An enteral nutrition tube with automatic peristalsis function

Abstract

The present application relates to the technical field of medical devices, and discloses an enteral nutrition tube with automatic peristalsis function, which comprises a nutrition tube body, the inner wall of which is provided with a plurality of expansion units at intervals along the length direction, the expansion units are divided into a first group and a second group and are arranged alternately, and a driving mechanism is connected to the nutrition tube body to make the two groups of expansion units expand and contract alternately, so that bionic peristalsis is generated in the nutrition tube body to actively push the nutrient solution. The structure can realize autonomous delivery without external power equipment and effectively prevent pipeline blockage. The present application also sets a dilution unit to automatically adjust the injection amount of diluent according to the flow rate of the nutrient solution, and multiple independent cavities are used to realize synchronous nutrition support at multiple positions. The present application has compact structure and simple operation, and significantly improves the safety and continuity of enteral nutrition infusion.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This invention relates to the field of medical device technology, and more specifically, to an enteral feeding tube with automatic peristalsis function. Background Technology

[0002] Traditional enteral feeding tubes are typically single- or multi-lumen flexible catheters inserted through the nasal cavity into the patient's stomach, duodenum, or jejunum. During use, the proximal end is connected to an external feeding pump via tubing. Enteral nutrition is passively infused into the patient's digestive tract through continuous positive pressure from the pump or by gravity dripping. However, this delivery method, reliant on external power, presents several inconveniences in clinical practice: firstly, the feeding pump is bulky, requires power, restricts the patient's bedside activities, and incurs high equipment and maintenance costs; secondly, due to the high viscosity of the nutrient solution, residues and hardening can easily form on the inner wall of the tube after prolonged infusion. Combined with the tube's long and narrow lumen (especially in infants or those requiring postpyloric feeding), and the potential for undissolved medication powder or dietary fiber particles to mix in during infusion, partial or complete blockage of the tube is highly likely. In cases of blockage, medical staff typically flush with saline solution using a syringe or attempt to clear the blockage with a guidewire; in severe cases, the old tube must be removed and a new one inserted. Furthermore, existing external feeding pumps can only provide positive pressure delivery in one direction and cannot perform reverse aspiration. When patients experience abdominal distension or other clinical conditions requiring gastrointestinal decompression, a separate gastric tube must be inserted or the drainage device replaced, which not only increases procedural trauma and medical costs but also prolongs the treatment period. These procedures not only increase patient suffering and medical costs but may also lead to interruption of nutritional supply, affecting treatment outcomes. Therefore, providing an enteral feeding tube that reduces the occurrence of blockages and does not require bulky external power equipment is of significant clinical importance.

[0003] A search revealed existing technological improvements addressing the problem of enteral feeding tube blockage. For example, Chinese invention patent (CN114767544A) discloses a catheter for enteral nutrition in patients, which features a sliding annular balloon within the tube wall. When blockage occurs, medical staff inflate the balloon, driving it to move distally to displace the obstruction. However, this solution still relies on an external power source; the balloon's inflation and movement require external pressurization and manual intervention, increasing the complexity of clinical procedures and failing to proactively prevent tube blockage. Furthermore, this solution lacks reverse aspiration or decompression capabilities, failing to meet the integrated clinical need for both feeding and decompression.

[0004] To address the aforementioned technical issues, the applicant provides an enteral feeding tube that can actively prevent blockages, effectively reduce reliance on external power delivery equipment, and achieve reverse peristalsis to also provide gastrointestinal decompression. Summary of the Invention

[0005] The purpose of this invention is to solve the technical problems mentioned in the background art above, and to provide an enteral feeding tube with automatic peristalsis function. This feeding tube can simulate intestinal peristalsis to autonomously push nutrient solution without the need for external power equipment, and can effectively prevent and alleviate tube blockage.

[0006] The above-mentioned objective of the present invention is achieved as follows:

[0007] An enteral feeding tube with automatic peristalsis function includes a feeding tube body, and multiple expansion units are arranged along its length inside the feeding tube body. The multiple expansion units are divided into a first group and a second group, and the expansion units of the first group and the second group are arranged alternately.

[0008] The nutrient tube body is also connected to a drive mechanism, which causes the two sets of expansion units to alternately expand and contract, thereby generating biomimetic peristalsis within the nutrient tube body.

[0009] Furthermore, the expansion unit is an annular balloon, which is fixedly installed on the inner wall of the nutrient tube body.

[0010] Furthermore, the drive mechanism includes two sets of air guide pipes, two pneumatic distribution pipes, an exhaust pipe, a pressurization unit, and a reversing valve. The two sets of air guide pipes are respectively embedded in the side wall of the nutrient pipe body to connect the expansion units of the same group to each other. One end of each of the two pneumatic distribution pipes is connected to the corresponding air guide pipe, and the other end is connected to the two opposite interfaces of the reversing valve. The exhaust pipe and the outlet of the pressurization unit are respectively connected to the other two opposite interfaces of the reversing valve. Through the reversing action of the reversing valve, the two pneumatic distribution pipes are alternately connected to the pressurization unit and the exhaust pipe, thereby realizing the pressurization and expansion of one group of expansion units while the other group of expansion units is depressurized and contracted.

[0011] Furthermore, the reversing valve includes a spherical housing, a valve core, and a stepper motor; the spherical housing is simultaneously connected to two pneumatic distribution pipes, an exhaust pipe, and a pressurization unit; the valve core is rotatably installed inside the spherical housing; the valve core has two L-shaped channels, which can connect two adjacent ports of the reversing valve; the stepper motor is fixedly installed on the spherical housing, and the output end of the stepper motor is fixedly connected to the valve core, driving the valve core to rotate to perform the reversing action.

[0012] Furthermore, multiple annular side cavities are formed along the length of the side wall of the nutrient tube body. The expansion unit includes an elastic driving membrane and an expansion material. The elastic driving membrane covers the annular side cavity and forms a sealed chamber between it and the annular side cavity. The expansion material is filled in the sealed chamber and expands or contracts due to temperature.

[0013] Furthermore, the drive mechanism consists of multiple heat exchange units; the multiple heat exchange units are respectively arranged between two adjacent annular side cavities, and the two heat exchange ends of each heat exchange unit are respectively placed in the corresponding two annular side cavities; the multiple heat exchange units are used to heat one group of expansion units while cooling another group of expansion units, so as to realize the alternating expansion and contraction of the two groups of expansion units.

[0014] Furthermore, the heat exchange unit comprises multiple cooling semiconductors, two annular heat-conducting plates, and two sets of heat sinks; the multiple cooling semiconductors and the two heat-conducting plates are embedded between two adjacent annular side cavities, and the multiple cooling semiconductors are arranged in annular shape; the two annular heat-conducting plates are fixedly connected to both ends of the multiple cooling semiconductors respectively; the two sets of heat sinks are located in two adjacent annular side cavities and are fixedly connected to the two heat-conducting plates respectively.

[0015] Furthermore, a dilution unit is connected to the side wall of the nutrient tube body. The dilution unit includes a flow rate response valve and a diluent bottle. The outlet end of the diluent bottle is connected to the side wall of the nutrient tube body. The flow rate response valve is installed at the connection between the diluent bottle and the nutrient tube body. The flow rate response valve automatically controls the opening degree of its valve according to the flow rate of the nutrient solution in the nutrient tube body.

[0016] Furthermore, the flow rate response valve includes a sealing plate and a torsion spring; one end of the sealing plate is rotatably mounted at the connection between the diluent bottle and the nutrient tube body, and the torsion spring is sleeved on the rotating shaft of the sealing plate, with both ends of the torsion spring acting on the sealing plate and the side wall of the connection respectively, so that the sealing plate has a tendency to rotate into the nutrient tube body under the pre-tightening force of the torsion spring.

[0017] Furthermore, multiple partitions are fixedly installed along the length of the nutrient tube body, which divide the inner cavity of the nutrient tube body into multiple independent cavities with a fan-shaped cross-section; multiple liquid outlets are opened at different length positions on the side wall of the nutrient tube body, and the liquid outlets are respectively connected to the corresponding independent cavities.

[0018] Compared with the prior art, the present invention has the following beneficial effects:

[0019] 1. The enteral feeding tube of this application features two sets of expansion units alternately arranged on the inner wall of the tube body. A drive mechanism controls the alternating expansion and contraction of these units, allowing the tube to mimic the natural rhythmic peristalsis of the intestines and actively propel the nutrient solution distally. This structure eliminates the need for external power sources such as nutrient pumps or gravity dripping, achieving autonomous delivery and effectively solving the problems of inconvenience, high equipment costs, and limited patient mobility associated with traditional feeding tubes requiring external power sources. Simultaneously, this biomimetic peristaltic process continuously agitates the nutrient solution within the tube, preventing nutrient deposition and drying on the tube wall, reducing the risk of blockage at its source, and ensuring continuous and safe infusion. Furthermore, by controlling the alternating expansion and contraction of the two sets of expansion units in opposite sequences, the tube body generates reverse rhythmic peristalsis, enabling active suction and drainage of gastric contents. This reverse peristaltic function allows the same feeding tube to flexibly switch between nutrient infusion and gastrointestinal decompression modes, significantly reducing patient trauma and medical costs.

[0020] 2. The enteral feeding tube of this application uses a ring-shaped balloon as the expansion unit, and is pneumatically driven by two sets of air delivery tubes, a pneumatic distribution tube, an exhaust tube, a pressurization unit, and a reversing valve. The reversing valve allows for air path switching between the pressurization unit and the two expansion units, so that while one expansion unit inflates, the other automatically deflates and contracts, creating alternating peristalsis. This structure requires only one pressurization unit to simultaneously achieve autonomous nutrient solution delivery and active anti-blocking functions, eliminating the need for multiple air sources or complex electronic control systems. Furthermore, the reversing valve's reliable switching and rapid response ensure the continuity and stability of the peristaltic process, avoiding the risk of nutrient interruption due to blockage.

[0021] 3. The enteral feeding tube of this application incorporates multiple heat exchange units positioned between adjacent annular side cavities. By heating one set of expansion units to cause expansion while simultaneously cooling another set to cause contraction, alternating peristalsis between the two sets of expansion units is achieved. This scheme fully utilizes the characteristic of thermoelectric cooling to simultaneously generate heat and cold, applying heat and cold to two different sets of expansion units respectively, resulting in high energy efficiency and eliminating the need for additional cooling or heating devices. Furthermore, the unified control of the operating status of each heat exchange unit via electrical signals ensures that all expansion units within the same group maintain the same expansion frequency and amplitude, resulting in a regular peristaltic rhythm that more closely resembles the natural peristaltic pattern of the human intestine. This scheme requires no external air or hydraulic power source; the feeding tube itself can simultaneously achieve autonomous delivery of nutrient solution and active anti-blockage, making it simple in structure and easy to use, particularly suitable for clinical scenarios requiring long-term placement or bedside care.

[0022] 4. The enteral feeding tube of this application has a dilution unit connected to its side wall. The flow rate response valve in this unit automatically adjusts its opening degree according to the actual flow rate of the nutrient solution: when the nutrient solution flow rate is high (indicating low viscosity and good fluidity), the impact force of the liquid flow on the sealing plate is large, overcoming the torsion spring force and causing the sealing plate to tend to close, reducing or eliminating the inflow of diluent; when the nutrient solution flow rate decreases (indicating increased viscosity and increased flow resistance), the impact force of the liquid flow decreases, and the sealing plate automatically increases its opening degree under the action of the torsion spring, allowing an appropriate amount of liquid from the diluent bottle to flow into the feeding tube body, diluting the viscous nutrient solution and restoring its normal fluidity. This structure achieves real-time, adaptive adjustment of the diluent flow rate solely based on the mechanical properties of the fluid itself, forming a closed-loop feedback that effectively prevents blockage problems caused by excessively viscous nutrient solution. Furthermore, this dilution unit has a simple structure, low cost, and is suitable for single-use, without increasing the complexity of clinical operations.

[0023] 5. Multiple baffles are installed within the feeding tube, dividing its interior into several independent cavities with fan-shaped cross-sections. Outlets corresponding to each cavity are located at different points along the tube's length. This structure allows a single feeding tube to simultaneously deliver nutrient solution to different depths and locations within the digestive tract, such as the stomach, duodenum, and jejunum, achieving multi-point, synchronous enteral nutritional support. In clinical use, there is no need to insert multiple separate tubes, reducing the number of insertions and patient discomfort, and lowering the difficulty of the procedure and the risk of infection. Furthermore, the cavities are independent and do not interfere with each other, allowing for the selection of some or all cavities to be used, or the infusion of different nutrient solutions into different cavities, flexibly meeting the nutritional needs of different stages of the disease. Attached Figure Description

[0024] Figure 1 This is a schematic diagram of the structure of an enteral feeding tube with automatic peristalsis function in Embodiment 1 of the present invention;

[0025] Figure 2 This is a schematic diagram of one connection method between the airway tube and the balloon inside the feeding tube body in Embodiment 1 of the present invention;

[0026] Figure 3 This is a schematic diagram of another connection method between the airway tube inside the feeding tube and the balloon in Embodiment 1 of the present invention;

[0027] Figure 4 This is a schematic diagram showing the connection of the reversing valve in two working states in Embodiment 1 of the present invention;

[0028] Figure 5 This is a schematic diagram of the structure of an enteral feeding tube with automatic peristalsis function in Embodiment 2 of the present invention;

[0029] Figure 6This is a cross-sectional view of the nutrient tube body in Embodiment 2 of the present invention;

[0030] Figure 7 yes Figure 6 Enlarged view of point A in the middle;

[0031] Figure 8 This is a schematic diagram of the structure of an enteral feeding tube with automatic peristalsis function in Embodiment 3 of the present invention;

[0032] Figure 9 This is a cross-sectional view of the nutrient tube body in Embodiment 3 of the present invention;

[0033] Figure 10 This is a horizontal cross-sectional view of the nutrient tube body located at the heat exchange unit position in Embodiment 3 of the present invention;

[0034] Figure 11 This is a horizontal cross-sectional view of the expansion unit in the nutrient tube body during contraction and expansion in Embodiment 3 of the present invention;

[0035] Figure 12 This is a horizontal sectional view of the nutrient tube body at different positions along its length in Embodiment 3 of the present invention, showing the variation in the number of independent cavities at each cross-section;

[0036] Figure 13 This is a schematic diagram of the structure of an enteral feeding tube with automatic peristalsis function in Embodiment 4 of the present invention;

[0037] Figure 14 yes Figure 13 Enlarged view of point A in the middle.

[0038] Reference numerals used in the above figures:

[0039] 1. Nutrient tube body; 2. Miniature pump body; 3. Balloon; 4. Air delivery tube; 5. Pneumatic distribution tube; 6. Exhaust tube; 7. Spherical shell; 8. L-shaped channel; 9. Injection tube; 10. Valve core; 11. PNIPAM hydrogel; 12. Annular side cavity; 13. Elastic drive membrane; 14. Heat sink; 15. Refrigeration semiconductor; 16. Heat-conducting plate; 17. Conduit; 18. Separator; 19. Liquid outlet; 20. Diluent bottle; 21. Sealing plate; 22. Torsion spring. Detailed Implementation

[0040] To make the objectives, technical solutions, and advantages of this invention clearer, the invention will be further described in detail below with reference to the accompanying drawings and embodiments. It should be understood that the specific embodiments described herein are merely illustrative and not intended to limit the invention.

[0041] The implementation of the present invention will be described in detail below with reference to specific embodiments.

[0042] In the accompanying drawings of this embodiment, the same or similar reference numerals correspond to the same or similar components. In the description of this invention, it should be understood that if terms such as "upper," "lower," "left," and "right" indicate the orientation or positional relationship based on the orientation or positional relationship shown in the drawings, they are only for the convenience of describing this invention and simplifying the description, and do not indicate or imply that the device or element referred to must have a specific orientation, or be constructed and operated in a specific orientation. Therefore, the terms used to describe positional relationships in the drawings are only for illustrative purposes and should not be construed as limiting this invention. For those skilled in the art, the specific meaning of the above terms can be understood according to the specific circumstances.

[0043] Referring to the figure, a preferred embodiment of the present invention is provided.

[0044] Example 1: An enteral feeding tube with automatic peristalsis function, such as Figure 1 As shown, its main structure is a nutrient tube body 1. Multiple expansion units are installed inside the nutrient tube body 1 along its length. To achieve alternating expansion and contraction, in this embodiment, the multiple expansion units are divided into two groups, and the two groups of expansion units are arranged alternately. In this embodiment, the expansion unit is an annular balloon 3, which is fixedly installed on the inner wall of the nutrient tube body 1.

[0045] A drive mechanism is also connected to the nutrient tube body 1, used to alternately inflate and contract the two sets of balloons 3, thereby generating biomimetic peristalsis within the nutrient tube body 1. In this embodiment, the drive mechanism is implemented through periodic gas pressurization and depressurization. Specifically, the drive mechanism mainly consists of two sets of air guide pipes 4, two pneumatic distribution pipes 5, an exhaust pipe 6, a pressurization unit, and a reversing valve. Figure 2 As shown, one end of each of the two pneumatic distribution tubes 5 is connected to one of the two balloons 3 located near the inlet end of the nutrient tube body 1; as Figure 4 As shown, the other ends of the two pneumatic distribution pipes 5 are connected to the connectors at two opposite positions of the reversing valve.

[0046] In this embodiment, the pressurization unit consists of an injection pipe 9 and a miniature pump body 2. The miniature pump body 2 can be a miniature diaphragm air pump, weighing less than 100g, with an operating voltage of 5V-24V, a maximum output pressure of not less than 50kPa, and a flow rate range of 0.5-3L / min. One end of the injection pipe 9 is fixedly connected to the outlet end of the miniature pump body 2. The injection pipe 9 and the exhaust pipe 6 are respectively connected to the connectors at two other opposite positions on the reversing valve.

[0047] To avoid frequent start-stop of the micro pump body 2, this embodiment uses a reversing valve to perform a reversing operation at a certain periodic frequency, thereby realizing the alternating expansion and contraction of the two sets of balloons 3.

[0048] Specifically, the reversing valve mainly consists of a spherical housing 7, a valve core 10, and a stepper motor. All four connectors of the reversing valve are located on the spherical housing 7, and their connection positions to the pneumatic distribution pipe 5, air injection pipe 9, and exhaust pipe 6 are as follows: Figure 4 As shown. The valve core 10 has two L-shaped channels 8, which connect two adjacent connectors on the spherical housing 7. A stepper motor is fixedly mounted on the spherical housing 7, and its output is fixedly connected to the valve core 10 to drive the valve core 10 to rotate.

[0049] When valve core 10 is in Figure 4 In the state shown in diagram a, the injection pipe 9 is connected to one of the pneumatic distribution pipes 5, while the other pneumatic distribution pipe 5 is connected to the exhaust pipe 6. At this time, the micro-pump 2 pressurizes and injects air into a group of balloons 3 connected to the pneumatic distribution pipe 5, causing them to inflate; while the other group of balloons 3 connected to the exhaust pipe 6 releases gas through the exhaust pipe 6, thus contracting. When the stepper motor drives the valve core 10 to rotate 90°, the injection pipe 9 switches to connect with the other pneumatic distribution pipe 5, thereby pressurizing and injecting air into the other group of balloons 3, causing them to inflate; while the initially inflated group of balloons 3 deflates and contracts through the exhaust pipe 6. Therefore, under the continuous pressurization and injection state of the micro-pump 2, only the stepper motor needs to drive the valve core 10 to rotate at a uniform speed to make the two groups of balloons 3 alternately inflate and contract at a specified frequency, thus creating a biomimetic peristaltic effect inside the nutrient tube body 1.

[0050] It should be noted that in this embodiment, the alternating inflation and deflation frequency of the two sets of balloons 3 is controlled by the rotation speed of the valve core 10. Each 180° rotation of the valve core 10 completes one full alternating inflation and deflation cycle. Therefore, the feeding tube in this embodiment can have its biomimetic peristaltic frequency adjusted electrically to meet different clinical needs.

[0051] In order for the micro-pump 2 to simultaneously inflate multiple balloons 3 within the same group, in this embodiment, both sets of air delivery tubes 4 are embedded in the side wall of the nutrient tube body 1. Figure 2 As shown, to achieve series airflow across the same group of balloons 3, multiple air delivery tubes 4 can be configured to connect adjacent balloons 3 within the same group sequentially. Airflow enters the first balloon 3 via the pneumatic distribution tube 5, and then is sequentially transmitted to each balloon 3 within the same group via the air delivery tubes 4, thereby achieving pressurized inflation and synchronous expansion of all balloons 3 in the same group. Simultaneously, gas from another group of balloons 3 flows sequentially through the air delivery tubes 4 into the corresponding pneumatic distribution tubes 5, and is released through the exhaust pipe 6, achieving synchronous contraction.

[0052] To optimize the gas path structure, this embodiment also provides a parallel connection method for the gas guide tube 4, such as... Figure 3As shown, each group has only one air duct 4, and each balloon 3 in the same group is simultaneously connected to the air duct 4 through an opening, thus achieving parallel airflow. Compared to the series connection, the parallel connection allows the pressurized airflow to be evenly distributed to each balloon 3 after entering the air duct 4, achieving synchronous expansion of each balloon 3; during deflation, the gas in each balloon 3 can also be discharged simultaneously through the air duct 4, achieving synchronous contraction, resulting in a more consistent response and more coordinated movement. Regardless of the airflow arrangement, as long as the alternating expansion and contraction of the two groups of balloons 3 can be achieved to complete the biomimetic peristaltic function, it should be considered to fall within the scope of protection of this application.

[0053] In this embodiment, the enteral feeding tube, when driving the two sets of balloons 3 to alternately expand and contract, can also change the order of expansion and contraction of the two sets of balloons 3 to cause reverse peristalsis in the contents of the feeding tube body 1, thereby achieving reverse delivery of the nutrient solution. This function can be used to aspirate the nutrient solution in the tubing when needed, assist in flushing the tubing, or adjust the distribution of the nutrient solution within the tube, further enriching the clinical application scenarios of the feeding tube. Furthermore, without adding any extra structures, switching between forward and reverse peristalsis can be achieved simply by adjusting the rotation direction of the stepper motor in the reversing valve, making it easy to operate and highly adaptable.

[0054] Working Principle: During use, the feeding tube body 1 is inserted into the patient's stomach, duodenum, or jejunum through the nasal cavity, and the inlet of the feeding tube body 1 is connected to the nutrient solution source (such as a nutrient bag or nutrient pump). The device is then started, and the micro air pump and stepper motor begin working simultaneously. The micro air pump continuously outputs compressed gas; the stepper motor drives the valve core 10 to rotate at a constant speed, causing the two pneumatic distribution tubes 5 to alternately connect to the injection tube 9 and the exhaust tube 6. Specifically, when one pneumatic distribution tube 5 is connected to the injection tube 9, the other pneumatic distribution tube 5 is connected to the exhaust tube 6, thereby pressurizing and inflating the first set of balloons 3, while the second set of balloons 3 deflates and contracts through the exhaust tube 6. As the valve core 10 continues to rotate, the gas path switches, the second set of balloons 3 inflates, and the first set of balloons 3 deflates and contracts. This cycle repeats, with the two sets of balloons 3 alternately inflating and contracting, forming a rhythmic biomimetic peristaltic wave inside the feeding tube body 1, actively pushing the nutrient solution to the distal end, completing the autonomous delivery of enteral nutrition.

[0055] Example 2: This example provides an enteral feeding tube with automatic peristalsis function, such as... Figure 5 As shown, this embodiment provides a new expansion unit and a corresponding driving mechanism compared to Embodiment 1.

[0056] like Figure 6As shown, the nutrient tube body 1 has multiple annular side cavities 12 formed along its length on its side wall. The number of annular side cavities 12 is the same as the number of expansion units, and the expansion units are disposed within the annular side cavities 12. Specifically, the expansion unit in this embodiment mainly consists of an expansion material and an elastic driving membrane 13. The elastic driving membrane 13 can be made of medical-grade silicone film, which has good elastic deformation ability and biocompatibility. The elastic driving membrane 13 covers the annular side cavity 12, forming a sealed chamber between it and the annular side cavity 12, and the expansion material fills the sealed chamber. In this embodiment, the expansion unit still needs to be divided into two groups, and the two groups of expansion units are arranged alternately.

[0057] In this embodiment, the expansion material expands or contracts in volume due to temperature, preferably using PNIPAM (poly-N-isopropylacrylamide) hydrogel. Below approximately 32°C, the polymer chains of the PNIPAM hydrogel 11 extend, the network structure expands, leading to an increase in the total volume of the entire hydrogel-water system, manifested as macroscopic "water absorption expansion." Above approximately 32°C, the polymer chains curl up, the network structure collapses, and the total volume decreases, macroscopically manifested as "dehydration shrinkage." By controlling the temperature, the expansion material can achieve reversible volume changes near body temperature (e.g., 30°C-38°C), thereby driving the elastic driving membrane 13 to produce radial expansion or contraction. Simultaneously, this operating temperature range is adapted to human physiological temperature, which can insulate the nutrient solution flowing through the nutrient tube body 1, ensuring that the temperature of the nutrient solution entering the patient's body remains within a suitable range, avoiding gastrointestinal irritation due to excessively cold liquid, and improving patient comfort and treatment safety.

[0058] To enable alternating expansion and contraction between adjacent expansion units, the driving mechanism in this embodiment employs a thermodynamic driving method. Specifically, the driving mechanism consists of multiple heat exchange units, each mainly comprising multiple cooling semiconductors 15, two annular heat-conducting plates 16, and two sets of heat sinks 14. Figure 6 and Figure 7 As shown, the cooling semiconductor 15 and the heat-conducting plate 16 are both embedded in the tube wall between two adjacent annular side cavities 12 on the nutrient tube body 1. Multiple cooling semiconductors 15 are arranged in a ring, with their two ends fixedly connected to two annular heat-conducting plates 16 respectively. The heat exchange surfaces of the two heat-conducting plates 16 face the interior of the two annular side cavities 12. To improve heat exchange efficiency, two sets of heat sinks 14 are fixedly installed on the heat dissipation surfaces of the two heat-conducting plates 16 respectively.

[0059] When the cooling semiconductor 15 operates, one end cools and the other end heats. The cooling end cools one of the annular side cavities 12, while the heating end heats the other. The PNIPAM hydrogel 11 in the cooling side annular side cavity 12 cools down, causing the polymer network to expand and its overall volume to expand, pushing the elastic driving membrane 13 outward. Conversely, the PNIPAM hydrogel 11 in the heating side annular side cavity 12 heats up, causing the polymer network to contract and its overall volume to shrink, causing the elastic driving membrane 13 to indent inward. Thus, the two adjacent expansion units alternately expand and contract. By adjusting the current direction of the cooling semiconductor 15, its cooling and heating ends can be interchanged, thereby changing the heating and cooling states of the two annular side cavities 12, causing units that were originally expanding to contract and units that were originally contracting to expand, thus forming a periodic alternating peristalsis.

[0060] The cooling semiconductor 15 has a minimum cooling temperature of approximately -10℃ to 0℃ and a maximum heating temperature of approximately 50℃ to 60℃. Therefore, by changing the operating power of the cooling semiconductor 15, its cooling and heating rates can be adjusted, thereby controlling the response speed of the expansion unit and regulating the rhythmic peristaltic frequency within the entire enteral feeding tube to meet different clinical needs.

[0061] In addition, the heat sink 14 in this embodiment needs to be adapted to the length of a single annular side cavity 12 in actual production, so as to make the PNIPAM hydrogel 11 in the annular side cavity 12 heat up evenly, thereby achieving uniform expansion or contraction.

[0062] The expansion unit and drive mechanism in this embodiment enable the nutrient tube body 1 to be connected to no external air source, hydraulic source or complex pipeline system. The structure is simple and highly integrated, and the biomimetic peristaltic delivery and anti-blockage function can be achieved by relying on only one pipeline.

[0063] It should be noted that, regardless of the specific form of the expansion unit and the driving mechanism used, as long as the driving mechanism can cause multiple expansion units to expand and contract alternately to achieve an overall biomimetic peristaltic effect, it should be considered to fall within the protection scope of this application.

[0064] Example 3: This example provides an enteral feeding tube with automatic peristalsis function. Based on Example 2, this example further provides a feeding tube body 1 structure with multiple independent cavities.

[0065] Combination Figures 8 to 10As shown, in this embodiment, there are three independent cavities. Specifically, three partitions 18 are provided along the length of the inner cavity of the nutrient tube body 1. One end of each partition 18 is connected to the central axis of the nutrient tube body 1, and the other end is connected to the inner wall of the nutrient tube body 1. Through these three partitions 18, the inner cavity of the nutrient tube body 1 is divided into three independent cavities with a horizontal cross-section in the shape of a fan.

[0066] Two outlets 19 are provided at different length positions on the side wall of the feeding tube body 1, and another outlet 19 is located at the distal end of the feeding tube body 1. The three outlets 19 are respectively connected to three independent cavities. Since the three outlets 19 are located at different axial positions (for example, corresponding to the stomach, retropylorus, duodenum or jejunum respectively), the enteral feeding tube of this embodiment can simultaneously deliver nutrient solution to multiple different locations such as the stomach, retropylorus, duodenum or jejunum.

[0067] like Figure 11 As shown, the expansion unit is divided into three parts by the partition 18. When the cooling semiconductor 15 adjusts the temperature, the PNIPAM hydrogel 11 in these three expansion units can still expand or contract synchronously, thereby effectively avoiding blockage of the three independent cavities and realizing the simultaneous delivery of multiple nutrient solutions.

[0068] To facilitate the delivery of nutrient solutions from different types of nutrient sources (such as nutrient bags or nutrient pumps) to the three independent cavities, this embodiment features three conduits 17 at the inlet end of the nutrient tube body 1. Each of the three conduits 17 is connected to one of the three independent cavities. Nursing staff can connect to the corresponding nutrient source through each conduit 17, thereby delivering different types of nutrient solutions to the respective independent cavities.

[0069] It should be noted that regardless of whether the internal structure of the feeding tube body 1 is a single-lumen or multi-lumen structure, as long as the nutrient solution is delivered to the target location in the patient's intestine through the biomimetic peristaltic function of the expansion unit, it should be considered to fall within the protection scope of this application.

[0070] Example 4: This example provides an enteral feeding tube with automatic peristalsis function. In view of the high viscosity of some nutrient solutions, this example further sets up a dilution unit based on Example 2.

[0071] like Figure 13As shown, the dilution unit mainly consists of a flow rate response valve and a diluent bottle 20. The outlet of the diluent bottle 20 is connected to the side wall of the nutrient tube body 1 via a pipeline. The diluent bottle 20 can be filled with diluent (such as physiological saline or sterile water) to dilute the viscous nutrient solution flowing through the nutrient tube body 1. To facilitate repeated replenishment of diluent to the diluent bottle 20, this embodiment sets the diluent bottle 20 and the pipeline connected to it as a detachable connection.

[0072] The flow rate response valve is installed at the connection between the pipeline and the main body of the nutrient pipe 1. Specifically, as follows... Figure 14 As shown, the flow rate response valve mainly consists of a sealing plate 21 and a torsion spring 22. One end of the sealing plate 21 is rotatably mounted at the connection between the diluent bottle 20 and the nutrient tube body 1. The torsion spring 22 is sleeved on the rotating shaft of the sealing plate 21, and both ends of the torsion spring 22 act on the sealing plate 21 and the side wall of the connection, respectively, causing the sealing plate 21 to tend to rotate inward into the nutrient tube body 1 under the pre-tightening force of the torsion spring 22. When the sealing plate 21 is in contact with the inner side wall of the nutrient tube body 1, it can block the pipeline. When the nutrient solution flow rate is low (indicating high viscosity), the force of the torsion spring 22 is dominant, and the sealing plate 21 rotates inward into the nutrient tube body 1 to open, allowing the diluent in the diluent bottle 20 to flow into the nutrient tube body 1; when the nutrient solution flow rate is high, the impact force of the liquid flow overcomes the force of the torsion spring 22, and the sealing plate 21 is tightly attached to the inner side wall of the nutrient tube body 1, closing the diluent passage.

[0073] The flow rate response valve opens smaller when the nutrient solution flow rate is higher (indicating lower viscosity), resulting in less liquid flowing into the nutrient tube body 1; conversely, the valve opens larger when the nutrient solution flow rate is lower (indicating higher viscosity), resulting in more liquid flowing into the nutrient tube body 1.

[0074] The above description is only a preferred embodiment of the present invention and is not intended to limit the present invention. Any modifications, equivalent substitutions, and improvements made within the spirit and principles of the present invention should be included within the protection scope of the present invention.

Claims

1. An enteral feeding tube with automatic peristalsis function, characterized in that, It includes a nutrient tube body (1), and multiple expansion units are arranged inside the nutrient tube body (1) along its length direction. The multiple expansion units are divided into a first group and a second group, and the expansion units of the first group and the second group are arranged alternately. The nutrient tube body (1) is also connected to a drive mechanism, which causes the two sets of expansion units to alternately expand and contract, thereby generating biomimetic peristalsis inside the nutrient tube body (1).

2. The enteral feeding tube with automatic peristalsis function according to claim 1, characterized in that, The expansion unit is an annular balloon (3), which is fixedly installed on the inner wall of the nutrient tube body (1).

3. An enteral feeding tube with automatic peristalsis function according to claim 1 or 2, characterized in that, The drive mechanism includes two sets of air guide pipes (4), two pneumatic distribution pipes (5), an exhaust pipe (6), a pressurization unit, and a reversing valve. The two sets of air guide pipes (4) are respectively embedded in the side wall of the nutrient pipe body (1) to connect the expansion units of the same group to each other. One end of the two pneumatic distribution pipes (5) is connected to the corresponding air guide pipe (4), and the other end is connected to the two relatively opposite interfaces of the reversing valve. The exhaust pipe (6) and the outlet end of the pressurization unit are respectively connected to the other two relatively opposite interfaces of the reversing valve. Through the reversing action of the reversing valve, the two pneumatic distribution pipes (5) are alternately connected to the pressurization unit and the exhaust pipe (6), thereby realizing the pressurization and expansion of one group of expansion units while the other group of expansion units is depressurized and contracted.

4. An enteral feeding tube with automatic peristalsis function according to claim 3, characterized in that, The reversing valve includes a spherical housing (7), a valve core (10), and a stepper motor. The spherical housing (7) is connected to two pneumatic distribution pipes (5), an exhaust pipe (6), and a pressurization unit. The valve core (10) is rotatably installed inside the spherical housing (7). Two L-shaped channels (8) are opened inside the valve core (10), and the two L-shaped channels (8) can connect two adjacent interfaces of the reversing valve. The stepper motor is fixedly installed on the spherical housing (7), and the output end of the stepper motor is fixedly connected to the valve core (10). The stepper motor drives the valve core (10) to rotate to perform the reversing action.

5. An enteral feeding tube with automatic peristalsis function according to claim 1, characterized in that, The nutrient tube body (1) has multiple annular side cavities (12) along its length in the side wall. The expansion unit includes an elastic driving membrane (13) and an expansion material. The elastic driving membrane (13) covers the annular side cavity (12) and forms a sealed chamber with the annular side cavity (12). The expansion material is filled in the sealed chamber and expands or contracts due to temperature.

6. An enteral feeding tube with automatic peristalsis function according to claim 5, characterized in that, The drive mechanism consists of multiple heat exchange units; the multiple heat exchange units are respectively arranged between two adjacent annular side cavities (12), and the two heat exchange ends of each heat exchange unit are respectively placed in the corresponding two annular side cavities (12); the multiple heat exchange units are used to heat one group of expansion units while cooling another group of expansion units, so as to realize the alternating expansion and contraction of the two groups of expansion units.

7. An enteral feeding tube with automatic peristalsis function according to claim 6, characterized in that, The heat exchange unit comprises multiple cooling semiconductors (15), two annular heat-conducting plates (16), and two sets of heat sinks (14). The multiple cooling semiconductors (15) and the two heat-conducting plates (16) are embedded between two adjacent annular side cavities (12), and the multiple cooling semiconductors (15) are arranged in annular pattern. The two annular heat-conducting plates (16) are fixedly connected to the two ends of the multiple cooling semiconductors (15) respectively. The two sets of heat sinks (14) are located in two adjacent annular side cavities (12) and are fixedly connected to the two heat-conducting plates (16) respectively.

8. An enteral feeding tube with automatic peristalsis function according to claim 1, characterized in that, A dilution unit is connected to the side wall of the nutrient tube body (1). The dilution unit includes a flow rate response valve and a diluent bottle (20). The outlet end of the diluent bottle (20) is connected to the side wall of the nutrient tube body (1). The flow rate response valve is installed at the connection between the diluent bottle (20) and the nutrient tube body (1). The flow rate response valve automatically controls the opening degree of its valve according to the flow rate of the nutrient solution in the nutrient tube body (1).

9. An enteral feeding tube with automatic peristalsis function according to claim 8, characterized in that, The flow rate response valve includes a sealing plate (21) and a torsion spring (22); one end of the sealing plate (21) is rotatably set at the connection between the diluent bottle (20) and the nutrient tube body (1), and the torsion spring (22) is sleeved on the rotating shaft of the sealing plate (21), and the two ends of the torsion spring (22) act on the sealing plate (21) and the side wall of the connection respectively, so that the sealing plate (21) has a tendency to rotate into the nutrient tube body (1) under the pre-tightening force of the torsion spring (22).

10. An enteral feeding tube with automatic peristalsis function according to claim 5, characterized in that, Multiple partitions (18) are fixedly installed inside the nutrient tube body (1) along its length direction. The multiple partitions (18) divide the inner cavity of the nutrient tube body (1) into multiple independent channels with a fan-shaped cross section. Multiple liquid outlets (19) are opened at different length positions on the side wall of the nutrient tube body (1), and the liquid outlets (19) are respectively connected to the corresponding independent channels.

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