid edge 42 is identified by FPGA 32, FPGA 32 can then track the leading fluid edge 42 as the fluid flows through fluid channel 20 to determine fluid characteristics such as flow rate, density, viscosity, etc. These fluid characteristics can then be used to determine the amount of fluid to be dispensed, and the entire system 10 can adjust the flow rate of the fluid flowing through fluid channel 20 to ensure the desired amount of fluid is dispensed.

[0046] Figures 3A to 3B The input image shown represents the raw image received by FPGA 32 from optical device 14 and / or memory 34. Figures 3A to 3B The output image shown represents the image / result output by FPGA 32 after analyzing the original image. Those skilled in the art will understand that the final output of FPGA 32 and the entire system 10 does not necessarily have to be an image or graph of the fluid flowing through fluid channel 20. Instead, FPGA 32 can output results in digital form indicating the analyzed and calculated characteristics of the fluid flowing through fluid channel 20 (foremost fluid edge 42, fluid velocity, fluid density, fluid viscosity, etc.), allowing data users (doctors, technicians, etc.) to quickly read the results to determine whether the correct fluid volume has been allocated and / or whether the allocated fluid volume needs adjustment.

[0047] System 10 allows for low-cost remote monitoring of fluid delivery in medical devices such as diagnostic systems and infusion pumps. Utilizing controller 12, optics 14, and a light source 16, system 10 can detect the delivery of fluid in a transparent tube or cartridge. Furthermore, system 10 can detect the arrival of liquid (including transparent liquid) in fluid channel 20 to calculate one or more of the fluid velocity, the leading edge 42 of the fluid, and other properties (density, viscosity, etc.) of the fluid flowing through fluid channel 20. Thus, the data output by system 10 can be used to ensure that the correct fluid volume (i.e., fluid quantity) is allocated to the patient or the end user of the fluid. Moreover, system 10 incorporates a high degree of automation, resulting in an overall efficient fluid delivery system 10 compared to previous methods and solutions.

[0048] In the medical industry, it is desirable to avoid physical contact with the fluid to be dispensed while simultaneously measuring the characteristics of the fluid flowing through system 10. The disclosed system 10 can replace existing solutions that require electrical connection to cartridge electrodes and implementation of electrodes in a disposable fluid source, and system 10 can utilize optical device 14 and controller 12 to determine the fluid characteristics that previously required direct electrical connection. Furthermore, system 10 can replace existing ultrasonic sensors currently used for detection tubes, such as those used in infusion pumps.

[0049] As those skilled in the art will understand, the disclosed system 10 offers numerous advantages over existing fluid (liquid) delivery monitoring systems for medical devices. System 10 is modular and easy to install due to the need for simple optical alignment of the optical device 14, compared to cartridge-based electrode solutions. Furthermore, system 10 reduces the overall cost of fluid delivery monitoring systems for medical devices by eliminating the need for disposable printed carbon electrodes in the cartridge (i.e., the fluid source) and because operation does not require an electrical connection to the cartridge. Compared to previous solutions, system 10, including a controller 12 with an FPGA 32, provides a solution with lower latency and is easier to update. Additionally, system 10 is customizable and can be integrated into a user's fluid delivery device in various orientations and locations. System 10 is more reliable than previous solutions because the connectors connected to the electrodes do not degrade, as system 10 does not include electrodes or connectors that directly contact the fluid to be delivered. Finally, the commonality of System 10 means that the FPGA 32 of System 10 can use the same algorithm for fluid channel 20, cartridge 18, tube, or any other fluid conduit, and System 10 can analyze images and output accurate data related to the characteristics of fluid flow. The above advantages are only some of the advantages provided by System 10, and those skilled in the art will understand many other advantages of the disclosed System 10.

[0050] Therefore, embodiments of the present invention have been described in detail. It will be understood and apparent to those skilled in the art that many physical changes can be made without altering the inventive concept and principles embodied herein, some of which are only exemplified in the specific embodiments of this disclosure.

[0051] It should also be understood that many embodiments are possible in conjunction with only a portion of the preferred embodiments, and these embodiments do not alter the inventive concept and principles embodied therein. Therefore, these embodiments and optional configurations are to be considered exemplary and / or illustrative rather than restrictive in all respects, and the scope of this disclosure is indicated by the appended claims rather than by the foregoing description, and thus all alternative embodiments and modifications of this embodiment falling within the meaning and scope of equivalents of the claims are to be included therein.

Claims

1. A fluid analysis system for analyzing and controlling fluid transport, the fluid analysis system comprising: The controller is communicatively coupled to the optical device; A light source is positioned adjacent to the optical device and configured to produce light generated in the observation area of ​​the optical device, such that the optical device can capture the light generated by the light source. as well as A fluid channel is provided adjacent to the optical device and within the observation area of ​​the optical device, and the fluid channel is configured to provide a fluid flow path; The controller is configured to store and analyze images provided by the optical device to identify the characteristics of the fluid flowing through the fluid channel.

2. The fluid analysis system according to claim 1, wherein the fluid flows from a fluid source through a pipe to the fluid channel.

3. The fluid analysis system according to claim 2, wherein the fluid source is one or more of a cartridge, tube, bag, and syringe.

4. The fluid analysis system of claim 1, wherein the fluid channel extends through a cartridge, the cartridge being positioned adjacent to and within the observation area of ​​the optical device.

5. The fluid analysis system of claim 1, wherein the light source is configured to generate light that illuminates the fluid channel.

6. The fluid analysis system of claim 5, wherein the light generated by the light source is polarized light of any wavelength.

7. The fluid analysis system of claim 1, wherein the controller includes a field-programmable gate array (FPGA), a memory, and input / output devices, wherein the controller is configured to receive an image from the optical device, store the image in the memory, and analyze the image stored in the memory using the FPGA.

8. The fluid analysis system of claim 7, wherein the field-programmable gate array (FPGA) analyzes the image comprising: Detect or identify the inner and outer edges of the fluid channel; as well as Detect or identify the foremost fluid edge of the fluid flowing through the fluid channel.

9. The fluid analysis system of claim 1, wherein the fluid analysis system is configured to analyze and control fluid delivery in a medical fluid delivery system.

10. The fluid analysis system of claim 1, wherein the fluid is a liquid nutrient, a liquid drug, or a liquid pain reliever / analgesic.

11. A method for monitoring and controlling fluid transport using a fluid analysis system, the method comprising: To make the fluid flow from the fluid source through the fluid channel; Images of the fluid channel and the fluid flowing through the fluid channel are captured using optical equipment; as well as The controller stores and analyzes the images to identify the characteristics of the fluid flowing through the fluid channel.

12. The method of claim 11, wherein the characteristics of the fluid flowing through the fluid channel include one or more of the fluid velocity, the leading edge of the fluid, and the type of the fluid.

13. The method of claim 11, further comprising: Light is generated by a light source, which illuminates the fluid channel and the fluid flowing through the fluid channel.

14. The method of claim 13, further comprising: The optical device captures the light generated by the light source.

15. The method of claim 11, further comprising: The image generated by the optical device is stored in the memory of the controller.

16. The method of claim 15, further comprising: The image stored in the memory of the controller is analyzed using the field-programmable gate array (FPGA) of the controller.

17. The method of claim 16, wherein the field-programmable gate array (FPGA) analyzes the image comprising: The inner and outer edges of the fluid channel are detected or identified by the field-programmable gate array. as well as The foremost fluid edge of the fluid flowing through the fluid channel is detected or identified by the field-programmable gate array.

18. The method of claim 17, wherein the field-programmable gate array detects or identifies the foremost fluid edge of the fluid flowing through the fluid channel, with an accuracy of within 20 micrometers.

19. The method of claim 17, further comprising: The field-programmable gate array (FPGA) is used to graphically enhance the detected inner and outer edges of the fluid channel. The field-programmable gate array is used to perform graphic enhancement on the detected leading edge of the fluid flowing through the fluid channel; as well as The controller outputs an enhanced image via its input / output device, which graphically shows the inner edge of the fluid channel, the outer edge of the fluid channel, and the foremost fluid edge through which the fluid flows.

20. The method of claim 11, wherein the fluid analysis system is configured to analyze and control fluid delivery in a medical fluid delivery system, and wherein the fluid is a liquid nutrient, a liquid drug, or a liquid pain reliever / analgesic.

Images