Dual Chamber Hand Pump for Blood

Abstract

A dual-chamber single-hand pump is described that includes a pump chamber with four fluid paths. Two paths are configured to direct fluid into the chamber and stop fluid flow therethrough from the chamber, and two paths are configured to direct fluid from the chamber and stop fluid flow therethrough to the chamber. A movable piston disposed within the chamber separates two of the paths from the other two paths within the chamber. The pump can be held in one hand by having a finger grip to stabilize the pump and a palm grip to advance the piston. When the palm is relaxed, allowing the spring to extend, a return spring can return the piston to its original position.

Description

[Technical Field]

[0001] CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS This application claims the benefit of U.S. Patent Application No. 17 / 888,197, filed August 15, 2022, entitled "DUAL CHAMBER BLOOD HAND PUMP," the entire disclosure of which is incorporated herein by reference. [Background technology]

[0002] Therapeutic treatments can include the preparation of equipment and the infusion of medical fluids (e.g., blood, plasma, saline), which are prepared for the patient and transferred to the patient using an IV catheter connected through a configuration of flexible tubing and accessories commonly referred to as an "IV set." The equipment often includes a connection to a fluid source, e.g., an IV blood bag. During surgery or other medical procedures, medical fluids may be needed quickly and at very high flow rates, as a short time to transfusion is associated with a reduced risk of mortality in trauma patients. Typical IV sets use a cylindrical hand pump that requires manual compression to rapidly increase fluid flow, resulting in muscle fatigue. Summary of the Invention

[0003] For these reasons, it is desirable to provide an IV set hand pump that is constructed to be operated by a user with one hand without significant effort or time, which can help reduce hand muscle fatigue and complexity of use.

[0004] The subject technology provides an IV set designed for high-flow fluid delivery, particularly for handling large volumes of blood in trauma situations. A one-handed pump for use with an intravenous delivery system is described herein. The pump can include a pump chamber with multiple ports providing a fluid path through a wall of a chamber housing, and a plunger disposed within the chamber and configured to be axially reciprocatingly movable within the chamber, the plunger separating the chamber into a first chamber and a second chamber. Some embodiments provide that the first chamber is in fluid communication with a first plurality of ports, the second chamber is in fluid communication with a second plurality of ports, and the first plurality of ports are fluidly isolated from the second plurality of ports by the plunger through the chamber. In some embodiments, as the plunger advances axially toward the first plurality of ports, fluid is exhausted from the chamber through a first port of the first plurality of ports and restricted from being exhausted through a second port of the first plurality of ports, fluid is introduced into the chamber through a first port of the second plurality of ports and restricted from being introduced into the chamber through a second port of the second plurality of ports, and in some embodiments, as the plunger advances axially toward the second plurality of ports, fluid is exhausted from the chamber through one of the second plurality of ports and restricted from being exhausted through another port of the second plurality of ports, and fluid is introduced into the chamber through one of the first plurality of ports and restricted from being introduced into the chamber through another port of the second plurality of ports.

[0005] Embodiments described herein further include a return spring that compresses when the plunger advances in a first direction and expands when the plunger advances in a second direction. Some embodiments include a handle configured to be pressed by a user's palm, and some include a plurality of finger grips configured to fit over a user's fingers. In some embodiments, the one-handed pump is configured to be actuated by one hand of a user when the plunger advances toward the first plurality of ports and when the plunger advances toward the second plurality of ports.

[0006] In some of the embodiments described herein, the first plurality of ports comprises at least two one-way valves, and in some embodiments, the at least two one-way valves comprise ball valves. In some embodiments, the second plurality of ports comprises at least two one-way valves, and in some embodiments, the at least two one-way valves comprise ball valves.

[0007] Some embodiments of the subject technology described herein include a one-handed pump for use with an intravenous delivery system having a pump chamber with a first fluid path, a second fluid path, a third fluid path, and a fourth fluid path, the first path and the third path configured to direct fluid to the chamber and stop flow therethrough from the chamber, and the second path and the fourth path configured to direct fluid from the chamber and stop flow therethrough to the chamber. Some pumps described herein include a piston disposed within a chamber, the piston movable between a first position and a second position, fluidly isolating the first and second fluid paths from a third and fourth fluid path within the chamber, and when the piston is moving toward the first position, fluid is directed through the second and third fluid paths and is stopped through the first and fourth fluid paths, and when the piston is moving toward the second position, fluid is directed through the first and fourth fluid paths and is stopped through the second and third fluid paths.

[0008] Some embodiments further include first, second, third, and fourth ports fluidly coupled to the chamber that provide flow along the first, second, third, and fourth fluid paths, respectively. Some embodiments also include a plurality of one-way valves in each of the ports, the valves configured to direct or stop flow during movement of the piston. In certain embodiments, the plurality of one-way valves include ball valves.

[0009] Some of the described embodiments include a plurality of finger grips configured to fit over a user's fingers, and the one-handed pump is configured to be actuated by one hand of a user when the plunger moves between the first and second positions. In some embodiments, the return spring is compressed when the piston moves in one direction and expands when the piston moves in another direction, and the piston is configured to move in one direction due to user action and to move in the other direction due to expansion of the return spring.

[0010] Methods for using a dual-chamber pump are also described herein. The method may be for treating a patient or for preparing a line set for treatment, also known as priming the set. A method for directing fluid through an intravenous delivery system using a single-hand pump can include providing a pump chamber with a first fluid path, a second fluid path, a third fluid path, and a fourth fluid path, where the first and third paths are configured to direct fluid into the chamber and stop flow therethrough from the chamber, and the second and fourth paths are configured to direct fluid from the chamber and stop flow therethrough to the chamber. Some methods include providing a piston disposed within the chamber, where the piston fluidically isolates the first and second fluid paths from the third and fourth fluid paths within the chamber. Some methods also include moving the piston between a first position and a second position, where as the piston is moving toward the first position, fluid is directed through the second and third fluid paths and is stopped through the first and fourth fluid paths, and as the piston is moving toward the second position, fluid is directed through the first and fourth fluid paths and is stopped through the second and third fluid paths.

[0011] Some methods may also include providing first, second, third, and fourth ports fluidly coupled to the chamber. In some examples, some methods further include directing and stopping fluid flow along the first, second, third, and fourth paths through one-way valves.

[0012] According to various aspects of the subject technology, an infusion system for intravenous delivery of fluid from a fluid container includes a malleable fluid container configured to store fluid and deliver the fluid through connected infusion tubing; a fluid container pressure sleeve configured to wrap around, connect to, and form to the malleable fluid container such that when the fluid container pressure sleeve is inflated with gas, the fluid container pressure sleeve applies inward pressure to the malleable fluid container from outside the malleable fluid container; a pump configured to provide gas to the fluid container pressure sleeve; and a pressure measurement device configured to measure pressure associated with the malleable fluid container by the fluid container pressure sleeve.

[0013] It is understood that other configurations of the subject technology will be readily apparent to those skilled in the art from the following detailed description, wherein various configurations of the subject technology are shown and described by way of example. As will be understood, the subject technology is capable of other and different configurations, and its several details are capable of modification in various other respects, all without departing from the scope of the subject technology. Accordingly, the drawings and detailed description are to be regarded as illustrative in nature, and not as restrictive. [Brief explanation of the drawings]

[0014] The accompanying drawings, which are included to provide a further understanding of the present disclosure, and which are incorporated in and constitute a part of this specification, illustrate embodiments of the disclosure and, together with the description, serve to explain the principles of the disclosure. Like reference numerals refer to corresponding parts throughout the drawings and the description.

[0015] [Figure 1] 1 is a schematic illustration of a patient connected to an intravenous system incorporating aspects of the present disclosure. [Figure 2] FIG. 1 is a schematic diagram of an intravenous system incorporating aspects of the present disclosure. [Figure 3] FIG. 1 is a perspective view of a dual chamber hand pump according to aspects of the present disclosure. [Figure 4] FIG. 1 is a perspective view of a user's hand holding a dual-chamber hand pump according to aspects of the present disclosure. [Figure 5] FIG. 1 is a cross-sectional view of a dual chamber hand pump according to aspects of the present disclosure. [Figure 6] FIG. 1 is an exploded partial cross-sectional view of a dual chamber hand pump according to aspects of the present disclosure. [Figure 7] 1A-1C are cross-sectional views of positions of a dual-chamber hand pump according to aspects of the present disclosure for pumping in one direction. [Figure 8] 10A-10C are cross-sectional views of positions of a dual-chamber hand pump according to aspects of the present disclosure for changing the direction of pumping action. [Figure 9] 8A-8C are cross-sectional views of positions of a dual-chamber hand pump according to an embodiment of the present disclosure for pumping in a different direction than that shown in FIG. 7. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0016] The detailed description set forth below describes various configurations of the subject technology and is not intended to represent the only configurations in which the subject technology may be practiced. The detailed description includes specific details for the purpose of providing a thorough understanding of the subject technology. Thus, any dimensions provided relate to particular embodiments as non-limiting examples. However, it will be apparent to those skilled in the art that the subject technology may be practiced without these specific details. In some instances, well-known structures and components are shown in block diagram form to avoid obscuring the concepts of the subject technology.

[0017] It should be understood that the present disclosure includes examples of the subject technology and does not limit the scope of the appended claims. Various aspects of the subject technology are disclosed herein according to specific, but non-limiting, examples. The various embodiments described in the present disclosure can be implemented in different ways and with modifications according to a desired application or implementation.

[0018] FIG. 1 shows a schematic diagram of a patient 110 connected to an intravenous system incorporating aspects of the present disclosure. Intravenous fluids, such as blood infusates, are often contained in malleable (e.g., flexible) bags, commonly referred to as intravenous or "IV" bags. These bags or fluid sources 120 may include multiple septa or other fluid connections that allow the bags to be connected to tubing that supplies the fluid to the patient 110. While the bags are generally flexible, the fluid source 120 need not be a flexible bag, and the bag may be punctured if it comes into contact with a sharp object. Alternative containers that are more popular in some countries include glass bottles and soft plastic bottles.

[0019] Administration of these IV fluids, regardless of the container, requires that the fluid source 120 be suspended at a height, typically 0.5 to 1.0 meters above the patient 110 or infusion pump. This container is then connected by flexible tubing either directly to the patient 110 or to the infusion pump. By mounting the fluid source 120 above the delivery point, positive gravity pressure is created when connecting the infusion tubing to the patient 110 or pump. One embodiment of such a mounting is shown in FIG. 1, where an IV bag is mounted at an elevated position. An inlet line 130 is connected to the fluid source 120 via a drip chamber 140. Fluid flow is provided from the fluid source 120 through the drip chamber 140 to the inlet line 130.

[0020] Flow can be achieved by either gravity pressure or positive pressure. Gravity-based flow control systems rely on gravity for fluid flow. Commonly referred to as gravity sets, such systems may include an "IV controller" that interacts with the IV tubing. The IV controller may be a device that automatically controls the flow rate of fluid through the IV tubing by using a pinching device that pinches the tubing to different degrees and controls the flow of fluid therethrough. In some instances, the IV controller may be a manually operated device used and adjusted by a caregiver to pinch the tubing. In some instances, the IV controller may also respond to control signals generated, for example, by a flow sensor attached to the drip chamber. Advantages of gravity sets include their relative simplicity and low cost. Pinching devices involve relatively simple mechanical devices under electrical control. However, the IV controller is limited to gravity pressure, which depends on the "head height" or "head pressure" of the administered fluid, which may be less than 1 psi.

[0021] In certain situations, the amount of pressure provided by a gravity pressure-based flow control device may be insufficient. In other situations, greater precision and accuracy of flow rate is required. In such situations, a positive pressure flow control device is necessary.

[0022] A separate infusion pump (not shown) may be used to infuse fluid at a rate greater than that which relies on gravity. Some infusion pumps function as flow control devices, acting on the respective tubing or fluid conduits of a fluid administration set to move fluid from a fluid container through the conduits to the patient 110 at a desired rate. However, in some situations, it may be necessary to use a gravity set without a separate infusion pump, such as when a separate infusion pump is not available or accessible. Furthermore, in some instances, it may be desirable to provide a gravity set for fluid flow that provides a flow greater than that resulting from positive pressure due to gravity.

[0023] Some instances where it may be desirable to increase fluid flow include when delivering large volumes of blood in a short period of time, such as in a trauma situation. In such instances, a separate infusion pump may not be available, and it may be desirable to use an in-line hand pump, or in some cases, a manually pumped and operated pressure sleeve around the blood IV bag, to provide blood flow to the patient at a rate greater than that achievable with a standard gravity set. With further reference to FIG. 1 , an embodiment is shown in which a hand pump 150 is provided in accordance with a gravity set. As shown, the hand pump 150 may be connected at one end to the inlet line 130 and at the other end to the outlet line 160. The outlet line 160 may extend from the hand pump 150 to an IV injection set 170 configured to transfer fluid into the vasculature of the patient 110.

[0024] Medical fluid administration sets, including gravity sets, may have more parts than are shown in FIG. 1. For example, as shown in FIG. 2, an IV set may be formed from any combination of infusion components and tubing. Typically, the infusion components and tubing are disposable products that are used once and then discarded. The infusion components and tubing may be formed from any suitable material (e.g., plastic, silicone, rubber (PVC)), many or all of which are transparent or translucent to allow viewing of the fluid flow or level therein.

[0025] As shown in FIG. 2, an IV set may include one or more IV bag needles 210 and one or more roller clamps 220 connected by tubing. The IV set may also include a Y-site or drip chamber 140 that brings together the tubing from the one or more IV bag needles 210. The drip chamber 140 may be connected to an inlet line 130, a hand pump 150, and an outlet line 160. Flow through the outlet line may be controlled by another roller clamp 220. The outlet line 160 may also be connected to an IV injection set 170 configured to deliver fluid to a patient 110 (shown in FIG. 1).

[0026] During use, the IV set is connected to a fluid source 120 (e.g., a blood bag) via drip chamber 140, inlet line 130, hand pump 150, and outlet line 160. Outlet line 160 is connected to a catheter placed in a patient's vein. Thus, fluid flows from fluid source 120, through drip chamber 140, to hand pump 150, through the remainder of the IV set, and out injection set 170. When hand pump 150 is actuated or squeezed, a volume of fluid contained within hand pump chamber 310 is forced downstream from hand pump 150, through outlet line 160, and to injection set 170.

[0027] FIG. 3 shows a perspective view of a hand pump 150 according to an embodiment described herein. The hand pump 150 includes a chamber 310, which may preferably be generally cylindrical. The chamber 310 may have a front chamber 320 and a rear chamber 330. A piston slider 340 extends in a direction from the chamber 310, for example, rearward from the rear chamber 330 as shown in FIG. 3. A push rod 350 is configured to extend at one end into at least a portion of the piston slider 340 and is connected at the opposite end to a grip handle 360. A return spring 370 is preferably disposed between opposing surfaces on the grip handle 360 ​​and the piston slider 340 to resist movement of the grip handle 360 ​​toward the piston slider 340.

[0028] During use of the hand pump 150, the grip handle 360 ​​is pushed forward toward the piston slider 340 or the chamber 310. As the grip handle 360 ​​is pushed forward toward the piston slider 340, the push rod 350 advances within the piston slider 340 and the return spring 370 is compressed between the advancing grip handle 360 ​​and the piston slider 340. When the grip handle 360 ​​is no longer pushed forward toward the piston slider 340 and the pressure is removed from the grip handle 360, the return spring 370 expands, pushing the grip handle 360 ​​away from the piston slider 340, thereby advancing the push rod 350 rearward from the piston slider 340.

[0029] Operation of the hand pump 150 involves a reciprocating motion that propels the grip handle 360 ​​and push rod 350 forward toward the chamber 310 to actuate the pump in one motion. The hand pump 150 then operates in a second motion when pressure on the grip handle 360 ​​is released, allowing the return spring 370 to expand and move the grip handle 360 ​​and push rod 350 rearward, away from the chamber 310. As this motion is repeated, the hand pump 150 pumps fluid toward the patient.

[0030] 3 further illustrates multiple inlet and outlet ports for transferring fluid from inlet line 130 to outlet line 160 via pump chamber 310. Hand pump 150 preferably includes a first inlet port 410 in fluid communication with first inlet line 420 and chamber 310 and configured to direct fluid from first inlet line 420 to chamber 310. A second inlet port 430 is in fluid communication with second inlet line 440 and chamber 310 and configured to direct fluid from second inlet line 440 to chamber 310.

[0031] Hand pump 150 preferably includes a first outlet port 450 in fluid communication with first outlet line 460 and chamber 310 and configured to direct fluid from chamber 310 to first outlet line 460. A second outlet port 470 is in fluid communication with second outlet line 480 and chamber 310 and configured to direct fluid from chamber 310 to second outlet line 480.

[0032] During operation, the reciprocating motion of the hand pump 150 directs fluid through the ports to pump the fluid toward the patient. When the grip handle 360 ​​is initially moved forward, fluid is expelled from the chamber 310 through the second outlet port 470; during this first movement, fluid is drawn into the chamber 310 through the first inlet port 410. When the grip handle 360 ​​is allowed to be pulled rearward by the return spring 370, the flow of fluid through the chamber 310 changes. During this second movement, fluid is expelled from the chamber 310 through the first outlet port 450 and drawn into the chamber 310 through the second inlet port 430.

[0033] FIG. 4 illustrates operation of the hand pump 150 with one hand 510 of a user. One-handed use of the pump 150 is achieved by providing finger grips 520 on the sides of the hand pump 150. In some examples, operation of the hand pump 150 can be similar to that of a typical syringe. With two fingers extending through the finger grips 520, a user can press the grip handle 360 ​​to actuate the pump 150 in a first direction. For operation of the pump in a second direction, the user can release pressure on the grip handle 360 ​​while keeping their fingers through the finger grips 520. The fingers in the finger grips 520 stabilize the pump 150 in the user's hand, and releasing pressure on the grip handle 360 ​​allows the return spring 370 to advance the grip handle 360 ​​backward. This action allows the user to continue repeatedly pumping fluid to a patient with one hand.

[0034] FIG. 5 shows a cross-sectional view of a dual-chamber hand pump 150 illustrating how the pump 150 can direct fluid during each of the movements or operations of the pump 150 described herein. The chamber 310 of the hand pump 150 includes an interior chamber wall 610 that defines a first chamber portion 620 and a second chamber portion 630. The first chamber portion 620 and the second chamber portion 630 are separated by a piston disc 640 that is movably mounted within the chamber 310. The piston disc 640 is preferably connected, via assembly or integrally formed, to a piston rod 650 that extends rearward from the piston disc 640 and through at least a portion of the piston slider 340. In some embodiments, the piston disc 640 and the piston rod 650 form a plunger. While the disc is shown as a flat, cylindrical disc in the embodiments described herein, the disc can have other non-cylindrical shapes. As the piston disc 640 advances forward towards the chamber front end 660, the volume of the second chamber portion 630 decreases and the volume of the first chamber portion 620 increases.

[0035] As described herein, fluid flow is provided to chamber 310 from first inlet line 420 and second inlet line 440 through first inlet port 410 and second inlet port 430. Fluid flow is exhausted from chamber 310 through first outlet port 450 and second outlet port 470 to first outlet line 460 and second outlet line 480. First inlet port 650 and first outlet port 450 are in fluid communication with first chamber portion 620. Second inlet port 430 and second outlet port 470 are in fluid communication with second chamber portion 630. Each of the ports is shown with a valve 670 that controls fluid flow therethrough to ensure that flow through the port is unidirectional. These one-way valves ensure that fluid is drawn from a source into chamber 310 and not out of the lower line of chamber 310 while one of chamber portions 620, 630 is inflated. Similarly, these one-way valves ensure that fluid is expelled towards the patient 110 and not towards the fluid source 120 while one of the chamber portions 620, 630 is deflated.

[0036] Movement of the piston disc 640 within the chamber 310 is controlled by pressing or releasing the grip handle 360. When the grip handle 360 ​​is pressed forward, the push rod 350 advances toward the chamber 310. A push rod forward end 680, coupled to or otherwise connected with the piston rod 650, advances the piston rod 650 through the piston slider 340, moving the piston disc 640 toward the chamber forward end 660. When the grip handle 360 ​​is released, a return spring 370 presses the grip handle 360 ​​rearward, pulling the piston disc 640 rearward and away from the chamber forward end 660.

[0037] FIG. 6 shows a partial cross-sectional exploded view of hand pump 150. Chamber 310 is shown in a rotated cross-sectional view compared to FIG. 5, illustrating finger grip 520 and first and second inlet openings 710, 720 through which fluid is directed into the chamber via first and second inlet ports 410, 430, respectively. Although not shown in FIG. 6, first and second outlet openings are included in chamber wall 610, separated from first and second inlet ports 710, 720. As shown, chamber wall 610 defines a generally cylindrical chamber 310 configured to accommodate piston disc 640 for axial reciprocating movement within cylindrical chamber 310 along the general axis of chamber 310.

[0038] The piston disc 640 preferably includes a piston ring 730 extending circumferentially and / or peripherally around the outer edge of the disc 640 such that the piston ring 730 seals against the chamber wall 610 as the piston disc 640 moves within the chamber 310. The piston ring 730 seals against the chamber wall 610 to restrict fluid communication between the first chamber portion 620 and the second chamber portion 630. The piston rod 650 extends from one side of the piston disc 640 and includes one or more piston rod seals 740 axially spaced apart and separated along the piston rod 650. The piston rod seals 740 are configured to seal against an inner surface of the piston slider 340 to restrict fluid from exiting the chamber 310 through the piston slider 340. The piston rod rear end 750 is configured to be coupled or connected to the push rod forward end 680 such that axial or rotational manipulation of the grip handle 360 ​​is transmitted through the push rod 350, the piston rod 650, and the piston disc 640.

[0039] The inlet ports 410, 430 and outlet ports 450, 470 are each configured to connect to tubing at one portion of the port and to the hand pump 150 at another portion of the port. The ports are configured to provide fluid communication between the tubing and the hand pump 150. The ports may include an inlet opening 750 and an outlet opening 760 that direct fluid through each port. The ports preferably include one-way valves, shown in FIG. 6 as ball valves 770, that allow fluid to pass through their respective ports only in a single direction. For example, the first inlet port 410 and the second inlet port 430 may include ball valves 770 that allow fluid flow from the first inlet line 420 and the second inlet line 440 to the chamber 310. They may also resist or prevent fluid flow from the chamber 310 toward the first inlet line 420 and the second inlet line 440. The one-way valve function can be achieved by providing a ball valve seat profile for the ball that matches the contours of the ball on the side of the ball that leads to the first inlet line 420 and the second inlet line 440, and by providing a flow path over or around the ball on the side of the ball that leads to the chamber 310. Thus, as fluid flows from the first inlet line 420 and the second inlet line 440, the ball is pushed toward the chamber 310 where the flow path over or around the ball is provided, thus allowing flow in that direction. When fluid pressure changes such that flow is potentially directed toward the first inlet line 420 and the second inlet line 440, the ball is pushed against the ball valve seat profile that matches the contours of the ball, and fluid is restricted or prevented from passing around the ball toward the first inlet line 420 and the second inlet line 440.

[0040] The first and second outlet ports 450, 470 operate in the opposite manner to that described with respect to the first and second inlet ports 410, 430. Each of the first and second outlet ports 450, 470 preferably includes a one-way valve, shown in FIG. 6 as a ball valve 770, that allows fluid to pass through the respective port only in a single direction. The first and second outlet ports 450, 470 may allow flow from the chamber 310 toward the first and second outlet lines 460, 480, but may resist or prevent fluid flow from the first and second outlet lines 460, 480 toward the chamber 310. The one-way valve function of the ports 450, 470 may be accomplished by providing a ball valve seat profile for the ball that matches the contours of the ball on the side of the ball leading toward the chamber 310 and by providing a flow path over or around the ball on the side of the ball leading to the outlet lines 460, 480. Thus, as fluid flows from the chamber toward the outlet line 460, 480, the ball is pushed toward the outlet line 460, 480, which provides a flow path over or around the ball, thus allowing flow in that direction. When the fluid pressure changes, possibly directing flow toward the chamber 310, the ball is forced against a ball valve seat profile that matches the contours of the ball, and fluid is restricted or prevented from passing around the ball toward the chamber 310.

[0041] Although the embodiments shown herein depict one-way valves that are ball valves, other one-way valves may be similarly adapted and used to perform the same or similar functions as those described above. For example, duckbill valves, umbrella valves, flapper valves, and other one-way valves may be used in various embodiments to achieve the one-way functions performed during the pumping process for hand pump 150.

[0042] 7-9 illustrate the operation of the dual-chamber hand pump 150. To operate the hand pump 150, either to infuse fluid into a patient or to prime a fluid line, an operator picks up the hand pump 150 and presses the grip handle 360 ​​with a forward force 810. When the grip handle 360 ​​is pressed with sufficient forward force, the piston rod 650 and piston disc 640 move in a forward direction 820. The forward movement of the piston disc 640 reduces the size of the second chamber portion 630, causing a positive pressure to be applied to the fluid in the second chamber portion 630. This positive pressure causes fluid to exit the chamber 310 through the second outlet port 470, as indicated by the arrow indicating output flow 830. The second inlet port 430 preferably includes a valve 670 that prevents or restricts fluid from flowing through the second inlet port 430.

[0043] As the size of second chamber portion 630 decreases, the size of first chamber portion 620 increases, causing a negative pressure to occur in first chamber portion 620. An arrow is shown indicating input flow 840, which reflects the flow of fluid through first inlet port 410 toward first chamber portion 620. This fills first chamber portion 620 in balance with the fluid being discharged from second chamber portion 630. Fluid that may be drawn in through first outlet port 450 is prevented or restricted by valve 670 in first outlet port 450.

[0044] 8 shows when the grip handle 360 ​​is fully depressed in the forward direction 820. At this point in operation, substantially no fluid is being drawn through the inlet or outlet ports, and the piston disc 640 experiences a reverse direction 850. The piston disc 640 stops moving forward and switches to a point where it can reverse its direction of movement.

[0045] 9 shows the extension force 860 exerted by the compressed return spring 370 as the compressed spring is forced to extend against the grip handle 360. This force moves the piston rod 650 and piston disc 640 in a rearward direction 870. As the piston disc 640 moves in the rearward direction 870, the first chamber portion 620 reduces in size, creating a positive pressure in the first chamber portion 620. This positive pressure causes an output flow 830 from the chamber 310 through the first outlet port 450. The valve 670 in the first inlet port 410 prevents or restricts fluid from flowing out of the first chamber portion 450 through the first inlet port 410.

[0046] As the size of first chamber portion 620 decreases, the size of second chamber portion 630 increases, causing a negative pressure to be created in second chamber portion 630. An input flow 840 is provided through second inlet port 430 to fill second chamber portion 630 in balance with the fluid being discharged from first chamber portion 620. Valve 670 prevents or restricts fluid from flowing through second outlet port 470 toward chamber 310, so that fluid is not drawn through second outlet port 470.

[0047] The reciprocating action of depressing grip handle 360 ​​and allowing grip handle 360 ​​to extend under the force of return spring 370 draws fluid into chamber 310 and expels fluid from chamber 310 with each stroke, thereby providing a relatively consistent flow action for infusing a patient or priming a fluid line. During operation, hand pump 150 can pump fluid at a rate of 13-15 liters per hour, and in some embodiments, hand pump 150 can pump fluid at a rate greater than 15 liters per hour.

[0048] The subject technology is presented according to various aspects, for example, as described below. Various examples of aspects of the subject technology are described as numbered clauses (1, 2, 3, etc.) for convenience. These are provided as examples and are not intended to limit the subject technology. Note that any of the dependent clauses may be combined in any combination and placed into a respective independent clause, e.g., clause 1 or clause 5. Other clauses may be presented similarly.

[0049] Clause 1. A one-handed pump for use with an intravenous delivery system comprising: a pump chamber having a plurality of ports providing a fluid path through a wall of a chamber housing; and a plunger disposed within the chamber and configured to be axially movable back and forth within the chamber, the plunger separating the chamber into a first chamber and a second chamber, wherein the first chamber is in fluid communication with the first plurality of ports and the second chamber is in fluid communication with the second plurality of ports, the first plurality of ports being fluidly isolated from the second plurality of ports by the plunger through the chamber, and wherein axial advancement of the plunger toward the first plurality of ports causes fluid to enter the first plurality of ports. a first port of the first plurality of ports and restricted from being exhausted from the chamber through a first port of the second plurality of ports and restricted from being exhausted through a second port of the second plurality of ports; when the plunger advances axially toward the second plurality of ports, fluid is exhausted from the chamber through one of the second plurality of ports and restricted from being exhausted through another port of the second plurality of ports; and when the plunger advances axially toward the second plurality of ports, fluid is exhausted from the chamber through one of the second plurality of ports and restricted from being exhausted through another port of the second plurality of ports.

[0050] Clause 2. The pump of clause 1, further comprising a return spring that compresses when the plunger advances in a first direction and expands when the plunger advances in a second direction.

[0051] Clause 3. A pump according to any of clauses 1 and 2, further comprising a handle configured to be pressed by the palm of a user's hand.

[0052] Clause 4. The pump of clause 3, further comprising a plurality of finger grips configured to receive the fingers of a user.

[0053] Clause 5. The pump of clause 4, wherein the one-handed pump is configured to be actuated by one hand of a user when the plunger advances toward the first plurality of ports and when the plunger advances toward the second plurality of ports.

[0054] Clause 6. The pump of any of clauses 1 to 5, wherein the first plurality of ports comprises at least two one-way valves.

[0055] Clause 7. The pump of clause 6, wherein the at least two one-way valves include ball valves.

[0056] Clause 8. The pump of any of clauses 1 to 7, wherein the second plurality of ports comprises at least two one-way valves.

[0057] Clause 9. The pump of clause 8, wherein the at least two one-way valves include ball valves.

[0058] Clause 10. A one-handed pump for use with an intravenous delivery system, comprising: a pump chamber having a first fluid path, a second fluid path, a third fluid path, and a fourth fluid path, the first path and the third path being configured to direct fluid into the chamber and to stop flow therethrough from the chamber, and the second path and the fourth path being configured to direct fluid from the chamber and to stop flow therethrough to the chamber; and a piston disposed within the chamber, the piston having a first position, a second position, and and a piston movable between the first and second fluid paths and fluidly separating the first and second fluid paths from the third and fourth fluid paths within the chamber, wherein when the piston is moving toward the first position, fluid is directed through the second and third fluid paths and is stopped through the first and fourth fluid paths, and when the piston is moving toward the second position, fluid is directed through the first and fourth fluid paths and is stopped through the second and third fluid paths.

[0059] Clause 11. The pump of clause 10, further comprising first, second, third, and fourth ports fluidly coupled to the chamber to provide flow along the first, second, third, and fourth fluid paths, respectively.

[0060] Clause 12. The pump of clause 11, further comprising a plurality of one-way valves in each of the ports, the valves configured to direct or stop flow during movement of the piston.

[0061] Clause 13. The pump of clause 12, wherein the plurality of one-way valves comprises ball valves.

[0062] Clause 14. A pump according to any of clauses 10 to 13, further comprising a plurality of finger grips configured to receive the fingers of a user.

[0063] Clause 15. The pump of clause 14, wherein the one-handed pump is configured to be actuated by one hand of a user as the plunger moves between the first position and the second position.

[0064] Clause 16. A pump according to any one of clauses 10 to 15, further comprising a return spring that compresses when the piston moves in one direction and expands when the piston moves in another direction.

[0065] Clause 17. The pump of clause 16, wherein the piston is configured to move in one direction by action of a user, and the piston is configured to move in another direction by extension of a return spring.

[0066] Clause 18. A method of directing fluid through an intravenous delivery system using a one-handed pump, comprising: providing a pump chamber having a first fluid path, a second fluid path, a third fluid path, and a fourth fluid path, the first path and the third path being configured to direct fluid to the chamber and to stop flow therethrough from the chamber, and the second path and the fourth path being configured to direct fluid from the chamber and to stop flow therethrough to the chamber; and providing a piston disposed within the chamber, the piston controlling the first fluid path and the fourth fluid path. 1. A method comprising: providing a second fluid path fluidly isolating it from a third fluid path and a fourth fluid path within a chamber; and moving a piston between a first position and a second position, wherein when the piston is moving toward the first position, fluid is directed through the second fluid path and the third fluid path and is stopped through the first fluid path and the fourth fluid path, and when the piston is moving toward the second position, fluid is directed through the first fluid path and the fourth fluid path and is stopped through the second fluid path and the third fluid path.

[0067] Clause 19. The method of clause 18, further providing first, second, third, and fourth ports fluidly coupled to the chamber.

[0068] Clause 20. The method of clause 19, further directing and stopping the flow of fluid along first, second, third, and fourth paths through one-way valves.

[0069] It is understood that any particular order or hierarchy of blocks in the disclosed process methods is an illustration of an example approach. Based on design or implementation preferences, it is understood that the particular order or hierarchy of blocks in a process may be rearranged, or all illustrated blocks may be executed. In some implementations, any of the blocks may be executed simultaneously.

[0070] This disclosure is provided to enable those skilled in the art to practice the various aspects described herein. This disclosure provides various examples of the subject technology, and the subject technology is not limited to these examples. Various modifications to these aspects will be readily apparent to those skilled in the art, and the generic principles defined herein may be applied to other aspects.

[0071] Reference to an element in the singular is intended to mean "one or more" rather than "one and only one" unless otherwise specified. The term "some" refers to one or more unless otherwise specified. Masculine pronouns (e.g., his) include feminine and neuter (e.g., her and its) and vice versa. Headings and subheadings, if any, are used for convenience only and are not intended to limit the invention.

[0072] The word "exemplary" is used herein to mean "serving as an example or illustration." Any aspect or design described herein as "exemplary" is not necessarily to be construed as preferred or useful over other aspects or designs. In one aspect, various alternative configurations and operations described herein may be considered at least equivalent.

[0073] As used herein, the phrase "at least one of," preceding a list of items, when followed by the word "or" separating any of the items, modifies the list as a whole and not each item in the list. The phrase "at least one of" does not require the selection of at least one item; rather, the phrase allows for the inclusion of at least one of any one of the items, and / or at least one of any combination of the items, and / or at least one of each of the items. By way of example, the phrase "at least one of A, B, or C" can refer to A only, B only, or C only, or any combination of A, B, and C.

[0074] The use of a phrase such as "aspect" does not imply that such aspect is essential to the subject technology or that such aspect applies to all configurations of the subject technology. Disclosure regarding an aspect may apply to all configurations, or to one or more configurations. An aspect may provide one or more examples. A phrase such as an aspect may refer to one or more aspects, and vice versa. A phrase such as "embodiment" does not imply that such an embodiment is essential to the subject technology or that such an embodiment applies to all configurations of the subject technology. Disclosure regarding an embodiment may apply to all embodiments, or to one or more embodiments. An embodiment may provide one or more examples. A phrase such as an embodiment may refer to one or more embodiments, and vice versa. A phrase such as "configuration" does not imply that such configuration is essential to the subject technology or that such configuration applies to all configurations of the subject technology. Disclosure regarding a configuration may apply to all configurations, or to one or more configurations. A configuration may provide one or more examples. A phrase such as "configuration" may refer to one or more configurations, and vice versa.

[0075] As used herein, the terms "determine" or "determining" encompass a wide variety of actions. For example, "determining" can include calculating, computing, processing, deriving, generating, obtaining, looking up (e.g., looking up a table, database, or another data structure), ascertaining, etc., via a hardware element without user intervention. Also, "determining" can include receiving (e.g., receiving information), accessing (e.g., accessing data in a memory), etc., via a hardware element without user intervention. "Determining" can include resolving, selecting, choosing, establishing, etc., via a hardware element without user intervention.

[0076] As used herein, the terms "providing" or "providing" encompass a wide variety of actions. For example, "providing" can include storing a value at a location on a storage device for subsequent retrieval, transmitting a value directly to a recipient via at least one wired or wireless communication medium, transmitting or storing a reference to a value, etc. "Providing" can also include encoding, decoding, encrypting, decrypting, validating, verifying, inserting, etc. via a hardware element.

[0077] In one aspect, unless otherwise specified, all measurements, values, ratings, positions, dimensions, sizes, and other specifications set forth in this specification, including the claims that follow, are approximate and not exact, and are intended to have a reasonable range consistent with the function to which they relate and that which is customary in the art to which they pertain.

[0078] It is understood that the specific order or hierarchy of steps, operations, or processes disclosed is an illustration of example approaches. Based on design preferences, it is understood that the specific order or hierarchy of steps, operations, or processes may be rearranged. Some of the steps, operations, or processes may be performed simultaneously. Some or all of the steps, operations, or processes may be performed automatically without user intervention. The accompanying method claims present elements of the various steps, operations, or processes, if any, in a sample order, and are not meant to be limited to the specific order or hierarchy presented.

[0079] All structural and functional equivalents to the elements of the various aspects described throughout this disclosure that are known or later become known to those skilled in the art are intended to be expressly incorporated herein by reference and encompassed by the claims. Furthermore, nothing disclosed herein is intended to be exclusive to the public, regardless of whether such disclosure is expressly recited in the claims. No element of a claim is to be construed under the provisions of 35 U.S.C. § 112(f) unless the element is expressly recited using the phrase "means for," or, in the case of a method claim, the element is recited using the phrase "step for." Furthermore, to the extent terms such as "comprising," "including," and "having" are used, such terms are intended to be inclusive in the same manner as the term "comprising" is interpreted when used as a transitional term in a claim.

[0080] The title, background art, summary, brief description of the drawings, and abstract of this disclosure are hereby incorporated into this disclosure and are provided as illustrative examples of the disclosure, not as a limiting description. It is submitted with the understanding that they will not be used to limit the scope or meaning of the claims. Additionally, in the Detailed Description, it will be appreciated that the description provides illustrative examples and that various features are grouped together in various embodiments for the purpose of streamlining the disclosure. This method of disclosure is not to be interpreted as reflecting an intention that the claimed subject matter requires more features than are expressly recited in each claim. Rather, as the following claims reflect, inventive subject matter lies in less than all features of a single disclosed structure or operation. The following claims are hereby incorporated into the Detailed Description, with each claim standing on its own as separately claimed subject matter. The claims are not intended to be limited to the embodiments described herein, but are to be accorded the full scope consistent with the language of the claims and encompass all legal equivalents. Nevertheless, none of the claims are intended to, and should not be construed to, encompass subject matter that does not satisfy the requirements of 35 U.S.C. §§ 101, 102, or 103.

Claims

1. a pump chamber including a plurality of ports providing fluid paths through a wall of the chamber housing; a plunger disposed within the chamber and configured to be axially reciprocally movable within the chamber, the plunger separating the chamber into a first chamber and a second chamber; 1. A one-handed pump for use with an intravenous delivery system, comprising: the first chamber is in fluid communication with a first plurality of ports, the second chamber is in fluid communication with a second plurality of ports, and the first plurality of ports are fluidly isolated from the second plurality of ports by the plunger through the chambers; As the plunger advances axially toward the first plurality of ports, fluid is exhausted from the chamber through a first port of the first plurality of ports and restricted from being exhausted through a second port of the first plurality of ports, and fluid is introduced into the chamber through a first port of the second plurality of ports and restricted from being introduced into the chamber through a second port of the second plurality of ports; a one-handed pump, wherein as the plunger advances axially toward the second plurality of ports, fluid is expelled from the chamber through one of the second plurality of ports and is restricted from being expelled through another of the second plurality of ports, and fluid is introduced into the chamber through one of the first plurality of ports and is restricted from being introduced into the chamber through another of the second plurality of ports.

2. 2. The pump of claim 1, further comprising a return spring that compresses when the plunger advances in a first direction and expands when the plunger advances in a second direction.

3. The pump of claim 1 , further comprising a handle configured to be depressed by the palm of a user's hand.

4. The pump of claim 3 , further comprising a plurality of finger grips configured to receive the fingers of a user.

5. 5. The pump of claim 4, wherein the one-handed pump is configured to be actuated by one hand of a user when the plunger advances toward the first plurality of ports and when the plunger advances toward the second plurality of ports.

6. The pump of claim 1 , wherein the first plurality of ports comprises at least two one-way valves.

7. The pump of claim 6 , wherein the at least two one-way valves include ball valves.

8. The pump of claim 1 , wherein the second plurality of ports comprises at least two one-way valves.

9. The pump of claim 8 , wherein the at least two one-way valves include ball valves.

10. 1. A one-handed pump for use with an intravenous delivery system, comprising: a pump chamber comprising a first fluid path, a second fluid path, a third fluid path, and a fourth fluid path, the first path and the third path being configured to direct fluid to the chamber and to stop flow therethrough from the chamber, and the second path and the fourth path being configured to direct fluid from the chamber and to stop flow therethrough to the chamber; a piston disposed within the chamber, the piston movable between a first position and a second position, fluidly isolating the first and second fluid paths from the third and fourth fluid paths within the chamber, fluid being directed through the second and third fluid paths and blocked through the first and fourth fluid paths when the piston is moving toward the first position, and fluid being directed through the first and fourth fluid paths and blocked through the second and third fluid paths when the piston is moving toward the second position; and Equipped with a one-handed pump.

11. 11. The pump of claim 10, further comprising first, second, third, and fourth ports fluidly coupled to the chamber to provide respective flow along the first, second, third, and fourth fluid paths.

12. The pump of claim 11 , further comprising a plurality of one-way valves in each of the ports, the valves configured to direct or stop the flow during movement of the piston.

13. The pump of claim 12 , wherein the plurality of one-way valves comprises ball valves.

14. The pump of claim 10, further comprising a plurality of finger grips configured to receive the fingers of a user.

15. 15. The pump of claim 14, wherein the one-handed pump is configured to be actuated by one hand of a user as the plunger moves between the first position and the second position.

16. 11. The pump of claim 10, further comprising a return spring that compresses when the piston moves in one direction and expands when the piston moves in another direction.

17. 17. The pump of claim 16, wherein the piston is configured to move in the one direction by action of a user, and the piston is configured to move in the other direction by expansion of the return spring.

18. 1. A method of directing fluid through an intravenous delivery system using a one-handed pump, comprising: providing a pump chamber comprising a first fluid path, a second fluid path, a third fluid path, and a fourth fluid path, the first path and the third path being configured to direct fluid to the chamber and to stop flow therethrough from the chamber, and the second path and the fourth path being configured to direct fluid from the chamber and to stop flow therethrough to the chamber; providing a piston disposed within the chamber, the piston fluidly separating the first and second fluid paths from the third and fourth fluid paths within the chamber; moving the piston between a first position and a second position, wherein when the piston is moving toward the first position, fluid is directed through the second fluid path and the third fluid path and is stopped through the first fluid path and the fourth fluid path, and when the piston is moving toward the second position, fluid is directed through the first fluid path and the fourth fluid path and is stopped through the second fluid path and the third fluid path; A method comprising:

19. 20. The method of claim 18, further comprising providing first, second, third, and fourth ports fluidly coupled to the chamber.

20. 20. The method of claim 19, further directing and stopping fluid flow along the first, second, third, and fourth paths through one-way valves.

Images