Motorized infusion device

Abstract

A motorized infusion device, characterized in that it comprises drive means (1) linked to a transmission system (2) that converts the rotational motion generated by the drive means (1) into linear motion by means of a spindle (3) or threaded rod, on which a body (4) moves, comprising a coupling (5) that is attached to the plunger (12) of the syringe (13) by pressure; the syringe (13) is secured in a support (6) complementary to its cylindrical shape; and further comprising at least one pedal (11) that controls the operation of the drive means (1).

Description

Motorized infusion device OBJECT OF THE INVENTION The subject of the present invention, as its title indicates, is a motorized infusion device. This innovation offers advantages previously unknown within current techniques. The present invention is characterized by the special functional and constructive features of the elements that make up the device, such that they all contribute to the creation of a motorized infusion device—a portable and compact electromechanical device designed to bidirectionally actuate the plunger of a standard medical syringe. Its implementation is specifically aimed at improving efficiency in procedures requiring high precision, such as ultrasound-guided infiltrations, where it is essential to simultaneously operate several instruments with control and stability. This advancement seeks to optimize medical practice, providing professionals with a tool that facilitates the performance of complex procedures with greater comfort and accuracy. TECHNICAL SECTOR The present invention belongs to the technical field of medical devices for the assisted administration of medications. This development focuses on electrically driven systems that operate the plunger of a syringe, providing precision and autonomy in situations where manual control might be limited or inefficient. Its use is primarily in the field of medical instrumentation, particularly in ultrasound-guided interventional procedures such as diagnostic and therapeutic infiltrations. These procedures demand a high degree of accuracy in both aspiration and injection delivery. In this context, the motorized device becomes an indispensable tool for ensuring optimal results and minimizing risks. BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION In the field of medical technology, motorized devices have been developed to automate the actuation of syringe plungers. These systems mostly incorporate stepper motors and advanced electronic circuits that allow for precise control of injection speed and volume. Their main application is in contexts where automated dosing is critical, such as in specialized medical treatments or surgical procedures. US patent 9744293B2 describes an electrical device designed to drive syringes with potentiometer-based speed control. However, it does not specifically address its use in ultrasound-guided infiltration procedures. Furthermore, it does not include a design that allows the practitioner to simultaneously hold the probe and needle, which is essential for ensuring accuracy and safety during these types of procedures. The system described in US patent 9744293B2 features a motorized mechanism designed to control aspiration and injection using one or two electric pedals. These pedals, equipped with potentiometers, allow the user to precisely regulate the flow rate by applying forward or backward pressure. The system utilizes a stepper motor, electronically managed by a separate control unit, ensuring efficient and controlled operation. While its compatibility with standard 5-20 cc syringes and its application in ultrasound-guided procedures are not specified, the device incorporates safety buffers that limit the plunger's travel, guaranteeing greater precision and safety during use. This design offers an advanced and reliable solution for medical applications requiring motorized control in aspiration and injection processes. US2017 / 0252209A1 describes a system for administering ocular fluids that uses a single or double foot pedal-operated controller. This pedal sends signals to a control unit that regulates a stepper motor, allowing precise movement of the plunger in the injection or retraction direction, depending on the type of pedal applied. The system focuses on the precision of fluid control but makes no mention of ultrasound technology or compatibility with standard syringes, suggesting a design specifically for controlled ophthalmic applications. This approach aims to ensure accurate and safe fluid handling during delicate ocular procedures. The cable-driven syringe pump system, identified as US2025 / 0041513A1, incorporates a connection port designed for a foot pedal or joystick, allowing the user to operate the device hands-free. This feature facilitates syringe handling while controlling fluid flow with the foot. The device requires advanced electronic processing and a signal-based control system to regulate the motor. However, its application in ultrasound procedures and compatibility with standard syringes are not specified, which could limit its versatility in certain medical settings. This design aims to optimize accuracy and comfort in fluid administration, emphasizing ergonomics and functionality. US patent 7,635,349 B2 describes a syringe pump equipped with a force sensor designed to detect occlusions during the injection process. This device allows for real-time identification of blockages and, if one occurs, automatically reverses the plunger's movement to prevent damage or interruptions to the procedure. The technology employs a motor, spindle, and force sensors to ensure precise and safe operation. It is important to note that this system does not include an electric foot pedal for control and is not specifically designed for ultrasound-guided applications, making it more suitable for other medical contexts where occlusion detection is critical. US patents 5,259,385 and 4,887,606 represent significant advancements in the integration of ultrasonic technology into cannulation systems. These innovations incorporate ultrasonic Doppler flow within the needle or insertion device, enabling more precise localization of blood vessels during medical procedures. While they do not include motorized mechanisms or pedals to actuate the plunger, their focus is on optimizing guidance through internal ultrasound, resulting in a notable improvement in the accuracy of vascular puncture. These solutions are designed to reduce errors and increase safety in clinical interventions requiring high precision. Furthermore, many of these systems are not compatible with standard syringes, require special adapters, and are designed for automated environments, not for portable use or in outpatient procedures. Therefore, there is a need for a simple, portable, low-cost device that facilitates hands-free plunger control without the need for complex electronics, and that is compatible with procedures such as ultrasound-guided infiltrations. With reference to the current state of the art, it should be noted that, although various designs of motorized devices for syringe control are known, the existence of any other that presents structural and constitutive technical characteristics equal or similar to those presented by the invention claimed herein is unknown. EXPLANATION OF THE INVENTION The invention relates to a motorized infusion device specifically designed to optimize clinical procedures requiring control and ergonomics. This innovative system allows for bidirectional actuation of the plunger of a standard medical syringe by means of an advanced drive mechanism, operated by two independent electric pedals that ensure precise and safe control during operation. Its ergonomic design facilitates its use in procedures requiring the simultaneous manipulation of several instruments, such as ultrasound-guided infiltrations, where precision and stability are essential. Furthermore, its portability makes it an ideal tool for diverse clinical settings, allowing its integration into modern medical practices that prioritize efficiency and the comfort of the healthcare professional.This device represents an advanced technological solution that significantly improves the user experience and clinical outcomes, standing out as an indispensable tool in the field of medicine. Specifically, what the invention proposes, as noted above, is a motorized infusion device designed for the electrical control of the plunger of standard syringes, a solution that facilitates the administration of medicines and image-guided procedures, optimizing medical practice in multiple specialties. This device has been specifically designed to address the limitations of traditional methods in drug delivery and ultrasound-assisted invasive procedures. Its design allows for the operation of standard syringes between 5 and 20 cc using a simple drive mechanism, eliminating the need for complex electronic controllers. This ensures reliable and straightforward operation, even in environments where technical simplicity is paramount. The device is adaptable to any standard syringe within the mentioned range, facilitating its integration into routine clinical practices without the need to purchase specific or expensive consumables. It is operated by one or two independent electric pedals. This allows the professional to keep their hands completely free to manipulate the needle and ultrasound probe, optimizing hand-eye coordination during delicate procedures. By dispensing with microprocessors and complex electronic systems, the device offers a robust and reliable solution, especially useful in environments where simplicity and minimal maintenance are crucial. The device is particularly useful in procedures requiring precision and control, such as ultrasound-guided injections. These interventions are common in areas such as the treatment of joint conditions through intra-articular injections, the administration of regenerative or anti-inflammatory therapies, image-guided nerve blocks, or minor procedures requiring precision and safety. Its ability to improve ergonomics and reduce the risk of errors makes it a valuable tool for professionals who perform frequent interventions. The device addresses a specific technical need that has not been met by existing solutions. Unlike other more complex and expensive systems, this invention combines simplicity, precision, and compatibility with existing equipment. The ability to perform aspirations prior to the procedure allows verification that the needle has entered a blood vessel, minimizing risks. Electrical control ensures uniform medication delivery, reducing unwanted variations in flow. By freeing the practitioner's hands, posture is improved and fatigue is reduced during prolonged procedures. Unless otherwise stated, all technical and scientific terms used herein have the meanings commonly understood by a person skilled in the art to which this invention pertains. Similar or equivalent procedures and materials to those described herein may be used in the practice of this invention. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS To complete the description being made and in order to aid in a better understanding of the characteristics of the invention, this descriptive report is accompanied, as an integral part thereof, by figures in which, for illustrative and non-limiting purposes, the following has been represented: Figure 1 is a perspective representation of the motorized infusion device with a syringe (13). Figure 2 is a perspective representation of the interior of the motorized infusion device with a syringe (13). Figure 3 is a perspective representation of the interior of the motorized infusion device. Figure 4 is a perspective representation of the pedals (11) of the motorized infusion device. PREFERRED EMBODIMENT OF THE INVENTION In view of the figures, a preferred, though not limiting, embodiment of the proposed invention is described below, which consists of a motorized infusion device. The motorized infusion device is designed to provide precise and automated control of the drug infusion process. As shown in the figures, the motorized infusion device comprises a drive unit (1), configured as an electric motor powered by a standard electrical source. This source can be a battery, which may be rechargeable, thus making the device portable, or a transformer connected to the electrical grid. The driving means (1) are responsible for generating the movement necessary to operate the plunger (12) of the syringe (13), allowing the controlled administration of the medication. The motorized infusion device comprises a transmission system (2) that converts the rotational motion generated by the drive means (1) into linear motion. Depending on the embodiment, this transmission system (2) may comprise a spindle (3) or threaded rod on which a body (4) moves. This body (4) comprises a coupling (5) that is attached to the plunger (12) of the syringe (13) by pressure, ensuring stability and accuracy during operation. The syringe (13) is placed in a support (6) that complements its cylindrical shape. This support (6) includes a groove (7) that houses the finger support (14) of the base of the syringe (13) tube (15). Furthermore, the motorized infusion device includes an adjustable stop (8) that prevents unwanted movement of the syringe (13), ensuring its correct position during use. The device stop (8) comprises a rotating shaft (9) that allows the user to lock or unlock the syringe (13) as needed. This mechanism is easy to operate: pulling up on the stop (8) releases the syringe (13) for insertion or removal; upon release, an integrated spring (10) automatically secures the lock. Additionally, the motorized infusion device comprises at least one pedal (11) activated by the user's feet. In configurations with a single pedal (11), this pedal controls both the push movement, for infusing medication, and the retraction movement, for aspirating. Alternatively, the device may comprise two independent pedals (11), each dedicated to a specific function, one for push and the other for retraction. Alternatively, the motorized infusion device may include physical safety systems, such as limit switches, which automatically stop the movement of the plunger (12) when it reaches the set limits. It also has emergency stop systems that allow the device to be shut down immediately in the event of any malfunction. Having sufficiently described the nature of the present invention, as well as the manner of putting it into practice, it is not considered necessary to make its explanation more extensive so that any expert in the field may understand its scope and the advantages that derive from it, it being noted that, within its essentiality, it may be put into practice in other modes of embodiment that differ in detail from the one indicated as an example, and which will also achieve the protection sought provided that its fundamental principle is not altered, changed or modified.

Claims

1. A motorized infusion device, characterized in that it comprises drive means (1) linked to a transmission system (2) that converts the rotational motion generated by the drive means (1) into linear motion by means of a spindle (3) or threaded rod, on which a body (4) moves, comprising a coupling (5) that is attached to the plunger (12) of the syringe (13) by pressure; the syringe (13) is secured in a support (6) complementary to its cylindrical shape; and further comprising at least one pedal (11) that controls the operation of the drive means (1).

2. A motorized infusion device according to the preceding claim, characterized in that the drive means (1) is an electric motor.

3. A motorized infusion device according to the preceding claim, characterized in that it operates with a battery or a transformer connected to the electrical grid. 4.Motorized infusion device, according to the preceding claim, characterized in that the battery is rechargeable.

5. Motorized infusion device, according to any of the preceding claims, characterized in that the support (6) comprises a groove (7) in which the finger support (14) of the base of the syringe tube (15) is housed.

6. Motorized infusion device, according to any of the preceding claims, characterized in that it comprises an adjustable stop (8) that blocks unwanted movement of the syringe (13).

7. Motorized infusion device, according to the preceding claim, characterized in that the stop (8) comprises a rotating axis (9) about which it rotates.

8. Motorized infusion device, according to claim 6, characterized in that the stop (8) comprises a locking spring (10). 9.A motorized infusion device, according to any of the preceding claims, characterized in that it comprises two independent pedals (11), one for advancing and the other for retracting the drive means (1).

10. A motorized infusion device, according to any of the preceding claims, characterized in that it comprises at least one limit switch, configured to stop the movement of the plunger (12) upon reaching a limit.