Pump for improving fluid delivery and method of using the same

Abstract

This specification describes an IV set including a plurality of hand pumps and a method of using the same. The IV set includes a first portion of tubing, a second portion of tubing, and a drip chamber. The drip chamber includes a spikeless inlet fluid-connected to the first portion of tubing, an outlet fluid-connected to the second portion of tubing, and a curved droplet former located between the inlet and outlet within the drip chamber. The curved droplet former receives fluid through the spikeless inlet and is configured to form one or more droplets having substantially uniform viscosity and flowing through the drip chamber at substantially constant velocity, based on the curvature of its surface.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This application claims the benefit of priority to U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 63 / 418,901, filed on October 24, 2022, entitled "A PLURALITY OF HAND PUMPS FOR USE WITH AN IV SET AND METHODS OF USE THEREOF".

[0002] The present disclosure generally relates to medical fluid dispensing systems, and more particularly to IV sets.

Background Art

[0003] Medical procedures often involve injecting a patient with a medical fluid using an IV set that is used to dispense the medical fluid (e.g., saline or a drug formulation) to the patient. Existing IV sets can produce an inconsistent flow rate, causing disruptions that reduce the flow rate and the patient's treatment effectiveness. Clinicians often need to manipulate the IV set to remove disruptions within the IV set. Due to the design of existing IV sets, clinicians may experience fatigue because they need to constantly reach for and compress a hand pump or other component of the IV set.

[0004] Therefore, there is a need for an IV set that provides a faster flow rate, reduces the number of disruptions, and provides clinicians with a simple and easy way to remove disruptions and / or adjust the flow rate of the medical fluid provided to the patient when a disruption occurs.

Summary of the Invention

[0005] The disclosed subject relates to various components of an IV set. In a particular implementation, the various components of the IV set include one or more improvements configured to improve design factors that contribute to the convenience and material rigidity of the hand pump of the IV set. In a particular implementation, the various components of the IV set are configured to increase the volume of fluid delivered to the patient and the speed at which the fluid is delivered to the patient, thereby improving patient outcomes, reducing clinician fatigue, and decreasing the amount of clinician intervention required. In a particular implementation, the various components of the IV set are configured to improve the compatibility between the IV set and the patient by increasing the fluid volume and flow rate, increasing the filtration rate to further increase the flow rate, reducing the coefficient of friction to shorten the residence time, and using blood-compatible materials. The various components of the IV set are configured to improve the efficiency of fluid delivery by reducing the number of obstructions or flow interferences. A non-exhaustive list of improvements to the various components of the IV set includes the use of materials (e.g., thermoplastic elastomers) and coatings (e.g., hydrophobic coatings) that contribute to high flow rates between the various components of the IV set, changes to the tubing of the IV set (e.g., inner diameter of the tubing), increases in filter size and surface area, increases in the size of the drip chamber of the IV set, and several other improvements described below.

[0006] In some implementations, an IV set is provided. The IV set includes a first portion of a tube, a second portion of a tube, and a drip chamber. The drip chamber includes a spikeless inlet fluid-coupled to the first portion of the tube, an outlet fluid-coupled to the second portion of the tube, and a curved drop former located between the inlet and outlet within the drip chamber. The curved drop former receives fluid through the spikeless inlet and is configured to form one or more droplets having substantially uniform viscosity and flowing through the drip chamber at a substantially constant velocity (for example, by visual indication provided through the drip chamber) based on the curvature of its surface. In some implementations, the curved drop former includes a hydrophobic coating. In some implementations, the body of the drip chamber includes a hydrophobic coating that forms a predetermined contact angle such that one or more droplets are uniform and consistent.

[0007] In some implementations, the drip chamber is formed of an antistatic material. In some implementations, the drip chamber includes an elastic material such that the drip chamber returns to an uncompressible state after being compressed. In some implementations, the drip chamber further includes a fluid-coupled filter of a predetermined surface area at the outlet such that the filter captures particles from the fluid before the fluid leaves the drip chamber. In some implementations, the predetermined surface area of ​​the filter is 500 cm². 2 From 1000cm 2 It is between these two ranges. In some implementations, the filter has pore sizes between 20 microns and 80 microns. In some implementations, the filter has pore sizes between 180 microns and 200 microns.

[0008] In some implementations, the IV set further includes a hand pump comprising a third portion of a tube and a fluid-connected inlet to the second portion of the tube and a fluid-connected outlet to the third portion of the tube. In some implementations, the third portion of the tube has a predetermined length and radius. The hand pump comprises a first portion, a second portion adjacent to the first portion, and a third portion adjacent to the second portion. The first, second, and third portions each have a height and a radius. The second portion has a greater height and radius than the height and radius of the first and third portions, respectively. In some implementations, the hand pump is a lantern-shaped body.

[0009] In some implementations, the hand pump is formed of an antistatic material. In some implementations, the first and third parts each have the same height and radius. In some implementations, the hand pump includes another filter configured to capture particles from the fluid before the fluid exits the hand pump. In some implementations, the hand pump includes an elastic material such that the hand pump body returns to an uncompressible state after being compressed. In some implementations, the hand pump accelerates the fluid flow to at least 13 L / h when compressed.

[0010] It should be noted that the various implementations described above can be combined with other implementations described herein (for example, maintaining the impedance of a single or group of neuromuscular signal sensors can be combined with impedance matching, thereby matching the impedance and maintaining it within a specific range of impedance values). The features and advantages described herein are not exhaustive, and further features and advantages will be apparent to those skilled in the art, particularly in light of the drawings, specification, and claims. Furthermore, it should be noted that the language used herein has been selected primarily for readability and explanatory purposes.

[0011] To enable a more detailed understanding of this disclosure, more specific descriptions may be provided by referring to the features of various implementations, some of which are shown in the accompanying drawings. However, the accompanying drawings only illustrate the important features of this disclosure. Other useful features may also be described herein so that those skilled in the art can understand them when reading this disclosure. [Brief explanation of the drawing]

[0012] [Figure 1] This figure shows an IV pump used to administer medical fluids to a patient. [Figure 2] This figure shows the conventional IV set 200. [Figure 3A] This figure shows an improved intravenous infusion chamber in several implementation configurations. [Figure 3B] This figure shows an improved intravenous infusion chamber in several implementation configurations. [Figure 3C] This figure shows an improved intravenous infusion chamber in several implementation configurations. [Figure 3D] This figure shows an improved intravenous infusion chamber in several implementation configurations. [Figure 4] This figure shows an improved hand pump for the IV set in several implementation configurations. [Figure 5] This figure shows another set of IVs with adjusted lengths, in several implementation configurations. [Figure 6] This is a conceptual diagram illustrating an exemplary electronic system for controlling a pump according to an aspect of this technology. [Modes for carrying out the invention]

[0013] As is customary, the various features shown in the drawings are not depicted to scale. Therefore, the dimensions of various features may be arbitrarily enlarged or reduced for clarity. In addition, some of the drawings may not illustrate all components of a given system, method, or device. Finally, throughout the specification and drawings, similar reference numerals indicate similar features.

[0014] Many details are described herein in order to provide a complete understanding of the exemplary implementations shown in the accompanying drawings. However, some implementations may be practiced without many specific details, and the claims are limited only by their features and embodiments as specifically described in the claims. Furthermore, in order to avoid obscuring relevant embodiments of the implementations described herein, well-known processes, components, and materials are not described in comprehensive detail.

[0015] Figure 1 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 (e.g., an IV bag) of medical fluid and the 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 used to further accelerate the flow of medical fluid from the container 36 (or IV pump 30) to the patient. For example, as shown and described below with reference to Figures 4 and 5, an IV set 20 hand pump may be used to further accelerate the flow of medical fluid.

[0016] Figure 2 illustrates a conventional IV set 200. The IV set 200 includes one or more connectors 202, one or more clamps 204 and 208, tubing 206, an infusion chamber 210, a hand pump 220, an infusion site 230, and an outlet port 232. As described above with reference to Figure 1, the IV set 200 delivers fluid from a fluid source, such as a container 36, to the patient 5 via tubing 206. More specifically, the fluid from the fluid source is introduced into a first portion 206-a of the tubing in the IV set 200 and delivered to the patient 5 (e.g., via the flow generated by the IV pump 30 (Figure 1) and / or the hand pump 220). The connector 202 facilitates connection and / or fluid communication between the first portion 206-a of the tubing and the fluid source (e.g., one or more containers 36). More specifically, the connector 202 fluidly connects a first portion 206-a of the tube to one or more containers 36. In some implementations, the connector 202 can be a connector spike that penetrates the membrane of the container 36 to allow fluid communication from the container 36 to the tube 206. Alternatively, in some implementations, the connector 202 can be a needleless connector to avoid accidentally penetrating the membrane when fluidly connecting the first portion 206-a of the tube to the fluid source. In some implementations, the needleless connector can include a no-trip feature to prevent leakage or surface contamination. In some implementations, the needleless connector can further include a Luer lock to prevent accidental discharge. In some implementations, the needleless connector engages with a fluid container that includes a mating connector.

[0017] In some implementations, the second portion 206-b of the tube is connected to the patient 5 via the outlet port 232. Additional medical fluids or treatments may be introduced to the patient via the IV set 200. In some implementations, additional medical fluids or treatments may be introduced into the IV set 200 via the injection site 230. In some implementations, the fluid container allows for the collection of aliquots of blood for analysis.

[0018] Clamps 204 and 208 are configured to control the fluid flow through tube 206 of IV set 200. For example, clamps 204 and 208 can block the flow of fluid through tube 206 so that no fluid is dispensed to patient 5. Alternatively, clamps 204 and 208 can partially block the flow of fluid through tube 206 so that the flow of fluid dispensed to patient 5 is reduced. Clamps 204 and 208 can be roller clamps, pinch clamps, slide clamps, and / or other clamps known in the art.

[0019] In some implementations, drip chamber 210 is formed of a transparent or translucent material to provide a visual indication (e.g., clear chamber 262) of the flow rate of the medical fluid passing therethrough. Drip chamber 210 is configured such that a clinician and / or other healthcare provider can monitor and adjust the flow rate of the medical fluid based on the visual indication (e.g., clear chamber 262) provided by drip chamber 210 (e.g., by counting the number of drops per second). During operation, the medical fluid can drip or otherwise flow through the chamber volume of drip chamber 210. The medical fluid can enter drip chamber 210 through an upper or inlet portion 252 defined within drip chamber 210. Inlet portion 252 is in fluid communication with a first portion 206-a of the tube. The fluid flow exits drip chamber 210 through a lower or outlet portion 254. Outlet portion 254 can be in fluid communication with a second portion 206-b of the tube.

[0020] Conventional drip chambers include a spike 258 (or a needle) for fluidly connecting the drip chamber 210 to a tube 206 and / or a fluid source (e.g., container 36). In some implementations, the spike 258 penetrates the membrane of the container 36 to enable fluid communication from the container 36 to the tube 206. In some implementations, the spike 258 is covered by a spike cap 260. The spike cap 260 is configured to prevent damage by the spike 258, keep the spike 258 clean, and / or prevent injuries caused by accidental contact of the spike 258 with a person's body. In some implementations, the spike 258 is connected to an air vent 256. The air vent 256 is configured to release air from the drip chamber 210. The spike 258 and the air vent 256 are fluidly connected to an inlet 252 of the drip chamber. In some implementations, the inlet 252 of the drip chamber 210 is fluidly connected to a droplet former 264. The droplet former 264 is configured to generate (or form) one or more droplets that are used by a clinician and / or other healthcare provider to monitor the flow rate of a medical fluid (e.g., by counting the number of droplets per second).

[0021] In some implementations, the infusion chamber 210 includes a filter 266 for filtering the medical fluid passing through it. In some implementations, the filter 266 is located inside the infusion chamber 210. In some implementations, the filter 266 is located inside the inlet 252 or outlet 254 of the infusion chamber 210. Alternatively, in some implementations, the filter 266 is located within the chamber volume of the infusion chamber 210. In some implementations, the filter 266 is an integrated part of the infusion chamber 210. During operation, the fluid can flow through the inlet 252 of the infusion chamber 210, through the filter 266, and out to the outlet 254 of the infusion chamber 210. As the medical fluid flows through the infusion chamber 210, the fluid can be filtered before it flows out of the infusion chamber 210 and through the second portion 206-b of the tubing. The fluid within the chamber volume of the infusion chamber 210 passes through the filter 266 to prevent the transmission of bacteria, microorganisms, and / or other pathogens to the patient. As can be understood, a positive pressure difference can guide the fluid flow to the filter 266. As described herein, the filter 266 can selectively filter the flow passing through the infusion chamber 210. The filter 266 may have an average filter opening in the range of 15 microns to 200 microns. In some implementations, the average filter opening may be in the range of 180 microns to 200 microns. Optionally, the filter 266 may have pores of different sizes.

[0022] During operation, the filter 266 may become clogged with particles, limiting filtration efficiency and flow rate through the filter 266. A conventional IV set 200 may include a hand pump 220 for removing sediment or particles embedded in the filter 266, thereby extending the life of the filter 266 and increasing the flow rate through it. The hand pump 220 can induce backflow or back pressure through the filter 266 to remove particles embedded in it. In the illustrated example, a clinician can operate the hand pump 220 to generate backflow through the filter 266.

[0023] In some implementations, the infusion chamber 210 can equalize the pressure difference between the chamber volume and the environment during operation. In some implementations, the infusion chamber 210 can be formed from an elastic material so that it can be compressed or compressed to draw in medical fluid for priming the IV system. In some implementations, the infusion chamber 210 draws in medical fluid to prime the IV system. As can be understood, during the priming operation, the infusion chamber 210 can be filled with a desired amount of medical fluid.

[0024] Figures 3A to 3D illustrate the improved infusion chamber in several configurations. The improved infusion chamber 300 is configured to allow clinicians and / or other healthcare professionals to monitor and adjust the flow rate of medical fluid based on visual instructions, as described above with respect to the infusion chamber 210 in Figure 2. The improved infusion chamber 300 includes at least a spikeless inlet 312, an improved droplet former 315, a coated transparent chamber 320, an improved filter 330, and an outlet 314. Compared to the conventional infusion chamber 210 (Figure 2), the improved infusion chamber 300 is configured to improve the flow rate and accuracy of the fluid passing through it, improve the accuracy and consistency of the droplets produced by the droplet former 315, and increase the total volume that can be held in the transparent chamber 320.

[0025] The spikeless inlet 312 (similar to the inlet 252, which has a spike 258 that is not fluid-coupled, as shown and described with reference to Figure 2, for example) is configured to allow the improved infusion chamber 300 to be fluid-coupled to the bottom of the IV set 200. For the purposes of this disclosure, the bottom of the IV set 200 means the area between the chest and waist height of the clinician (or healthcare worker), where the clinician does not need to reach to adjust or operate the improved infusion chamber 300. By allowing the improved infusion chamber 300 to be fluid-coupled to the bottom of the IV set 200, the spikeless inlet 312 improves the usability of the improved infusion chamber 300 (compared to the conventional infusion chamber 210) and reduces clinician fatigue.

[0026] The improved droplet former 315 includes a curved surface 325. The improved droplet former 315 is fluid-coupled to a spikeless inlet 312. The curved surface 325 of the improved droplet former 315 is configured to improve droplet accuracy. More specifically, the curved surface 325 of the improved droplet former 315 produces uniform and consistent droplets (e.g., droplet 327) that can be monitored by a clinician. In addition, in some implementations, the curved surface 325 of the improved droplet former 315 is configured to increase the size of the droplets produced so that the flow rate of the improved droplet former 315 is improved (e.g., so that the flow rate is increased compared to the conventional droplet former 264).

[0027] The improved filter 330 is configured to filter the medical fluid passing through it, as described above with reference to Figure 2. The improved filter 330 includes an increased surface area compared to filter 266. Specifically, in some implementations, the improved filter 330 has a surface area of ​​500 cm². 2 From 1000cm 2 It has a surface area of ​​(e.g., 20 cm²) compared to the surface area of ​​filter 266. 2 50cm 2It is approximately 10 times larger than the standard filter. In some implementations, the improved filter 330 is formed from a polyethersulfone (PES) membrane. In some implementations, the improved filter 330 is one of a blood and thrombus filtration unit or a non-vented blood set filtration unit. The improved filter 330 can have an average filter opening in the range of 20 to 80 microns. In some implementations, the average filter opening of the improved filter 330 is between 180 and 200 microns. Optionally, the improved filter 330 can have pores of different sizes. The improved filter 330 is a high-throughput filtration unit that increases flow rate and improves efficiency. In some implementations, the improved filter 330 is fluid-coupled to an outlet 314. In some implementations, the operating force of the improved filter 330 (or improved infusion chamber 300) is increased (compared to the conventional filter 266 and / or infusion chamber 210 in Figure 2) so that the flow rate in tube 206 is further increased.

[0028] In some implementations, the coated transparent chamber 320 is formed from an elastic or deformable material so that it can be compressed or compressed to draw in fluid for priming of the IV system. In some implementations, the elastic or deformable material includes silicone, rubber, flexible PVC grade material, thermoplastic elastomer (e.g., styrene-based thermoplastic elastomer), plastic, polyurethane, and / or other flexible material that can be compressed and returned to a stationary state. The coated transparent chamber 320 is treated to reduce surface tension and / or increase the wettability of the side walls of the coated transparent chamber 320 by removing air bubbles (e.g., coating application). In some implementations, the coated transparent chamber 320 reduces the fluid contact angle by at least 55 degrees (e.g., the contact angle is reduced by at least 57 degrees, as shown in Figure 3C). In some implementations, the coated transparent chamber 320 is coated to increase its coefficient of friction, so that medical fluids (e.g., blood cells) slide through the coated transparent chamber 320 and do not adhere to its walls. In some implementations, the coated transparent chamber 320 is treated with antistatic and blood-compatible materials. By reducing the surface tension of the side walls of the transparent chamber 320 and increasing its wettability, a larger volume of fluid can be held within the transparent chamber 320, and the flow rate through the transparent chamber 320 can be increased.

[0029] Figure 3B illustrates further improved infusion chambers in several implementation configurations. The further improved infusion chamber 350 is an example of the improved infusion chamber 300, further including a hydrophobic coating 365 on the curved surface 325. The hydrophobic coating 365 is located on the side of the outlet of the droplet former 355 to increase the contact angle of the medical fluid exiting the droplet former 355, thereby forming uniform and consistent droplets.

[0030] Figure 3C illustrates the water contact angle of the fluid (e.g., water) on the treated surface 372 of the improved drip chamber 300 (e.g., the coated transparent chamber 320) compared to the untreated surface 374 of the drip chamber 210 (e.g., the transparent chamber in Figure 2). As shown in Figure 3C, the water contact angle of the treated surface 372 is reduced to at least 57 degrees compared to the untreated surface 374 of the transparent chamber. The reduction in the water contact angle reduces the number of defects, improves the accuracy of the measured volume of the coated transparent chamber 320, and / or reduces the occurrence of defects by lowering the surface tension of the surface of the coated transparent chamber 320 and improving the wettability of the sidewalls of the improved drip chamber 300 (e.g., by removing air bubbles in the coated transparent chamber 320).

[0031] Figure 3D illustrates different transparent chamber coatings in several implementation configurations. Specifically, these are an untreated transparent chamber 392, a transparent chamber coated for 5 minutes 394, and a transparent chamber coated for 10 minutes 396. As shown by the untreated transparent chamber 392, bubbles accumulate on the surface of the untreated transparent chamber 392. Bubbles on the surface of the untreated transparent chamber 392 can lead to failures in the drip chamber, inaccurate volume readings, and / or an increased number of failures in the drip chamber. As an alternative, a transparent chamber treated for at least 5 minutes (as shown by the transparent chamber coated for 5 minutes 394) reduces the number of bubbles that form in the drip chamber. Furthermore, a transparent chamber treated for at least 10 minutes (as shown by the transparent chamber coated for 10 minutes 396) removes substantially all bubbles from the drip chamber.

[0032] Figure 4 illustrates an improved hand pump for the IV set in several configurations. The IV set 400 includes one or more of the features described above with reference to Figure 2. For example, the IV set 400 includes one or more connectors 202, one or more clamps 204 and 208, tubing 206, an infusion chamber 210, an infusion site 230, and an outlet port 232. The IV set 400 distributes medical fluid to the patient as described above with reference to Figure 2. The IV set 400 further includes an improved hand pump 410 to accelerate the delivery of fluid to the patient 5 (Figure 1) (i.e., increase fluid flow) and reduce fatigue for the clinician (or other healthcare worker), thereby enabling the IV set 400 to be used for extended periods. In some implementations, the improved hand pump 410 is configured to increase the volume and flow rate of fluid through the IV set 400 to approximately 13-15 liters / hour (where "approximately" means ±0.5 liters / hour).

[0033] In some implementations, the improved hand pump 410 is formed of a transparent or translucent material to provide a visual indication of the flow rate of the fluid passing through it. A clinician (or healthcare professional) can monitor and adjust the fluid flow rate based on the visual indication provided by the improved hand pump 410 (e.g., a transparent or translucent material that allows the clinician to visually inspect the fluid flowing through the improved hand pump 410). During operation, the fluid can drip or otherwise flow through the improved hand pump 410. The fluid can enter the improved hand pump 410 through an upper or inlet 412 defined by the improved hand pump 410. The inlet 412 is in fluid communication with a first section 206-a of the tube. The fluid flow can exit the improved hand pump volume 416 of the improved hand pump 410 through a lower or outlet 414. The outlet 414 can be in fluid communication with a second section 206-b of the tube.

[0034] The improved hand pump 410 has a substantially cylindrical body. In some implementations, the improved hand pump 410 is formed from at least three consecutive sections of a tube. In some implementations, the at least three consecutive sections of the tube include a second section 420 between a first section 418 and a third section 422 of the tube. In some implementations, the first section 418 of the tube partially forms the inlet section 412 of the improved hand pump 410, and the second section 422 of the tube partially forms the outlet section 414 of the improved hand pump 410. In some implementations, the first section 418 and the third section 422 of the tube are the same height and have the same radius. Alternatively, in some implementations, the first section 418 and the third section 422 of the tube have different heights and / or radii. The second section 420 of the tube has a radius larger than the respective radii of the first section 418 and the third section 422 of the tube.

[0035] In some implementations, the second portion 420 of the tube includes a radius that varies over its height (e.g., the height "h" of the improved hand pump 410). In some implementations, the second portion 420 of the tube is substantially symmetrical to the radius of the second portion 420 of the tube, with its radius being maximum at the center (e.g., half its height). In some implementations, the height of the improved hand pump 410 is lower than the height of the hand pump 220. In some implementations, the improved hand pump 410 forms a lantern-shaped body. The lantern-shaped body increases the total volume of the improved hand pump 410 and provides larger inlet and outlet diameters compared to a conventional hand pump (e.g., the hand pump 220 in Figure 2). Furthermore, the lantern-shaped body provides an ergonomic body that can be conveniently operated (e.g., compressed or compressed) to accelerate the fluid from the improved hand pump 410 while reducing clinician fatigue.

[0036] In some implementations, the improved hand pump 410 is formed from an elastic or deformable material so that it can be compressed or compressed to draw fluid for priming the IV system. In addition, in some implementations, the improved hand pump 410 is actuated to accelerate the fluid from the volume 416 of the improved hand pump 410 to the second section 206-b of the tube. In some implementations, the elastic or deformable material includes silicone, rubber, flexible PVC grade material, thermoplastic elastomer (e.g., styrene-based thermoplastic elastomer), plastic, polyurethane, and / or other flexible material that can be compressed and returned to a stationary state.

[0037] In some implementations, the improved hand pump 410 equalizes the pressure difference between the hand pump volume 416 and the environment during operation. In some implementations, the fluid in the hand pump volume 416 is pressurized by reducing the hand pump volume 416 (for example, by compressing the improved hand pump 410). The pressurized fluid in the hand pump volume 416 is accelerated, allowing the fluid to be distributed to the user at a faster rate. Advantageously, the improved hand pump 410 rapidly improves fluid flow through the IV set 400 while reducing the burden and fatigue of the clinician (or healthcare worker). In some implementations, the improved hand pump 410 draws in fluid to prime the IV system. For example, the hand pump volume 416 can be filled with a desired volume of fluid during the priming operation.

[0038] In some implementations, the improved hand pump 410 includes a filter similar to the filter 266 or improved filter 330 described above with reference to Figures 2 to 3D. More specifically, like the drip chamber 210 and the improved drip chamber 300, the filter in the improved hand pump 410 allows for the filtration of the fluid passing through it. In some implementations, the improved hand pump 410 has an integrated filter. In some implementations, due to the increased size and volume of the improved hand pump 410, the filter placed within the improved hand pump 410 is larger and has a larger surface area than the filter 266 or improved filter 330 used in the drip chamber 210 or the improved filter 330, respectively. In some implementations, the filter in the improved hand pump 410 can be of any suitable size. In some implementations, the improved hand pump 410 includes a filter used in place of the filter 266 or the improved filter 330. Alternatively, in some implementations, an improved hand pump 410 with a filter is used instead of the filter 266 of the infusion chamber 210 or the improved infusion chamber 300.

[0039] In some implementations, as the fluid flows through the improved hand pump 410 during operation, the fluid is filtered before flowing out of the improved hand pump 410 and into the second section 206-b of the tubing. As described above, the filter prevents the transmission of bacteria, microorganisms, and / or other pathogens to the patient. During operation (i.e., while administering medical fluid to the patient), the filter may become clogged with particles, reducing the flow through the IV system. In some implementations, the improved hand pump 410 is used to agitate particles trapped in the filter (e.g., filter 266, improved filter 330, or integrated filter) or other parts of the IV set 400, increasing the flow through the filter and the IV set 400. In other words, the improved hand pump 410 accelerates the flow of the medical fluid and / or agitates particles trapped in one or more filters by applying force to the improved hand pump 410 (e.g., compressing multiple hand pumps).

[0040] The pressurized fluid in the hand pump volume 416, in addition to accelerating the fluid flow, causes backflow through the filter of the improved hand pump 410 (or other parts of the IV set 400) when the improved hand pump 410 is operated or compressed, thereby moving or removing particles from the filter. Advantageously, the hand pump volume 416 allows the improved hand pump 410 to rapidly improve flow through the IV set 400 while reducing the burden and fatigue of the clinician (or healthcare worker) by providing an easy-to-use, ergonomic body.

[0041] Figure 5 illustrates another IV set with adjusted length in several implementation configurations. IV set 500 includes one or more features described above with reference to Figures 3A-4. For example, IV set 500 includes one or more connectors 202, one or more clamps 204 and 208, a hand pump 220, tubing 206, an infusion chamber 210, an infusion site 230, and an outlet port 232. IV set 500 is configured to distribute medical fluid to a patient as described above with reference to Figures 3A-4. IV set 500 further includes a shortened tubing 206. More specifically, in some implementation configurations, the length s of the second portion 206-b of the tubing is reduced. In some implementation configurations, the portion of tubing 206 from the hand pump 220 to the infusion site 230 (e.g., represented by length "L") is shortened. Alternatively, in some implementation configurations, the portion of tubing 206 fluid-connected to the clamp 208 is shortened. Furthermore, in some implementations, the radius of the portion of tube 206 from the hand pump 220 to the injection point 230 (or the portion of tube 206 fluid-connected to the clamp 208) is increased. In some implementations, the flow rate of the fluid in the IV set 500 is increased by shortening the length of the second portion 206-b of the tube and / or increasing its radius. In some implementations, the fluid volume and flow rate are increased to more than 15 liters per hour.

[0042] An IV set conforming to this disclosure may include all or at least some of those shown and described above with reference to Figures 3A to 5. In some implementations, one or more components of the IV set (e.g., an improved infusion chamber 300, an improved hand pump 410, etc.) may be coated (e.g., by a hydrophobic coating) to increase the coefficient of friction so as to increase the flow velocity within one or more components, preventing fluid from adhering to one or more walls of the IV set. In some implementations, the coating is an antistatic and blood-compatible material.

[0043] Figure 6 is a conceptual diagram showing an exemplary electronic system 600 for controlling a pump according to an aspect of the present technology. The electronic system 600 may include, but is not limited to, a controller 32 for the IV pump 30, and may be a computing device specifically configured to run software related to the components and processes provided in Figures 1 to 5. The electronic system 600 may be a representative system combined with the present disclosure relating to Figures 1 to 5.

[0044] The electronic system 600 may include various types of computer-readable media and interfaces for various other types of computer-readable media. In the illustrated example, the electronic system 600 includes a bus 608, a processing unit 612, system memory 604, read-only memory (ROM) 610, persistent storage device 602, input device interface 614, output device interface 606, and one or more network interfaces 616. In some implementations, the electronic system 600 may include or be integrated with other computing devices or circuits for the operation of the various components and processes described above.

[0045] Bus 608 collectively represents all system buses, peripheral buses, and chipset buses that communicate with numerous internal devices of the electronic system 600. For example, bus 608 communicates with the processing unit 612 to the ROM 610, system memory 604, and persistent storage device 602.

[0046] The processing unit 612 retrieves instructions to be executed and data to be processed from these various memory units in order to carry out the process of this disclosure. In different implementations, the processing unit may be a single processor or a multi-core processor.

[0047] ROM 610 stores static data and instructions required by processing unit 612 and other modules of the electronic system. On the other hand, persistent storage device 602 is a read / write memory device. This device is a non-volatile memory unit that stores instructions and data even when the electronic system 600 is off. Some implementations of this disclosure use a mass storage device (such as a magnetic disk or optical disk and its corresponding disk drive) as persistent storage device 602.

[0048] Other implementations use a removable storage device (such as a floppy disk, flash drive, and corresponding disk drive) as the persistent storage device 602. Similar to the persistent storage device 602, the system memory 604 is a read-write memory device. However, unlike the storage device 602, the system memory 604 is volatile read-write memory, such as random-access memory. The system memory 604 stores some of the instructions and data required by the processor at runtime. In some implementations, the process of this disclosure is stored in the system memory 604, the persistent storage device 602, and / or the ROM 610. From these various memory units, the processing unit 612 retrieves the instructions to be executed and the data to be processed in order to execute the process in some implementations. Such storage devices 602 and / or memory devices 604 may be representative of the memory of the controller 32.

[0049] Bus 608 also connects to an input device interface 614 and an output device interface 606. The input device interface 614 allows the user to communicate information and selected commands to the electronic system. Input devices used with the input device interface 614 include, for example, an alphanumeric keyboard and a pointing device (also called a "cursor control device"), such as the one shown in controller 32 in Figure 1. The output device interface 606 (shown as a display in controller 60 in Figure 1, for example) allows the display of images generated by the electronic system 600, for example. Output devices used with the output device interface 606 include, for example, a printer and a display device such as a cathode ray tube (CRT) or liquid crystal display (LCD). Some implementations include devices such as touch screens that function as both input and output devices.

[0050] Furthermore, as shown in Figure 6, bus 608 also connects the electronic system 600 to a network (not shown) via a network interface 616. The network interface 616 may include, for example, a wireless access point (e.g., Bluetooth or WiFi) or a wireless circuit for connecting to a wireless access point. The network interface 616 may also include hardware (e.g., Ethernet® hardware) for connecting a computer to a network of computers such as a local area network ("LAN"), a wide area network ("WAN"), a wireless LAN, or an intranet, or a network of networks such as the Internet. Any or all components of the electronic system 600 can be used in conjunction with this disclosure.

[0051] These functions may be implemented in computer software, firmware, or hardware. This technique can be implemented using one or more computer program products. Programmable processors and computers can be included in or packaged as mobile devices. Processes and logic flows can be executed by one or more programmable processors and one or more programmable logic circuits. General-purpose and dedicated computing devices and storage devices can be interconnected via communication networks.

[0052] Some implementations involve electronic components such as microprocessors, storage, and memory that store computer program instructions on machine-readable or computer-readable media (also called computer-readable storage media, machine-readable media, or machine-readable storage media). Some examples of such computer-readable media include RAM, ROM, read-only compact discs (CD-ROM), recordable compact discs (CD-R), rewritable compact discs (CD-RW), read-only digital versatile discs (e.g., DVD-ROM, dual-layer DVD-ROM), various recordable / rewritable DVDs (e.g., DVD-RAM, DVD-RW, DVD+RW, etc.), flash memory (e.g., SD cards, mini-SD cards, micro-SD cards, etc.), magnetic and / or solid-state hard drives, read-only and recordable Blu-ray® discs, ultra-high-density optical discs, any other optical or magnetic media, and floppy disks. Computer-readable media can store computer programs that are executable by at least one processing unit and contain instruction sets for performing various operations. Examples of computer programs or computer code include machine code, such as that generated by a compiler, and files containing high-level code that is executed by a computer, electronic component, or microprocessor using an interpreter.

[0053] The above description primarily refers to microprocessors or multicore processors that run software, but some implementations are performed by one or more integrated circuits, such as application-specific integrated circuits (ASICs) or field-programmable gate arrays (FPGAs). In some implementations, such integrated circuits execute instructions stored within the circuit itself.

[0054] As used herein and in any of the claims, the terms “computer,” “server,” “processor,” and “memory” all refer to specially configured electronic or other technical devices. These terms exclude persons or groups of persons. For the purposes of this specification, the terms “display” or “displaying” mean displaying on an electronic device. As used herein and in any of the claims, the terms “computer readable medium” and “computer readable media” are strictly limited to tangible physical objects that store information in a format readable by a computer. These terms exclude wireless signals, wired download signals, and any other transient signals.

[0055] To provide user interaction, the implementations of the subject matter described herein may be implemented on a computer having a display device for displaying information to the user, such as a CRT (cathode ray tube) or LCD (liquid crystal display) monitor, and a keyboard and pointing device, such as a mouse or trackball, on which the user can provide input to the computer. Other types of devices may also be used to provide user interaction; for example, the feedback provided to the user may be any form of sensory feedback, such as visual feedback, auditory feedback, or tactile feedback, and input from the user may be received in any form, including acoustic input, voice input, or tactile input. Furthermore, the computer may interact with the user by sending and receiving documents to and from devices used by the user, for example, by sending a web page to a web browser on the user's client device in response to a request received from a web browser.

[0056] Implementations of the subject matter described herein may be implemented in a computing system that includes back-end components, for example, as a data server, or middleware components, for example, an application server, or front-end components, for example, a client computer having a graphical user interface or a web browser on which a user can interact with the implementation of the subject matter described herein, or any combination of one or more such back-end components, middleware components, or front-end components. The components of the system may be interconnected by any form or medium of digital data communication, for example, a communication network. Examples of communication networks include local area networks ("LANs") and wide area networks ("WANs"), internetworks (for example, the Internet), and peer-to-peer networks (for example, ad-hoc peer-to-peer networks).

[0057] A computing system can include clients and servers. Clients and servers are generally geographically separated and may interact via a communication network. The client-server relationship arises from computer programs running on each computer that have a client-server relationship with each other. In some implementations, the server sends data (e.g., an HTML page) to the client device (for example, to display data to a user interacting with the client device and to receive user input from that user). Data generated on the client device (e.g., the results of user interaction) can be received by the server from the client device.

[0058] Those skilled in the art will understand that the various exemplary blocks, modules, elements, components, methods, and algorithms described herein may be implemented as electronic hardware, computer software, or a combination of both. To illustrate this compatibility between hardware and software, various exemplary blocks, modules, elements, components, methods, and algorithms have been generally described above in terms of their functionality. Whether such functionality is implemented as hardware or software depends on the specific application and design constraints imposed on the overall system. The described functionality may be implemented in various ways for each specific application. Without departing entirely from the scope of this art, the various components and blocks may be configured differently (for example, in different orders or divided in different ways).

[0059] Examples of clauses in this technology: Various examples of the aspects of this disclosure are described for convenience as numbered clauses (1, 2, 3, etc.). These are provided as examples and do not limit the technology. The identification of figures and reference numbers is provided below for illustrative purposes only, and the clauses are not limited by their identification.

[0060] Clause 1. An IV set comprising a first portion of a tube, a second portion of a tube, and an infusion chamber. The infusion chamber includes a spikeless inlet fluid-connected to the first portion of the tube, an outlet fluid-connected to the second portion of the tube, and a curved droplet former located between the inlet and outlet within the infusion chamber, configured to receive fluid through the spikeless inlet and to form one or more droplets having substantially uniform viscosity and flowing through the infusion chamber at substantially constant velocity, based on the curvature of its surface.

[0061] Clause 2. The set of IV described in Clause 1, further comprising a fluid-coupled filter of a predetermined surface area at the outlet, such that the filter captures particles from the fluid before the fluid leaves the drip chamber.

[0062] Clause 3. The specified surface area of ​​the filter is 500 cm². 2 From 1000cm 2 The set of IV described in Clause 2, which is between these two points.

[0063] Clause 4. A set of IV filters as described in Clause 2 or Clause 3, wherein the filters include pore sizes between 20 microns and 80 microns.

[0064] Clause 5. A set of IV filters as described in Clause 2 or Clause 3, wherein the filters include pore sizes between 180 microns and 200 microns.

[0065] Clause 6. A set of IV described in any of Clauses 1 to 5, wherein the curved droplet former includes a hydrophobic coating.

[0066] Clause 7. An IV set according to any one of Clauses 1 to 6, wherein the body of the infusion chamber includes a hydrophobic coating that forms a predetermined contact angle such that one or more droplets are uniform and consistent.

[0067] Set 8.IV is a hand pump comprising a third portion of a tube, an inlet fluid-connected to a second portion of the tube, and an outlet fluid-connected to the third portion of the tube, wherein the hand pump comprises a first portion, a second portion adjacent to the first portion, and a third portion adjacent to the second portion, as described in any of Sets 1 to 7. The hand pump further comprises a hand pump wherein the first portion, the second portion, and the third portion each have a height and a radius, and the second portion has a height and radius greater than the height and radius of the first portion and the third portion, respectively.

[0068] Clause 9. The hand pump is made of an antistatic material, as per the set of Clause 8, IV.

[0069] Clause 10. A set of IV as described in either Clause 8 or Clause 9, wherein the first and third parts each have the same height and the same radius.

[0070] Clause 11. The hand pump includes a separate filter configured to capture particles from the fluid before the fluid leaves the hand pump, as described in any of Clauses 1 through 10.

[0071] Clause 12. A set of IV as described in any of Clauses 1 to 11, wherein the third portion of the tube has a predetermined length and radius.

[0072] Clause 13. A hand pump that accelerates the flow of fluid to at least 13 L / h when compressed, as described in any of Clauses 8 through 12 of Clause IV.

[0073] Clause 14. A hand pump set IV as described in any of Clauses 8 to 13, which includes an elastic material such that the body of the hand pump returns to an uncompressible state after being compressed.

[0074] Clause 15. An IV set as described in any of Clauses 1 to 14, wherein the infusion chamber is formed of an antistatic material.

[0075] Clause 16. An IV set as described in any of Clauses 1 to 15, wherein the infusion chamber includes an elastic material such that the infusion chamber returns to an uncompressible state after being compressed.

[0076] Further considerations: In some implementations, any of the provisions of this Specification may depend on any one of the independent provisions or any one of the dependent provisions. In one embodiment, any of the provisions (e.g., dependent or independent provisions) may be combined with any one or more other provisions (e.g., dependent or independent provisions). In one embodiment, a claim may include some or all of the words (e.g., steps, actions, means, or components) contained in a provision, sentence, phrase, or paragraph. In one embodiment, a claim may include some or all of the words contained in one or more provisions, sentences, phrases, or paragraphs. In one embodiment, some of the words within each provision, sentence, phrase, or paragraph may be deleted. In one embodiment, additional words or elements may be added to a provision, sentence, phrase, or paragraph. In one embodiment, the Art may be implemented without utilizing any of the components, elements, functions, or actions described herein. In one embodiment, the Art may be implemented using additional components, elements, functions, or actions.

[0077] This disclosure is provided to enable those skilled in the art to practice the various embodiments described herein. This disclosure provides various examples of the art, and the art is not limited to these examples. Various modifications to these embodiments will be readily apparent to those skilled in the art, and the general principles defined herein may be applied to other embodiments.

[0078] In this specification, terms such as “first,” “second,” etc., may be used to describe various elements, but it should be understood that these elements should not be limited by these terms. These terms are used solely to distinguish one element from another. Terms such as “top,” “bottom,” “front,” and “rear” should be understood, as used in this disclosure, to refer to any reference frame rather than the usual gravity reference frame. Thus, the top, bottom, front, and rear may extend upward, downward, obliquely, or horizontally in the gravity reference frame.

[0079] The terms used herein are for the sole purpose of describing specific implementations and are not intended to limit the scope of the claims. The singular forms “a,” “an,” and “the” used in the descriptions of implementations and the appended claims are intended to include the plural form unless otherwise indicated by the context. Furthermore, the terms “and / or” used herein should be understood to refer to and encompass any and all possible combinations of one or more of the related enumerated items. Additionally, the terms “comprises” and / or “comprising,” when used herein, should be understood to indicate the presence of the described features, integers, steps, actions, elements, and / or components, and not to exclude the presence or addition of one or more other features, integers, steps, actions, elements, components, and / or groups thereof.

[0080] As used herein, the term "when" may be interpreted, depending on the context, to mean "when it is determined" that the stated premise is true, or "at the time of that determination," or "according to the determination," or "in accordance with the determination," or "in accordance with the determination," or "in accordance with the detection." Similarly, the phrases "when it is determined that (the stated premise is true)," or "when (the stated premise is true)," or "when (the stated premise is true)" may be interpreted, depending on the context, to mean "at the time of that determination," or "according to the determination," or "in accordance with the determination," or "at the time of detection," or "in accordance with the detection," that the stated premise is true.

[0081] The term “exemplary” is used herein to mean “serving as an example or illustration.” An embodiment or design described herein as “exemplary” should not necessarily be construed as being preferable or advantageous to other embodiments or designs. In one embodiment, various alternative configurations and operations described herein may be considered at least equivalent.

[0082] The terms "aspects" and similar phrases do not imply that such aspects are essential to the Technology, nor that such aspects apply to all configurations of the Technology. Disclosures relating to aspects may apply to all configurations or one or more configurations. Aspects may provide one or more examples. Terms such as "aspects" may refer to one or more aspects, and vice versa. The terms such as "implementation forms" do not imply that such implementation forms are essential to the Technology, nor that such implementation forms apply to all configurations of the Technology. Disclosures relating to implementation forms may apply to all implementation forms or one or more implementation forms. Implementation forms may provide one or more examples. Terms such as "implementation forms" may refer to one or more implementation forms, and vice versa. The terms such as "configuration" do not imply that such configurations are essential to the Technology, nor that such configurations apply to all configurations of the Technology. Disclosures relating to configurations may apply to all configurations or one or more configurations. Configurations may provide one or more examples. The term "composition" can refer to one or more compositions, and vice versa.

[0083] In one embodiment, unless otherwise specified, all measurements, values, ratings, locations, sizes, dimensions, and other specifications described herein, including subsequent claims, are approximate rather than precise. In one embodiment, they are intended to have a reasonable range that conforms to the function to which they relate and to the conventions of the art to which they belong.

[0084] In one aspect, terms such as "linked" may refer to direct linking. In another aspect, terms such as "linked" may refer to indirect linking.

[0085] Without departing in any way from the scope of this technology, various items may be configured differently (for example, they may be configured in a different order or divided in a different way). All elements and structural and functional equivalents of various aspects described throughout this disclosure, which are known to those skilled in the art or will become known thereafter, are expressly incorporated by reference herein and intended to be encompassed by the claims. Furthermore, nothing disclosed herein is intended to be made available to the public, whether such disclosure is expressly contained in the claims or not. Unless an element of a claim is expressly described using the phrase “means for” or, in the case of a method claim, “steps for,” that element shall not be construed under Section 112, paragraph 6 of the United States Patent Act. Furthermore, to the extent that terms such as “includes” and “having” are used, such terms are intended to be as inclusive as the term “equipment,” as the term “equipment” is construed as when the term “equipment” is used as a transitional term in a claim.

[0086] The title of the invention, background art, summary of the invention, brief description of the drawings, and abstract of the invention are incorporated herein by reference into the disclosure and provided as exemplary examples of the disclosure, and not as limiting descriptions. They are submitted with the understanding that they are not to be used to limit the scope or meaning of the claims. Furthermore, in the modes for carrying out the invention, it can be seen that the descriptions provide exemplary examples and that various features are grouped together in various implementations to simplify the disclosure. This method of disclosure should not be interpreted as reflecting an intention that the subject matter described in the claims requires more features than those explicitly described in each claim. Rather, as reflected in the following claims, the subject matter of the invention lies in fewer features than all features of a single disclosed configuration or operation. The following claims are incorporated herein by reference into the modes for carrying out the invention, and each claim exists independently as subject matter described in the claims individually.

[0087] The claims are not intended to be limited to the embodiments described herein, but rather to provide the entire scope as provided in the language of the claims, encompassing all legal equivalents. However, none of the claims are intended, nor should they be construed, to encompass subject matter that does not meet the requirements of Section 101, 102, or 103 of the U.S. Patent Act.

Claims

1. The first part of the tube, The second part of the tube, Infusion chamber, A spikeless inlet fluid-connected to the first portion of the tube, An outlet fluid-connected to the second portion of the tube, and A curved droplet former located between the inlet and outlet of the drip chamber, configured to receive fluid through the spikeless inlet and to form one or more droplets having substantially uniform viscosity and flowing through the drip chamber at substantially constant speed, based on the curvature of its surface. An infusion chamber including, An IV set equipped with these features.

2. The IV set according to claim 1, wherein the drip chamber further comprises a filter having a predetermined surface area, which is fluid-connected to the outlet, such that the filter captures particles from the fluid before the fluid leaves the drip chamber.

3. The predetermined surface area of ​​the filter is 500 cm². ２ From 1000cm ２ The IV set according to claim 2, which is between the two.

4. The IV set according to claim 2 or 3, wherein the filter includes pore sizes between 20 microns and 80 microns.

5. The IV set according to claim 2 or 3, wherein the filter includes pore sizes between 180 microns and 200 microns.

6. The IV set according to any one of claims 1 to 5, wherein the curved droplet former includes a hydrophobic coating.

7. The IV set according to any one of claims 1 to 6, wherein the body of the drip chamber includes a hydrophobic coating that forms a predetermined contact angle such that the one or more droplets are uniform and consistent.

8. The third part of the tube, A hand pump comprising a fluid-connected inlet to the second portion of a tube and a fluid-connected outlet to the third portion of a tube, the hand pump further comprising a hand pump comprising a first portion, a second portion adjacent to the first portion, and a third portion adjacent to the second portion, wherein the first portion, the second portion, and the third portion each have a height and a radius, and the second portion has a height and radius greater than the respective heights and radii of the first portion and the third portion.

9. The IV set according to claim 8, wherein the hand pump is made of an antistatic material.

10. The IV set according to claim 8 or 9, wherein the first part and the third part each have the same height and the same radius.

11. The IV set according to any one of claims 8 to 10, wherein the hand pump includes another filter configured to capture particles from the fluid before the fluid leaves the hand pump.

12. The IV set according to any one of claims 8 to 11, wherein the third portion of the tube has a predetermined length and radius.

13. The IV set according to any one of claims 8 to 12, wherein the hand pump accelerates the flow of the fluid to at least 13 L / h when compressed.

14. The IV set according to any one of claims 8 to 13, wherein the hand pump includes an elastic material such that the body of the hand pump returns to an uncompressible state after being compressed.

15. The IV set according to any one of claims 1 to 14, wherein the drip chamber is formed of an antistatic material.

16. The IV set according to any one of claims 1 to 15, wherein the infusion chamber includes an elastic material that restores the infusion chamber to an uncompressible state after it has been compressed.

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