System and method utilizing integrated camera with fluid injector

Abstract

To provide a fluid injector having at least one image capture device to capture images and / or videos of a patient, a physician, or an operator in order to provide safety features and ease-of-use of the fluid injector.SOLUTION: A fluid injector system for use in administering a fluid to a patient includes: an image capture device to capture image data in an environment surrounding the fluid injector system; and a control device comprising a processor. The processor is programmed to: receive, with the processor, the image data captured by the image capture device; determine, with the processor, whether the received image data comprises at least one predetermined characteristic; and perform, with the processor, at least one action in response to determining whether the received image data comprises at least one predetermined characteristic.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 5

Description

[Technical Field]

[0001] CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS This application claims the benefit of U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 62 / 939,878, filed November 25, 2019, the disclosure of which is incorporated by reference in its entirety.

[0002] The present disclosure relates generally to fluid injectors having one or more image capture devices for capturing images and / or video of objects and / or individuals positioned near the fluid injector, and more particularly to fluid injectors having cameras for capturing images and / or video of objects and / or individuals positioned near the fluid injector. [Background technology]

[0003] In many medical diagnostic and therapeutic procedures, physicians inject one or more medical fluids into patients. In recent years, multiple injector-actuated syringes and powered fluid injectors for pressurized injection of medical fluids, such as contrast medium (often simply referred to as "contrast"), flushing agents such as saline, and other medical fluids, have been developed for use in contrast imaging procedures, such as cardiovascular angiography (CV), computed tomography (CT), ultrasound, magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), positron emission tomography (PET), and other imaging procedures. Generally, these fluid injectors are designed to deliver a preset amount of one or more fluids at a preset pressure and / or flow rate.

[0004] Typically, a fluid injector has at least one drive member, such as a piston, that connects to a syringe via a connection with an engagement mechanism on a plunger or proximal end wall of the syringe. The syringe may include a rigid barrel with a syringe plunger slidably disposed within the barrel. In some examples, the syringe may include a rolling diaphragm barrel configuration with a flexible sidewall configured to roll on itself, and the proximal end wall of the syringe body releasably engages at least one drive member. The drive member drives the plunger or rolling diaphragm / proximal end wall proximally and / or distally relative to the longitudinal axis of the barrel to draw fluid into or deliver fluid from the syringe barrel.

[0005] Patients undergoing diagnostic imaging scans in CT or MR settings using these fluid injectors often receive an injection of contrast agent to enhance the acquired images. The injection of contrast agent must be closely coordinated with the imaging scanner so that the region of interest (ROI) is scanned as the contrast agent flows, while minimizing both the amount of contrast agent injected and the radiation to which the patient is exposed. Technicians performing imaging scans must be well trained to use the fluid injector and imaging scanner to proceed through multiple steps to prepare the patient and equipment in order to initiate and complete the imaging scan. Summary of the Invention [Problem to be solved by the invention]

[0006] In view of the above, there is currently a need in the art for a fluid injector having at least one image capture device for capturing images and / or video of a patient, physician, or operator to provide safety features and ease of use for the fluid injector. There is also currently a need in the art for a fluid injector having at least one image capture device to assist in authorizing an individual to use the fluid injector and to assist in recording information regarding the fluid being used in the fluid injector and events that occur while using the fluid injector. [Means for solving the problem]

[0007] In consideration of the above needs, systems and methods are provided for utilizing at least one image capture device with a fluid injector. In some examples of the present disclosure, a fluid injector system configured for use in administering at least one fluid to a patient may include at least one image capture device configured to capture image data within an environment surrounding the fluid injector system, and a control device including at least one processor, the control device being programmed or configured to: receive, with the at least one processor, image data captured by the at least one image capture device; determine, with the at least one processor, whether the received image data includes at least one predetermined characteristic; and perform at least one operation in response to determining, with the at least one processor, whether the received image data includes the at least one predetermined characteristic.

[0008] In some examples of the present disclosure, the at least one image capture device may be at least one camera. The at least one camera may be at least one of: a) integrally formed with an injector housing of the fluid injector system; and b) operably connected to the injector housing of the fluid injector system via a telescoping member that allows the at least one camera to move relative to the injector housing. The control device may be configured to receive facial identification or biometric identification information about the user from the at least one image capture device based on an image or video of a user positioned near the fluid injector system, and compare the received facial identification or biometric identification information about the user with stored facial identification or biometric identification information to determine whether the user is an individual authorized to use the fluid injector system. The control device may be configured to activate or operate the fluid injector system upon receiving a confirmed match between the received facial identification or biometric identification information and the stored facial identification or biometric identification information. The control device may be configured to configure the fluid injector system to a preferred user interface upon receiving a confirmed match between the received facial or biometric identification information and the stored facial or biometric identification information. The control device may be configured to look up the user's credentials to ensure the user's credentials are up to date. The control device may be configured to receive, from at least one image capture device, facial or biometric identification information about the patient based on images or videos of the patient positioned near the fluid injector system, and look up the patient's patient record based on the facial or biometric identification information received by the control device about the patient.The at least one image capture device may be configured to capture at least one image of at least one of a label on an object positioned near an injector housing of the fluid injector system, a barcode on the object, a color of the object, a color of a fluid contained in the object, a shape of the object, and a QR code of the object. The control device may be configured to automatically document details about the object based on the shape, color, label, barcode, or QR code captured by the at least one image capture device. The control device may be configured to transfer information about the object identified by the at least one image capture device to a central database to assist in inventory tracking of the object. A projection system may be provided on the injector housing of the fluid injector system, the projection system configured to display information about at least one syringe held in the fluid injector system corresponding to the object identified by the at least one image capture device. The at least one image capture device may be configured to capture images or video of at least one hand gesture performed by an individual positioned near the fluid injector system, the control device configured to receive hand gesture identification information from the at least one image capture device based on the at least one hand gesture performed by the individual, and the control device configured to perform a predetermined action based on the hand gesture identification information received from the at least one image capture device.The near-infrared projection system is configured to perform at least one of: a) venous mapping of a patient positioned near the fluid injector system, where the at least one image capture device is configured to capture at least one image or video of the patient's venous mapping; and b) pattern illumination of the patient's limb, where the at least one image capture device is configured to capture at least one image or video of the pattern illuminated on the patient's limb. The at least one image capture device may be positioned and configured to capture at least one image or video of at least one of: a) an insertion site of an intravenous needle on a patient positioned near the fluid injector system, and b) a patient positioned near the fluid injector system to detect changes in the patient's blood flow. The control device may be configured to record at least one image or video data in a central database for future review regarding adverse events occurring in association with use of the fluid injector system.

[0009] In some examples of the present disclosure, a computer-implemented method for operating a fluid injector system configured for use in administering at least one fluid to a patient may include: capturing image data within an environment surrounding the fluid injector system using at least one image capture device; receiving, using a control device having at least one processor, the image data captured by the at least one image capture device; determining, using the control device, whether the received image data includes at least one predetermined characteristic; and performing, using the control device, at least one action in response to determining whether the received image data includes at least one predetermined characteristic.

[0010] In some examples of the present disclosure, the at least one image capture device is at least one camera, and the at least one camera is at least one of: a) integrally formed with an injector housing of the fluid injector system; and b) operably connected to the injector housing of the fluid injector system via a telescoping member that allows the at least one camera to move relative to the injector housing. The method may include receiving, using a control device, from the at least one image capture device, facial identification or biometric identification information about a user based on an image or video of the user positioned near the fluid injector system; and comparing, using the control device, the received facial identification or biometric identification information about the user with stored facial identification or biometric identification information to determine whether the user is an individual authorized to use the fluid injector system. The method may include, upon receiving a confirmed match between the received facial identification or biometric identification information and the stored facial identification or biometric identification information, activating or operating the fluid injector system using the control device. The method may include, upon receiving a confirmed match between the received facial or biometric identification information and the stored facial or biometric identification information, configuring the fluid injector system to a preferred user interface using the controlling device. The method may include retrieving user credentials using the controlling device to ensure the user credentials are up to date. The method may include receiving, using the controlling device, facial or biometric identification information about the patient from at least one image capture device based on images or videos of the patient positioned near the fluid injector system, and using the controlling device to retrieve the patient record for the patient based on the facial or biometric identification information received by the controlling device about the patient.The method may include using at least one image capture device to capture at least one image of at least one of a label on an object positioned near an injector housing of the fluid injector system, a barcode on the object, a color of the object, a color of a fluid contained in the object, a shape of the object, and a QR code of the object. The method may include using a control device to automatically document details about the object based on the shape, color, label, barcode, or QR code captured by the at least one image capture device. The method may include using the control device to transfer information about the object identified by the at least one image capture device to a central database to assist in inventory tracking of the object. The method may include providing a projection system disposed on the injector housing of the fluid injector system and using the projection system to display information about at least one syringe held in the fluid injector system corresponding to the object identified by the at least one image capture device. The method may include using at least one image capture device to capture an image or video of at least one hand gesture performed by an individual positioned near the fluid injector system; using a control device to receive hand gesture identification information from the at least one image capture device based on the at least one hand gesture performed by the individual; and using the control device to perform a predetermined action based on the hand gesture identification information received from the at least one image capture device.The method may include providing a near-infrared projection system configured to perform at least one of: (a) venous mapping of a patient positioned near a fluid injector system, where the at least one image capture device is used to capture at least one image or video of the patient's venous mapping; and (b) pattern illumination of the patient's limb, where the at least one image capture device is configured to capture at least one image or video of the pattern illuminated on the patient's limb. The method may include positioning and configuring the at least one image capture device to capture at least one image or video of at least one of: (a) an insertion site of an IV needle on a patient positioned near the fluid injector system; and (b) a patient positioned near the fluid injector system to detect changes in the patient's blood flow. The method may include using a control device to record the image data in a central database for future review regarding adverse events occurring in association with use of the fluid injector system.

[0011] In some examples of the present disclosure, a computer program product for operating a fluid injector system configured for use in administering at least one fluid to a patient is provided, and the computer program product may include at least one non-transitory computer-readable medium containing one or more instructions that, when executed by at least one processor, cause the at least one processor to capture image data within an environment surrounding the fluid injector system using at least one image capture device; receive the image data captured by the at least one image capture device; determine whether the received image data includes at least one predetermined characteristic; and perform at least one operation in response to determining whether the received image data includes the at least one predetermined characteristic.

[0012] In some examples of the present disclosure, the at least one image capture device is at least one camera, and the at least one camera is at least one of: a) integrally formed with an injector housing of the fluid injector system; and b) operably connected to the injector housing of the fluid injector system via a telescoping member that allows the at least one camera to move relative to the injector housing. The one or more instructions may further cause the at least one processor to receive, from the at least one image capture device using the control device, facial identification or biometric identification information about a user based on an image or video of a user positioned near the fluid injector system, and to compare, using the control device, the received facial identification or biometric identification information about the user with stored facial identification or biometric identification information to determine whether the user is an individual authorized to use the fluid injector system. The one or more instructions may further cause the at least one processor to activate or operate the fluid injector system using the control device upon receiving a confirmed match between the received facial identification or biometric identification information and the stored facial identification or biometric identification information. The one or more instructions may further cause the at least one processor, upon receiving a confirmed match between the received facial or biometric identification information and the stored facial or biometric identification information, to configure the fluid injector system with a preferred user interface using the control device. The one or more instructions may further cause the at least one processor, using the control device, to retrieve user credentials and verify that the user credentials are up to date. The one or more instructions may further cause the at least one processor, using the control device, to receive facial or biometric identification information about a patient from at least one image capture device based on an image or video of the patient positioned near the fluid injector system, and to retrieve, using the control device, a patient record for the patient based on the facial or biometric identification information received by the control device about the patient.The one or more instructions may further cause the at least one processor to capture, with the at least one image capture device, at least one image of at least one of a label on an object positioned near an injector housing of the fluid injector system, a barcode on the object, a color of the object, a color of a fluid contained in the object, a shape of the object, and a QR code of the object. The one or more instructions may further cause the at least one processor to use the control device to automatically document details about the object based on the shape, color, label, barcode, or QR code captured by the at least one image capture device. The one or more instructions may further cause the at least one processor to use the control device to transfer information about the object identified by the at least one image capture device to a central database to assist in inventory tracking of the object. The fluid injector system may include a projection system provided on the injector housing of the fluid injector system, and the one or more instructions may further cause the at least one processor to use the projection system to display information about at least one syringe held in the fluid injector system that corresponds to the object identified by the at least one image capture device. The one or more instructions may further cause the at least one processor to capture, using the at least one image capture device, an image or video of at least one hand gesture performed by an individual positioned near the fluid injector system; to receive, using the control device, hand gesture identification information from the at least one image capture device based on the at least one hand gesture performed by the individual; and to perform, using the control device, a predetermined action based on the hand gesture identification information received from the at least one image capture device.The fluid injector system may include a near-infrared projection system configured to perform at least one of: (a) venous mapping of a patient positioned near the fluid injector system, where the one or more instructions further cause the at least one processor to capture at least one image or video of the patient's venous mapping using at least one image capture device; and (b) pattern illumination of the patient's limb, where the one or more instructions further cause the at least one processor to capture at least one image or video of the pattern illuminated on the patient's limb using the at least one image capture device. The one or more instructions may further cause the at least one processor to configure the at least one image capture device to capture at least one image or video of at least one of: (a) an insertion site of an IV needle of a patient positioned near the fluid injector system, and (b) a patient positioned near the fluid injector system to detect changes in the patient's blood flow. The one or more instructions may further cause the at least one processor, using the control device, to record the image data in a central database for future review regarding adverse events occurring in association with use of the fluid injector system.

[0013] The following clauses also list further features of the present disclosure.

[0014] Clause 1: A fluid injector system configured for use in administering at least one fluid to a patient, the fluid injector system comprising: at least one image capture device configured to capture image data within an environment surrounding the fluid injector system; and a control device comprising at least one processor, the control device being programmed or configured to: receive, using the at least one processor, image data captured by the at least one image capture device; determine, using the at least one processor, whether the received image data includes at least one predetermined characteristic; and perform at least one operation in response to determining, using the at least one processor, whether the received image data includes at least one predetermined characteristic.

[0015] Clause 2: A fluid injector system as described in Clause 1, wherein the at least one image capture device is at least one camera, and the at least one camera is at least one of: a) integrally formed with the injector housing of the fluid injector system; and b) operably connected to the injector housing of the fluid injector system via an extendable member that enables the at least one camera to be moved relative to the injector housing.

[0016] Clause 3: A fluid injector system as described in Clause 1 or Clause 2, wherein the control device is configured to receive facial identification information or biometric identification information about the user from at least one image capture device based on an image or video of the user positioned near the fluid injector system, and compare the received facial identification information or biometric identification information about the user with stored facial identification information or biometric identification information to determine whether the user is an individual authorized to use the fluid injector system.

[0017] Clause 4: A fluid injector system as described in clause 3, wherein the control device is configured to activate or operate the fluid injector system upon receiving a confirmed match between the received facial identification information or biometric identification information and the stored facial identification information or biometric identification information.

[0018] Clause 5: A fluid injector system as described in clause 3 or clause 4, wherein the control device is configured to set the fluid injector system to a preferred user interface upon receiving a confirmed match between the received facial identification information or biometric identification information and the stored facial identification information or biometric identification information.

[0019] Clause 6: A fluid injector system as described in any one of clauses 3 to 5, wherein the control device is configured to retrieve user credentials to ensure that the user credentials are up to date.

[0020] Clause 7: A fluid injector system described in any one of clauses 1 to 6, wherein the control device is configured to receive facial identification information or biometric identification information about a patient based on an image or video of the patient positioned near the fluid injector system from at least one image capture device, and to search for the patient's patient record based on the facial identification information or biometric identification information received by the control device about the patient.

[0021] Clause 8: A fluid injector system described in any one of clauses 1 to 7, wherein at least one image capture device is configured to capture at least one image of at least one of a label on an object positioned near an injector housing of the fluid injector system, a barcode on the object, the color of the object, the color of the fluid contained in the object, the shape of the object, and a QR code (registered trademark) of the object.

[0022] Clause 9: A fluid injector system as described in clause 8, wherein the control device is configured to automatically document details about the object based on shape, color, label, barcode, or QR code (registered trademark) captured by at least one image capture device.

[0023] Clause 10: A fluid injector system as described in clause 8 or clause 9, wherein the control device is configured to transfer information about objects identified by the at least one image capture device to a central database to assist in inventory tracking of the objects.

[0024] Clause 11: A fluid injector system described in any one of clauses 8 to 10, further comprising a projection system provided in an injector housing of the fluid injector system, the projection system configured to display information regarding at least one syringe held in the fluid injector system corresponding to an object identified by at least one image capture device.

[0025] Clause 12: A fluid injector system as described in any one of clauses 1 to 11, wherein at least one image capture device is configured to capture images or videos of at least one hand gesture performed by an individual positioned near the fluid injector system, the control device is configured to receive hand gesture identification information from the at least one image capture device based on the at least one hand gesture performed by the individual, and the control device is configured to perform a predetermined action based on the hand gesture identification information received from the at least one image capture device.

[0026] Clause 13: A fluid injector system described in any one of clauses 1 to 12, further comprising a near-infrared projection system configured to perform at least one of: a) venous mapping of a patient positioned near the fluid injector system, wherein at least one image capture device is configured to capture at least one image or video of the patient's venous mapping; and b) pattern illumination of a patient's limb, wherein at least one image capture device is configured to capture at least one image or video of a pattern illuminated on the patient's limb.

[0027] Clause 14: A fluid injector system as described in any one of clauses 1 to 13, wherein at least one image capture device is positioned and configured to capture at least one image or video of at least one of: a) an insertion site of an intravenous needle on a patient positioned near the fluid injector system, and b) a patient positioned near the fluid injector system to detect changes in the patient's blood flow.

[0028] Clause 15: A fluid injector system as described in any one of clauses 1 to 14, wherein the control device is configured to record at least one image data or video data in a central database for future review regarding adverse events occurring in connection with use of the fluid injector system.

[0029] Clause 16: A computer-implemented method for operating a fluid injector system configured for use in administering at least one fluid to a patient, the method comprising: capturing image data within an environment surrounding the fluid injector system using at least one image capture device; receiving, using a control device having at least one processor, the image data captured by the at least one image capture device; determining, using the control device, whether the received image data includes at least one predetermined characteristic; and performing at least one action in response to the step of determining, using the control device, whether the received image data includes at least one predetermined characteristic.

[0030] Clause 17: The computer-implemented method of clause 16, wherein the at least one image capture device is at least one camera, and the at least one camera is at least one of: a) integrally formed with the injector housing of the fluid injector system; and b) operably connected to the injector housing of the fluid injector system via an extendable member that enables the at least one camera to move relative to the injector housing.

[0031] Clause 18: The computer-implemented method of clause 16 or clause 17, further comprising: receiving, using a control device from at least one image capture device, facial identification information or biometric identification information about a user based on an image or video of the user positioned near the fluid injector system; and using the control device, comparing the received facial identification information or biometric identification information about the user with stored facial identification information or biometric identification information to determine whether the user is an individual authorized to use the fluid injector system.

[0032] Clause 19: The computer-implemented method of clause 18, further comprising, upon receiving a confirmed match between the received facial identification information or biometric identification information and the stored facial identification information or biometric identification information, activating or operating the fluid injector system using the control device.

[0033] Clause 20: The computer-implemented method of clause 18 or clause 19, further comprising, upon receiving a confirmed match between the received facial identification information or biometric identification information and the stored facial identification information or biometric identification information, using the control device to configure the fluid injector system to a preferred user interface.

[0034] Clause 21: The computer-implemented method of any one of clauses 18 to 20, further comprising using the control device to retrieve the user's credentials to ensure that the user's credentials are up to date.

[0035] Clause 22: The computer-implemented method of any one of clauses 16 to 21, further comprising: using the control device to receive facial identification or biometric identification information about the patient from at least one image capture device based on an image or video of the patient positioned near the fluid injector system; and using the control device to search for the patient's patient record based on the facial identification or biometric identification information received by the control device about the patient.

[0036] Clause 23: The computer-implemented method of any one of clauses 16 to 22, further comprising using at least one image capture device to capture at least one image of at least one of a label on an object positioned near an injector housing of the fluid injector system, a barcode on the object, the color of the object, the color of the fluid contained in the object, the shape of the object, and a QR code (registered trademark) of the object.

[0037] Clause 24: The computer-implemented method of clause 23, further comprising using the control device to automatically document details about the object based on the shape, color, label, barcode, or QR code (registered trademark) captured by the at least one image capture device.

[0038] Clause 25: The computer-implemented method of clause 23 or clause 24, further comprising using the control device to transfer information about the objects identified by the at least one image capture device to a central database to assist in inventory tracking of the objects.

[0039] Clause 26: A computer-implemented method described in any one of clauses 23 to 25, further comprising the step of providing a projection system provided on an injector housing of the fluid injector system, and using the projection system to display information regarding at least one syringe held in the fluid injector system corresponding to an object identified by the at least one image capture device.

[0040] Clause 27: The computer-implemented method of any one of clauses 16 to 26, further comprising: using at least one image capture device to capture an image or video of at least one hand gesture performed by an individual positioned near the fluid injector system; using a control device to receive hand gesture identification information from the at least one image capture device based on the at least one hand gesture performed by the individual; and using the control device to perform a predetermined action based on the hand gesture identification information received from the at least one image capture device.

[0041] Clause 28: The computer-implemented method of any one of clauses 16 to 27, further comprising providing a near-infrared projection system configured to perform at least one of: a) venous mapping of a patient positioned near the fluid injector system, wherein at least one image capture device is used to capture at least one image or video of the patient's venous mapping; and b) pattern illumination of the patient's limb, wherein at least one image capture device is configured to capture at least one image or video of a pattern illuminated on the patient's limb.

[0042] Clause 29: The computer-implemented method of any one of clauses 16 to 28, further comprising positioning and configuring at least one image capture device to capture at least one image or video of at least one of: a) an insertion site of an intravenous needle of a patient positioned near the fluid injector system, and b) a patient positioned near the fluid injector system to detect changes in the patient's blood flow.

[0043] Clause 30: The computer-implemented method of any one of clauses 16 to 29, further comprising using the control device to record image data in a central database for future review regarding adverse events occurring in connection with use of the fluid injector system.

[0044] Clause 31: A computer program product for operating a fluid injector system configured for use in administering at least one fluid to a patient, the computer program product comprising at least one non-transitory computer-readable medium containing one or more instructions that, when executed by at least one processor, cause the at least one processor to: capture image data within an environment surrounding the fluid injector system using at least one image capture device; receive the image data captured by the at least one image capture device; determine whether the received image data includes at least one predetermined characteristic; and perform at least one operation in response to determining whether the received image data includes the at least one predetermined characteristic.

[0045] Clause 32: The computer program product of Clause 31, wherein the at least one image capture device is at least one camera, and the at least one camera is at least one of: a) integrally formed with the injector housing of the fluid injector system; and b) operably connected to the injector housing of the fluid injector system via an extendable member that enables the at least one camera to be moved relative to the injector housing.

[0046] Clause 33: A computer program product as described in Clause 31 or Clause 32, wherein the one or more instructions further cause at least one processor to receive, using a control device from at least one image capture device, facial identification information or biometric identification information about a user based on an image or video of the user positioned near the fluid injector system, and use the control device to compare the received facial identification information or biometric identification information about the user with stored facial identification information or biometric identification information to determine whether the user is an individual authorized to use the fluid injector system.

[0047] Clause 34: The computer program product of clause 33, wherein the one or more instructions further cause at least one processor to activate or operate the fluid injector system using the control device upon receiving a confirmed match between the received facial identification information or biometric identification information and the stored facial identification information or biometric identification information.

[0048] Clause 35: A computer program product as described in Clause 33 or Clause 34, wherein the one or more instructions further cause at least one processor to configure the fluid injector system using the control device upon receiving a confirmed match between the received facial identification information or biometric identification information and the stored facial identification information or biometric identification information.

[0049] Clause 36: A computer program product as described in any one of clauses 33 to 35, wherein one or more instructions further cause at least one processor to use the control device to retrieve user credentials and ensure that the user credentials are up to date.

[0050] Clause 37: A computer program product as described in any one of clauses 31 to 36, wherein the one or more instructions further cause at least one processor to receive, using the control device, from at least one image capture device, facial identification information or biometric identification information about the patient based on an image or video of the patient positioned near the fluid injector system, and use the control device to search for the patient's patient record based on the facial identification information or biometric identification information received by the control device about the patient.

[0051] Clause 38: A computer program product described in any one of clauses 31 to 37, wherein one or more instructions further cause at least one processor to capture, using at least one image capture device, at least one image of at least one of a label on an object positioned near an injector housing of the fluid injector system, a barcode on the object, the color of the object, the color of the fluid contained in the object, the shape of the object, and a QR code (registered trademark) of the object.

[0052] Clause 39: The computer program product of clause 38, wherein the one or more instructions further cause the at least one processor to use the control device to automatically document details about the object based on the shape, color, label, barcode, or QR code (registered trademark) captured by the at least one image capture device.

[0053] Clause 40: The computer program product of clause 38 or clause 39, wherein the one or more instructions further cause the at least one processor to use the control device to transfer information about the objects identified by the at least one image capture device to a central database to assist in inventory tracking of the objects.

[0054] Clause 41: A computer program product described in any one of clauses 38 to 40, wherein the fluid injector system further comprises a projection system provided on an injector housing of the fluid injector system, and the one or more instructions further cause the at least one processor to use the projection system to display information regarding at least one syringe held in the fluid injector system that corresponds to an object identified by the at least one image capture device.

[0055] Clause 42: A computer program product as described in any one of clauses 31 to 41, wherein the one or more instructions further cause at least one processor to capture, using at least one image capture device, an image or video of at least one hand gesture performed by an individual positioned near the fluid injector system; use a control device to receive hand gesture identification information from the at least one image capture device based on the at least one hand gesture performed by the individual; and use the control device to perform a predetermined action based on the hand gesture identification information received from the at least one image capture device.

[0056] Clause 43: A computer program product as described in any one of clauses 31 to 42, wherein the fluid injector system further comprises a near-infrared projection system configured to perform at least one of: a) venous mapping of a patient positioned near the fluid injector system, where the one or more instructions further cause the at least one processor to capture at least one image or video of the patient's venous mapping using at least one image capture device; and b) pattern illumination of the patient's limb, where the one or more instructions further cause the at least one processor to capture at least one image or video of the pattern illuminated on the patient's limb using at least one image capture device.

[0057] Clause 44: A computer program product as described in any one of clauses 31 to 43, wherein one or more instructions further cause at least one processor to configure at least one image capture device to capture at least one image or video of at least one of: a) an insertion site of an intravenous needle on a patient positioned near the fluid injector system, and b) a patient positioned near the fluid injector system to detect changes in the patient's blood flow.

[0058] Clause 45: A computer program product as described in any one of clauses 31 to 44, wherein the one or more instructions further cause at least one processor to use the control device to record image data in a central database for future review regarding adverse events occurring in connection with use of the fluid injector system.

[0059] Further details and advantages of the various examples detailed herein will become apparent from a review of the following detailed description of the various examples in conjunction with the accompanying drawings. [Brief explanation of the drawings]

[0060] [Figure 1] FIG. 1 is a perspective view of a magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) suite with a fluid injector system located in the scanner room and its controller located in the control room. [Figure 2] 1 is a perspective view of a fluid injector system according to an example of the present disclosure; [Figure 3] FIG. 3 is a perspective view of a multi-use disposable set for use with the fluid injector system of FIG. 2. [Figure 4] FIG. 2 is a perspective view of a fluid injector system according to another example of the present disclosure. [Figure 5] FIG. 2 is a schematic diagram of an electronic control system for a fluid injector system according to an example of the present disclosure. [Figure 6] 1 is a schematic diagram of an image capture device operably connected to a fluid injector system, according to certain non-limiting examples of the present disclosure. [Figure 7] 1 is a schematic diagram of an image capture device operably connected to a fluid injector system, according to certain non-limiting examples of the present disclosure. [Figure 8] 1 is a schematic diagram of an image capture device operably connected to a fluid injector system, according to certain non-limiting examples of the present disclosure. [Figure 9]1 is a schematic diagram of a fluid injector system including an image capture device that captures facial identification information of an individual, according to some non-limiting examples of the present disclosure. [Figure 10] 1 is a schematic diagram of a fluid injector system including an image capture device that captures object identification information of an object, according to some non-limiting examples of the present disclosure. [Figure 11] 1 is a schematic diagram of a fluid injector system having a projection system in accordance with certain non-limiting examples of the present disclosure. [Figure 12] 1 is a schematic diagram of a fluid injector system including an image capture device that captures hand gesture information of an individual, according to some non-limiting examples of the present disclosure. [Figure 13] 1 is a schematic diagram of a fluid injector system including an image capture device and a near-infrared projection system for venous mapping of a patient, according to some non-limiting examples of the present disclosure. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0061] As used herein, the singular forms "a," "an," and "the" include plural referents unless the context clearly dictates otherwise.

[0062] Spatial or directional terms such as "left," "right," "inner," "outer," "above," "below," and the like relate to the invention as shown in the drawings and should not be considered limiting as the invention may assume various alternative orientations.

[0063] All numbers used in this specification and claims should be understood to be modified in all instances by the term "about." The term "about" means to include plus or minus 25% of the stated value, for example, plus or minus 10% of the stated value. However, this should not be considered as limiting the analysis of values under the doctrine of equivalents.

[0064] Unless otherwise indicated, all ranges or ratios disclosed herein should be understood to encompass the starting and ending values, and any and all subranges or subratios subsumed therein. For example, a range or ratio stated as "1 to 10" should be considered to include any and all subranges or subratios between (and including) the minimum value of 1 and the maximum value of 10. That is, all subranges or subratios beginning with a minimum value of 1 or greater and ending with a maximum value of 10 or less. Ranges and / or ratios disclosed herein represent average values across the specified ranges and / or ratios.

[0065] Terms such as "first" and "second" do not refer to a particular order or chronology, but rather to different conditions, characteristics, or elements.

[0066] All documents referred to herein are "incorporated by reference" in their entirety.

[0067] The term "at least" is synonymous with "greater than or equal to."

[0068] The term "not greater than" is synonymous with "less than or equal to."

[0069] As used herein, "at least one of" is synonymous with "one or more of." For example, the phrase "at least one of A, B, and C" means any one of A, B, or C, or any combination of any two or more of A, B, or C. For example, "at least one of A, B, and C" includes only A, or only B, or only C, or A and B, or A and C, or B and C, or all of A, B, and C.

[0070] The term "includes" is synonymous with "comprises."

[0071] When used with respect to a syringe, e.g., a rolling diaphragm syringe, the term "proximal" refers to the portion of the syringe closest to the piston element that engages the end wall of the syringe to deliver fluid from the syringe. When used with respect to a fluid pathway, the term "proximal" refers to the portion of the fluid pathway closest to the injector system when the fluid pathway is connected to the injector system. When used with respect to a syringe, the term "distal" refers to the portion of the syringe closest to its end where the delivery nozzle is located. When used with respect to a fluid pathway, the term "distal" refers to the portion of the fluid pathway closest to the patient when the fluid pathway is connected to the injector system. The term "radial" refers to a direction within a cross-sectional plane perpendicular to the longitudinal axis of the syringe extending between the proximal and distal ends. The term "circumferential" refers to a direction around the inner or outer surface of the sidewall of the syringe. The term "axial" refers to a direction along the longitudinal axis of the syringe extending between the proximal and distal ends.

[0072] As used herein, the terms “communication” and “communicate” refer to the receipt or transfer of one or more signals, messages, commands, or other types of data. For one unit (e.g., any device, system, or component thereof) to communicate with another unit means that one unit can directly or indirectly receive data from and / or transmit data to the other unit. This may refer to a direct or indirect connection that is wired and / or wireless in nature. Furthermore, two units may communicate with each other even if the transmitted data is modified, processed, relayed, and / or routed between the first and second units. For example, a first unit may communicate with a second unit even if the first unit passively receives data and does not actively transmit data to the second unit. As another example, a first unit may communicate with a second unit if an intermediate unit processes data from one unit and transmits the processed data to the second unit. It will be understood that many other configurations are possible.

[0073] As used herein, the term "database" may refer to or include one or more processors or computers, storage devices, or similar computing devices operated by or facilitating communication and processing of multiple parties in a network environment such as the Internet, although it will be understood that communication may be facilitated via one or more public or private network environments and that a variety of other devices are possible. Furthermore, two or more computers, e.g., servers or other computerized devices, communicating directly or indirectly within a network environment may constitute a "system."

[0074] However, it should be understood that the present disclosure may contemplate alternative variations and step sequences unless expressly specified to the contrary. It should also be understood that the specific devices and processes illustrated in the accompanying drawings, and described below, are merely exemplary aspects of the present disclosure. Accordingly, specific dimensions and other physical characteristics relating to the examples disclosed herein should not be considered limiting.

[0075] In some examples of the present disclosure, FIG. 1 illustrates a scanning suite showing a scanner room 15 in the background, a control room 19 in the foreground, and an electromagnetic shield 16 that completely surrounds the scanner room 15 and a magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) scanner 30 located within the scanner room 15. In some examples of the present disclosure, the scanning suite may be used in any of the following imaging environments: CT scans, MRI scans, PET scans, SPECT scans, U / S scans, IR scans, IC scans, X-ray scans, mammography scans, and hybrid scans. The electromagnetic shield 16 is typically constructed of copper sheet material or other suitable conductive layers, such as wire mesh. In the walls of the electromagnetic shield 16, the MRI suite also includes a door 18 and, in one example of the present disclosure, an observation window 17. The window 17 allows observers and / or operators to view into the scanner room 15 without breaching the electromagnetic shield 16. Window 17 can be formed, for example, by sandwiching a wire mesh material (not shown) between glass panes or by coating window 17 with a thin coating of a conductive material such as gold (not shown) to maintain the continuity of electromagnetic shield 16. The conductive layer also extends to door 18, which allows access to scanner room 15 when open but is grounded to and forms part of electromagnetic shield 16 when closed. Electromagnetic shield 16 forms an isolation barrier that attenuates RF signals. The roof, floor, walls, and door 18 of shield 16 provide approximately 100 decibels (dB) of attenuation, while window 17 provides approximately 80 dB of attenuation. As a result, communication through shield 16 is difficult without some means of conducting signals through this isolation barrier.

[0076] As shown in FIG. 1 , the scanner room 15 also includes a fluid injector system. The fluid injector system may be used, for example, to inject a contrast agent into the blood vessels of a patient undergoing an MRI procedure. In one example of the present disclosure, the fluid injector system may be fluid injector system 100, described below. As is well known in the MRI field, contrast agents help increase the contrast between different types of tissue in the region of the body being scanned, thereby improving the resolution of the images obtained during the scanning procedure. The illustrated injection system includes a controller 10 in a control room 19 and an injection control unit 20 that it controls in the scanner room 15. The controller 10 features a processing unit 11 (e.g., a digital microcomputer), a charger 13, and an operator interface 12. The interface 12 may include, for example, a data input 12′ and a display 12″. The controller 10 is located outside the scanner room 15 and is therefore separate from the scanner 30, which is shielded from electromagnetic interference by a shield 16. In one example of the present disclosure, the controller 10 may also include an MRI scanner operator interface 22 for operating the MRI scanner 30 from the control room 19. The controller 10 may also be used to operate and activate a camera (described below) provided with the fluid injector system. The controller 10 may also include a fingerprint reader for controlling use of the controller 10. In one example of the present disclosure, the fluid injector system may also include temperature sensors for detecting the temperature of the scanner chamber 15, the temperature of the fluid being injected into the patient, and / or the temperature of the patient.

[0077] The injection control unit 20 is preferably powered by a rechargeable battery 21. The injection head unit 25 may hold a fluid container 26 that delivers fluid to the patient. Separation of the fluid injector system's electric motor from the injection head unit 25, as well as additional electromagnetic shielding 27, results in improved performance of the fluid injector system and improved image quality. The injection control unit 20 can be separated (e.g., 10 to 15 feet) from the injection head unit 25, which is typically located near the patient. While the injection control unit 20 is preferably shielded to prevent RF interference, ferromagnetic materials within the injection control unit 20 can result in the injection control unit 20 being drawn into the magnetic gantry 28. This undesirable outcome could result in damage to the magnetic gantry 28, damage to the injection control unit 20, and / or injury to personnel present in the scanner room 15.

[0078] Referring to the drawings, in which like reference numerals refer to like parts throughout the several views of the drawings, one aspect or example of the present disclosure generally relates to a multi-fluid medical injector / injector system 100 (hereinafter “fluid injector system 100”) that, in certain embodiments, may include a multi-use disposable set (MUDS) 130 configured to deliver fluids to a patient using a single-use disposable set (SUDS) connector, and in other embodiments, may include two or more disposable fluid reservoirs or syringes that can be disposed of after a single injection procedure or a specific number of injection procedures. The fluid injector system 100 may include multiple components, as individually described herein. Generally, the fluid injector system 100 shown in FIGS. 2 and 3 has a powered injector or other administration device and a fluid delivery set intended to be associated with the injector to deliver one or more fluids under pressure from one or more multi-dose containers to a patient, as described herein. The various devices, components, and features of the fluid injector system 100 and its associated fluid delivery set are similarly described in detail herein. Although various example methods and processes are illustrated with reference to injector systems having multi-use disposable set ("MUDS") and single-use disposable set ("SUDS") configurations in FIGS. 2 and 3, the present disclosure is not limited to such injector systems and may be utilized with other syringe-based injector systems, such as, but not limited to, those described in U.S. Patent Nos. 7,553,294, 7,563,249, 8,945,051, 9,173,995, 10,124,110, 10,507,319, and 10,583,256, and U.S. Patent Application Publication No. 2018-0161496, the disclosures of each of which are incorporated herein by reference in their entireties.

[0079] 2, an example fluid injector system 100 includes an injector housing 102 that encloses various mechanical drive components, electrical and power components necessary to drive the mechanical drive components, and control components such as electronic memory and electronic control devices used to control the operation of a reciprocable piston (not shown) associated with the fluid injector system 100 described herein. Such piston may be reciprocally operable via an electromechanical drive component such as a ball screw shaft driven by a motor, a voice coil actuator, a rack and pinion gear drive, a linear motor, or the like. The fluid injector system 100 may include at least one handle 114 for moving the fluid injector system 100.

[0080] The fluid injector system 100 may include at least one bulk fluid connector 118 for connecting with at least one bulk fluid source 120. In some examples, multiple bulk fluid connectors 118 may be provided. For example, as shown in the fluid injector embodiment illustrated in FIG. 2, three bulk fluid connectors 118 may be provided side-by-side or in other arrangements. In some examples, the at least one bulk fluid connector 118 may include a spike configured to removably connect to at least one bulk fluid source 120, such as a vial, bottle, or bag. The at least one bulk fluid connector 118 may be formed on a multiple-use disposable set ("MUDS"), as described herein. The at least one bulk fluid source 120 may be configured to accept medical fluids, such as saline, lactated Ringer's solution, imaging contrast solution, or other medical fluids, for delivery to a patient by the fluid injector system 100. The fluid source 120 may be held on a manifold 122 of the fluid injector system 100.

[0081] Referring to FIG. 3 , MUDS 130 is configured to be removably connected to fluid injector system 100 to deliver one or more fluids from one or more bulk fluid sources 120 to a patient. Example embodiments and features of MUDS are further described in PCT Publication WO 2016 / 112163, filed January 7, 2016, the disclosure of which is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety. MUDS 130 may include one or more fluid reservoirs, such as one or more syringes 132. As used herein, the term “fluid reservoir” refers to any container capable of capturing and delivering fluid during a fluid injection procedure, including, for example, a syringe, a rolling diaphragm, a pump, a compressible bag, etc. A fluid reservoir may include the interior volume of at least a portion of a fluid pathway, such as one or more lengths of tubing in fluid communication with the interior of the fluid reservoir, including a portion of the fluid pathway that remains in fluid communication with the fluid reservoir after the system is closed or fluidly isolated from the remainder of the fluid pathway. In some examples, the number of fluid reservoirs may correspond to the number of bulk fluid sources 120 (shown in FIG. 2). For example, referring to FIG. 3, MUDS 130 has three syringes 132 arranged side by side such that each syringe 132 is fluidly connectable to one or more of the three corresponding bulk fluid sources 120. In some examples, one or more bulk fluid sources 120 may be connected to one or more syringes 132 of MUDS 130. Each syringe 132 may be fluidly connectable to one of the bulk fluid sources 120 by a corresponding bulk fluid connector 118 and an associated MUDS fluid pathway 134. MUDS fluid pathway 134 may have a spike element that connects to bulk fluid connector 118 and fluid inlet line 150. In some examples, bulk fluid connector 118 may be provided directly on MUDS 130.

[0082] 2 and 3 , the MUDS 130 may include one or more valves 136, such as stopcock valves, for controlling which medical fluid or combination of medical fluids is drawn from the multi-dose bulk fluid source 120 (see FIG. 2 ) into the fluid reservoirs 132 and / or delivered to the patient from each fluid reservoir 132. In some examples, the one or more valves 136 may be provided at the distal ends of the multiple syringes 132 or in a manifold 148. The manifold 148 may be in selectable fluid communication with the interior volumes of the syringes 132 via the valves 136. The interior volumes of the syringes 132 may be in selectable fluid communication with first ends of MUDS fluid pathways 134 connecting each syringe 132 to a corresponding bulk fluid source 120 via the valves 136. Opposing second ends of the MUDS fluid pathways 134 may be connected to respective bulk fluid connectors 118 configured to fluidly connect with the bulk fluid sources 120. Depending on the position of the one or more valves 136, fluid may be drawn into or delivered from the internal volume of one or more syringes 132. In a first position, such as during filling of a syringe 132, the one or more valves 136 are oriented to allow fluid to flow from the bulk fluid source 120 through a fluid inlet line 150, such as a MUDS fluid path, to the desired syringe 132. During the filling procedure, the one or more valves 136 are positioned to block or close fluid flow through one or more fluid outlet lines 152 or the manifold 148. In a second position, such as during a fluid delivery procedure, fluid from the one or more syringes 132 is delivered to the manifold 148 through one or more fluid outlet lines 152 or syringe valve outlet ports. During the delivery procedure, the one or more valves 136 are positioned to block or close fluid flow through the one or more fluid inlet lines 150. In the third position, the one or more valves 136 are oriented such that fluid flow through the one or more fluid inlet lines 150 and the one or more fluid outlet lines 152 or manifold 148 is blocked or closed.Thus, in the third position, each of the one or more valves 136 isolates the corresponding syringe 132 and prevents fluid flow into or out of the interior volume of the corresponding syringe 132. Thus, each of the one or more syringes 132 and the corresponding valve 136 defines a closed system.

[0083] The one or more valves 136, fluid inlet line 150, and / or fluid outlet line 152 may be integrated into or fluidly communicate with the manifold 148. The one or more valves 136 may be selectively positioned in a first or second position by manual or automated manipulation. For example, an operator may position the one or more valves 136 in a desired position for filling, fluid delivery, or a closed position. In other examples, at least a portion of the fluid injector system 100 is operable to automatically position the one or more valves 136 in a desired position for filling, fluid delivery, or a closed position based on input by an operator or by a protocol executed by an electronic control unit.

[0084] 2 and 3 , according to described embodiments, the fluid injector system 100 may have a connection port 192 configured to form a releasable fluid connection with at least a portion of a single-use disposable set (not shown, referred to herein as a “SUDS”). In some examples, the connection port 192 may be formed in the MUDS 130. As described herein, the SUDS may be connected to the connection port 192 formed in at least a portion of the MUDS 130 and / or the housing 102. Desirably, the connection between the SUDS and the connection port 192 is a releasable connection that allows the SUDS to be selectively connected and disconnected from the connection port 192. In some examples, the SUDS may be disconnected from the connection port 192 and placed after each fluid delivery procedure, and a new SUDS may be connected to the connection port 192 for a subsequent fluid delivery procedure. The SUDS may be used to deliver one or more medical fluids to a patient by way of a SUDS fluid line 208 having a distal end that may be selectively disconnected from the body of the SUDS and connected to a patient catheter. Other examples and features of SUDS are described in U.S. Patent Application Publication No. 2016 / 0331951, filed July 7, 2016, the disclosure of which is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety.

[0085] 2 , the fluid injector system 100 may include one or more user interfaces 124, such as a graphical user interface (GUI) display window. The user interface 124 may display information related to a fluid injection procedure involving the fluid injector system 100, such as injection status or progress, current flow rate, fluid pressure, and volume remaining in at least one bulk fluid source 120 connected to the fluid injector system 100, and may be a touchscreen GUI that allows an operator to input commands and / or data for operation of the fluid injector system 100. Additionally, the fluid injector system 100 and / or the user interface 124 may include at least one control button 126 for tactile manipulation by an attendant operator of the fluid injector system 100. The at least one control button 126 may be a graphical portion of the user interface 124, such as a touchscreen.

[0086] 2 and 3 illustrate one example of a fluid injector system 100 and associated components and structures, it should be understood that the present disclosure is not limited to any particular type or variety of fluid injector system 100. Referring now to FIG. 4 , another non-limiting example of a fluid injector system 100 according to the present disclosure includes at least one fluid reservoir, such as a syringe 12, at least one piston connectable to at least one plunger 14, and a fluid control module (not shown). The at least one syringe 12 is generally adapted to interface with at least one component of the system, such as a syringe port 13. The fluid injector system 100 is generally configured to deliver at least one fluid F to a patient during an injection procedure. The fluid injector system 100 is configured to releasably receive at least one syringe 12 filled with at least one fluid F, such as contrast medium, saline, lactated Ringer's solution, or any desired medical fluid. The system may be a multi-syringe injector, with several syringes oriented side-by-side or in another spatial relationship and separately actuated by respective pistons associated with the injectors. At least one syringe 12 may be oriented in any manner, such as upright, right-down, or positioned at any angle. In another embodiment, the fluid injector system 100 may interface with one or more rolling diaphragm syringes (not shown). Non-limiting examples of rolling diaphragm syringe-based injectors are described in U.S. Pat. No. 10,583,256, U.S. Patent Application Publication No. 2018-0161496, and PCT International Application No. PCT / US2017 / 056747, the disclosures of which are incorporated herein.

[0087] 4 , the injector system 100 may be used during a medical procedure to inject at least one medical fluid F into a patient's vascular system by driving the plunger 14 of the at least one syringe 12 with a driving member, such as at least one piston. The at least one piston may be reciprocally movable relative to at least a portion of the at least one syringe 12, such as the plunger 14. Upon engagement, the at least one piston may move the plunger 14 toward the distal end 19 of the at least one syringe 12 and retract the plunger 14 toward the proximal end 11 of the at least one syringe 12.

[0088] The tubing set 17 (e.g., first and second fluid conduits 17a and 17b, and common fluid conduit 20) may be in fluid communication with the outlet ports of each syringe 12 to fluidly connect each syringe to a catheter (not shown) inserted into a patient at a vascular access site for delivery of fluid F from each syringe 12 to the catheter. The first and second fluid conduits 17a and 17b may be connected to the common fluid conduit 20 by any suitable mechanism known in the art (e.g., a Y-connector or a T-connector). The fluid injector system 100 shown in FIG. 4 is an open system due to the absence of valves that can isolate the syringes 12 from each other and from at least a portion of the tubing set 17. However, it should be understood that a valve 136 similar or identical to the valve described with reference to the fluid injector system 100 of FIGS. 2 and 3 may be added distal to the syringes 12 to convert the fluid injector system 100 of FIG. 4 to a closed system.

[0089] 5 , a fluid injector system 100 according to the present disclosure may be associated with and controlled by an electronic control device 400 configured to execute one or more injector protocols, including, for example, filling, priming, and delivery operations. In some examples, the electronic control device 400 may control the operation of various valves, stopcocks, piston members, and other elements to affect desired gas / air purging, priming, and / or delivery procedures. The electronic control device 400 may include at least one processor 404, memory 408, input components 410, and output components 412. The electronic control device may further include a bus that enables communication between components of the electronic control device 400. The at least one processor 404 may be implemented in hardware, firmware, or a combination of hardware and software. For example, the processor 404 may include a processor (e.g., a central processing unit (CPU), a graphics processing unit (GPU), an accelerated processing unit (APU), etc.), a microprocessor, a digital signal processor (DSP), and / or any processing component that can be programmed to perform a function (e.g., a field programmable gate array (FPGA), an application specific integrated circuit (ASIC), etc.). The memory 408 may include a hard disk (e.g., a magnetic disk, an optical disk, a magneto-optical disk, a solid-state disk, etc.) and / or another type of computer-readable medium. The input components 410 may include components that enable the electronic control device 400 to receive information, such as via user input (e.g., the user interface 124). The output components 412 may include components that provide output information from the electronic control device 400 (e.g., the user interface 124).

[0090] The electronic control device 400 may be programmed or configured to perform one or more processes and / or methods based on at least one processor 404 executing software instructions stored by a computer-readable medium, such as memory 408. The software instructions stored in memory 408, when executed, may cause the at least one processor 404 to perform one or more processes and / or methods described herein.

[0091] 5, the electronic control device 400, and more specifically the at least one processor 404, may be in operative communication with one or more components of the fluid injector system 100 to control operation of the fluid injector system 100. The electronic control device 400 may be in operative communication with one or more drive components 510a, 510b, 510n associated with one or more fluid reservoirs 500a, 500b, 500n, respectively, of the fluid injector system 100 to control filling and delivery of fluid from the fluid reservoirs 500a, 500b, 500n. More specifically, one or more drive components 510a, 510b, 510n may each be associated with one of the fluid reservoirs 500a, 500b, 500n such that fluid contained in each of the fluid reservoirs 500a, 500b, 500n can be selectively delivered by actuation of the associated drive component 510a, 510b, 510n. The fluid reservoirs 500a, 500b, 500n may be or correspond to the syringe 132 of the fluid injector system 100 of FIGS. 2 and 3 and / or the syringe 12 of the fluid injector system 100 of FIG. 4, or other syringe-type structures such as a rolling diaphragm syringe described herein. The one or more drive components 510a, 510b, 510n may be or correspond to the piston of the fluid injector system 100 of FIGS. 2-4. One or more fluid reservoirs 500a, 500b, 500n may be in fluid communication with a fluid conduit 530 for delivering fluid to a catheter or other component connected to a patient. Fluid conduit 530 may be or correspond to SUDS of fluid injector system 100 of Figures 2 and 3 and / or tubing set 17 of fluid injector system 100 of Figure 4.

[0092] In embodiments and examples of closed fluid injector system 100 (e.g., fluid injector system 100 of FIGS. 2 and 3), electronic control device 400 may further be in operative communication with one or more valves 520a, 520b, 520n to rotate or actuate valves 520a, 520b, 520n to allow flow into or out of and / or isolate flow from one or more of fluid reservoirs 500a, 500b, 500n into fluid conduit 530. Valves 520a, 520b, 520n may be or correspond to valves 136 described herein in connection with FIG.

[0093] In some aspects and examples, the at least one processor 404 can be programmed or configured to execute an injection protocol including a first phase and at least a second phase. Each of the first and second phases of the injection protocol includes or defines a desired steady-state ratio of the first fluid to the second fluid. According to various embodiments, the steady-state ratio of each phase can range from 100:0 to 0:100, including any intermediate ratios. As described herein, the desired steady-state ratio is based on the volumetric composition of the first fluid relative to the volumetric composition of the second fluid, although the mass, density, viscosity, flow rate, or another characteristic of the fluids can also be the basis for the desired steady-state ratio. According to certain embodiments, the first fluid can be a contrast agent solution, and the second fluid can be a flushing fluid, such as saline or lactated Ringer's solution.

[0094] In some embodiments or examples, the first fluid may be contained in first fluid reservoir 500a and the second fluid may be contained in second fluid reservoir 500b. It should be understood that the order of the various fluid reservoirs may be changed, for example, in certain embodiments, the first fluid reservoir may be reservoir 500b and the second fluid reservoir may be 500a without departing from the scope of the present disclosure. In certain embodiments, third fluid reservoir 500n may contain a third fluid or an additional volume of the first or second fluid, or a different concentration of the first or second fluid. A desired steady-state ratio of the first and second stages of the injection protocol may be achieved by selectively and independently activating first and second drive components 510a, 510b associated with the first and second fluid reservoirs 500a, 500b, and optionally activating a third drive component 510n associated with a third fluid reservoir 500n. For example, if the desired steady-state ratio is 50% first fluid to 50% second fluid, the first and second drive components 510a, 510b associated with the first and second fluid reservoirs 500a, 500b may be activated at the same speed by the at least one processor 404 to facilitate equal delivery of the first and second fluids. Similarly, if the desired steady-state ratio is 75% first fluid to 25% second fluid, the first drive component 510a associated with the first fluid reservoir 500a may be actuated at three times the speed of the second drive component 510b associated with the second fluid reservoir 500b to facilitate delivery of a 3:1 ratio of the first fluid to the second fluid. If the desired steady-state ratio is 100% first fluid to 0% second fluid, the first drive component 510a associated with the first fluid reservoir 500a is actuated and the second drive component 510b associated with the second fluid reservoir 500b is not actuated. In embodiments or examples of the present disclosure, the first fluid may be a contrast agent or another diagnostic imaging fluid, and the second fluid may be a diluent, such as saline, lactated Ringer's solution, a mixture of contrast agent diluted with saline, etc.The terms "contrast agent" and "diluent" may be used herein to refer to a first fluid and a second fluid, respectively, when describing particular embodiments or examples of the present disclosure. However, it should be understood that embodiments or examples of the present disclosure are not limited to using a contrast agent and a diluent as the first and second fluids.

[0095] Referring to FIG. 6 , in one example of the present disclosure, the fluid injector system 100 may include at least one image capture device 200 configured to capture image data and / or video data of objects and / or individuals positioned in proximity to the fluid injector system 100. In some examples of the present disclosure, the fluid injector system 100 may have at least two image capture devices 200. In some examples of the present disclosure, the image capture device 200 may be an infrared camera, a visual camera, a stereoscopic camera, a thermal camera, a color camera, a black-and-white camera, or a magnetic resonance compatible camera. In some examples of the present disclosure, one image capture device 200 may be operably connected to the fluid injector system 100. In some examples of the present disclosure, two or more image capture devices 200 may be operably connected to the fluid injector system 100. In some examples of the present disclosure, the image capture device 200 may be a photo camera. In some examples of the present disclosure, the image capture device 200 may be a video camera. In some examples of the present disclosure, the image capture device 200 may be a combination of a photo camera and a video camera. In some examples of the present disclosure, additional sensors 201 may be used in conjunction with image capture device 200 to assist in the use of fluid injector system 100. For example, sensors 201 may include optical sensors, ultrasonic sensors, and / or capacitive detection systems that can add additional features to fluid injector system 100, such as automatic dimming of user interface 124 of fluid injector system 100 when ambient light is reduced in the area of fluid injector system 100, among other power saving operations performed by fluid injector system 100. In some examples of the present disclosure, image capture device 200 may be operated to capture images and / or video using several different methods, including an automatic tracking program included in image capture device 200, fixed positioning, variable positioning in which image capture device 200 moves periodically between several different positions, remote control operation, a fixed focus operation program, and an autofocus operation program.

[0096] In some examples of the present disclosure, the image capture device 200 may be configured to capture image data and / or video data of objects and / or individuals within an image detection field associated with the fluid injector system 100. The image capture device 200 may be configured to capture image data and / or video data of objects and / or individuals within the line of sight of the image capture device 200. For example, the image capture device 200 may be configured to capture image / video data within at least five meters of the fluid injector system 100. In another example of the present disclosure, the image capture device 200 may be configured to capture image / video data within at least two meters of the fluid injector system 100. In one example of the present disclosure, the image capture device 200 may be configured to capture image / video data up to ten meters from the fluid injector system 100. However, it should be understood that the image capture device 200 may also be configured to capture images and / or video from distances shorter or longer than five meters. The image capture device 200 may be operably connected to the electronic control device 400 of the fluid injector system 100. In some examples of the present disclosure, image capture device 200 may be directly connected to electronic control device 400 via wiring. In some examples of the present disclosure, image capture device 200 may be wirelessly connected to electronic control device 400 using a WiFi connection, a Bluetooth connection, or any other wireless connection. In some examples of the present disclosure, image processing initiated on image data and / or video data captured by image capture device 200 may be performed using programming within image capture device 200, an external location such as a control room, and / or an external remote location accessed by a cloud processing system.In some examples of the present disclosure, image capture device 200 may continuously stream captured image data and / or video, image capture device 200 may periodically capture image data and / or video data, and / or image capture device 200 may only capture image data and / or video data upon detecting motion around fluid injector system 100. In some examples of the present disclosure, image capture device 200 may be configured to automatically delete captured image data and / or video data periodically if the image data and / or video data is not being used by fluid injector system 100.

[0097] As shown in FIG. 6 , in some examples of the present disclosure, the image capture device 200 may be integrally formed with the injector housing 102 of the fluid injector system 100. The image capture device 200 may be retained in an opening defined in the front of the injector housing 102 such that the image capture device 200 captures images and / or video of objects and / or individuals positioned in front of the fluid injector system 100. In some examples of the present disclosure, the image capture device 200 may be retained within the scanner 30 shown in FIG. 1 . In some examples of the present disclosure, the image capture device 200 may be positioned in the ceiling of the scanner room 15.

[0098] As shown in FIG. 7 , in some examples of the present disclosure, the image capture device 200 may be operably connected to the injector housing 102 of the fluid injector system 100 using a telescopic member 202. In some examples, the image capture device 200 may be connected to one end of the telescopic member 202, and the injector housing 102 may be connected to the opposite end of the telescopic member 202. The telescopic member 202 may be a cable member carrying wiring for operably connecting the image capture device 200 to the electronic control device 400 of the fluid injector system 100. In some examples, the image capture device 200 may be indirectly connected to the electronic control device 400 using a wireless connection, for example, using WiFi or Bluetooth. In some examples of the present disclosure, the image capture device 200 may be installed on a mobile device, such as a phone, held by a physician or technician. In some examples of the present disclosure, the image capture device 200 may also be installed on a wearable technology device for the physician or technician, such as eyeglasses or a body camera. In some examples of the present disclosure, the image capture device 200 may be held by the patient in the scanner room 15. In some examples of the present disclosure, the image capture device 200 may be held on a patient table within the scanner room 15. In some examples of the present disclosure, the image capture device 200 may be positioned in an exterior waiting area within the scanner room 15. In some examples of the present disclosure, the image capture device 200 may be fixed to furniture within the scanner room 15. In some examples of the present disclosure, the image capture device 200 may be attached to a movable object, such as a drone, so that the image capture device 200 can be moved around the scanner room 15. The image capture device 200 may be docked to a base 204 defined in the injector housing 102. In use, the operator or physician can move the image capture device 200 relative to the injector housing 102 by the telescopic member 202. In this example, the operator or physician can position the image capture device 200 in several different positions relative to the injector housing 102.The telescoping member 202 may be configured to extend and retract from the injector housing 102 so that the image capture device 200 can be moved to several positions relative to the injector housing 102 .

[0099] 8 , in some examples of the present disclosure, image capture device 200 may be operably connected to electronic control device 400 using a wireless connection via WiFi or Bluetooth. In some examples, image capture device 200 may be docked to opening 204 defined in injector housing 102. During use, an operator or physician may remove image capture device 200 from opening 204 and move image capture device 200 relative to injector housing 102. In this example, the operator or physician may position image capture device 200 in several different positions relative to injector housing 102. When the operator or physician is finished using image capture device 200, image capture device 200 may be docked back to base 204 until the next time image capture device 200 needs to be used.

[0100] Several different methods of using image capture device 200 and electronic control device 400 in conjunction with fluid injector system 100 are described. It should be understood that these programs and methods may be performed using any of the image capture devices 200 described in connection with Figures 6-8. In the following description, image capture device 200 may be configured to capture image data and / or video data of an individual or object to identify predetermined characteristics of the individual or object.

[0101] 9 , in some examples of the present disclosure, the operation of the image capture device 200 and the fluid injector system 100 is shown and described, and the image capture device 200 and the electronic control device 400 can be configured and programmed to perform facial or biometric recognition of individuals positioned near the fluid injector system 100. The image capture device 200 can be used throughout the entire scanning procedure with the patient, including scheduling the scanning procedure, admitting the patient for the scanning procedure, preparing for the scanning procedure, and post-scanning evaluation. The use of facial recognition by the fluid injector system 100 improves safety and promotes compliance with the fluid injector system 100 by limiting access to the fluid injector system 100 to only authorized physicians and technicians. While the following description describes the use of facial recognition by the image capture device 200, it should be understood that the same methods can be used for biometric recognition by the image capture device 200.

[0102] In some examples of the present disclosure, image capture device 200 may be configured to capture image data and / or video data regarding individuals positioned near fluid injector system 100. For example, image capture device 200 may be configured to take photographs or videos of patients, doctors, or technicians positioned near fluid injector system 100. The image data and / or video data captured by image capture device 200 may include facial identification information regarding the individuals that is transmitted via wired or wireless communication to electronic control device 400 of fluid injector system 100. When electronic control device 400 receives the facial identification information, electronic control device 400 may be configured and programmed to compare the facial identification information with facial identification information stored either on electronic control device 400 or on a central database 600 in communication with electronic control device 400.

[0103] In some examples of the present disclosure, upon receiving a positive match between the facial identification information captured by image capture device 200 and the stored facial identification information, fluid injector system 100 may be activated and unlocked for use by a physician or technician. In some examples of the present disclosure, upon receiving a negative match between the facial identification information captured by image capture device 200 and the stored facial identification information, fluid injector system 100 may remain deactivated and locked to prevent use by a physician or technician. For example, if a photograph or video of an individual captured by image capture device 200 matches a photograph or video of the individual stored in electronic control device 400 or central database 600, fluid injector system 100 is activated and unlocked for use by the individual because the individual is authorized to use fluid injector system 100. If the photograph or video of an individual captured by image capture device 200 does not match the photograph or video of the individual stored on electronic control device 400 or central database 600, fluid injector system 100 remains deactivated and locked to prevent use by the individual, as the individual is not authorized to use fluid injector system 100. In some examples, the owner of fluid injector system 100 may store facial identification information on electronic control device 400 or central database 600 for a service engineer who may need to access fluid injector system 100 for repair or maintenance. After the service engineer has worked on fluid injector system 100, the service engineer's facial identification information may be deleted from electronic control device 400 or central database 600. In some examples of the present disclosure, if a positive match is identified, the individual may be granted partial access to the operation of fluid injector system 100, allowing the individual to perform certain tasks with fluid injector system 100, but not be authorized to use all of the functionality of fluid injector system 100.

[0104] In some examples of the present disclosure, facial identification information captured by image capture device 200 may be used to enable authorized individuals to create and save customized user interface preferences for fluid injector system 100. User interface preferences may be created based on the needs of a patient connected to fluid injector system 100 or based on the personal operating preferences of a physician or technician. During use of fluid injector system 100, the physician or technician may change the user interface parameters of fluid injector system 100. After the new user interface parameters are entered by the physician or technician, facial recognition may be performed by image capture device 200 and electronic control device 400 to save the customized user interface preferences to the profile of the particular physician or technician using fluid injector system 100. For example, a physician or technician may set the user interface 124 of the fluid injector system 100 to a particular configuration, including adjusting, among other configuration settings, a preferred protocol for the fluid injector system 100, the font size or style of words and numbers displayed on the user interface 124 of the fluid injector system 100, the background screen brightness of the user interface 124, user preferences, tendencies, habits, and requirements for the fluid injector system 100, the operating mode of the fluid injector system 100 (e.g., simple mode, training mode, or power mode), the volume of sounds emitted by the fluid injector system 100, alert preferences for the fluid injector system 100, alarm preferences for the fluid injector system 100, and user feedback tones and volumes for the user interface 124. Once a preferred user interface configuration is set for the fluid injector system 100, the electronic control device 400 may be configured to perform facial recognition of the physician to save the preferred user interface configuration to the physician's profile in the electronic control device 400 or the central database 600.After the preferred user interface configuration is saved, the electronic control device 400 can, based on facial recognition of the physician, set the user interface 124 of the fluid injector system 100 to the preferred user interface configuration for the physician the next time the physician uses the fluid injector system 100. Similar methods and programs can be used to save preferred user interface configurations based on a particular patient using the fluid injector system 100. By using patient facial recognition, the electronic control device 400 can save the preferred user interface configuration set by the physician, so that the next time the patient is identified via facial recognition, the electronic control device 400 will set the user interface 124 to the saved preferred user interface configuration for that particular patient.

[0105] In some examples of the present disclosure, facial identification information captured by image capture device 200 may be used by electronic control device 400 to verify that a doctor or technician's training competency to use fluid injector system 100 is valid and up-to-date. The doctor and technician's training competency may include a report indicating that the doctor or technician has undergone and passed a training program or module of fluid injector system 100 and may be stored in electronic control device 400 and / or central database 600. After image capture device 200 captures the facial identification information, the facial identification information may be used by electronic control device 400 to identify the doctor or technician using fluid injector system 100. Once the doctor or technician is identified, electronic control device 400 may be configured to determine whether the doctor or technician's training competency is valid and up-to-date to ensure that the doctor or technician is competent to use fluid injector system 100. If the physician or technician's training competency is valid and up-to-date, the electronic control device 400 may be programmed to unlock the fluid injector system 100 and allow the physician or technician to operate the fluid injector system 100. If the physician or technician's training competency is not valid and up-to-date, the electronic control device 400 may be programmed to lock the fluid injector system 100 from operation by the physician or technician until it is established that the physician or technician has achieved valid and up-to-date training competency. In some examples of the present disclosure, the electronic control device 400 may also be programmed to notify the physician or technician when training competency or credentialing is about to expire so that the physician or technician can schedule time to review and complete new training programs or modules for the fluid injector system 100 to ensure that the training competency and credentialing remain valid and up-to-date for use of the fluid injector system 100.

[0106] In some examples of the present disclosure, image capture device 200 and electronic control device 400 may be used to perform facial recognition of individuals positioned near fluid injector system 100, activating or "waking up" fluid injector system 100 from a low-power or quiescent state to a fully operational state as the individuals approach fluid injector system 100. Because each authorized individual has previously been authenticated by fluid injector system 100, fluid injector system 100 may be configured and programmed to distinguish between authorized physicians or technicians and unauthorized individuals who may be positioned near fluid injector system 100, such as patients and administrators. As individuals approach fluid injector system 100, image capture device 200 may capture image data or video data of the approaching individuals, and electronic control device 400 may perform facial recognition of the individuals using the captured image data or video data. If the individual is authorized to use fluid injector system 100, electronic control device 400 activates or “wakes up” fluid injector system 100 so that when the individual arrives at fluid injector system 100, fluid injector system 100 is ready for use. Alternatively, if the individual is not authorized to use fluid injector system 100, electronic control device 400 does not activate or “wake up” fluid injector system 100. Only switching fluid injector system 100 to a full power state when an authorized individual is recognized may conserve power throughout fluid injector system 100, improving workflow and efficiency, as less downtime of fluid injector system 100 is required to charge the fluid injector system's 100 batteries.

[0107] In some examples of the present disclosure, if an individual is not authorized to use fluid injector system 100, fluid injector system 100 may be configured to lock the wheels of base 110 so that fluid injector system 100 cannot be moved by the unauthorized individual. In some examples of the present disclosure, image capture device 200 may be used to delay an injection procedure of fluid injector system 100 or a scanning procedure of a scanner in a suite until a physician or technician leaves the scan room. Image capture device 200 may be configured to capture image data and / or video data of the physician and / or technician while in the scan room, and once the physician and / or technician initiates a fluid injection procedure on fluid injector system 100, image capture device 200 may be used to delay the start of the fluid injection procedure until it is identified that the physician and / or technician has left the scan room.

[0108] In some examples of the present disclosure, image capture device 200 may also be used to ensure that unwanted or unauthorized individuals do not enter the scan room during a scan procedure or while the patient is in the scan room. For example, image capture device 200 may be configured to capture image data and / or video data of the scan room during a scan procedure or a fluid injection procedure. If an individual enters the scan room during this procedure, image capture device 200 may be configured to capture image data and / or video data of the individual, such that fluid injector system 100 pauses the procedure until the individual exits or is removed from the scan room.

[0109] In some examples of the present disclosure, the image capture device 200 may also be used to capture patient image data and / or video data during a fluid injection or scanning procedure, during which the patient should preferably remain motionless. If the image capture device 200 identifies that the patient has moved during the procedure, the fluid injector system 100 may be configured to suspend the procedure until the patient remains motionless. In some examples of the present disclosure, the image capture device 200 may be used to identify whether the patient has been introduced into the scanner room or whether the scanner room is empty. Using the image capture device 200 in this manner allows physicians and technicians to immediately identify in real time whether the scanner room is occupied by a patient, thereby improving the scheduling of patient procedures. The image capture device 200 may also be used to capture patient image data and / or video data during the entire image scanning procedure. In some examples of the present disclosure, the image capture device 200 may also be configured to capture image data and / or video data of the scanner room to determine whether / when the room has been decontaminated after the image scanning procedure. If the scanner room has not yet been decontaminated, the fluid injector system 100 may be configured to alert an individual to this situation when they enter the contaminated room.

[0110] 10 , in some examples of the present disclosure, further uses of the image capture device 200 in combination with the fluid injector system 100 are shown and described. Similar to the facial recognition program described above, the image capture device 200 may be used to recognize objects located within or near the fluid injector system 100. The image capture device 200 may be used to capture image data or video data of an object 206 placed in front of the image capture device 200. The image data or video data of the object 206 may be transmitted to the electronic control device 400 for evaluation. In some examples of the present disclosure, the image capture device 200 may be configured and programmed to capture image data or video data of the object 206, including a label, a barcode, the shape of the object 206, the color of the object 206, the color of the fluid contained in the object 206, and / or a QR code provided on the object 206. In some examples, the object 206 may be a syringe, a bulk fluid container, or a catheter set, among other items that may be used with the fluid injector system 100. After image capture device 200 captures image or video data of object 206 and transmits this information to electronic control device 400, electronic control device 400 may automatically document the particular object 206 being used in fluid injector system 100 based on the image or video data. In some examples, based on the captured label, barcode, and / or QR code, information about object 206, such as volume, dimensions, and material, the particular fluid held in a bulk fluid container, the gauge size and / or length of a catheter set, and syringe parameters, including a multi-use disposable syringe set or a single-use disposable syringe set inserted into fluid injector system 100, may be identified by electronic control device 400.The automatic documentation of this information about the object 206 eliminates the need to manually enter this data into the fluid injector system 100 and ensures accuracy and compliance with this information entered into the fluid injector system 100. Additionally, eliminating the need to manually enter this information about the object 206 allows the physician or technician to spend more time with the patient.

[0111] In some examples of the present disclosure, image data and / or video data of object 206 captured by image capture device 200 may be stored in electronic control device 400 of fluid injector system 100 or may be directed to remote central database 600 for storage for future use. Image data and / or video data of object 206 may be captured by image capture device 200 by placing object 206 in front of image capture device 200 or by moving image capture device 200 in front of object 206.

[0112] In some examples of the present disclosure, image data and / or video data of object 206 may be used by electronic control device 400 and / or central database 600 for inventory tracking within a facility. By recording information about objects 206 being used in fluid injector system 100, electronic control device 400 and / or central database 600 may track the number of objects, such as syringes, catheter sets, and / or bulk fluid containers, still stored at the facility for use by other fluid injector systems 100. If a low supply of a particular object 206 is identified, the facility may be alerted to the need to order additional object 206 to replenish the facility's inventory. Information about object 206 obtained from the image data and / or video data of object 206 may be displayed on user interface 124 of fluid injector system 100 to inform physicians or technicians using the fluid injector system 100 of relevant information about the object 206. In some examples of the present disclosure, text information of the object 206 identified by the image capture device 200 may be recorded by the electronic control device 400 using the image data and / or video data, so that the text information can be entered into a point-of-care field that is added to an injection record recorded for a patient connected to the fluid injector system 100. The patient's injection record may be stored in the electronic control device 400 or in the central database 600 for future reference by a physician or technician. One example of a system that may incorporate the central database 600 is the Certegra® workstation offered by Bayer HealthCare LLC.

[0113] In some examples of the present disclosure, image capture device 200 may capture image data and / or video data of a bulk fluid container or syringe containing a contrast agent or a diluent such as saline. The image data and / or video data captured by image capture device 200 may include the manufacturer of the contrast agent, the expiration date of the contrast agent, the lot or batch number of the contrast agent, and / or the concentration of the contrast agent. All of this information may be reviewed by a physician or technician to ensure that the contrast agent being injected into a patient is safe for injection. If a problem occurs with a particular contrast agent used in fluid injector system 100, the recorded image data and / or video data may be reviewed to identify specific details about the contrast agent, such as the lot or batch number of the contrast agent, to reduce the number of problems that may be experienced by using contrast agents from the same manufacturer and / or lot or batch.

[0114] 11 , in some examples of the present disclosure, further uses of the image capture device 200 in connection with the fluid injector system 100 are shown and described. Once the image capture device 200 captures image data and / or video data regarding the object 206, the electronic control device 400 may use this information to perform additional functions in the fluid injector system 100. In some examples of the present disclosure, the image capture device 200 may be used to identify a non-magnetic resonance safety object within the scanner room 15. In this situation, the fluid injector system 100 may be configured to prevent a fluid injection procedure until the non-magnetic resonance safety object is removed from the scanner room 15. In some examples of the present disclosure, the fluid injector system 100 may also include a projection system 208 disposed on the injector housing 102. The projection system 208 may be positioned near the syringe 132 held within the fluid injector system 100. The projection system 208 may be used to display information on the exterior surface of the syringe 132 and / or on the interior surface of the syringe 132. In some examples of the present disclosure, the projection system 208 may include at least one light configured to illuminate the body of the syringe 132 to display information on the syringe 132. In some examples of the present disclosure, after the image capture device 200 scans at least one of the syringe 132, the bulk fluid container, and the catheter set, the electronic control device 400 may be configured and programmed to instruct the projection system 208 to display information on the body of the syringe 132, including information such as the type of fluid held in the syringe 132, the expiration date of the fluid held in the syringe 132, the manufacturer of the syringe 132 or the fluid held in the syringe 132, the date and / or time the syringe 132 was installed in the fluid injector system 100, and the amount of fluid remaining in the syringe 132. By displaying this information on the body of the syringe 132, a physician or technician can always identify information regarding the medication administered to the patient.Additionally, displaying this information on the body of syringe 132 may reduce the risk of a patient using the wrong medication, as the physician or technician is constantly reminded of the information regarding the fluid held in syringe 132. The displayed information also helps reduce the number of manual steps the physician or technician must take to identify the specific fluid held in syringe 132, resulting in more time with the patient.

[0115] In some examples of the present disclosure, the projection system 208 may be used to detect errors in the fluid loaded into the fluid injector system 100. For example, the projection system 208 may be programmed to always display labels on the syringes identifying the specific type of fluid, including contrast media and saline, that should be loaded into each particular syringe 132. Thus, when a physician or technician loads one or more syringes 132 into the fluid injector system 100, the projection system 208 illuminates the desired fluid indicator on the syringe(s) 132, allowing the physician or technician to review the installed syringe(s) 132 and verify that the correct fluid was delivered to the correct syringe(s) 132 before the fluid injector system 100 injection procedure begins. If the physician or technician identifies that the incorrect fluid has been delivered to one or more syringes 132, the physician or technician can quickly identify this situation and switch the syringe(s) 132. The electronic control device 400 may also store pre-programmed tasks to be executed by the fluid injector system 100. Based on the selected task, the electronic control device 400 instructs the projection system 208 to display the appropriate syringe indicator on the body of the syringe 132. In some examples of the present disclosure, the image capture device 200 may also be configured and programmed to identify the type of fluid held in one or more syringes 132, and either allow operation of the fluid injector system 100 if the correct fluid is held in the one or more syringes 132, or lock the fluid injector system 100 from operation until the correct fluid is introduced into the one or more syringes 132. The image capture device 200 may identify the fluid held in one or more syringes 132 based on the color, density, or other characteristics of the fluid.In some examples of the present disclosure, if the image capture device 200 identifies that one or more syringes 132 are not properly attached to the fluid injector system 100, the fluid injector system 100 may be configured to issue a visual and / or audio warning to a physician or technician and may lock the wheels of the base 110 of the fluid injector system 100.

[0116] 12, further operations and methods of use of the image capture device 200 and fluid injector system 100 are shown and described in some examples of the present disclosure. Similar to the facial recognition operation described in connection with FIG. 9, a hand gesture recognition operation may be initiated by the fluid injector system 100 to perform a specific pre-programmed task based on a specific hand gesture 210 performed by a physician or technician captured by the image capture device 200. The use of hand gesture recognition operations in the fluid injector system 100 improves aseptic technique provided to the fluid injector system 100 because the physician or technician does not need to touch the fluid injector system 100 to instruct the fluid injector system 100 to perform a specific task. Additionally, patient information recording may be improved by storing the recorded hand gestures as video data with a specific patient file. The use of hand gesture recognition operations in the fluid injector system 100 also reduces wear and tear on the buttons and user interface 124 of the fluid injector system 100 because a physician or technician does not have to touch the buttons or user interface 124 as frequently.

[0117] In some examples of the present disclosure, image capture device 200 may be configured to capture image data and / or video data regarding hand gestures 210 performed by an individual positioned near fluid injector system 100. For example, image capture device 200 may be configured to take a photograph or video of hand gestures 210 performed by a doctor or technician positioned near fluid injector system 100. The image data and / or video data captured by image capture device 200 may include hand gesture identification information regarding hand gestures 210 performed by the individual, which is transmitted via wired or wireless communication to electronic control device 400 of fluid injector system 100. Once electronic control device 400 receives the hand gesture identification information, electronic control device 400 may be configured and programmed to compare the captured hand gesture identification information with hand gesture identification information stored either on electronic control device 400 or on a central database 600 in communication with electronic control device 400.

[0118] In some examples of the present disclosure, upon receiving a positive match between the hand gesture identification captured by the image capture device 200 and the stored hand gesture identification, the fluid injector system 100 may be activated to perform a predetermined operation or task based on the captured hand gesture identification. In some examples of the present disclosure, after a preprogrammed task is selected by a physician or technician using the user interface 124 of the fluid injector system 100 and the physician or technician confirms that the patient is properly prepared for the task, the physician or technician may perform a “thumbs-up” hand gesture 210 in front of the image capture device 200 to authorize the fluid injector system 100 to perform the selected predetermined operation or task. In some examples of the present disclosure, during a preprogrammed task or operation being performed by the fluid injector system 100, the physician or technician may perform a “stop” hand gesture 210 in front of the image capture device 200 to authorize the fluid injector system 100 to stop performing the preprogrammed task or operation. In some examples of the present disclosure, after a pre-programmed task is selected by a physician or technician using the user interface 124 of the fluid injector system 100 and the physician or technician has verified that the patient is properly prepared for the task, the physician or technician may perform a hand gesture 210 in front of the image capture device 200 holding a number of fingers that may correspond to the number of minutes that the fluid injector system 100 should wait until the selected pre-programmed task or operation is initiated by the fluid injector system 100.

[0119] In some examples of the present disclosure, image capture device 200 may also be programmed to capture image data and / or video data of user actions performed to operate fluid injector system 100. The captured user actions may be used to support distance learning and training for fluid injector system 100. Image capture device 200 may be positioned to observe a user or operator's interaction with the keyboard, console, user interface 124, and / or any other user interface elements or components of fluid injector system 100. After this image data and / or video data is transmitted to electronic control device 400, electronic control device 400 may be programmed to provide information about the particular user action that can be used in the future to provide cues to assist the user or operator or to notify training personnel so that training personnel can provide feedback to trainees or better understand areas to focus on for user training. To alleviate patient and / or operator privacy concerns, the image capture device 200 can electronically “blur” the facial features of the operator and patient, focusing only on the patient's and / or operator's hands and arms and their associated movements and gestures.

[0120] In some examples of the present disclosure, the fluid injector system 100 may be programmed to allow a physician or technician to set their own preprogrammed hand gestures 210 with the fluid injector system 100 to select a preprogrammed task or action and then, upon identifying the preprogrammed hand gesture 210 from the physician or technician, program the fluid injector system 100 to begin the selected preprogrammed task or action. In some examples of the present disclosure, the fluid injector system 100 may instruct the physician or technician to perform a specific task, such as visually confirming that there is no air in the catheter set, before the fluid injector system 100 performs the preprogrammed task. After completing the task identified by the fluid injector system 100, the physician or technician may perform a “thumbs up” hand gesture 210 in front of the image capture device 200 to confirm that the task is complete and that the fluid injector system 100 is authorized to begin the preprogrammed task or action. In some examples of the present disclosure, the image capture device 200 may also capture image or video data of a physician or technician performing and completing tasks for future review in the event of an adverse or undesirable event in the fluid injector system 100. In some examples of the present disclosure, the image capture device 200 may be used to identify whether a physician or technician has completed an air check before beginning a procedure. If the air check is not completed by the physician or technician, the fluid injector system 100 will not begin the fluid injection procedure. In some examples of the present disclosure, the hand gestures 210 recognized by the fluid injector system 100 may be culture-specific gestures adapted to the particular region or location in which the fluid injector system 100 is being used.In some examples of the present disclosure, the hand gestures 210 recognized by the fluid injector system 100 may include zoom in gestures, zoom out gestures, and swipe gestures to instruct the fluid injector system 100 to perform specific pre-programmed procedures.

[0121] In some examples of the present disclosure, image capture device 200 may also be configured and programmed to capture image data and / or video data of a physician or technician's hands as the physician or technician performs an IV needle injection procedure. Image capture device 200 may capture image data and / or video data of a particular injection rate, fluid type, and / or injection timing performed by the physician or technician.

[0122] 13 , in some examples of the present disclosure, further operation and methods of use of the image capture device 200 and the fluid injector system 100 are shown and described. In some examples of the present disclosure, the fluid injector system 100 may also include a near-infrared projection system 212 that can be utilized to map a patient's veins. When the patient is positioned near the fluid injector system 100, the patient's limb 214 may be positioned in front of the fluid injector system 100 so that the near-infrared projection system 212 can map the patient's veins for easy identification by a physician or technician. Using this vein mapping, the physician or technician is provided with an accurate visualization of the veins beneath the patient's skin. Once the near-infrared projection system 212 detects the patient's veins using infrared light, the near-infrared projection system 212 digitally displays the patient's vein mapping on the surface of the patient's skin, allowing the physician or technician to easily visualize and identify the veins in the patient's limb 214 for inserting an intravenous needle. The near-infrared projection system 212 may be integrally formed with the injector housing 102 of the fluid injector system 100. In another example of the present disclosure, the near-infrared projection system 212 may be operably connected to the fluid injector system 100 via a telescoping member that allows a physician or technician to move the near-infrared projection system 212 relative to the fluid injector system 100 to accommodate different positions of the patient relative to the fluid injector system 100.

[0123] In some examples of the present disclosure, after the near-infrared projection system 212 maps the patient's veins on the surface of the patient's skin, the image capture device 200 may capture image data and / or video data of the vein mapping for recording in the electronic control device 400 or the central database 600. The image data and / or video data captured by the image capture device 200 may be displayed on the user interface 124 of the fluid injector system 100 to help a physician or technician easily identify the patient's vein mapping. By visualizing the patient's vein mapping, the physician or technician may improve their IV needle placement efforts to increase the safety and efficiency of inserting the IV needle into the appropriate vein in the patient's limb 214. In some examples of the present disclosure, the image capture device 200 may capture image data and / or video data of a specific insertion location of the IV needle in the patient's limb 214, which may be recorded using the electronic control device 400 and / or the central database 600 for future reference. In some examples of the present disclosure, image capture device 200 may detect an IV needle being inserted into a patient's limb 214 and document verification in electronic control device 400 and / or central database 600, creating a record that an IV needle was inserted into the patient. Using venous mapping in conjunction with image capture device 200 may help avoid extravasation of the patient. Additionally, using image capture device 200 in tandem with venous mapping may reduce the time required for difficult IV needle placement, improving patient throughput and allowing more time for the physician or technician to focus on other workflow steps.

[0124] In some examples of the present disclosure, near-infrared projection system 212 may be used to display an illumination pattern on patient's limb 214. In some examples, the pattern may be a checkerboard pattern or multiple parallel lines. After the pattern is illuminated on patient's limb 214, image capture device 200 may be configured and programmed to capture image data and / or video data of the pattern on patient's limb 214 to detect any dimensional changes in the pattern produced due to swelling of patient's limb 214. Electronic control device 400 may review and calculate these dimensional changes in the pattern to determine the total extent of swelling of patient's limb 214.

[0125] In some examples of the present disclosure, further operation and methods of use of the image capture device 200 and the fluid injector system 100 are described. In some examples of the present disclosure, the image capture device 200 may be configured to capture image data and / or video data of an environment near the fluid injector system 100 to automatically detect harmful or undesirable events that may occur when treating a patient. In some examples of the present disclosure, a harmful or undesirable event may be any event that adversely affects a patient connected to the fluid injector system, including incorrect intravenous needle insertion placement, injection of an incorrect fluid type, an incorrect fluid flow rate utilized by the fluid injector system 100, a patient allergic reaction, extravasation, and inadvertent removal of an intravenous needle from a patient's limb. In some examples of the present disclosure, a harmful or undesirable event may include patient distress before, during, and / or after an injection procedure, including an allergic reaction, accelerated patient heart rate or movement from the patient, hypoxia, and incorrect container connection within the fluid injector system 100. Detecting adverse events using image capture device 200 may improve the time to recognize an adverse or undesirable event, and images and / or video may be captured by image capture device 200 for quality assurance purposes and for safety initiatives taught to physicians and technicians when learning to use fluid injector system 100. In some examples, electronic control device 400 of fluid injector system 100 may be programmed and configured to use high-power video magnification algorithms to detect changes in a patient's blood flow using image data and / or video data captured by image capture device 200. In some examples of the present disclosure, if image capture device 200 and electronic control device 400 detect an adverse or undesirable event in a patient, image capture device 200 may be programmed to automatically capture images or record video of the patient during the adverse or undesirable event.In some examples of the present disclosure, after an image or video is captured, electronic control device 400 and / or central database 600 may archive the image or video for future review and artificial intelligence learning of fluid injector system 100. Fluid injector system 100 may be programmed to review these archived images and / or videos to identify early indicators of an adverse or undesirable event that may be detected before the adverse or undesirable event occurs, allowing fluid injector system 100 to make adjustments before the adverse or undesirable event occurs. In some examples of the present disclosure, if an adverse or undesirable event occurs during an injection procedure with fluid injector system 100, image data and / or video data of intravenous needle insertion into a patient's blood vessel and delivery of medical fluid to the patient may be captured by image capture device 200 for reporting and documentation of the associated adverse or undesirable event.

[0126] While various examples of the present disclosure have been provided in the foregoing description, those skilled in the art can make modifications and variations to these examples without departing from the scope and spirit of the present disclosure. Accordingly, the foregoing description is intended to be illustrative rather than limiting. The above disclosure is defined by the claims, and all changes to the disclosure that come within the meaning and range of equivalency of the claims are intended to be embraced within their scope. [Explanation of symbols]

[0127] 10 Controllers 11 Processing Unit 11 Proximal end 12 Operator Interface 12 syringes 12' Data input section 12'' display 13 Charger 13 Syringe port 14 Plunger 15 Scanner Room 16 Electromagnetic Shielding 17 Observation window 17 tube sets 17a first fluid conduit 17b second fluid conduit 18 doors 19 Control Room, Distal End 20 Injection control unit, common fluid conduit 21 Rechargeable Battery 22 MRI Scanner Operator Interface 25 injection head unit 26 Fluid container 27 Electromagnetic Shielding 28 Magnetic Gantry 30 Scanner 100 Fluid Injector System 102 Injector housing 110 base 114 Handle 118 Bulk Fluid Connector 120 Bulk Fluid Source 122 Manifold 124 User Interface 126 control buttons 130 Multiple Use Disposable Sets (MUDS) 132 Syringe, fluid reservoir 134 MUDS fluid pathways 136 Valve 148 Manifold 150 Fluid Inlet Line 152 fluid outlet line 192 connection port 200 Image Capture Devices 201 Sensors 202 Elastic member 204 Opening, base 206 objects 208 Projection System 210 Hand Gestures 212 Near-infrared projection system 214 Patient's limbs 400 Electronic Control Devices 404 processor 408 memory 410 Input Component 412 Output Component 500a, 500b, 500n Fluid Reservoirs 510a, 510b, 510n drive components 520a, 520b, 520n valves 530 Fluid conduit 600 central database

Claims

1. 1. A fluid injector system configured for use in administering at least one fluid to a patient, the fluid injector system comprising: at least one image capture device configured to capture at least one of image data or video data within an environment surrounding the fluid injector system; A control device comprising at least one processor, receiving, with the at least one processor, at least one of the image data or the video data captured by the at least one image capture device; using the at least one processor to determine whether at least one of the image data or the video data includes at least one predetermined characteristic, the at least one predetermined characteristic including at least one of the patient, a user, or an object positioned near the fluid injector system; automatically detecting an adverse or undesirable event affecting the patient occurring in association with use of the fluid injector system based on at least one of the image data or the video data captured by the at least one image capture device; performing at least one action in response to determining that the adverse or undesirable event affecting the patient associated with use of the fluid injector system has occurred, the at least one action including recording at least one of the image data or the video data in a central database for future review in the event of the adverse or undesirable event affecting the patient associated with use of the fluid injector system; a control device having at least one processor programmed or configured to: A fluid injector system comprising:

2. 2. The fluid injector system of claim 1, wherein the at least one image capture device is at least one camera that is at least one of: a) integrally formed with an injector housing of the fluid injector system; and b) operably connected to the injector housing of the fluid injector system via an extendable member that enables the at least one camera to move relative to the injector housing.

3. the predetermined characteristic includes facial identification or biometric identification information of the user, and the control device: receiving the facial identification information or the biometric identification information about the user from the at least one image capture device based on at least one of an image or a video of the user positioned near the fluid injector system; comparing the facial or biometric identification information about the user received from the at least one image capture device with stored facial or biometric identification information to determine whether the user is an individual authorized to use the fluid injector system; activating or operating the fluid injector system upon receiving a confirmed match between facial identification or biometric identification information about the user received from the at least one image capture device and the stored facial identification or biometric identification information; and configuring the fluid injector system to a preferred user interface upon receiving a confirmed match between the facial identification information or the biometric identification information about the user received from the at least one image capture device and the stored facial identification information or the biometric identification information.

3. The fluid injector system of claim 1 or claim 2, configured to:

4. 4. The fluid injector system of claim 2 or claim 3, wherein the control device is configured to retrieve the user's credentials to ensure that the user's credentials are up to date.

5. The control device receiving, from the at least one image capture device, facial or biometric identification information about the patient based on at least one of an image or a video of the patient positioned near the fluid injector system; retrieving a patient record for the patient based on the facial identification information or the biometric identification information received by the controlling device regarding the patient; 3. The fluid injector system of claim 1 or claim 2, configured to:

6. 6. The fluid injector system of claim 1, wherein the adverse or undesirable event occurring in connection with use of the fluid injector system includes at least one of the following: incorrect insertion of a needle into the patient's blood vessel; an incorrect type of the at least one fluid; an incorrect flow rate of the at least one fluid; inadvertent removal of a needle from the patient's blood vessel; extravasation of the at least one fluid; an allergic reaction of the patient; an increase in the patient's heart rate; movement of the patient; hypoxia of the patient; a change in the patient's blood flow; and an incorrect connection within the fluid injector system.

7. 1. A computer program product for operating a fluid injector system configured for use in administering at least one fluid to a patient, the computer program product, when executed by at least one processor, causing the at least one processor to: capturing, with at least one image capture device, at least one of image data or video data within an environment surrounding the fluid injector system; receiving at least one of the image data or the video data captured by the at least one image capture device; determining whether at least one of the image data or the video data includes at least one predetermined characteristic, the at least one predetermined characteristic including at least one of the patient, a user, or an object positioned near the fluid injector system; automatically detecting an adverse or undesirable event affecting the patient occurring in association with use of the fluid injector system based on at least one of the image data or the video data captured by the at least one image capture device; performing at least one action in response to determining that the adverse or undesirable event affecting the patient associated with use of the fluid injector system has occurred, the at least one action including recording at least one of the image data or the video data in a central database for future review in the event of the adverse or undesirable event affecting the patient associated with use of the fluid injector system; A computer program product comprising at least one non-transitory computer-readable medium containing one or more instructions.

8. 8. The computer program product of claim 7, wherein the at least one image capture device is at least one camera that is at least one of: a) integrally formed with an injector housing of the fluid injector system; and b) operably connected to the injector housing of the fluid injector system via a telescoping member that enables the at least one camera to move relative to the injector housing.

9. The predetermined characteristic includes facial or biometric identification information of the user, and the one or more instructions further cause the at least one processor to: receiving, from the at least one image capture device, the facial identification information or the biometric identification information about the user based on at least one of an image or a video of the user positioned near the fluid injector system; comparing the facial identification or the biometric identification information about the user received from the at least one image capture device with stored facial identification or biometric identification information to determine whether the user is an individual authorized to use the fluid injector system; activating or operating the fluid injector system upon receiving a confirmed match between the facial or biometric identification information about the user received from the at least one image capture device and the stored facial or biometric identification information; upon receiving a confirmed match between the facial or biometric identification information about the user received from the at least one image capture device and the stored facial or biometric identification information, causing the fluid injector system to configure to a preferred user interface. A computer program product according to claim 7 or claim 8.

10. 10. The computer program product of claim 9, wherein the one or more instructions further cause the at least one processor to retrieve, using a control device, the user's credentials to ensure the user's credentials are up to date.

11. The predetermined characteristic includes facial or biometric identification information of the user, and the one or more instructions further cause the at least one processor to: receiving, from the at least one image capture device, the facial identification information or the biometric identification information about the patient based on at least one of an image or a video of the patient positioned near the fluid injector system; searching a patient record for the patient based on the facial identification information or the biometric identification information for the patient received by the at least one processor; 10. The computer program product of claim 9.

12. 12. The computer program product of claim 7, wherein an adverse or undesirable event occurring in association with use of the fluid injector system comprises at least one of incorrect insertion of a needle into the patient's blood vessel, an incorrect type of the at least one fluid, an incorrect flow rate of the at least one fluid, inadvertent removal of a needle from the patient's blood vessel, extravasation of the at least one fluid, an allergic reaction of the patient, an increased heart rate of the patient, movement of the patient, hypoxia of the patient, a change in blood flow of the patient, and an incorrect connection within the fluid injector system.

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