Add-on device for blood set hand pumps with mechanical leverage

Abstract

Described herein is an add-on device for an intravenous (IV) set hand pump, the add-on device comprising: a first member configured to actuate the hand pump; and a second member hingedly connected to the first member and configured to receive the hand pump, the add-on device configured, upon actuation, to increase a fluid flow rate downstream of the IV set hand pump above a maximum gravity-based fluid flow rate of the IV set.

Description

[Technical Field]

[0001] This application claims the benefit of priority under 35 U.S.C. § 119 to U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 63 / 438,481, entitled "ADD-ON DEVICE FOR BLOOD SET HANDPUMP WITH MECHANICAL LEVERAGE," filed January 11, 2023, the entire contents of which are incorporated herein by reference.

[0002] The present disclosure relates generally to medical fluid distribution systems, and more particularly to an add-on device that provides mechanical leverage to a hand pump for dispensing medical fluid from an IV bag. [Background technology]

[0003] Medical procedures often involve infusing a medical fluid (e.g., saline or liquid medication) into a patient using an infusion pump that dispenses the medical fluid from an intravenous (IV) bag to the patient. When an infusion pump is not available, medical personnel use their hands to compress or otherwise squeeze the IV bag to administer the medical fluid. Summary of the Invention

[0004] Manually compressing an IV bag can cause hand fatigue and significant inconvenience to healthcare professionals. Therefore, there is a need for a device and method of use that allows healthcare professionals to dispense medical fluids from an intravenous (IV) bag to a patient without tiring them out. The disclosed subject matter relates to an add-on device for providing mechanical leverage to a hand pump for dispensing medical fluids from an IV bag. In certain implementations, the add-on device is a stand-alone, reusable device with a two-part hinge design. The hand pump rests on a second member, and the first member actuates the pump to increase the flow rate of fluid in the IV set while reducing hand fatigue for the healthcare professional.

[0005]

[0003] Examples of the present disclosure provide an add-on device for an intravenous (IV) set hand pump, the add-on device comprising: a first member configured to actuate the hand pump; and a second member hingedly connected to the first member and configured to receive the hand pump. The add-on device, upon actuation, is configured to increase a fluid flow rate downstream of the IV set hand pump above a maximum gravity-based fluid flow rate of the IV set. In some embodiments, the first member comprises a compression section that extends into the hand pump when the first member is compressed toward the second member. In some embodiments, the compression section includes a portion of the first member that progressively compresses the hand pump by compressing a portion of the hand pump closest to the axis of rotation and continues to compress successive portions of the hand pump as the first member continues to rotate toward the second member. In some embodiments, the compression section includes an arcuate portion having a varying degree of curvature along the first member such that as the first member is compressed toward the second member, the hand pump is compressed in a rolling manner from one end of the hand pump toward the opposite end of the hand pump.

[0006] In some embodiments, the second member further comprises a ledge configured to secure the hand pump within the add-on device. In some embodiments, the first member and / or the second member comprise a grip portion. In some embodiments, the grip portion comprises a shaped surface having one or more grip members comprising at least one of a circular, rectangular, and external arcuate groove. In some embodiments, each grip member is sized and shaped to receive a finger of a hand. In some embodiments, the distance between the first member and the second member is not fixed.

[0007] In some embodiments, the device is reusable by removing it from the first IV set and attaching it to the second IV set without removing either the first IV set or the second IV set from the fluid source or from the delivery catheter assembly. In some embodiments, the device provides three times mechanical leverage. In some embodiments, the first member and / or the second member further comprise a window for viewing the hand pump. In some embodiments, the overall length of the add-on device is 225 mm, 230 mm, 235 mm, 240 mm, 245 mm, 250 mm, 255 mm, 260 mm, 265 mm, or 270 mm.

[0008] An embodiment of the present disclosure provides a method for using an add-on device for an intravenous (IV) set hand pump, the method including the steps of connecting a first IV tubing of the IV set to a fluid source, connecting a second IV tubing of the IV set to a fluid recipient, installing the device on the IV set hand pump connected between the first IV tubing and the second IV tubing, compressing the add-on device to force fluid through the IV set hand pump at a rate greater than one of a maximum gravity-based fluid flow rate of the IV set and a maximum infusion rate of the infusion pump, and repeating the compressing and expanding steps to deliver a desired amount of fluid to the fluid recipient.

[0009] In some embodiments, the add-on device comprises a first member configured to actuate the hand pump and a second member hingedly connected to the first member and configured to receive the hand pump, wherein the add-on device is configured, upon actuation, to increase a fluid flow rate downstream of the IV set hand pump above a maximum gravity-based fluid flow rate of the IV set. In some embodiments, the first member and / or the second member comprise a grip portion. In some embodiments, the grip portion comprises a shaped surface having one or more grip members comprising at least one of a circular, rectangular, and external arcuate groove, each grip member sized and shaped to receive a finger of a hand.

[0010] In some embodiments, the method further includes reusing the device by removing it from the first IV set and attaching it to the second IV set without removing either the first IV set or the second IV set from the fluid source or from the delivery catheter assembly.

[0011] An embodiment of the present disclosure provides a method for increasing a fluid flow rate downstream of an IV set hand pump above a maximum gravity-based fluid flow rate of the IV set, the method including the steps of connecting a first IV tubing of the IV set to a fluid source, connecting a second IV tubing of the IV set to a fluid receptacle, placing an add-on device on the IV set hand pump connected between the first IV tubing and the second IV tubing, and compressing the add-on device to force fluid through the IV set hand pump.

[0012] In some embodiments, the add-on device comprises a first member configured to actuate the hand pump and a second member hingedly connected to the first member and configured to receive the hand pump, wherein the add-on device, upon actuation, is configured to increase a fluid flow rate downstream of the IV set hand pump above a maximum gravity-based fluid flow rate of the IV set.

[0013] These and other features, aspects, and advantages of the disclosed embodiments will become more apparent from the following detailed description and accompanying drawings.

[0014] It should be noted that the various implementations described above can be combined with other implementations described herein (e.g., maintaining the impedance of a single or group of neuromuscular signal sensors can be combined with impedance matching, thereby matching the impedance and maintaining the impedance within a particular range of impedance values). The features and advantages described herein are not all-inclusive, and additional features and advantages will be apparent to those skilled in the art, especially in light of the drawings, specification, and claims. Furthermore, it should be noted that the language used herein has been chosen primarily for purposes of readability and explanation.

[0015] To enable a more detailed understanding of the present disclosure, a more particular description may be made by reference to features of various implementations, some of which are illustrated in the accompanying drawings. However, the accompanying drawings only illustrate relevant features of the present disclosure. Other useful features may also be described herein, as those skilled in the art will understand upon reading the present disclosure. [Brief explanation of the drawings]

[0016] [Figure 1A] FIG. 1 is a perspective view of an IV hand pump connecting a fluid source to a patient, according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 1B] FIG. 1 is a perspective view of an exemplary patient care system having four fluid infusion pumps, each connected to a respective fluid source for pumping the contents of the fluid source to a patient. [Figure 2] 1 is a diagram illustrating a conventional IV set, showing the set connected to two fluid sources. [Figure 3] FIG. 1 is a perspective view of an add-on device to a hand pump. [Figure 4A] FIG. 1 is a perspective view of an add-on device according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 4B] FIG. 1 is a perspective view of an add-on device according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 4C] FIG. 1 is a perspective view of an add-on device according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 5A] FIG. 1 is a cross-sectional view of an add-on device according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 5B] FIG. 1 is a cross-sectional view of an add-on device according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 6] FIG. 1 is a cross-sectional view of an add-on device according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0017] According to common practice, the various features illustrated in the drawings have not been drawn to scale. Accordingly, dimensions of various features may be arbitrarily expanded or reduced for clarity. In addition, some of the drawings may not depict all of the components of a given system, method, or device. Finally, like reference numerals refer to like features throughout the specification and drawings.

[0018] Numerous details have been described herein to provide a thorough understanding of the exemplary implementations illustrated in the accompanying drawings. However, some implementations may be practiced without many of the specific details, and the scope of the claims is limited only by the features and aspects thereof specifically recited in the claims. Moreover, well-known processes, components, and materials have not been described in exhaustive detail to avoid obscuring relevant aspects of the implementations described herein.

[0019] The present disclosure includes an add-on device for providing mechanical leverage to a hand pump, the hand pump being fluidly coupled to an IV bag and configured to accelerate fluid from the IV bag to a patient for a procedure. Specifically, the add-on device is configured to compress (or squeeze) the hand pump. When the hand pump is compressed, the flow of fluid from the IV bag to the patient increases. Additionally, the add-on device to the hand pump reduces fatigue experienced by clinicians when compressing hand pumps incorporated into conventional IV sets.

[0020] As shown in FIG. 1A, an IV set 1 and an IV set hand pump 6 may be coupled to a fluid source 3 and a catheter 4 inserted into a patient 5. Here, if the maximum fluid flow rate from the infusion pump system is insufficient, the IV set hand pump 6 may be activated (e.g., rhythmically compressed and released) to force fluid to flow more quickly. An add-on device 2 may be used to compress (or squeeze) the hand pump more easily.

[0021] In embodiments of the present disclosure, the IV set hand pump 6 may include any suitable fastener for connecting the IV set hand pump to an IV pole, a bed, a surgical table, or the like. For example, the fastener may be a cradle, a hanger, a hook, Velcro®, adhesive, and / or any other suitable fastener. In embodiments of the present disclosure, the IV set hand pump 6 may be configured to simply hang in line with the IV set (e.g., IV set 1) via IV tubing (e.g., IV tubing 7). Here, the IV set hand pump 6 may be positioned above the IV set to maximize accessibility and / or to keep the IV set hand pump 6 away from certain work areas (e.g., directly above the patient).

[0022] In embodiments of the present disclosure, the outer shape and / or shape of the add-on device may be varied based on hand size and / or number of finger grips. For example, small, medium, and large sizes may be available for use by users of different sizes. In embodiments of the present disclosure, the shaped portions and gripping members of the gripping portion may be sized and shaped in any suitable manner. In embodiments of the present disclosure, the flow rate may be configured based on the size / shape of the body and the diameter of the inlet and outlet ports.

[0023] The hand pump 6 and add-on device 2 of the IV pump set can be used for many purposes. For example, blood transfusions are potentially life-saving procedures that can help replace blood loss due to surgery or injury. These procedures can also be useful when illness prevents the body from properly producing blood or some of its blood components. In embodiments of the present disclosure, medications may be rapidly administered to a patient via a manual hand pump, which forces medication through the IV line at the rate at which the user pushes the pump.

[0024] FIG. 1B illustrates an IV pump for administering medical fluid to a patient. The IV pump 30 includes a controller 32 and one or more pump modules 34. The IV set 20 is connected between a container 36 of medical fluid (e.g., an IV bag) and a patient 5. During operation, the IV pump 30 delivers the medical fluid to the patient 5. The IV pump 30 is configured to administer the medical fluid to the patient at a predetermined, uniform rate. In some implementations, the IV set 20 is utilized to further accelerate the flow of the medical fluid from the container 36 (or IV pump 30) to the patient.

[0025] In some embodiments, the IV set 20 can include multiple hand pumps 6 that can be used to further accelerate the flow of medical fluid. Additionally, in some implementations, multiple hand pumps are used to agitate any particles trapped in one or more filters (of the IV set 20 and / or IV pump 30) and increase the flow through the filters and the IV set 20.

[0026] As shown and described below with reference to FIGS. 2-4, the hand pump 6 may also include an add-on device 2 for increasing mechanical leverage when the hand pump is compressed. During operation (i.e., during administration of medical fluid to a patient), the filter may become clogged with particles, reducing flow through the IV set 20. The filter is configured to prevent the transmission of bacteria, microorganisms, and / or other pathogens. Multiple hand pumps may accelerate the flow of medical fluid and / or agitate any particles trapped within the filter(s) by applying force to the multiple hand pumps (e.g., squeezing the multiple hand pumps), as described below with reference to FIGS. 2-4.

[0027] FIG. 2 illustrates an IV set 200. The IV set 200 includes one or more connectors 202, one or more clamps 204 and 208, tubing 206, a drip chamber 210, a hand pump 220, an injection site 230, and an outlet port 232. As described above with reference to FIG. 1B, the IV set 200 delivers fluid from a fluid source, such as a container 48, to a patient 5 via tubing 206. More specifically, fluid from the fluid source is introduced into a first portion 206-a of tubing of the IV set 200 and delivered to the patient 5 (e.g., via flow generated by an IV pump and / or a hand pump). The connector 202 facilitates coupling and / or fluid communication between the first portion 206-a of tubing and the fluid source (e.g., one or more containers). More specifically, the connector 202 fluidly couples the first portion 206-a of tubing to one or more containers. In some implementations, the connector 202 can be a connector spike that pierces a membrane of the container to enable fluid communication from the container to the tubing 206. Alternatively, in some implementations, the connector 202 can be a needleless connector to avoid accidentally piercing the membrane when fluidly connecting the first portion 206-a of the tubing with a fluid source. In some implementations, the needleless connector can include a no-drip feature to prevent leakage or surface contamination. In some implementations, the needleless connector can further include a luer lock to prevent accidental ejection. In some implementations, the needleless connector engages with a fluid container that includes a mating connector.

[0028] In some implementations, the second portion 206-b of the tubing is connected to the patient 5 via an outlet port 232. Additional medical fluids or therapies may be introduced to the patient through the IV set 200. In some implementations, additional medical fluids or therapies may be introduced to the IV set 200 via an infusion site 230. In some implementations, the fluid container allows for an aliquot of blood to be withdrawn for analysis.

[0029] Clamps 204 and 208 are configured to control fluid flow through tubing 206 of IV set 200. For example, clamps 204 and 208 can block fluid flow through tubing 206 such that no fluid is dispensed to a patient. Alternatively, clamps 204 and 208 can partially block fluid flow through tubing 206 such that a reduced amount of fluid is dispensed to a patient. Clamps 204 and 208 can be roller clamps, pinch clamps, slide clamps, and / or other clamps known in the art.

[0030] In some implementations, drip chamber 210 is formed of a transparent or translucent material to provide a visual indicator of the flow rate of medical fluid therethrough. Drip chamber 210 is configured to allow a clinician and / or other medical personnel to monitor and adjust the flow rate of medical fluid based on the visual indicator provided by drip chamber 210 (e.g., counting drops per second). During operation, medical fluid can drip or otherwise flow through the chamber volume of drip chamber 210. Medical fluid can enter drip chamber 210 through an upper or inlet portion 212 defined within drip chamber 210. Inlet portion 212 is in fluid communication with first portion 206-a of tubing. Fluid flow exits drip chamber 210 through a lower or outlet portion 214. Outlet portion 214 can be in fluid communication with second portion 206-b of tubing. In some implementations, drip chamber 210 can equalize a pressure differential between the chamber volume and the environment during operation. In some implementations, drip chamber 210 can be formed from a resilient material so that drip chamber 210 can be squeezed or compressed to aspirate medical fluid for priming the IV system. In some implementations, drip chamber 210 aspirates medical fluid for priming the IV system. As can be appreciated, during the priming operation, drip chamber 210 can be filled with a desired amount of medical fluid.

[0031] In some implementations, drip chamber 210 includes a filter for filtering medical fluid passing therethrough. In some implementations, filter 213 is disposed within drip chamber 210. In some implementations, filter 213 is disposed within inlet portion 212 or outlet portion 214 of drip chamber 210. Alternatively, in some implementations, filter 213 is disposed within the chamber volume of drip chamber 210. In some implementations, filter 213 is an integral part of drip chamber 210. During operation, fluid can flow through inlet portion 212 of drip chamber 210, through filter 213, and to outlet portion 214 of drip chamber 210. As medical fluid flows through drip chamber 210, the fluid can be filtered before exiting drip chamber 210 and flowing through second portion 206-b of tubing. As described above with reference to FIG. 1 , fluid within the chamber volume of drip chamber 210 can pass through filter 213 to prevent the transmission of bacteria, microorganisms, and / or other pathogens to the patient. As can be appreciated, a positive pressure differential can direct fluid flow through filter 213. As described herein, filter 213 can selectively filter the flow through drip chamber 210. Filter 213 can have an average filter opening in the range of 15 to 200 microns. In some implementations, the average filter opening can be in the range of 180 to 200 microns. Optionally, filter 213 can have pores of different sizes. In some implementations, filter 213 can be formed from a nonwoven filter material.

[0032] During operation, filter 213 can become clogged with particles, limiting filtration efficiency and flow rate through filter 213. Conventional IV sets 200 can include a hand pump 220 to remove sediments or particles embedded within filter 213, thereby extending the life of filter 213 and increasing flow rate through filter 213. Hand pump 220 can direct backflow or backpressure through filter 213 to remove particles embedded in filter 213. In the illustrated example, a clinician can activate hand pump 220 to generate backflow through filter 213. Typically, a hand pump is a flexible cylinder that is continuously squeezed with one hand by a user and released before actuating or squeezing the hand pump again.

[0033] 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), many or all of which are transparent or translucent to allow visualization of the fluid flow or level therein.

[0034] 3-6 illustrate an add-on device (also referred to herein as a "device") 400 for a hand pump 410 according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. The device 400 may be a stand-alone, reusable device for pumping more blood through the hand pump using less force. In some embodiments, the add-on device 400 is a stand-alone, reusable device with a two-part hinge design consisting of a first member 401 and a second member 402. In some embodiments, the device 400 is placed on the hand pump 410, and the first member 401 of the device is configured to operate the hand pump 410. In some embodiments, the first member 401 and the second member 402 also have grips 420 provided for easy handling of the device. In some embodiments, the position of the device 400 is not fixed and can be changed based on the user's comfort level.

[0035] The add-on device 400 is compatible with existing blood sets. An existing hand pump 410 is placed within the second member 402 of the device 400, and the first member 401 is hingedly connected to the second member 402. The second member 402 may include a ledge 403 configured to secure the hand pump 410 within the device 400. Arrow A shown in FIG. 3 indicates the direction of blood flow through the hand pump 410 within the device 400. The mechanical leverage provided by the device amplifies the force applied to the hand pump 410, thereby reducing the amount of force that needs to be applied by the user.

[0036] In some embodiments, device 400 is reusable by removing it from a first IV set and attaching it to a second IV set without removing either the first IV set or the second IV set from the fluid source or from the delivery catheter assembly.

[0037] Device 400 receives hand pump 410 within second member 402, and first member 401 is manually actuated by a user of device 400. First member 401 and / or second member 402 may have contours to facilitate gripping during actuation. The opening range of device 400 may be set at a level that provides optimal gripping ergonomics. In some embodiments, device 400 is designed to provide three times mechanical leverage. This leverage can be increased but may be set based on the strength and ergonomics of the hand pump 410 material. The position of device 400 is not fixed. Device 400 allows for higher flow rates to be achieved than existing hand pumps alone.

[0038] 5A-5B, the device 400 includes a compression section 415 configured to compress the hand pump 410 within the device 400. For example, the compression section 415 can include a portion of the first member 401 that extends into the hand pump 410 when the first member 401 is compressed toward the second member 402. As shown, the compression section 415 includes a portion of the first member 401 that gradually compresses the hand pump 410 by compressing the portion of the hand pump 410 closest to the axis of rotation, and continues to compress successive portions of the hand pump 410 as the first member 401 continues to rotate toward the second member 402. In some embodiments, the compression section 415 can include an arcuate portion that has a varying degree of curvature along the first member 401 such that as the first member 401 rotates toward the second member 402, the hand pump 410 is compressed in a rolling manner from one end of the hand pump 410 toward the opposite end of the hand pump 410.

[0039] In some embodiments, first member 401 and / or second member 402 include an opening or window 430 that allows a user to view the hand pump when device 400 is compressed.

[0040] In an embodiment of the present disclosure, grip portion 420 comprises a molded surface having one or more gripping members comprising at least one of circular, rectangular, and externally arcuate grooves, each gripping member sized and shaped to receive a finger of a hand. In an embodiment of the present disclosure, the gripping members are textured, the textured members being disposed on an exterior surface of the body, the textured members comprising one of protrusions, ridges, and non-slip coated areas.

[0041] In an embodiment of the present disclosure, the one or more gripping members are configured to be gripped by one of a robotic arm and mechanical pump fingers. In an embodiment of the present disclosure, the body is configured to be gripped by one of a robotic arm and mechanical pump fingers. In an embodiment of the present disclosure, the outer surface of the body comprises textured members. In an embodiment of the present disclosure, the textured members are protrusions. In an embodiment of the present disclosure, the textured members are ridges. In an embodiment of the present disclosure, the textured members are non-slip coated areas.

[0042] In one or more embodiments, the IV set includes a first IV tube, a second IV tube, and an IV set hand pump configured to be coupled to a fluid source, and an add-on device including a grip portion, wherein the IV set hand pump is configured, when squeezed, to increase a fluid flow rate of the IV set downstream of the IV set hand pump above a maximum gravity-based fluid flow rate of the IV set.

[0043] In embodiments of the present disclosure, the size and / or shape of device 400 may be varied based on hand size and / or number of finger grips. For example, small, medium, and large sizes may exist for use by users of different sizes. In embodiments of the present disclosure, the shaped portions and gripping members of the gripping portion may be sized and shaped in any suitable manner. In embodiments of the present disclosure, the flow rate may be configured based on the size / shape of the device and how much mechanical leverage the device provides. In embodiments of the present disclosure, the size and / or shape of device 400 may be varied based on the size of the hand pump being used.

[0044] In some embodiments, device 400 may be made of any suitable rigid material (eg, plastic or metal) to provide the desired degree of mechanical advantage and life cycle use.

[0045] An embodiment of the present disclosure provides a method for using an add-on device for an intravenous (IV) set hand pump, the method including the steps of connecting a first IV tube of the IV set to a fluid source, connecting a second IV tube of the IV set to a fluid receptacle, installing the device on the IV set hand pump connected between the first IV tube and the second IV tube, compressing the add-on device to force fluid through the IV set hand pump at a rate greater than one of a maximum gravity-based fluid flow rate of the IV set and a maximum infusion rate of the infusion pump, and repeating the compressing and expanding steps to deliver a desired amount of fluid to the fluid receptacle.

[0046] In some embodiments, the add-on device comprises a first member configured to actuate the hand pump and a second member hingedly connected to the first member and configured to receive the hand pump, wherein the add-on device, upon actuation, is configured to increase a fluid flow rate downstream of the IV set hand pump above a maximum gravity-based fluid flow rate of the IV set. In some embodiments, the first member and / or the second member comprise a grip portion. In some embodiments, the grip portion comprises a shaped surface having one or more grip members comprising at least one of a circular, rectangular, and external arcuate groove, each grip member sized and shaped to receive a finger of a hand. In some embodiments, the method further comprises reusing the device by removing it from the first IV set and attaching it to the second IV set without removing either the first IV set or the second IV set from the fluid source or from the delivery catheter assembly.

[0047]

[0006] Embodiments of the present disclosure provide a method for increasing a fluid flow rate downstream of an IV set hand pump above a maximum gravity-based fluid flow rate of the IV set, the method including the steps of: connecting a first IV tubing of the IV set to a fluid source; connecting a second IV tubing of the IV set to a fluid receptacle; installing an add-on device on the IV set hand pump connected between the first IV tubing and the second IV tubing; and compressing the add-on device to force fluid through the IV set hand pump. In some embodiments, the add-on device includes a first member configured to actuate the hand pump and a second member hingedly connected to the first member and configured to receive the hand pump, the add-on device configured, upon actuation, to increase a fluid flow rate downstream of the IV set hand pump above a maximum gravity-based fluid flow rate of the IV set.

[0048] It is understood that any particular order or hierarchy of blocks in the disclosed process methods represents an example approach. Based on design or implementation preferences, it is understood that the particular order or hierarchy of blocks in the processes may be rearranged, or all of the blocks shown may be performed. In some implementations, any of the blocks may be performed simultaneously.

[0049] 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 technology, and the 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.

[0050] Examples of clauses of this technology: Various examples of aspects of the present disclosure are described as numbered clauses (1, 2, 3, etc.) for convenience. These are provided as examples and are not intended to limit the present technology. Figure and reference number identification is provided below for illustrative purposes only, and the clauses are not limited by those identifications.

[0051] Clause 1: An add-on device for an intravenous (IV) set hand pump, comprising: a first member configured to actuate the hand pump; and a second member hingedly connected to the first member and configured to receive the hand pump, wherein the add-on device, upon actuation, is configured to increase a fluid flow rate downstream of the IV set hand pump above a maximum gravity-based fluid flow rate of the IV set.

[0052] Clause 2: An add-on device as described in clause 1, wherein the first member comprises a compression section that extends into the hand pump when the first member is compressed towards the second member.

[0053] Clause 3: An add-on device as described in clause 2, wherein the compression section includes a portion of the first member that progressively compresses the hand pump by compressing a portion of the hand pump closest to the axis of rotation and continues to compress successive portions of the hand pump as the first member continues to rotate toward the second member.

[0054] Clause 4: An add-on device as described in clause 2, wherein the compression section includes an arcuate portion having a varying degree of curvature along the first member such that as the first member is compressed toward the second member, the hand pump is compressed in a rolling manner from one end of the hand pump toward an opposite end of the hand pump.

[0055] Clause 5: The add-on device of clause 1, wherein the second member further comprises a shelf configured to secure the hand pump within the add-on device.

[0056] Clause 6: An add-on device as described in clause 1, wherein the first member and / or the second member comprises a grip portion.

[0057] Clause 7: An add-on device as described in clause 6, wherein the grip portion comprises a shaped surface having one or more gripping members comprising at least one of circular, rectangular, and external arcuate grooves.

[0058] Clause 8: An add-on device as described in clause 6, wherein each gripping member is sized and shaped to receive a finger of a hand.

[0059] Clause 9: The add-on device of clause 1, wherein the distance between the first member and the second member is not fixed.

[0060] Clause 10: An add-on device as described in clause 1, wherein the device is reusable by removing it from the first IV set and attaching it to the second IV set without removing either the first IV set or the second IV set from the fluid source or from the delivery catheter assembly.

[0061] Clause 11: An add-on device according to clause 1, wherein the device provides three times mechanical leverage.

[0062] Clause 12: An add-on device as described in clause 1, wherein the first member and / or the second member further comprise a window for viewing the hand pump.

[0063] Clause 13: An add-on device as described in clause 1, wherein the overall length of the add-on device is 225mm, 230mm, 235mm, 240mm, 245mm, 250mm, 255mm, 260mm, 265mm or 270mm.

[0064] Clause 14: A method for using an add-on device for an intravenous (IV) set hand pump, the method comprising the steps of: connecting a first IV tubing of the IV set to a fluid source; connecting a second IV tubing of the IV set to a fluid receptacle; installing the device on the IV set hand pump connected between the first IV tubing and the second IV tubing; compressing the add-on device to force fluid through the IV set hand pump at a rate greater than one of a maximum gravity-based fluid flow rate of the IV set and a maximum infusion rate of the infusion pump; and repeating the compressing and expanding steps to deliver a desired amount of fluid to the fluid receptacle.

[0065] Clause 15: The method of clause 14, wherein the add-on device comprises a first member configured to actuate the hand pump and a second member hingedly connected to the first member and configured to receive the hand pump, and the add-on device is configured, upon actuation, to increase a fluid flow rate downstream of the IV set hand pump beyond a maximum gravity-based fluid flow rate of the IV set.

[0066] Clause 16: The method of clause 14, wherein the first member and / or the second member comprises a grip portion.

[0067] Clause 17: The method of clause 17, wherein the grip portion comprises a shaped surface having one or more gripping members with at least one of circular, rectangular, and external arcuate grooves, each gripping member sized and shaped to receive a finger of a hand.

[0068] Clause 18: The method of clause 14, further comprising the step of reusing the device by removing it from the first IV set and attaching it to the second IV set without removing either the first IV set or the second IV set from the fluid source or from the delivery catheter assembly.

[0069] Clause 19: A method for increasing a fluid flow rate downstream of an IV set hand pump beyond a maximum gravity-based fluid flow rate of the IV set, the method comprising the steps of: connecting a first IV tubing of the IV set to a fluid source; connecting a second IV tubing of the IV set to a fluid receptacle; placing an add-on device on the IV set hand pump connected between the first IV tubing and the second IV tubing; and compressing the add-on device to force fluid through the IV set hand pump.

[0070] Clause 20: The method of clause 19, wherein the add-on device comprises a first member configured to actuate the hand pump and a second member hingedly connected to the first member and configured to receive the hand pump, and the add-on device is configured, upon actuation, to increase a fluid flow rate downstream of the IV set hand pump above a maximum gravity-based fluid flow rate of the IV set.

[0071] Further considerations: In some implementations, any clause herein may depend on any one of the independent clauses or any one of the dependent clauses. In an aspect, any clause (e.g., a dependent clause or an independent clause) may be combined with any other clause or clauses (e.g., a dependent clause or an independent clause). In an aspect, a claim may include some or all of the words (e.g., steps, actions, means, or components) recited in a clause, sentence, phrase, or paragraph. In an aspect, a claim may include some or all of the words recited in one or more clauses, sentences, phrases, or paragraphs. In an aspect, some of the words in each clause, sentence, phrase, or paragraph may be deleted. In an aspect, additional words or elements may be added to a clause, sentence, phrase, or paragraph. In an aspect, the technology may be implemented without utilizing some of the components, elements, functions, or operations described herein. In an aspect, the technology may be implemented using additional components, elements, functions, or operations.

[0072] 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 technology, and the 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.

[0073] Terms such as "first" and "second" may be used herein to describe various elements, but it should be understood that these elements are not limited by these terms. These terms are used only to distinguish one element from another. Terms such as "top," "bottom," "front," and "rear," as used in this disclosure, should be understood to refer to any frame of reference other than the typical gravitational frame of reference. Thus, the top, bottom, front, and rear surfaces may extend upward, downward, diagonally, or horizontally in the gravitational frame of reference.

[0074] The terminology used herein is for the purpose of describing particular implementations only and is not intended to limit the scope of the claims. As used in the description of implementations and the appended claims, the singular forms "a," "an," and "the" are intended to include the plural forms as well, unless the context dictates otherwise. It will also be understood that the term "and / or," as used herein, refers to and encompasses any and all possible combinations of one or more of the associated listed items. It will further be understood that the terms "comprises" and / or "comprising," when used herein, specify the presence of stated features, integers, steps, operations, elements, and / or components, but do not exclude the presence or addition of one or more other features, integers, steps, operations, elements, components, and / or groups thereof.

[0075] The term "if" as used herein may be interpreted to mean "upon determining" or "upon determining" or "in response to determining" or "in accordance with determining" or "in response to detecting" that a stated precondition is true, depending on the context. Similarly, the phrases "if it is determined that a stated precondition is true" or "if a stated precondition is true" or "when a stated precondition is true" may be interpreted to mean "upon determining" or "in response to determining" or "in accordance with determining" or "upon detecting" or "in response to detecting" that a stated precondition is true, depending on the context.

[0076] The word "exemplary" is used herein to mean "serving as an example or illustration." Any aspect or design described herein as "exemplary" is not necessarily to be construed as preferred or advantageous over other aspects or designs. In one aspect, various alternative configurations and operations described herein may be considered at least equivalent.

[0077] The use of a phrase such as "aspect" does not imply that such aspect is essential to the present technology or that such aspect applies to all configurations of the present technology. Disclosure of an aspect may apply to all configurations or one or more configurations. An aspect may provide one or more examples. A phrase such as "aspect" may refer to one or more aspects, and vice versa. A phrase such as "implementation" does not imply that such implementation is essential to the present technology or that such implementation applies to all configurations of the present technology. Disclosure of an implementation may apply to all implementations or one or more implementations. An implementation may provide one or more examples. A phrase such as "implementation" may refer to one or more implementations, and vice versa. A phrase such as "configuration" does not imply that such configuration is essential to the present technology or that such configuration applies to all configurations of the present technology. Disclosure of a configuration may apply to all configurations or one or more configurations. A configuration may provide one or more examples. A phrase such as "a configuration" may refer to one or more configurations, and vice versa.

[0078] 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 rather than precise, and are intended to have a reasonable range consistent with the function to which they relate and customary in the art to which they pertain.

[0079] In one aspect, the term "coupled" or the like may refer to a direct connection. In another aspect, the term "coupled" or the like may refer to an indirect connection.

[0080] Various items may be arranged differently (e.g., arranged in a different order or divided in a different way) without departing from the scope of the present technology. All structural and functional equivalents of the elements of the various embodiments described throughout this disclosure that are known or later become known to those of ordinary skill in the art are expressly incorporated herein by reference and are intended to be encompassed by the claims. Furthermore, nothing disclosed herein is intended to be made available to the public, regardless of whether such disclosure is expressly recited in the claims. Unless a claim element is expressly recited using the phrase "means for," or, in the case of a method claim, using the phrase "step for," that element is not to be construed under the provisions of 35 U.S.C. § 112, paragraph 6. Furthermore, to the extent terms such as "comprising," "having," and the like are used, such terms are intended to be inclusive in the same manner as the term "comprising," as the term "comprising" is interpreted when used as a transitional term in a claim.

[0081] The title, background, summary, brief description of the drawings, and abstract of this disclosure are incorporated herein into this disclosure and are provided as illustrative examples of the disclosure, not as limiting descriptions. They are submitted with the understanding that they will not be used to limit the scope or meaning of the claims. Furthermore, in the Detailed Description, it can be seen that the description provides exemplary illustrations, and that various features have been grouped together in various implementations to streamline 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 incorporated herein into the Detailed Description, with each claim standing on its own as separately claimed subject matter.

[0082] The scope of the claims is not intended to be limited to the embodiments described herein, but is to be accorded full scope consistent with the language of the claims and encompasses all legal equivalents. However, no claim is intended, and should not be interpreted, to encompass subject matter that does not satisfy the requirements of 35 U.S.C. §§ 101, 102, or 103. [Table 1] In one embodiment, the actuation force of the hand pump is 26.7 N (6 lbf), which is reduced to 8.9 N (2 lbf) after the add-on device is installed. With the same 26.7 N (6 lbf) of force, the user can triple the amount of blood pumped through the hand pump. With this add-on device, users can pump blood for longer periods or pump more frequently, depending on their comfort level, reducing overall pumping time. With reduced effort, users can pump the hand pump three times faster, thereby increasing fluid output per hour by three times. [Table 2]

Claims

1. 1. An add-on device for an intravenous (IV) set hand pump, comprising: a first member configured to actuate the hand pump; a second member hingedly connected to the first member and configured to receive the hand pump; and wherein the add-on device is configured, upon activation, to increase a fluid flow rate downstream of the IV set hand pump above a maximum gravity-based fluid flow rate of the IV set.

2. The add-on device of claim 1 , wherein the first member comprises a compression section that extends into the hand pump when the first member is compressed toward the second member.

3. 3. The add-on device of claim 2, wherein the compression section includes a portion of the first member, the portion of the first member gradually compressing the hand pump by compressing a portion of the hand pump closest to an axis of rotation of the add-on device and continuing to compress successive portions of the hand pump as the first member continues to rotate toward the second member.

4. 3. The add-on device of claim 2, wherein the compression section includes an arcuate portion having a varying degree of curvature along the first member such that as the first member is compressed toward the second member, the hand pump is compressed in a rolling manner from one end of the hand pump toward an opposite end of the hand pump.

5. The add-on device of claim 1 , wherein the second member further comprises a ledge configured to secure the hand pump within the add-on device.

6. The add-on device of claim 1 , wherein the first member and / or the second member comprises a grip portion.

7. The add-on device of claim 6 , wherein the grip portion comprises a molded surface having one or more gripping members comprising at least one of a circular, rectangular, and external arcuate groove.

8. The add-on device of claim 6 , wherein each gripping member is sized and shaped to receive a finger of a hand.

9. The add-on device of claim 1 , wherein the distance between the first member and the second member is not fixed.

10. 10. The add-on device of claim 1, wherein the device is reusable by being removed from a first IV set and attached to a second IV set without removing either the first IV set or the second IV set from the fluid source or from the delivery catheter assembly.

11. The add-on device of claim 1 , wherein the device provides three times mechanical leverage.

12. The add-on device of claim 1 , wherein the first member and / or the second member further comprise a window for viewing the hand pump.

13. The add-on device of claim 1 , wherein the add-on device has an overall length of 225 mm, 230 mm, 235 mm, 240 mm, 245 mm, 250 mm, 255 mm, 260 mm, 265 mm, or 270 mm.

14. 1. A method for using an add-on device for an intravenous (IV) set hand pump, comprising: connecting a first IV tube of the IV set to a fluid source; connecting a second IV tube of the IV set to a fluid receptacle; placing the device on the IV set hand pump connected between the first IV tube and the second IV tube; compressing the add-on device to force fluid through the IV set hand pump at a rate greater than one of a maximum gravity-based fluid flow rate of the IV set and a maximum infusion rate of the infusion pump; repeating the compressing and expanding steps to deliver a desired amount of fluid to the fluid receiving portion; A method comprising:

15. the add-on device: a first member configured to actuate the hand pump; a second member hingedly connected to the first member and configured to receive the hand pump; and 15. The method of claim 14, wherein the add-on device, upon activation, is configured to increase a fluid flow rate downstream of the IV set hand pump above a maximum gravity-based fluid flow rate of the IV set.

16. The method of claim 15 , wherein the first member and / or the second member comprises a grip portion.

17. 17. The method of claim 16, wherein the grip portion comprises a shaped surface having one or more gripping members with at least one of circular, rectangular, and external arcuate grooves, each gripping member sized and shaped to receive a finger of a hand.

18. 15. The method of claim 14, further comprising reusing the device by disconnecting it from the first IV set and attaching it to the second IV set without disconnecting either the first IV set or the second IV set from the fluid source or from the delivery catheter assembly.

19. 1. A method for increasing fluid flow downstream of an IV set hand pump above a maximum gravity-based fluid flow rate of said IV set, comprising: connecting a first IV tube of the IV set to a fluid source; connecting a second IV tube of the IV set to a fluid receptacle; installing an add-on device on the IV set hand pump connected between the first IV tubing and the second IV tubing; compressing the add-on device to force fluid through the IV set hand pump; A method comprising:

20. the add-on device: a first member configured to actuate the hand pump; a second member hingedly connected to the first member and configured to receive the hand pump; and 20. The method of claim 19, wherein the add-on device is configured, upon activation, to increase a fluid flow rate downstream of the IV set hand pump above a maximum gravity-based fluid flow rate of the IV set.

Images