Fluid detection device and method for enteral feeding systems

Abstract

Fluid detection devices for enteral feeding systems are presented, aimed at enhancing patient safety and monitoring capabilities. The device consists of a light source that emits an electromagnetic signal and a light detector positioned at a distance to capture the signal. A light pipe, comprising an input portion connected to the light source and an output portion linked to the light detector. The input and output portions, made of light-transmitting material, are oriented at an angle relative to each other and placed on opposite sides of the feeding tube. This configuration allows the signal to travel from the source to the detector through the light pipe and tube along a nonlinear path. The design of the present disclosure enables accurate detection of fluid presence and flow within the enteral feeding tube, providing real-time information to healthcare professionals for improved patient management and care.

Description

FLUID DETECTION DEVICE AND METHOD FOR ENTERAL FEEDING SYSTEMSTECHNICAL FIELD

[0001] The present disclosure relates to fluid detection devices and methods for use with enteral feeding systems. More specifically, it relates to devices and methods using a light pipe to detect the presence and properties of a fluid within an enteral feeding tube.BACKGROUND

[0002] Enteral feeding systems are used to provide nutrition to patients unable to consume nutrition orally. It is important to monitor the flow of fluid through the feeding tube to ensure proper nutrition delivery and detect any faults such as blockages or leaks. Existing monitoring systems have limitations in accuracy, size, complexity, and ability to detect spatial variations and particulates in the fluid.SUMMARY

[0003] In some embodiments provided herein are fluid detection devices for use with an enteral feeding system including a feeding tube, the devices comprising: a light source configured to emit an electromagnetic signal; a light detector configured to detect the electromagnetic signal spaced some distance away from the light source; and a light pipe comprising, an input portion optically coupled to the light source, and an output portion optically coupled to the light detector, wherein, the input portion and output portion arc comprised of a light transmitting material and are oriented at an angle relative to each other; wherein the input portion and the output portion are positioned on separate sides of the tube, such that the signal is transmitted from the light source to the light detector through the light pipe and tube along a nonlinear path.

[0004] In some embodiments, the light transmitting material is selected from the group consisting of glass, plastic, resin, and optical-grade polymer.

[0005] In some embodiments, the angle between the input portion and the output portion is between 10 degrees and 170 degrees.

[0006] In some embodiments, the light source comprises one or more light emitting diodes (LEDs).

[0007] In some embodiments, the light detector comprises a photodiode or a phototransistor.

[0008] In some embodiments, the electromagnetic signal is infrared light or visible light.

[0009] In some embodiments, the device further comprises a processing unit in electronic communication with the light detector configured to analyze the signal detected by the light detector and determine properties of a fluid in the tube.

[0010] In some embodiments, at least a portion of the outer surface of the light pipe is coated with a reflective material to enhance internal reflection.

[0011] In some embodiments, the input portion and the output portion have a substantially circular or polyhedral cross section.

[0012] In some embodiments, at least a segment of the input portion or output portion has a non-uniform cross section along its length.

[0013] In some embodiments, provided here, are methods for detecting a fluid in a tube for use with an enteral feeding system, the methods comprising: providing a tube for carrying a fluid; positioning an input portion and an output portion of a light pipe on separate sides of the tube, wherein the input portion and output portion are oriented at an angle relative to each other; optically coupling the input portion to a light source and the output portion to a light detector; transmitting an electromagnetic signal from the light source through the light pipe and tube along a nonlinear path; and detecting the presence or absence of a fluid in the tube using a light detector.

[0014] In some embodiments, the method further comprises analyzing the detected light using a processing unit in electronic communication with the light detector to determine properties of the fluid.

[0015] In some embodiments, the method further comprises calibrating the method by measuring the detected light at known fluid properties; and creating a calibration curve or lookup table correlating the detected light to the fluid properties.

[0016] In some embodiments, the method further comprises monitoring the intensity of the detected light over time; and detecting changes in fluid flow rate based on variations in the detected light intensity.

[0017] In some embodiments, the method further comprises controlling a flow regulation device based on the determined fluid flow rate to maintain a desired flow rate or to shut off the flow if a fault condition is detected.

[0018] In some embodiments, the method further comprises comparing the detected light intensity to a predetermined threshold value; and generating an alert or control signal when the detected light intensity falls below the predetermined threshold value.

[0019] In some embodiments, the method further comprises detecting air bubbles or particulate matter in the fluid based on variations in the detected light intensity or scattering of the transmitted light.

[0020] In some embodiments, the method further comprises splitting the light from the light source into multiple beams using a beam splitter; and transmitting the multiple beams through different regions of the fluid in the tube to detect spatial variations in fluid flow.

[0021] Other aspects of the disclosure will become apparent by consideration of the detailed description and accompanying drawings.DEFINITIONS

[0022] The terms “substantially” or “generally” are used to provide flexibility by recognizing that a given characteristic need not be perfectly embodied to have the desired result. Those of ordinary skill in the art will recognize that many characteristics described herein may be essentially present without strict adherence to the characteristic’s definition.

[0023] The term “coupled,” as used herein, is defined as “connected,” although not necessarily directly, and not necessarily mechanically. The term coupled is to be understood to mean physically, magnetically, chemically, fluidly, electrically, or otherwise coupled, connected or linked and does not exclude the presence of intermediate elements between the coupled elements absent specific contrary language.

[0024] The terms “comprise(s),” “include(s),” “having,” “has,” “can,” “contain(s),” and variants thereof, as used herein, are intended to be open-ended transitional phrases, terms, or words that do not preclude the possibility of additional acts or structures. The singular forms “a,” “an” and “the” include plural references unless the context clearly dictates otherwise. The present disclosure also contemplates other embodiments “comprising,” “consisting of’ and“consisting essentially of,” the embodiments or elements presented herein, whether explicitly set forth or not.

[0025] As used herein, the term “subject” broadly refers to any animal, including but not limited to, human and non-human animals (e.g., dogs, cats, cows, horses, sheep, poultry, fish, crustaceans, etc.). As used herein, the term “patient” typically refers to a subject that is being treated for a disease or condition.

[0026] In the foregoing description of preferred embodiments, specific terminology has been resorted to for the sake of clarity. However, the invention is not intended to be limited to the specific terms so selected, and it is to be understood that each specific term includes all technical equivalents which operate in a similar manner to accomplish a similar technical purpose. Terms such as “top” and “bottom”, “front” and “rear”, “inner” and “outer”, “above”, “below”, “upper”, “lower”, “vertical”, “horizontal”, “upright” and the like are used as words of convenience to provide reference points.

[0027] Unless otherwise defined, all technical and scientific terms used herein have the same meaning as commonly understood by one of ordinary skill in the art. In case of conflict, the present document, including definitions, will control. Prcl'crrcd methods and materials are described below, although methods and materials similar or equivalent to those described herein can be used in practice or testing of the present disclosure. All publications, patent applications, patents and other references mentioned herein are incorporated by reference in their entirety. The materials, methods, and examples disclosed herein are illustrative only and not intended to be limiting.BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0028] FIG. 1 is prior ail diagram of a patient’s body showing the placement of various types of enteral feeding tubes.

[0029] FIG. 2 is a perspective view of an exemplary enteral feeding system in accordance with the present disclosure.

[0030] FIG. 3 is view of an exemplary light detection device in accordance with the present disclosure.

[0031] FIG. 4 is a cross-sectional view of a portion of a light detection device in accordance with the present disclosure, including a light source, and light detector and a light pipe.

[0032] FIG. 5 is a cross-sectional view of a portion of a light detection device in accordance with the present disclosure, including an exemplary path of an electromagnetic signal through a light pipe and feeding tube.

[0033] FIG. 6 is a schematic view of a light detection device in accordance with the present disclosure.

[0034] FIG. 7 is a flow chart depicting an exemplary method for detecting fluid within a feeding tube in accordance with the present disclosure.

[0035] Before any embodiments are explained in detail, it is to be understood that the invention is not limited in its application to the details of construction and the arrangement of components set forth in the following description or illustrated in the following drawings. The invention is capable of other embodiments and of being practiced or of being carried out in various ways.DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0036] The present disclosure is, at least in one aspect, directed to improving devices, systems and methods for enteral feeding.

[0037] Referring to FIGS. 1-2, enteral feeding is a method of providing nutrition directly into the gastrointestinal tract when a patient 10 is unable to consume adequate nutrients by mouth. This may be necessary due to various reasons, such as swallowing disorders, certain medical conditions, or increased nutritional needs. Enteral feeding can be accomplished usings various types of feeding systems 20, depending on the patient’s specific situation and the expected duration of feeding.

[0038] Regardless of the specific type of enteral feeding required, enteral systems 20 include many similar components. A flexible tube 25 that is inserted into the patient’s gastrointestinal tract through the nose (nasogastric tube 27), mouth (orogastric tube), or through an incision in the abdominal wall (gastrostomy tube 28 or jejunostomy tube 29). A pump 30 or similar device that controls the rate and volume of the enteral nutritional fluid delivered to the patient. The nutrition fluid (not shown in Figs. 1-2) is specifically designed to meet the patient’s nutritionalneeds, such as increased protein, fiber, etc. Feeding bags 35 or other types of containers are used to store and administer the nutritional fluid and arc connected to the feeding tube 25 and pump 30 for delivery. Other various syringes and connectors are used for flushing the feeding tube, administering medications, and connecting various components of the system.

[0039] Enteral feeding systems 20 provide a means to nourish patients who cannot meet their nutritional needs orally, supporting their recovery and overall health. Healthcare professionals and patients need to continuously monitor the patient’s response to the feeding, ensure proper tube placement, and watch for potential complications to ensure safe and effective use of the enteral feeding system 20. This includes monitoring for blockages, air bubbles, tube dislodgement, changes in enteral formula consistency, or other similar conditions.

[0040] The present disclosure relates to fluid detection devices and methods for use with enteral feeding systems. The fluid detection devices and methods disclosed herein provide an improved means of monitoring fluid flow through a tube in an enteral feeding system. As shown in FIG. 3, fluid detection device 100 comprises a light source 110, a light detector 120, and a light pipe 130 configured to transmit an electromagnetic signal 140 from the source 110 to the detector 120 through a feeding tube 25. In some embodiments, device 100, further comprises a processing unit 150 to analyze the electric signal and perform other functions, a display 160, and user inputs 170.

[0041] In some embodiments, the light source 110 may comprise one or more light emitting diodes (LEDs) configured to emit an electromagnetic signal in the infrared or visible light spectrum. The light source 110 may emit infrared light to minimize interference from ambient visible light. In some embodiments, the light detector 120 may comprise a photodiode or phototransistor configured to detect the electromagnetic signal emitted by the light source 110 after it passes through the light pipe 130 and feeding tube 25.

[0042] As shown in more detail in the cross-sectional view of FIG. 4, the light pipe 130 may comprise an input portion 132 optically coupled to the light source 110 and an output portion 134 optically coupled to the light detector 120. The input portion 132 and output portion 134 are oriented at an angle a relative to each other, such that the electromagnetic signal 140 travels along a nonlinear path through the light pipe 130 and feeding tube 25. The angle a may be between about 10 degrees and 170 degrees.

[0043] In some embodiments, the input portion 132 and output portion 134 of the light pipe 130 arc positioned on opposite sides of the feeding tube 25, such that the tube 25 passes through the space between the two portions 132, 134. This configuration ensures that the electromagnetic signal 140 must pass through the feeding tube 25, and any fluid 40 contained therein, as it travels from the light source 110 to the light detector 120.

[0044] The light pipe 130 may be comprised of a light- transmitting material such as glass, plastic, resin, or optical-grade polymer. In the depicted embodiment, the light pipe 130 is made of an acrylic polymer with a refractive index selected to optimize total internal reflection within the light pipe 130, but other geometries and materials with different optical properties may be selected. In some embodiments, the outer surface of the light pipe 130 may be coated with a reflective material to enhance the internal reflection and minimize signal loss.

[0045] The input portion 132 and output portion 134 of the light pipe 130 may have a substantially circular or polyhedral cross-section. In some embodiments, the cross-section may be non-uniform along the length of the input portion 132 and / or output portion 134 to optimize the transmission and focusing of the electromagnetic signal 140.

[0046] An exemplary signal path is shown in FIG. 5. A light source 110 produces an electromagnetic signal 140 which enters the input portion 132 of the light pipe 130. The electromagnetic signal 140 is then internally reflected within input portion 132 and directed towards tube 25. This path is further shaped by the refraction experienced by the electromagnetic signal as it passes through materials of differing refractive indexes, e.g. when passing from the input portion 132 into the surrounding air, the tube 25, or the nutritional fluid 40 contained within. Once the electromagnetic signal 140 enters the tube 25, it experiences further reflection and refraction depending on the tube’s contents, eventually resulting in a portion of the signal 140 exiting the tube 25 and entering the output portion 134 of the light pipe 130. Afterwards, it follows a similar but inverted path as it did within the input portion 132 before coming into contact with the light detector 120.

[0047] As shown schematically in FIG. 6, the device 100 may comprise a processing unit 150 in electronic communication with the light source 110 and the light detector 120. In some embodiments, the processing unit 150 is configured to analyze the signal 140 detected by the light detector 120 and determine properties of the fluid 40 in the feeding tube 25, such as thepresence or absence of the fluid, the type of fluid, the flow rate of the fluid, and the presence of any air bubbles or particulate matter in the fluid. This is made possible by the different optical characteristics of possible tube contents, including air, water, nutritional fluid, and combinations thereof, e.g. water with large air bubbles or nutritional fluid mixed with fine air bubbles to producing a foam. In some embodiments, the device may include a display 160 configured to communicate information to a user, and user inputs 170 (e.g. physical buttons) configured to allow for interaction with the device 100 by the user.

[0048] An exemplary method of detecting a fluid 40 in a feeding tube 25 is illustrated in the flowchart of FIG. 7. The method 500 begins at step 510 by positioning the input portion 132 and output portion 134 of the light pipe 130 on opposite sides of the feeding tube 25, with the input portion 132 and output portion 134 oriented at an angle a relative to each other.

[0049] At step 520, an electromagnetic signal is transmitted from the light source 110, through the input portion 132 of the light pipe 130, through the feeding tube 25 and any fluid 40 contained therein, through the output portion 134 of the light pipe 130, and to the light detector 120. The electromagnetic signal travels along a nonlinear path due to the angled orientation of the input portion 132 and output portion 134.

[0050] At step 530, the light detector 120 detects the electromagnetic signal after it has passed through the feeding tube 25, and communicates the detected signal to the processing unit 140. At step 540, the processing unit 140 analyzes the detected signal to determine the presence or absence of a fluid in the feeding tube 25, and to determine any other desired properties of the fluid, such as the type of fluid, the flow rate of the fluid, and the presence of any air bubbles or particulate matter in the fluid.

[0051] The method 500 may further comprise a calibration step 550, wherein the electromagnetic signal 140 is transmitted through the feeding tube 25 under known conditions, such as with a known type of fluid at a known flow rate. The detected signal under these known conditions can be used to create a calibration curve or lookup table correlating the detected signal to the known fluid properties.

[0052] The method 500 may also comprise a monitoring step 560, wherein the electromagnetic signal 140 is transmitted through the feeding tube 25 at regular intervals over an extended period of time. The detected signal at each interval can be analyzed to monitor the flowrate of the fluid 40 over time, and to detect any changes or anomalies in the fluid flow that may indicate a problem with the enteral feeding system 20.

[0053] If the analysis of the detected signal indicates a problem with the fluid flow, such as a blockage or leak in the feeding tube 25, the method 500 may further comprise a control step 570, wherein a flow regulation device, such as a valve or pump 30, is controlled based on the analysis of the detected signal. For example, if the detected signal indicates that the fluid flow rate has dropped below a predetermined threshold, the flow regulation device may be adjusted to increase the flow rate back to the desired level. If the detected signal indicates a complete blockage or other fault condition, the flow regulation device may be shut off entirely to prevent further problems.

[0054] In some embodiments, the method 500 may further comprise an alert step 580, wherein an alert is generated based on the analysis of the detected signal. For example, if the detected signal indicates the presence of air bubbles or particulate matter in the fluid, an alert may be generated to notify a healthcare provider that the enteral feeding system may need to be flushed or replaced.

[0055] In some embodiments, the method 500 may further comprise a beam splitting step 590, wherein the electromagnetic signal 140 from the light source 110 is split into multiple beams using a beam splitter or other optical component. The multiple beams may be transmitted through different regions of the fluid in the feeding tube 25, and the detected signals from each region may be analyzed separately to detect any spatial variations in the fluid flow or composition.

[0056] Various features and advantages are set forth in the following claims.

Claims

CLAIMSWhat is claimed is:

1. A fluid detection device for use with an enteral feeding system including a feeding tube, the device comprising: a light source configured to emit an electromagnetic signal; a light detector configured to detect the electromagnetic signal spaced some distance away from the light source; and a light pipe comprising, an input portion optically coupled to the light source, and an output portion optically coupled to the light detector, wherein, the input portion and output portion are comprised of a light transmitting material and are oriented at an angle relative to each other; wherein the input portion and the output portion are positioned on separate sides of the tube, such that the signal is transmitted from the light source to the light detector through the light pipe and tube along a nonlinear path.

2. The device of claim 1, wherein the light transmitting material is selected from the group consisting of glass, plastic, resin, and optical-grade polymer.

3. The device of claim 1, wherein the angle between the input portion and the output portion is between 10 degrees and 170 degrees.

4. The device of claim 1, wherein the light source comprises one or more light emitting diodes (LEDs).

5. The device of claim 1, wherein the light detector comprises a photodiode or a phototransistor.

6. The device of claim 1 , wherein the electromagnetic signal is infrared light or visible light.

7. The device of claim 1 , further comprising a processing unit in electronic communication with the light detector configured to analyze the signal detected by the light detector and determine properties of a fluid in the tube.

8. The device of claim 1, wherein at least a portion of the outer surface of the light pipe is coated with a reflective material to enhance internal reflection.

9. The device of claim 1, wherein the input portion and the output portion have a substantially circular or polyhedral cross section.

10. The device of claim 1, wherein at least a segment of the input portion or output portion has a non-uniform cross section along its length.

11. A method for detecting a fluid in a tube for use with an enteral feeding system, the method comprising: providing a tube for carrying a fluid; positioning an input portion and an output portion of a light pipe on separate sides of the tube, wherein the input portion and output portion are oriented at an angle relative to each other; optically coupling the input portion to a light source and the output portion to a light detector; transmitting an electromagnetic signal from the light source through the light pipe and tube along a nonlinear path; and detecting the presence or absence of a fluid in the tube using a light detector.

12. The method of claim 11, further comprising analyzing the detected light using a processing unit in electronic communication with the light detector to determine properties of the fluid.

13. The method of claim 11, further comprising: calibrating the method by measuring the detected light at known fluid properties; andcreating a calibration curve or lookup table correlating the detected light to the fluid properties.

14. The method of claim 11, further comprising: monitoring the intensity of the detected light over time; and detecting changes in fluid flow rate based on variations in the detected light intensity.

15. The method of claim 14, further comprising controlling a flow regulation device based on the determined fluid flow rate to maintain a desired flow rate or to shut off the flow if a fault condition is detected.

16. The method of claim 11, further comprising: comparing the detected light intensity to a predetermined threshold value; and generating an alert or control signal when the detected light intensity falls below the predetermined threshold value.

17. The method of claim 1, further comprising detecting air bubbles or particulate matter in the fluid based on variations in the detected light intensity or scattering of the transmitted light.

18. The method of claim 1, further comprising: splitting the light from the light source into multiple beams using a beam splitter; and transmitting the multiple beams through different regions of the fluid in the tube to detect spatial variations in fluid flow.

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