PERISTALTIC PUMP PINCH CONTROL

Abstract

CONTROL OF PINCHING IN PERISTALTIC PUMPS The invention relates to a method for extending the service life of a peristaltic pump, the method including setting a timer for a predetermined rest time after use of the peristaltic pump, transmitting a micro-pulse to a motor of the peristaltic pump after the elapsed rest time, and moving a drive roller from an initial position to a second position so that a pinch point of a tube of the peristaltic pump is formed in the second position.The invention further relates to a computer-readable, non-transient storage medium that stores instructions causing the computer or computers to set a timer for a predetermined rest period after the peristaltic pump has been used, to transmit a micro-pulse to a motor after the predetermined rest period has elapsed, and to move a motor roller from an initial position to a second position such that a pinch point in a tube of the peristaltic pump is formed in the second position. Figure for the abstract: none.

Description

Title of the invention: CONTROL OF THE Pinch of peristaltic pumps SUMMARY

[0001] In one aspect, a method for extending the life of a peristaltic pump is disclosed herein, the method including setting a timer for a predetermined rest time after use of the peristaltic pump, transmitting a micro-pulse to a motor of the peristaltic pump after the predetermined rest time has elapsed, and moving a motor roller from an initial position to a second position so that a pinch point of a tube of the peristaltic pump is formed in the second position.

[0002] In some embodiments, the predetermined rest time is approximately 12 hours.

[0003] In some embodiments, the second position is offset at an angle relative to the initial position. In some embodiments, the angle is approximately 30 degrees.

[0004] In some embodiments, the method further includes resetting a second timer for a rotation time a predetermined number of times, transmitting a micro-pulse of a plurality of micro-pulses to the motor each time the rotation time elapses, and moving the motor roller to a new position so that a pinch point of the peristaltic pump tube is formed in the new position each time the micro-pulse of the plurality of micro-pulses is received by the motor.

[0005] In some embodiments, the method further includes setting a second timer for a rotation time, once the rotation time has elapsed, transmitting a second micro-pulse to the motor, and moving the motor roller from the second position to a third position so that a pinch point of the peristaltic pump tube is formed in the third position.

[0006] In some embodiments, the third position is offset at an angle relative to the second position. In some embodiments, the angle is approximately 30 degrees.

[0007] In some embodiments, the method further includes resetting the second timer a predetermined number of times, transmitting a micropulse or a plurality of micropulses to the motor each time the rotation time elapses, and moving the drive roller from the third position to a new position such that a pinch point of the peristaltic pump tube is formed in the new position each time the micro-impulse from the plurality of micro-impulses is received by the motor.

[0008] In some embodiments, the peristaltic pump is integrated into a device. In some embodiments, the micro-pulse is transmitted by a control device of the device.

[0009] In another aspect, a computer-readable non-transient storage medium is disclosed here that stores instructions which, when executed by one or more computers, cause the computer or computers to set a timer for a predetermined rest time after the use of the peristaltic pump, transmit a micro-pulse to a motor of the peristaltic pump after the elapsed rest time, and move a motor roller from an initial position to a second position so that a pinch point of a tube of the peristaltic pump is formed in the second position.

[0010] In some embodiments, the predetermined rest time is approximately 12 hours. In some embodiments, the second position is offset at an angle relative to the initial position. In some embodiments, the angle is approximately 30 degrees.

[0011] In some embodiments, the instructions are further configured to set a second timer for a rotation time, transmit a second micropulse to the motor after the rotation time has elapsed, and move the drive roller from the second position to a third position so that a pinch point in the peristaltic pump tube is formed in the third position. In some embodiments, the third position is offset at an angle relative to the second position. In some embodiments, the angle is approximately 30 degrees.

[0012] In some embodiments, the instructions are further configured to reset the second timer a predetermined number of times, transmit a micro-pulse of a plurality of micro-pulses to the motor each time the rotation time elapses, and move the motor roller from the third position to a new position so that a pinch point of the peristaltic pump tube is formed in the new position each time the micro-pulse of the plurality of micro-pulses is received by the motor.

[0013] In some embodiments, the peristaltic pump is integrated into a device, and the micro-pulse is transmitted by a control device of the device.

[0014] The purpose of this summary is to present a selection of concepts in a simplified form, which are described in greater detail below in the detailed description. This summary is not intended to identify key features of the claimed subject matter, nor is it intended to be used as an aid in determining the scope of the claimed subject matter. Description of drawings

[0015] [Fig.1A] Fig.1A is a perspective view of an example of a device equipped with a peristaltic pump, in accordance with the present technology;

[0016] [Fig.1B] [Fig.1B] is a cross-section of the example device of [Fig.1A], according to the present technology;

[0017] [Fig 2A-2B] Figures 2A and 2B are examples of peristaltic pumps performing a method for extending the service life of a peristaltic pump, in accordance with the present technology; and

[0018] [Fig.3] [Fig.3] is an example of a method for extending the life of a peristaltic pump, according to the present technology.

[0019] The preceding aspects and many related advantages of the present invention will be more readily understood as they are better understood with reference to the following detailed description, when taken in conjunction with the accompanying drawings. Detailed description

[0020] The following description provides several examples that relate, in general, to the condition and lifespan of peristaltic pumps. In some embodiments, the peristaltic pumps are incorporated into a device, such as a hair coloring device.

[0021] In certain embodiments, the device is configured to apply a treatment formulation to targeted areas of the hair and scalp tissue. Examples of treatment formulations applied by the embodiments include, but are not limited to: a permanent hair dye; a semi-permanent hair dye; a developer; a conditioner; a hair growth treatment, such as minoxidil manufactured under the trade name ROGAINE®; a protein hair treatment; a disulfide bond repair hair treatment, such as OLAPLEX®; a liquid hair treatment; a liquid scalp treatment, and the like.Although any hair and scalp treatment formulation may be appropriately applied using the embodiments of the device described herein, this disclosure generally refers to a hair coloring formulation as an example of a treatment formulation applied by the device described below. However, it should be understood that any of the listed hair and scalp treatment formulations are interchangeable with the coloring formulation described herein.

[0022] Targeted root hair coloring, such as during a maintenance procedure for previously colored hair, generally involves applying a coloring formulation to hair segments near the scalp. To achieve the desired result of blending naturally colored hair segments near the scalp with previously colored hair, the coloring formulation must generally be applied only to the roots, which requires precise delivery of the coloring formulation.

[0023] Hair coloring formulations generally include at least one dye and one separate developer, which must be mixed in controlled proportions for effective and predictable results. As used here, the term "color formulation" (or FC) generally refers to any one of a dye, developer, formulation, fluid, or any mixture thereof.

[0024] In conventional peristaltic pumps, the formula flows from one end of a formula delivery tube of a peristaltic pump to the other end, to be ultimately dispensed by the device. The peristaltic pump may include one or more drive rollers configured to pinch the formula delivery tube when the device is not in use to prevent leakage, dripping, or the like. The drive roller may also pinch the formula delivery tube during device storage. Constant compression of the formula delivery tube in peristaltic pumps can lead to excessive fining, particularly in silicone tubing, which can result in permanent deformation or melting of the tube's internal diameter.

[0025] Therefore, the following examples of methods and software for extending the service life of peristaltic pumps are presented by ensuring that a pinch point on a peristaltic pump tube does not undergo tubing failure or melting when the device remains unused. In some embodiments, the motor receives one or more micropulses from a control device, such as a device control device, which instructs the motor to move a drive roller to a new location along a formula delivery tube. In some embodiments, the first micropulse is transmitted after a predetermined time following use of the device. In some embodiments, the predetermined time is approximately 12 hours. This ensures that the micropulse is sent overnight when the device is not in use.In such embodiments, the drive roller can be moved without interrupting the normal operation of the device. After the first micropulse, additional micropulses can be transmitted each time a rotation time (via a second timer) elapses. In some embodiments, the rotation time is 24 hours, which can also... Ensure that the micro-pulse is sent overnight, when the device is not in use. In this way, even if the device is not used for an extended period, the motor roller moves along the formulation delivery tube, reducing or eliminating tube fining and melting.

[0026] Figure 1A is a perspective view of an example of a device equipped with a peristaltic pump, according to the present technology. The formula 100 delivery device is shown in use with a plurality of nozzles to implement one or more methodologies or technologies such as, for example, the application of a coloring formulation to a user's hair and / or scalp tissue. For example, some coloring formulations provide better results when applied to a targeted area of ​​the user's hair, for example, when treating the root segments of the hair, as described above.However, as also discussed above, conventional hair coloring kits are generally designed for manual mixing and application of the coloring formulation, a time-consuming process that is not well-suited for achieving consistent and desired results. Furthermore, the results obtained from conventional hair coloring kits often depend heavily on technique, requiring practice and familiarity with the process to achieve the desired results.

[0027] Using the embodiments of this disclosure, the coloring formulation can be applied to parts of the hair in a way that would be difficult to achieve with the direct application of the coloring formulation alone. Embodiments of this disclosure are also suitable for applying a treatment formulation to any surface of the user's body or any other suitable surface.

[0028] Although the formula delivery device 100 and other examples of embodiments are described and illustrated as being used with a plurality of nozzles, it should be understood that the formula delivery devices shown and described herein can be used with any suitable formulation applicator configuration and for any suitable use.

[0029] The formula dispensing device 100 is represented as a device having a handle assembly 104 and a consumable assembly 200. In this respect, the formula dispensing device 100 will be referred to hereafter as the device 100. The handle assembly 104 includes a handle shell 110 and a control button 106. The handle shell 110 provides a surface that the user can grip with one hand while using the device 100. In this respect, the handle shell 110 has an ergonomic shape in the illustrated embodiments. However, in other embodiments, the handle shell 110 has, appropriately, any shape to contain the internal components and provide one or more gripping surfaces for the user. In other embodiments, the consumable assembly 200 can form at least part of the gripping surfaces for the user.

[0030] The handle shell 110 houses various device control components, such as one or more elements from a drive motor having a gearbox (see [Fig.1B]), a central processing unit, a battery, a communication system (such as a wireless network (Wi-Fi), radio frequency identification (RFID), near field communication (NFC), BLUETOOTH®, etc.), an electrical and data connector at a port level (such as Universal Serial Bus (USB), FireWire, or similar), temperature sensors, accelerometers, fluid sensors, data scanners, light sources, a sound signal generator, fluid heating sources, temperature controllers, and other suitable control components, which are not illustrated for simplicity.In some embodiments, the port is used appropriately to provide an interface between the internal control components of device 100 and external components / systems, and / or to charge the battery of device 100.

[0031] The control button 106 can be configured to activate, deactivate, and control elements of the device 100. In certain embodiments, pressing the control button 106 powers on the device 100 such that the FC staining formulation is drawn from the formulation containers (see [Fig. 1B]). In these embodiments, releasing the control button 106 can stop the flow of the staining formulation.In some examples, the control button 106 can be used to initialize the device 100 or to place the device 100 into a state to perform certain functions, such as one or more of the following: calculating a mixing ratio of the components of the FC coloring formulation; entering a cleaning or purging mode; heating the formulation; collecting data from formulation containers, such as remaining volume, mixing ratios, color information, etc.; sending and receiving signals through the port; analyzing data regarding user preferences; collecting data from sensors; providing status indications to the user, such as output power level, battery life, remaining formulation volume, sensor data, data connection information, etc.; and communicating with auxiliary equipment.In some embodiments, the control knob 106 is capable of pressure-sensitive operation, such that applying higher pressure to the control knob 106 causes a variable response such as, for example, causing the formulation to flow faster, the nozzles to. to move faster, or similar. In some embodiments, various operating parameters can be controlled by the use of an intelligent device, such as a phone, as described in detail in US patent application no. 14 / 586 138.

[0032] The consumable assembly 200 will now be described in more detail. The consumable assembly 200 generally includes a top cover 108 to house and enclose various components of the consumable assembly 200, which will be described in more detail below. The outlet area of ​​the upper cover 108 includes a plurality of elongated nozzles 210 extending from a collector housing 202 coupled to or formed on the upper cover 108. The elongated nozzles 210 are configured to discharge the FC coloring formulation through a plurality of outlet openings 212 in the end of the nozzle 210 when using the apparatus 100. In some embodiments, the nozzles 210 are arranged in one or more rows along the length of the upper cover 108, usually in one direction along the length of the apparatus 100, as illustrated in Figures IA and IB.In other embodiments, the nozzles 210 are appropriately placed at an angle to the length of the device 100.

[0033] In some embodiments, the nozzles 210 have a length of between approximately 0.5 cm and approximately 4.0 cm from the manifold housing 202 to the tip of the nozzles 210 at the outlet openings 212. In other embodiments, the nozzles 210 have a length of between approximately 1.4 cm and approximately 1.8 cm from the manifold housing 202 to the tip of the nozzles 210 at the outlet openings 212. In other embodiments, the nozzles 210 have a length of approximately 1.6 cm from the manifold housing 202 to the tip of the nozzles 210 at the outlet openings 212. In other embodiments, any nozzle length is used appropriately.

[0034] In the illustrated embodiment, a plurality of spacing projections 220 extend outwards substantially in the direction of the nozzles 210 from the upper cover 108 in one or more rows. In this respect, substantially in the direction of the nozzles 210 refers to an angle of approximately 25 degrees maximum from the direction along the length of the nozzles 210. In the illustrated embodiment, the first and second rows of projections 220 are positioned along each side of a single row of elongated nozzles 210. In some embodiments, the spacing projections 220 may be arranged at an angle to the plurality of nozzles 210.

[0035] In certain embodiments, each of the spacing projections 220 has a length (measured between the upper cover 108 and one end of the spacing projections 220) such that the end of the spacing projection 220 and the openings The outlets 212 of the nozzles 210 are substantially coplanar. In other embodiments, the spacing projections 220 have a length (from the upper cover 108 to the end of the spacing projection 220) such that the spacing projections 220 are longer than a length of the nozzles 210 (measured between the upper cover 108 and an end of the nozzles 210). In this regard, during use, the spacer protrusions 220 will come into contact with an application surface, such as a localized part of the scalp, and will space the outlet opening 212 of the nozzles 210 from the application surface to provide space for the FC coloring formulation to be evacuated through the outlet opening 212. In embodiments where the spacer protrusions 220 are longer than the plurality of nozzles 210, the spacer protrusions 220 are between approximately 0.1 mm and 5.0 mm longer than the length of each of the plurality of nozzles 210.In other embodiments, the spacing protrusions 220 are between approximately 0.5 mm and 1.5 mm longer than the length of each of the plurality of nozzles 210. In other embodiments, the spacing protrusions 220 are approximately 1.0 mm longer than the length of each of the plurality of nozzles 210.

[0036] Fig. 1B is a cross-section of the example device 100 of Fig. 1A, according to the present technology. In some embodiments, the device 100 further includes a formulation cartridge 402 in which one or more formulation containers 418 (for example, pouches or packets) are arranged, each having an outlet nozzle 220 protruding through a distal (front) end of the formulation cartridge 402 in a configuration that fluidically connects to a corresponding formulation inlet 422 of a peristaltic pump 410 when the formulation cartridge 402 is fully inserted into the cartridge cavity 424.

[0037] A button 106 located on the reusable handle 406 and electrically connected to the control device 412 activates the functions of the formulation dispensing device 400 described above. In some embodiments, pressing the button 106 activates the elements of any of the modules described above. For example, in some embodiments, pressing the button 106 activates a standby / wake-up module stored in the control device 412, thereby switching the formulation dispensing device 400 from a standby state to a wake-up state. In some embodiments, pressing the button 106 while a formulation cartridge is inserted into the reusable handle 406 activates a formulation routine module stored in the control device 412, thereby initiating a formulation routine.

[0038] In certain embodiments, pressing button 106 while a cleaning cartridge is inserted into the reusable handle 406 activates a module a cleaning routine is stored in the control unit 412, thus initiating a cleaning routine. Visual indicators 428 (for example, LEDs) arranged along the reusable handle 406 indicate one or more pieces of information, such as the amount of formulation remaining or the remaining battery life, for example, based on a dispensing time determined by the formulation routine module of the control unit. Some embodiments include additional buttons and / or a different number of visual indicators 428 with different functions, and the illustrated embodiment is not limited to these. In some embodiments, the visual indicator 428 is a multi-segment LED, each segment corresponding to an equal proportion of the formulation remaining in the formulation cartridge.

[0039] The control device 412 includes logic (stored in one of its data stores) which, when executed by a processor of the control device 412, causes a cartridge authentication interface 430 disposed in the reusable handle 406 (for example, an RFID reader) to read an encryption chip 432 on the formulation cartridge 402 in order to authenticate the formulation cartridge 402. The encryption chip 432 stores at least one piece of information among a formulation cartridge 402, a formulation identification, an initial quantity of formulation, a formulation expiration date or a formulation production date.

[0040] The control device 412 also includes logic which, when executed, causes the formulation delivery system to execute, on the basis of the authentication of the formulation cartridge 402, a formulation routine which dispenses a mixture of formulations (of the first formulation and the second formulation) from the formulation cartridge 402 through the formulation distribution assembly.For example, the formulation delivery device authenticates the first and second formulations after (or during) the insertion of a formulation cartridge into the reusable handle and then, in response to the pressing of a button on the reusable handle, executes a formulation routine which causes the peristaltic pump 410 to continuously mix the first and second formulations, and dispense them from the reciprocating nozzle assembly at one or more of the following predetermined device operating parameters as long as the button is pressed: a formulation flow rate, a reciprocating frequency or a reciprocating amplitude.

[0041] In certain embodiments, the control device 412 also includes logic which, when executed, causes the formulation dispensing device to perform, based on the authentication of a cleaning cartridge inserted into the reusable handles, a cleaning routine which distributes a cleaning liquid through the formulation dispensing assembly. For example, the formulation dispensing device authenticates a cleaning cartridge inserted into the reusable handle and then, in response to the pressing of a button on the reusable handle, executes a cleaning routine that causes the peristaltic pump 410 to continuously dispense a cleaning liquid (for example, water) from the reciprocating nozzle assembly at one or more of the following predetermined device operating parameters as long as the button is pressed: a cleaning liquid flow rate, a reciprocating motion frequency, or a reciprocating motion amplitude.In some embodiments, the cleaning fluid flow rate is greater than any formulation flow rate of one or more formulation routines stored in the control device 412, in order to efficiently rinse residual formulation from the formulation dispensing assembly.

[0042] In some embodiments, the control device 412 also includes logic which, when executed, causes the formulation delivery device to deliver one or more micro-pulses to a peristaltic pump motor 410.In one aspect, a computer-readable non-transient storage medium is disclosed here that stores instructions which, when executed by one or more computers, cause the computer or computers (e.g., the control device 412) to set a timer for a predetermined rest time after the use of the peristaltic pump 410, transmit a micropulse to a motor of the peristaltic pump after the elapsed rest time, and move a motor roller from an initial position to a second position so that a pinch point of a tube of the peristaltic pump is formed in the second position, as illustrated in detail in Figures 2A and 2B.In some embodiments, the instructions are further configured to set a second timer for a rotation time, transmit a second micropulse to the motor after the rotation time has elapsed, and move the drive roller from the second position to a third position such that a pinch point in the peristaltic pump tube is formed in the third position. In some embodiments, the instructions are further configured to reset the second timer a predetermined number of times, transmit a micropulse from a plurality of micropulses to the motor each time the rotation time elapses, and move the drive roller from the third position to a new position such that a pinch point in the peristaltic pump tube is formed in the new position each time the micropulse from the plurality of micropulses is received by the motor.

[0043] The traction adapter 404 attaches to the reusable handle 406 over the reciprocating nozzle assembly 414. In some embodiments, the traction adapter 404 provides an audible feedback signal to indicate correct engagement with the reusable handle 406.

[0044] Figures 2A and 2B are examples of peristaltic pumps 410 performing a method for extending the service life of a peristaltic pump 410, according to the present technology. In some embodiments, the peristaltic pump 410 includes a motor 225, a formula delivery tube 230, and a drive roller 235.

[0045] In operation, the formula flows from one end of the formula delivery tube 230 to the other end, to be ultimately dispensed by a device. In some embodiments, the peristaltic pump includes one or more drive rollers 235 configured to pinch the formula delivery tube 230 at the pinch point P when the device is not in use to prevent leakage, dripping, or the like. In some embodiments, the drive roller 235 pinches the formula delivery tube 230 while the device is stored. As explained herein, constant compression of the formula delivery tube 230 in peristaltic pumps can lead to excessive fining, particularly in silicone tubing, which can result in permanent deformation or melting of the tube's internal diameter.

[0046] In order to minimize, or even eliminate, fining, a method has been developed to reduce the compression time of a particular area of ​​the formula 230 delivery tube. In some embodiments, micro-pulses are transmitted to the motor 225 to incrementally modify the location of the pinch point P so that the relaxation period of the formula 230 delivery tube is maximized, which reduces fining and prevents the tube from melting.

[0047] In operation, a timer can be set for a predetermined rest time after the use of the peristaltic pump 410. After the predetermined rest time has elapsed, a micro-pulse can be transmitted to a motor 225 of the peristaltic pump 410. In response to the micro-pulse, the motor roller 235 moves from an initial position (P in [Fig.2A]) to a second position (P in [Fig.2B]) so that a pinch point P of the formula delivery tube 230 (or "tube") of the peristaltic pump 410 is formed in the second position (as illustrated in [Fig.2B]).

[0048] In some embodiments, the predetermined rest time is approximately 12 hours. Indeed, it is likely that a user of a device containing the peristaltic pump 410 (such as device 100) will use the device during the day. By setting the time to 12 hours, the 235 motorized roller can move at night, when the user is less likely to use the device.

[0049] In some embodiments, the second position (P in [Fig. 2B]) is offset by an angle A relative to the initial position (P in [Fig. 2A]). In some embodiments, the angle is approximately 30 degrees.

[0050] In some embodiments, micro-pulses are transmitted to the motor 225 of the peristaltic pump 410 each time a second timer expires. In some embodiments, the second timer is set for a rotation time. In some embodiments, the rotation time is 24 hours. In some embodiments, the 24-hour rotation time ensures that the drive roller 235 is offset overnight. In this way, the pinch point P can be shifted several times when the device is not in use, further preventing tubing from kinking and melting.In such embodiments, the method further includes resetting the second timer a predetermined number of times, transmitting a micro-pulse of a plurality of micro-pulses to the motor 225 each time the rotation time elapses, and moving the drive roller 235 into a new position so that a pinch point P of the formula delivery tube 230 of the peristaltic pump 410 is formed in the new position each time the micro-pulse of the plurality of micro-pulses is received by the motor 225.

[0051] In some embodiments, a single micropulse may be transmitted to the motor 225. In some embodiments, the method includes setting a second timer for a rotation time; once the rotation time has elapsed, a second micropulse is transmitted to the motor, and the motor roller is moved from the second position to a third position so that a pinch point of the peristaltic pump tube is formed in the third position. In other embodiments, a first micropulse may move the pinch point from the initial position to the second position, and a second micropulse may move the pinch point from the second position back to the initial position.In this way, the initial position and the second position can be alternated each time a micro-pulse is transmitted to the motor 225,

[0052] In some embodiments, the third position is offset by an angle A relative to the second position. In some embodiments, angle A is approximately 30 degrees.

[0053] In certain embodiments, the second timer is reset a predetermined number of times, a micro-pulse of a plurality of micro-pulses is transmitted to the motor each time the rotation time elapses, and the drive roller is moved from the third position to a new position so that a pinch point of the peristaltic pump tube is formed in the new position each time the micro-pulse of the plurality of micro-pulses is received by the motor.

[0054] In some embodiments, the peristaltic pump is integrated into a device (such as device 100). In some embodiments, the micropulse is transmitted by a control device (such as control device 412) of the device.

[0055] Figure mi3 is an example of a method 300 for extending the service life of a peristaltic pump according to the present technology. In some embodiments, the method 300 is carried out with the peristaltic pump (such as the peristaltic pump 410) of Figures 2A and 2B. In some embodiments, the peristaltic pump includes a motor (such as the motor 225), a tube (such as the formula delivery tube 230), and a drive roller (such as the drive roller 235). In some embodiments, the peristaltic device is integrated into a device (such as the device 100) having a control device (such as the control device 412).

[0056] In block 305, a timer is set for a predetermined rest period. In some embodiments, the timer is set after a user has used a device. In some embodiments, the predetermined rest period is 12 hours. In some embodiments, this ensures that a micropulse sent to the peristaltic pump motor (as explained in block 310) is transmitted to the motor during the night, and therefore does not disturb a user or the use of the device.

[0057] At block 310, a micro-pulse is transmitted to the motor. In some embodiments, the micro-pulse is transmitted by the device's control device.

[0058] In block 315, a position of the peristaltic pump drive roller is offset by an angle (such as angle A in Figures 2A to 2B) relative to the previous position. In some embodiments, the angle is approximately 30 degrees. In this way, the process extends the service life of the peristaltic pump by reducing and / or preventing the sagging and / or melting of the peristaltic pump tubing.

[0059] In block 320, a second timer is set for a rotation time. In some embodiments, the rotation time is 24 hours. In such embodiments, after setting the first time to 12 hours, by setting the second timer to 24-hour periods, the micro-pulses (as explained in block 315) can be transmitted to the motor during the night, and therefore do not disturb a user or the use of the device.

[0060] At block 315, an additional micro-pulse is transmitted to the motor once the rotation time has elapsed. Optionally, the process can return to block 320 any number of times, for example, as long as the device is not in use. In some embodiments, the drive roller can move between six or more positions along the peristaltic pump tube, so that no position on the tube undergoes fining or melting. In some embodiments, the drive roller can alternate between two or three positions.

[0061] It should be understood that process 300 is to be interpreted as purely representative. In certain embodiments, the processing blocks of process 300 may be carried out simultaneously, sequentially, in a different order, or even omitted, without departing from the scope of this disclosure.

[0062] This application may refer to quantities and numbers. Unless otherwise specified, these quantities and numbers are not to be considered restrictive, but rather representative of the possible quantities or numbers associated with this application. Similarly, in this regard, this application may use the term "plurality" to refer to a quantity or number. In this regard, the term "plurality" is understood to mean any number greater than one, for example, two, three, four, five, etc. The terms "about," "approximately," "nearly," etc., mean plus or minus 5% of the stated value. For the purposes of this disclosure, the expression "at least one of A, B, and C," for example, means (A), (B), (C), (A and B), (A and C), (B and C), or (A, B, and C), including all other possible permutations when more than three items are listed.

[0063] The embodiments disclosed herein may use circuitry to implement the technologies and methodologies described herein, functionally connect two or more components, generate information, determine operating conditions, control an apparatus, device, or process, and / or the like. Any type of circuitry may be used. In one embodiment, the circuitry includes, among other things, one or more computing devices such as a processor (e.g., a microprocessor), a central processing unit (CPU), a digital signal processor (DSP), an application-specific integrated circuit (ASIC), a field-programmable gate array (FPGA), or the like, or any combination thereof, and may include elements or electronics of separate digital or analog circuits, or combinations thereof.

[0064] An embodiment includes one or more data stores that, for example, store instructions or data. Non-limiting examples of one or more data stores include volatile memory (e.g., random access memory (RAM), dynamic random access memory (DRAM), or the like), non-volatile memory (e.g., read-only memory (ROM), erasable read-only memory, and Electrically programmable read-only memory (EEPROM), read-only compact disc (CD-ROM), or similar), persistent memory, or similar. Other, non-limiting examples of one or more data stores include erasable programmable read-only memory (EPROM), flash memory, or similar. One or more data stores can be connected, for example, to one or more computing devices via one or more instruction, data, or power buses.

[0065] In one embodiment, the circuitry includes a computer-readable media player or a memory slot configured to accept a signal-carrying medium (for example, computer-readable memory storage, computer-readable recording storage, or the like). In one embodiment, a program intended to cause a system to perform any of the disclosed processes may be stored, for example, on computer-readable recording storage (CRMM), a signal-carrying medium, or the like.Non-limiting examples of signal-carrying media include recordable media such as any form of flash memory, magnetic tape, floppy disk, hard disk drive, compact disc (CD), digital video disc (DVD), Blu-Ray disc, digital tape, computer memory, or the like, and transmission media such as digital and / or analog communication media (e.g., fiber optic cable, waveguide, wired communication link, wireless communication link (e.g., transmitter, receiver, transceiver, transmission logic, receiving logic, etc.).Other non-limiting examples of signal carrier media include, but are not limited to, DVD-ROM, DVD-RAM, DVD+RW, DVD-RW, DVD-R, DVD+R, CD-ROM, Super Audio CD, CD-R, CD+R, CD+RW, CD-RW, compact video discs, super video discs, flash memory, magnetic tape, magneto-optical disc, MINIDISC, non-volatile memory card, EEPROM, optical disc, optical storage, RAM, ROM, system memory, web server, or similar.

[0066] The detailed description presented above in relation to the accompanying drawings, where similar numbers refer to similar elements, is intended to be a description of various embodiments of this disclosure and is not intended to represent the only embodiments. Each embodiment described in this disclosure is offered solely by way of example or illustration and should not be construed as being preferred or advantageous over other embodiments. The illustrative examples provided herein are not intended to be exhaustive or to limit the disclosure to the specific forms disclosed. Similarly, all the steps described herein may be interchangeable with other steps, or combinations of steps, to achieve the same or substantially similar result. In general, the embodiments disclosed herein are not exhaustive, and the The inventors anticipate that other embodiments within the scope of this disclosure may include structures and features from more than one specific embodiment shown in the figures and described in the patent memorandum.

[0067] In the preceding description, specific details are presented to allow for a thorough understanding of examples of embodiments of this disclosure. However, it will be apparent to those skilled in the art that the embodiments described herein can be implemented without incorporating all the specific details. In some cases, well-known process steps have not been described in detail so as not to unnecessarily obscure various aspects of this disclosure. Furthermore, it should be understood that the embodiments of this disclosure can employ any combination of features described herein.

[0068] This application may include references to directions, such as "vertical", "horizontal", "front", "back", "left", "right", "up" and "down", etc. These references, and other similar references in this application, are intended to help describe and understand the particular embodiment (such as when the embodiment is positioned for use) and are not intended to limit this disclosure to those directions or locations.

[0069] This application may also refer to quantities and numbers. Unless otherwise specified, these quantities and numbers are not to be considered restrictive, but rather as examples of the possible quantities or numbers associated with this application. Similarly, in this respect, this application may use the term "plurality" to refer to a quantity or number. In this respect, the term "plurality" is understood to mean any number greater than one, for example, two, three, four, five, etc. The terms "about," "approximately," etc., mean to within 5% of the stated value. The term "based on" means "based at least partially on."

[0070] The principles, representative embodiments, and modes of operation of this disclosure have been described in the preceding description. However, aspects of this disclosure that are intended to be protected should not be interpreted as being limited to the particular embodiments disclosed. Furthermore, the embodiments described herein should be considered illustrative rather than restrictive. It should be understood that variations and changes may be made by others, and equivalents employed, without departing from the spirit of this disclosure. Accordingly, it is expressly intended that all such variations, changes, and equivalents fall within the spirit and scope of this disclosure, as claimed.

[0071] Although illustrative embodiments have been shown and described, it should be understood that various changes can be made to them without departing from the spirit and scope of the invention.

Claims

Demands

1. A method for extending the life of a peristaltic pump, the method comprising: setting a timer for a predetermined rest time; transmitting a micro-pulse to a motor of the peristaltic pump after the predetermined rest time has elapsed; and moving a drive roller from an initial position to a second position so that a pinch point of a tube of the peristaltic pump is formed in the second position.

2. A method according to claim 1, wherein the predetermined rest time is about 12 hours.

3. Method according to claim 1, wherein the second position is offset at an angle relative to the initial position.

4. Method according to claim 3, wherein the angle is about 30 degrees.

5. A method according to claim 1, wherein the method further comprises: resetting a second timer for a rotation time a predetermined number of times; transmitting a micro-pulse of a plurality of micro-pulses to the motor each time the rotation time elapses; and moving the motor roller to a new position such that a pinch point of the peristaltic pump tube is formed in the new position each time the micro-pulse of the plurality of micro-pulses is received by the motor.

6. A method according to claim 1, wherein the method further comprises: setting a second timer for a rotation time; after the rotation time has elapsed, transmitting a second micro-pulse to the motor; and moving the motor roller from the second position to a third position so that a pinch point of the peristaltic pump tube is formed in the third position.

7. Method according to claim 6, wherein the third position is offset at an angle relative to the second position.

8. A method according to claim 6, wherein the method further comprises: resetting the second timer a predetermined number of times; transmitting a micro-pulse of a plurality of micro-pulses to the motor each time the rotation time elapses; and moving the motor roller from the third position to a new position such that a pinch point of the peristaltic pump tube is formed in the new position each time the micro-pulse of the plurality of micro-pulses is received by the motor.

9. A method according to claim 1, wherein the peristaltic pump is integrated into a device.

10. A method according to claim 1, wherein the micro-pulse is transmitted by a device control device.

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