Pump for detecting air

Abstract

A pump to detect air is described herein. In some embodiments, a pump for detecting air includes a plunger, a plunger air detection module, a camshaft, and a first biasing member. The plunger is movable to selectively engage a tube section with a fluid. And the plunger air detection module is arranged in the plunger. The camshaft is configured to move the plunger between an engaged position in contact with the tube section and a disengaged position spaced apart from the tube section. The first biasing member is configured to urge the plunger toward the tube section to maintain contact with the tube section in the engaged position.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present disclosure generally relates to an air sensing pump. Background Art

[0002] Patients in hospitals often receive medications and medical fluids (e.g., saline solutions or fluid medications) via infusion using an intravenous ("IV") pump. In some applications, an IV pump uses peristaltic operation of a segment of tubing of an IV set to flow medical fluids to the patient. In some applications, a volume measurement may be made and used to detect the rate of fluid flowing through the pump.

[0003] Rate accuracy is critical for clinicians and patients, especially in infusion therapies. New technologies are being developed to provide information on the infusion rate to the pump control unit in real time. However, existing methods for measuring infusion rate typically assume that there is no air in the subsystem where the measurement is made. This is not necessarily a good assumption, as it is common for air bubbles to be present in the kit. When air bubbles enter the volume measurement subsystem within the pump, the measurement can become inaccurate. This can cause the pump controller to incorrectly adjust the flow rate, which puts the patient at risk of, for example, over-infusion, under-infusion, air embolism if the bag runs dry, or blood clots if the bag runs dry and the Keep Vein Open (KVO) mode is not activated. Utility Model Content

[0004] The disclosed subject matter relates to a peristaltic pump capable of detecting the presence of air in a tubing segment extending therethrough. In certain embodiments, the air detecting pump includes: a plunger movable to selectively engage a tubing segment including a fluid; a camshaft configured to move the plunger between an engaged position in contact with the tubing segment and a disengaged position spaced from the tubing segment; and a first biasing member configured to urge the plunger toward the tubing segment to maintain contact with the tubing segment in the engaged position. Wherein the plunger includes a plunger air detection module.

[0005] In some embodiments, the pump includes a backing configured to engage the tubing segment in an engaged position and a disengaged position. The backing includes a channel configured to prevent the tubing segment from moving relative to the pump, wherein the channel extends the longitudinal length of the backing. In some embodiments, the channel is defined by a front wedge and a rear baffle, extending along the longitudinal length of the backing between the front wedge and the rear baffle, and wherein the backing includes a cutout extending along its longitudinal length. In some embodiments, the cutout is configured to receive a backing air detection module. In some embodiments, the backing air detection module is parallel to the plunger air detection module, the plunger air detection module is configured to send a signal, and the backing air detection module is configured to receive a signal when the plunger is in the engaged position.

[0006] In some embodiments, the plunger air detection module includes a plurality of elements, wherein the plunger air detection module includes an array of piezoelectric elements. In some embodiments, the pump includes a slot defined in the plunger, wherein the plunger air detection module is disposed in the slot. In some embodiments, the plunger does not deform the tubing segment in the engaged position.

[0007] In certain embodiments, a method is disclosed, the method comprising providing a tubing section within a pump, the tubing section comprising a fluid that travels through the tubing section; pushing a plunger toward the tubing section to maintain contact with the tubing section as the fluid travels through the tubing section; and transmitting a signal from a plunger air detection module of the plunger through the tubing section. In certain embodiments, the method comprises receiving the signal with a backing air detection module of a backing. In certain embodiments, the method comprises moving the plunger with a camshaft to increase or decrease a cross-section of the tubing section, thereby adjusting the flow of fluid through the tubing section. In certain embodiments, the method comprises moving the plunger with a camshaft to reduce the cross-section, thereby preventing the flow of fluid through the tubing section. In certain embodiments, when the plunger is pushed toward the tubing section to maintain contact with the tubing section, the backing air detection module is parallel to the plunger air detection module. In certain embodiments, when the plunger is pushed toward the tubing section to maintain contact with the tubing section, the plunger does not deform the tubing section.

[0008] It should be understood that, according to the present disclosure, the various structures of the subject technology will become clear to those skilled in the art, wherein the various structures of the subject technology are shown and described by way of illustration. As will be appreciated, the subject technology can have other and different configurations and its several details can be modified in various other aspects, all of which do not depart from the scope of the subject technology. Therefore, the utility model content, the description of the drawings and the specific embodiments should be considered to be illustrative and not restrictive in nature. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0009] The accompanying drawings, which are included to provide a further understanding and are incorporated in and constitute a part of this specification, illustrate embodiments of the disclosure and together with the description serve to explain the principles of embodiments of the disclosure.

[0010] In the attached figure:

[0011] Figure 1 Depicted is a patient receiving an infusion of medical fluid using an IV pump.

[0012] Figure 2A is a perspective view of a peristaltic pump according to various aspects of the present disclosure.

[0013] Figure 2B yes Figure 2A Simplified view of a peristaltic pump.

[0014] Figure 3 yes Figure 2A Exploded view of the components of a peristaltic pump.

[0015] Figure 4 yes Figure 2A Exploded view of the plunger and backing of a peristaltic pump.

[0016] Figure 5 is a perspective view of a peristaltic pump according to various aspects of the present disclosure. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0017] The specific embodiments set forth below are intended to be descriptions of various configurations of subject technology, and are not intended to represent the unique configurations that can practice subject technology. The specific embodiments include specific details to provide a thorough understanding of the subject technology. However, it is clear to those skilled in the art that the subject technology can be implemented without these specific details. In some cases, well-known structures and components are shown in block diagram form to avoid blurring the concept of the subject technology. For ease of understanding, identical components are marked with identical element numbers. Reference numerals may be appended with letter suffixes to indicate individual instances of common elements, and are generally referred to by identical numerals without suffix letters.

[0018] Although the following description is directed to the administration of medical fluids using the peristaltic pump of the present disclosure, it should be understood that the description is merely an example of use and does not limit the scope of the claims. The various aspects of the peristaltic pump of the present disclosure can be used in any application requiring the administration of a fluid flow.

[0019] Figure 1 A patient 5 is described who receives an infusion of a medical fluid using an IV pump 30. In the depicted example, the IV pump 30 delivers the medical fluid from a fluid container 36 to the patient 5. The fluid container 36 is suspended at or above the patient's head and is connected to an IV pump module 34 via an IV set 20, and subsequently to the patient 5. In some embodiments, the IV pump 30 includes a control unit 32 and a pumping module 34. Suitable IV pump configurations and systems are described, for example, in U.S. Patent Application No. 17 / 586,619, the entire disclosure of which is incorporated herein by reference.

[0020] The pumping module 34 may include a peristaltic pump to administer the medical fluid from the fluid container 36 to the patient 5. During operation of the peristaltic pump, it may be desirable to monitor the volume pumped by the peristaltic pump. In some applications, the peristaltic pump may include a measurement phase between the refill phase and the delivery phase.

[0021] The peristaltic pumps of the present disclosure may incorporate various measurement mechanisms to allow monitoring of the volume pumped by the peristaltic pump, as well as detection of the presence of air. The peristaltic pumps of the present disclosure may include detection mechanisms, biasing members with different forces, and / or a separation plunger. By utilizing the measurement mechanisms disclosed herein, the peristaltic pump may allow monitoring without a dedicated measurement stage and / or without generating higher internal pressures.

[0022] The peristaltic pump of the present disclosure overcomes some challenges found with certain air detection methods utilized with IV sets. One challenge with certain air detection methods is the active fluid volume adjustment as a result of air detection. Therefore, simply adding an in-line air sensor is not enough. An in-line air sensor may only trigger an alarm or notification to the patient or clinician if the amount of air passing through is above a threshold. In addition, the in-line air sensor assumes that all bubbles are traveling downstream. However, in practice, bubbles may get stuck or even flow back up and trigger the sensor multiple times. Because the volume of fluid traveling through the disclosed peristaltic pump may be traveling downstream and the fluid volume is being measured, it is advantageous to provide a fluid volume measurement system with in-line air sensing capability to directly measure the amount of air and adjust the measured volume accordingly.

[0023] An example of a peristaltic pump that allows for measurement of fluid volume and in-line air is now described.

[0024] Figure 2A is a perspective view of a peristaltic pump 100 according to various aspects of the present disclosure. Figure 2B yes Figure 2A 1 is a simplified view of a peristaltic pump 100. In the depicted example, the peristaltic pump 100 can peristaltically manipulate tubing (not shown) to adjust the flow of a medical fluid to a patient. In some embodiments, an upstream portion of the tubing is in fluid communication with a source of medical fluid, such as an IV bag or other medical fluid container, and a downstream portion of the tubing is in fluid communication with IV tubing to the patient. In some embodiments, the peristaltic pump 100 repeatedly cycles between a filling phase and a delivery phase to administer fluid to a patient. As described herein, the peristaltic pump 100 allows volume measurement and air detection without the need for a dedicated measurement phase.

[0025] In the depicted example, the peristaltic pump 100 includes a plunger 110, an upstream occluder or valve 120, and a downstream occluder or valve 130, each configured to contact and manipulate the tubing to deliver the fluid from the fluid source to the patient. In some embodiments, the plunger 110, the upstream valve 120, and the downstream valve 130 can move in coordinated sequential steps to pump the fluid through the tubing. The tubing can be formed of a mechanically elastic material. When the plunger 110, the upstream valve 120, and / or the downstream valve 130 contact and manipulate the tubing, the tubing can be supported by a backing 180.

[0026] As described herein, the plunger 110, the upstream valve 120, and / or the downstream valve 130 can be moved by one or more actuators. The movements of the actuators controlling the plunger 110, the upstream valve 120, and / or the downstream valve 130 can be coordinated, or otherwise sequenced. In the depicted example, the movement of the plunger 110, the upstream valve 120, and / or the downstream valve 130 is cyclic.

[0027] Figure 3 is an exploded view of the components of the peristaltic pump 100 of FIG2. Figure 2A-Figure 3 , the peristaltic pump 100 may include a camshaft 150 to actuate the plunger 110, the upstream valve 120, and / or the downstream valve 130. In the example shown, the camshaft 150 includes one or more cam lobes, such as a plunger cam lobe 154, an upstream valve cam lobe 152, and / or a downstream valve cam lobe 156.

[0028] As described herein, the geometry of the respective cam lobes may be shaped or altered to allow for desired actuation or movement of the plunger 110, upstream valve 120, and / or downstream valve 130. For example, portions of the cam lobes having a larger radius may allow the plunger 110, upstream valve 120, and / or downstream valve 130 to open or be lifted further from the tubular and / or backing 180, while portions of the cam lobes having a smaller radius may allow the plunger 110, upstream valve 120, and / or downstream valve 130 to be closer to or otherwise urged toward the tubular and / or backing.

[0029] In some embodiments, the cam lobes of the camshaft 150 actuate one or more rockers to control the plunger 110, the upstream valve 120, and / or the downstream valve 130. It will be appreciated that the geometry of the rockers described herein can be configured to provide a desired actuation ratio between the movement of the plunger 110, the upstream valve 120, and / or the downstream valve 130 and the geometry of the plunger cam lobes 154, the upstream valve cam lobes 152, and / or the downstream valve cam lobes 156, respectively. As described herein, certain rockers, such as the second plunger valve rocker 111b, can move independently or may not be directly actuated by the camshaft 150. The first plunger valve rocker 111a, the second plunger valve rocker 111b, the upstream valve rocker 121, and / or the downstream valve rocker 131 can each rotate or pivot about the pivot axis 170.

[0030] In the depicted example, a biasing member, such as a spring, may urge the plunger 110, the upstream valve 120, and / or the downstream valve 130 toward the tubular and / or the backing 180. In some embodiments, the biasing member may act on a rocker to urge the plunger 110, the upstream valve 120, and / or the downstream valve 130 toward the tubular and / or the backing 180. During operation, actuation of the plunger 110, the upstream valve 120, and / or the downstream valve 130 by the camshaft may overcome the biasing force applied by the biasing member to lift or otherwise actuate the plunger 110, the upstream valve 120, and / or the downstream valve 130.

[0031] Additionally, the arrangement or phasing of the cam lobes about the camshaft 150 may be varied to provide a desired actuation or movement sequence of the plunger 110, the upstream valve 120, and / or the downstream valve 130 as the camshaft 150 rotates. For example, the plunger cam lobe 154, the upstream valve cam lobe 152, and / or the downstream valve cam lobe 156 may each have a cam profile and / or relative arrangement that eliminates or excludes a dedicated measurement phase in which the plunger 110 is actuated against the pumping volume of the tubing closed by the upstream valve 120 and the downstream valve 130.

[0032] In the depicted example, the peristaltic pump 100 includes a split rocker configuration having a first plunger valve rocker 111a directly coupled to the plunger 110 and a second plunger valve rocker 111b configured to act on the first plunger valve rocker 111a. In some embodiments, the first plunger valve rocker 111a is spaced apart, separated, misaligned, or otherwise not directly actuated by the plunger cam lobe 154. It is understood that the first plunger valve rocker 111a and the plunger 110 can be independently moved or actuated and spaced apart from the actuation of the plunger cam lobe 154.

[0033] In the depicted example, the first plunger biasing member 164a can act on the first plunger valve rocker 111a to push the plunger 110 toward the tubular and / or the backing 180. It is understood that the biasing force applied by the first plunger biasing member 164a to the first plunger valve rocker 111a and the plunger 110 can be a constant force or a long-term force that is independent of the rotation of the camshaft 150. During operation, the configuration of the first plunger valve rocker 111a and the first plunger biasing member 164a can allow the plunger 110 to maintain contact with the tubular. It is understood that the force applied by the first plunger biasing member 164a is sufficient to keep the plunger 110 in contact with the tubular without damaging the tubular.

[0034] In the depicted example, the position of the plunger 110 can be used to determine the volume of fluid administered by the peristaltic pump 100. During operation, the height of the plunger 110 can be used to determine the height of the pumped volume within the tubing, which can be used to determine the volume of fluid administered by the peristaltic pump 100. Advantageously, the arrangement of the first plunger biasing member 164a and the first plunger valve rocker 111a allows the plunger 110 to permit volume measurements to be made without applying excessive force or requiring a dedicated measurement stage.

[0035] In the described example, the second plunger valve rocker 111b is aligned, positioned, or otherwise configured to be actuated by the plunger cam lobe 154. During operation, portions of the second plunger valve rocker 111b can engage or slide along the cam profile of the plunger cam lobe 154 to translate the geometry of the cam profile into movement of the second plunger valve rocker 111b. In some embodiments, during certain movements (e.g., during the delivery phase of operation), the second plunger valve rocker 111b can engage with the first plunger valve rocker 111a to move the plunger 110 relative to the tubular in response to actuation from the plunger cam lobe 154.

[0036] In the depicted example, the second plunger biasing member 164b can act on the second plunger valve rocker 111b to push the second plunger valve rocker 111b toward the first plunger valve rocker 111a. During certain portions of operation (e.g., the delivery phase of operation), the second plunger biasing member 164b can force the second plunger valve rocker 111b to engage with the first plunger valve rocker 111a and push the plunger 110 toward the tubing and / or backing 180. It will be appreciated that the actuation of the second plunger valve rocker 111b by rotation of the plunger cam lobe 154 can overcome the biasing force to disengage the second plunger valve rocker 111b from the first plunger valve rocker 111a. Thus, the biasing force applied by the second plunger biasing member 164b to the first plunger valve rocker 111a and / or the plunger 110 can vary in response to actuation of the second plunger valve rocker 111b caused by rotation of the plunger cam lobe 154. During operation, the arrangement of the second plunger valve rocker 111b and the second plunger biasing member 164b relative to the first plunger valve rocker 111a and the first plunger biasing member 164a allows the peristaltic pump 100 to apply additional force to the plunger during certain portions of operation (e.g., the delivery phase) while allowing the first plunger biasing member 164a to maintain a long-term biasing force against the tubing. In some embodiments, the force applied by the second plunger biasing member 164b is higher than the biasing force applied by the first plunger biasing member 164a. Optionally, the force applied by the second plunger biasing member 164b is sufficient to allow fluid delivery. In some embodiments, the first plunger biasing member 164a and the second plunger biasing member 164b cooperate to provide sufficient force to allow fluid delivery.

[0037] In some embodiments, the upstream valve rocker 121 is coupled to the upstream valve 120 and is capable of moving the upstream valve 120 in response to actuation from the upstream valve cam lobe 152. During operation, a portion of the upstream valve rocker 121 may engage or slide along a cam profile of the upstream valve cam lobe 152 to translate the geometry of the cam profile into movement of the upstream valve 120 relative to the tubular.

[0038] As shown, the upstream valve biasing member 162 can act on the upstream valve rocker 121 to urge the upstream valve 120 toward the tubular and / or backing 180. It can be appreciated that actuation of the upstream valve rocker 121 by rotation of the upstream valve cam lobe 152 can overcome the biasing force to lift or otherwise actuate the upstream valve 120.

[0039] Similarly, the downstream valve rocker 131 is coupled to the downstream valve 130 and is capable of moving the downstream valve 130 in response to actuation from the downstream valve cam lobe 156. During operation, a portion of the downstream valve rocker 131 may engage or slide along the cam profile of the downstream valve cam lobe 156 to translate the geometry of the cam profile into movement of the downstream valve 130 relative to the tubular.

[0040] Similarly, the downstream valve biasing member 166 can act on the downstream valve rocker 131 to urge the downstream valve 130 toward the tubular and / or backing 180. It can be appreciated that actuation of the downstream valve rocker 131 by rotation of the downstream valve cam lobe 156 can overcome the biasing force to lift or otherwise actuate the downstream valve 130.

[0041] The tubing 102 draws in the medical fluid 10 during the filling phase. As shown, the plunger 110 is withdrawn or retracted from the compressed portion of the tubing 102, thereby allowing the tubing wall 104 to elastically expand the pumping volume 107 to an initial or expanded state.

[0042] In the depicted example, the expansion of the pumping volume 107 draws fluid into the pumping volume 107. The mechanical resilience of the tubing 102 allows the tubing wall 104 to expand from a compressed state to an expanded state, thereby expanding the pumping volume 107. The rate at which the pumping volume 107 rebounds from a compressed state to an expanded state can determine the amount of fluid that can be drawn into the pumping volume 107 in a given period of time.

[0043] As shown, during expansion of the pumped volume 107 , the downstream portion 108 of the tubing 102 is blocked, squeezed, or otherwise obstructed by the downstream valve 130 to prevent or limit backflow or contamination of fluid entering the pumped volume 107 .

[0044] In the depicted example, the downstream valve 130 is actuated, moved downward, or otherwise engaged to compress the tubular wall 104 of the tubular 102 at the downstream portion 108, thereby blocking flow through the downstream portion 108 of the tubular 102. The downstream valve 130 may include a beveled engagement portion that contacts the tubular 102. When engaged, the downstream valve 130 may prevent or restrict flow or fluid communication from the downstream portion 108 into the pumping volume 107.

[0045] During expansion of the pumped volume 107, medical fluid 10 is drawn from the upstream portion 106 of the tubing 102 into the pumped volume 107. As shown, during expansion of the pumped volume 107, the upstream portion 106 of the tubing 102 is unimpeded by the upstream valve 120, thereby permitting the medical fluid 10 to enter the pumped volume 107. During operation, the upstream valve 120 is withdrawn or retracted from the compressed portion of the tubing 102 to allow the tubing wall 104 to elastically expand the upstream portion 106 to an initial or expanded state.

[0046] In the depicted example, expansion of the upstream portion 106 permits the flow of the medical fluid 10 into the pumping volume 107. The mechanical resilience of the tubing 102 allows the tubing wall 104 to expand from a compressed state to an expanded state, thereby expanding the cross-sectional profile or flow area of ​​the upstream portion 106. The amount of medical fluid 10 drawn into the pumping volume 107 during the filling phase may be determined by the timing and sequence of the plunger 110, the upstream valve 120, the viscosity of the medical fluid 10, and the mechanical properties of the tubing 102.

[0047] Advantageously, as described herein, the first plunger biasing member 164a can maintain a constant or long-term force to allow the plunger 110 to remain in contact with the tubing 102 during the filling stage, thereby permitting measurement of the pumped volume. In the depicted example, the force applied by the first plunger biasing member 164a can be sufficient to maintain contact with the tubing 102 while allowing the pumped volume 107 to be filled.

[0048] During the delivery phase, peristaltic pump 100 delivers medical fluid to a downstream location, such as a patient, through downstream portion 108. As shown, plunger 110 is actuated, moved downward, or otherwise engaged to compress tubing wall 104 of tubing 102, thereby compressing pumping volume 107 to a compressed or reduced state.

[0049] During operation, compression of the pumping volume 107 expels or otherwise administers fluid from the pumping volume 107 to a downstream location. The rate of administration of the medical fluid can be controlled by the force and speed of the plunger 110.

[0050] As described herein, the first plunger biasing member 164a and the second plunger biasing member 164b cooperate to force the plunger 110 to compress the pumping volume 107 to a compressed state or a reduced state. In some embodiments, the second plunger biasing member 164b can force the plunger 110 to compress the pumping volume 107 to a compressed state or a reduced state without the cooperation of the first plunger biasing member 164a.

[0051] During administration, the upstream portion 106 of the tubing 102 is blocked, pinched, or otherwise obstructed by the upstream valve 120 to prevent or limit inadvertent fluid flow into the pumped volume 107 and to prevent or limit backflow of fluid from the pumped volume 107 into the medical container.

[0052] In the depicted example, the upstream valve 120 is actuated, moved downward, or otherwise engaged to compress the tubular wall 104 of the tubular 102 at the upstream portion 106, thereby blocking flow through the upstream portion 106 of the tubular 102. The upstream valve 120 may include a beveled engagement portion to contact the tubular 102. When engaged, the upstream valve 120 may prevent or restrict flow or fluid communication between the upstream portion 106 and the pumping volume 107.

[0053] During compression of the pumped volume 107, the medical fluid is forced to flow from the pumped volume 107 to a downstream location through the downstream portion 108 of the tubing 102. As shown, during compression of the pumped volume 107, the downstream portion 108 of the tubing 102 is unimpeded by the downstream valve 130, thereby permitting the medical fluid 10 to flow out of the tubing 102. During operation, the downstream valve 130 is withdrawn or retracted from the compressed portion of the tubing 102, thereby allowing the tubing wall 104 to elastically expand the downstream portion 108 to an initial or expanded state.

[0054] In the illustrated example, expansion of the downstream portion 108 permits the medical fluid 10 to flow out of the pumping volume 107. The mechanical resilience of the tubing 102 allows the tubing wall 104 to expand from a compressed state to an expanded state, thereby expanding the cross-sectional profile or flow area of ​​the downstream portion 108. The rate at which the downstream portion 108 rebounds from the compressed state to the expanded state may limit the size of the flow area or opening to flow out of the pumping volume 107. Therefore, the rate at which the downstream portion 108 rebounds from the compressed state to the expanded state may constrain or limit the amount of fluid that can flow out of the pumping volume 107 in a given period of time.

[0055] The amount of medical fluid 10 administered from the pumped volume 107 during the delivery phase may be determined by the timing and sequencing of the plunger 110 , the downstream valve 130 , and the mechanical properties of the tubing 102 .

[0056] During operation, the arrangement of the first plunger valve rocker 111a, the first plunger cam lobe 154a, and the first plunger biasing member 164a can allow the plunger 110 to contact the tubing during the measurement phase without applying fluid or damaging the tubing in the pumping volume. In some embodiments, the first plunger valve rocker 111a, the first plunger cam lobe 154a, and the first plunger biasing member 164a can allow the plunger 110 to always contact the tubing. The first plunger biasing member 164a can apply a force to the plunger 110 to allow the plunger 110 to contact the tubing 102, thereby determining the height of the tubing 102, the pumping volume 107, and / or the presence of air. In the described example, the force applied by the first plunger biasing member 164a can be sufficient to maintain contact with the tubing 102 without generating excessive pressure in the pumping volume.

[0057] During operation, the pipe 102 (eg Figure 1 1 (shown) draws in medical fluid 10 during the filling phase. The plunger 110 is withdrawn or retracted from the compressed portion of the tubing 102, thereby allowing the tubing wall 104 to elastically expand the pumping volume 107 to an initial or expanded state. The mechanical elasticity of the tubing 102 allows the tubing wall 104 to expand from the compressed state to the expanded state, thereby expanding the pumping volume 107. The rate at which the pumping volume 107 rebounds from the compressed state to the expanded state can determine the amount of fluid that can be drawn into the pumping volume 107 in a given period of time.

[0058] During expansion of the pumped volume 107, the downstream portion 108 of the tubing 102 may be blocked, squeezed, or otherwise obstructed by the downstream valve 130 to prevent or limit backflow, air, or contamination of fluid into the pumped volume 107. The downstream valve 130 is actuated, moved downward, or otherwise engaged to compress the tubing wall 104 of the tubing 102 at the downstream portion 108, thereby blocking flow through the downstream portion 108 of the tubing 102. The downstream valve 130 may include a beveled engagement portion that contacts the tubing 102. When engaged, the downstream valve 130 may prevent or limit flow or fluid communication from the downstream portion 108 into the pumped volume 107.

[0059] During expansion of the pumped volume 107, medical fluid 10 is drawn from the upstream portion 106 of the tubing 102 into the pumped volume 107. As shown, during expansion of the pumped volume 107, the upstream portion 106 of the tubing 102 is unimpeded by the upstream valve 120, thereby permitting the medical fluid 10 to enter the pumped volume 107. During operation, the upstream valve 120 is withdrawn or retracted from the compressed portion of the tubing 102 to allow the tubing wall 104 to elastically expand the upstream portion 106 to an initial or expanded state.

[0060] The expansion of the upstream portion 106 can permit the medical fluid 10 to flow into the pumping volume 107. The mechanical resilience of the tubing 102 allows the tubing wall 104 to expand from a compressed state to an expanded state, thereby expanding the cross-sectional profile or flow area of ​​the upstream portion 106. The amount of medical fluid 10 drawn into the pumping volume 107 during the filling stage can be determined by the timing and sequence of the plunger 110, the upstream valve 120, the viscosity of the medical fluid 10, and the mechanical properties of the tubing 102. Advantageously, as described herein, the first plunger biasing member 164a can maintain a constant or long-term force to allow the plunger 110 to remain in contact with the tubing 102 during the filling stage, thereby permitting measurement of the pumping volume. In the depicted example, the force applied by the first plunger biasing member 164a can be sufficient to maintain contact with the tubing 102 while allowing the pumping volume 107 to be filled.

[0061] Figure 4 1 is an exploded view of the plunger 110 and the backing 180. As shown, the plunger 110 may include a plunger air detection module 410 and the backing 180 may include a backing air detection module 420. The air detection modules 410, 420 may be arranged along the longitudinal axis L of the plunger and the backing, respectively. P , P B Extend the length of the piston 110 and the backing 180. The air detection modules 410, 420 can span a portion of the length of the plunger 110 and the backing 180, respectively. The air detection modules 410, 420 can include multiple elements, each element performing an in-line air measurement. In one embodiment, the air detection modules 410, 420 can include a single element. The air detection module 410 can send a signal, and the air detection module 420 can receive a signal. In one embodiment, the air detection module 420 can send a signal, and the air detection module 410 can receive a signal. When the plunger 110 is near the backing 180, particularly when in an engaged position during measurement, the air detection modules 410, 420 can be generally parallel to each other.

[0062] The air detection modules 410, 420 may be piezoelectric (piezoelectric) arrays. Figure 4As shown, the plunger 110 may include a slot or cutout shaped and sized to receive the air detection module 410. The backing 180 may include a slot or cutout shaped and sized to receive the air detection module 410. The piezoelectric array may include one or more elements that make up the air detection modules 410, 420. Each element of the piezoelectric array may be a square. In one embodiment, each element of the piezoelectric array may be a rectangle or another polygon. In one embodiment, each element of the piezoelectric array may be circular. In order to prevent the tubing segment from moving relative to the pump 100, a channel 182 may be defined around the slot or cutout of the backing 180. The channel 182 may include a front wedge 184 and a rear baffle 186 extending from the backing 180. The front wedge 184 may be angled so as to force the tubing segment toward the rear baffle 186 when the tubing segment is set therein. There may be multiple front wedges 184 substantially along the longitudinal axis L B The backing plate 186 may extend along the length of the backing 180. The backing plate 186 may be a generally flat feature extending from the backing 180. The backing plate 186 may be substantially along the longitudinal axis L. B Extends along the length of the backing 180 .

[0063] Each element in the piezoelectric array may be approximately 4 mm wide by 4 mm. Each element in the piezoelectric array may be approximately 2 mm wide by 2 mm. Each element in the piezoelectric array may be approximately 2.5 mm wide by 2.5 mm. Each element in the piezoelectric array may be approximately 3 mm wide by 3 mm. Each element in the piezoelectric array may be approximately 3.5 mm wide by 3.5 mm. Each element in the piezoelectric array may be approximately 4.5 mm wide by 4.5 mm. Each element in the piezoelectric array may be approximately 5 mm wide by 5 mm. Each element in the piezoelectric array may be approximately 5.5 mm wide by 5.5 mm. Each element in the piezoelectric array may be approximately 6 mm wide by 6 mm.

[0064] Each element in the piezoelectric array may be approximately 0.86 mm thick. Each element in the piezoelectric array may be approximately 0.8 mm thick. Each element in the piezoelectric array may be approximately 0.81 mm thick. Each element in the piezoelectric array may be approximately 0.82 mm thick. Each element in the piezoelectric array may be approximately 0.83 mm thick. Each element in the piezoelectric array may be approximately 0.84 mm thick. Each element in the piezoelectric array may be approximately 0.85 mm thick. Each element in the piezoelectric array may be approximately 0.87 mm thick. Each element in the piezoelectric array may be approximately 0.88 mm thick. Each element in the piezoelectric array may be approximately 0.89 mm thick. Each element in the piezoelectric array may be approximately 0.9 mm thick. Each element in the piezoelectric array may be approximately 0.91 mm thick.

[0065] Figure 5 An embodiment of air detection modules 410, 420 connected to the plunger 110 and the backing 180, respectively, is shown. In this example, the air detection module 410 can be a transmitter and the air detection module 420 can be a receiver. In one embodiment, the air detection module 420 can be a transmitter and the air detection module 410 can be a receiver. There can be a housing (not shown) covering the air detection modules 410, 420 to protect them from external forces and debris. There can be three air detection modules 410, 420 disposed on the plunger 110 and the backing 180, respectively. In one embodiment, there can be one air detection module 410, 420 disposed on the plunger 110 and the backing 180, respectively. The air detection modules 410, 420 can be cylindrical. The air detection modules 410, 420 can include components Figure 4 Same elements of the piezoelectric array shown.

[0066] The rate of administration of the medical fluid can be controlled by the force and speed of the plunger 110. Upon detection of air in the tubing, the rate of fluid volume flowing through the pump can be controlled to ensure safe infusion of the fluid to the patient.

[0067] The present disclosure is provided to enable any person skilled in the art to practice the various aspects described herein. The present disclosure provides various examples of the subject technology, and the subject technology is not limited to these examples. Multiple modifications to these aspects are very clear to those skilled in the art, and the general principles defined herein can be applied to other aspects.

[0068] Unless expressly specified otherwise, elements referred to in the singular are not intended to mean "one and only one," but rather "one or more." Unless expressly specified otherwise, the term "some" refers to one or more. Pronouns in the masculine (e.g., his) include the feminine and neuter genders (e.g., her and its) and vice versa. Headings and subheadings, if any, are used for convenience only and do not limit the present invention.

[0069] The word "exemplary" is used herein to mean "serving as an example or illustration." Any aspect or design described herein as "exemplary" is not necessarily to be construed as preferred or advantageous over other aspects or designs. In one aspect, the various alternative configurations and operations described herein may be considered to be at least equivalent.

[0070] Phrases such as "aspects" do not mean that such aspects are essential to the subject technology, or that such aspects apply to all configurations of the subject technology. The disclosure related to an aspect may apply to all configurations or one or more configurations. One aspect may provide one or more examples. Phrases such as "an aspect" may refer to one or more aspects, and vice versa. Phrases such as "embodiments" do not mean that such embodiments are essential to the subject technology, or that such embodiments apply to all configurations of the subject technology. The disclosure related to an embodiment may apply to all embodiments or one or more embodiments. An embodiment may provide one or more examples. Phrases such as "embodiments" may refer to one or more embodiments, and vice versa. Phrases such as "configurations" do not mean that such configurations are essential to the subject technology, or that such configurations apply to all configurations of the subject technology. The disclosure related to a configuration may apply to all configurations or one or more configurations. A configuration may provide one or more examples. Phrases such as "configurations" may refer to one or more configurations, and vice versa.

[0071] In one aspect, unless otherwise indicated, all measurements, values, ratings, positions, sizes, dimensions, and other specifications in this specification, including those set forth in the appended claims, are approximate and not exact. In one aspect, they are intended to have a reasonable range consistent with the functions to which they are related and with the customary practices in the art to which they belong.

[0072] In one aspect, the term "coupled" or the like may refer to a direct coupling. In another aspect, the term "coupled" or the like may refer to an indirect coupling.

[0073] Terms such as "top", "bottom", "front", "rear", etc. used in this disclosure should be understood to refer to an arbitrary reference frame other than the common gravitational reference frame. Thus, the top surface, bottom surface, front surface, and rear surface may extend upward, downward, diagonally, or horizontally in the gravitational reference frame.

[0074] Without departing from the scope of the subject technology, various items may be arranged differently (e.g., arranged in a different order, or divided in a different manner). All structural and functional equivalents of the elements of the various aspects described throughout the present disclosure are known to or will be known to those of ordinary skill in the art in the future, and are expressly incorporated herein by reference and are intended to be covered by the claims. In addition, none of the contents disclosed herein are intended to be contributed to the public, regardless of whether such disclosure is explicitly stated in the claims. Under the provisions of the sixth paragraph of 35 U.S.C. §112 (f), the elements of the claims will not be interpreted unless the phrase "means" is used to clearly state the element, or in the case of a method claim, the phrase "step for..." is used to state the element. In addition, for the scope of the terms "including", "having", etc. used, such terms are intended to be inclusive in a manner similar to the term "comprising", as interpreted when "comprising" is used as a transitional word in the claims.

[0075] The title, background technology, utility model content, figure description and abstract of the present disclosure are incorporated into the present disclosure hereby, and are provided as illustrative examples of the present disclosure rather than as restrictive descriptions. The submission of this application is based on the understanding that they will not be used to limit the scope or meaning of the claims. In addition, in the specific implementation, it can be seen that the description provides illustrative examples, and in order to simplify the present disclosure, various features are combined together in various embodiments. This disclosure method should not be interpreted as reflecting the intention that the subject matter claimed for protection requires more features than those explicitly stated in each claim. On the contrary, as reflected in the attached claims, the utility model subject matter lies in less than all the features of a single disclosed configuration or operation. The attached claims are thus incorporated into the specific implementation, wherein each claim is independently a subject matter claimed for protection.

[0076] The claims are not intended to be limited to the aspects described herein, but are to be accorded the full scope consistent with the language of the claims and including all legal equivalents. Nevertheless, no claim is intended to encompass subject matter that fails to satisfy the requirements of 35 U.S.C. §101, 102, or 103, nor should they be interpreted in such a manner.

Claims

1. A pump for detecting air, characterized in that: The pump comprises: a plunger movable to selectively engage a tubing segment including a fluid; A plunger air detection module disposed in the plunger; a cam shaft configured to move the plunger between an engaged position in contact with the tubular segment and a disengaged position spaced apart from the tubular segment; and A first biasing member is configured to urge the plunger toward the tubular segment to maintain contact with the tubular segment in the engaged position.

2. The pump according to claim 1, characterized in that It further includes: A backing is configured to engage the tubing segment in an engaged position and a disengaged position.

3. The pump according to claim 2, characterized in that The backing includes a channel configured to prevent movement of the tubing segment relative to the pump.

4. The pump according to claim 3, characterized in that The channel extends the longitudinal length of the backing.

5. The pump according to claim 4, characterized in that The channel is defined by the front wedge and the rear stop so as to extend along the longitudinal length of the backing between the front wedge and the rear stop.

6. The pump according to claim 2, characterized in that The backing includes a cutout extending along its longitudinal length.

7. The pump according to claim 6, characterized in that The cutout is configured to receive a backer air detection module.

8. The pump according to claim 7, characterized in that The backing air detection module is parallel to the plunger air detection module.

9. The pump according to claim 8, characterized in that The plunger air detection module is configured to transmit a signal and the backing air detection module is configured to receive the signal when the plunger is in an engaged position.

10. The pump according to claim 1, characterized in that The plunger air detection module includes multiple components.

11. The pump according to claim 10, characterized in that The plunger air detection module includes an array of piezoelectric elements.

12. The pump according to claim 1, characterized in that It further includes a slot defined in the plunger.

13. The pump according to claim 12, characterized in that The plunger air detection module is disposed in the slot.

14. The pump according to claim 1, characterized in that The plunger does not deform the tubular section in the engaged position.

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