Infusion pump system with spectral coding

Abstract

Main claim: Disclosed is an infusion pump system (10), comprising: • an item (4) of an infusion set, • a colour coding in the optical spectrum in the range from UV to IR inclusively, in particular in the visible range, preferably including a possible fluorescence coding, on the item (4) as an identification feature, • at least one additional identification feature (14) on the item (4), selected from a group consisting of geometric features, imprints, hole patterns or specific contour shapes, • a sensor system (20) which can detect and evaluate both the colour coding and the additional identification feature (14), wherein the additional identification feature (14) comprises a specific hole pattern (24) formed by holes or through-bores or milled-out places in the item (4), and wherein the sensor system (20) comprises a light barrier or an optical sensor, in particular a photosensitive array or a camera, for detecting the hole pattern (24).

Description

[0001] TWIP - TERGAU & WALKENHORST Page 1

[0002] B2024P00075WO

[0003] September 16, 2025

[0004] Description

[0005] Infusion pump system

[0006] The present invention relates to an infusion pump system designed for the safe and unambiguous identification of articles, in particular disposable articles, in an infusion set.

[0007] Infusion pump systems play a vital role in medical care by enabling the precise and continuous administration of fluids, medications, or nutrients. Interchangeable components of an infusion set, such as clamps, tubing, drip chambers, air filters, adapters, needles, and catheters, are essential alongside the infusion pumps themselves. The identification and compatibility of these components are crucial for the safety and effectiveness of infusion therapy.

[0008] The identification of items within an infusion set using color coding is a known method. For example, patent publication DE 102021 215067 A1 describes a color coding system for identifying sliding clamps. However, there are limitations to pure color recognition, particularly regarding accuracy and the prevention of misuse.

[0009] The present invention aims, among other things, to create an infusion pump system that enables the safe and unambiguous identification of components within an infusion set, thereby ensuring their correct use and preventing misuse. TWIP - TERGAU & WALKENHORST Page 2

[0010] The aforementioned problem is solved according to the invention by an infusion pump system according to claim 1.

[0011] Accordingly, an infusion pump system is planned, comprising:

[0012] • one item from an infusion set,

[0013] • a spectral code on the article as an identification feature,

[0014] • at least one additional identification feature on the article selected from a group consisting of geometric features, imprints, hole patterns or specific contour shapes,

[0015] • a sensor system that can detect and evaluate both the spectral coding and the additional identification feature.

[0016] The term "spectral coding," sometimes used here, is a generalization of "color coding" and includes it as a special case. It refers to a "color coding" that, in addition to visible colors, also or alternatively includes "colors" (wavelengths or wavelength ranges) outside the visible spectrum. The term "spectral coding" thus refers to the assignment of information to specific regions of the electromagnetic spectrum, including visible light, infrared, ultraviolet, and possibly other wavelength ranges. As a special case, this term also includes fluorescent markings or codings, which, for example, absorb the high-energy UV rays when illuminated with UV light (so-called "black light") and then re-emit them (through fluorescence excitation) as visible light with a longer wavelength.Such spectral marking can be detected by machine using suitable optical sensors, possibly with the aid of optical filters (color filters, etc.). As mentioned, a conventional color coding in the visible range of the electromagnetic spectrum is possible as a special case, which is visually recognizable even without aids. However, color coding exclusively in the UV range or exclusively in the IR range is also possible, or any combination of visible, UV, and IR. Preferably, however, the relevant wavelength range does not extend beyond the UV and IR ranges. TWIP - TERGAU & WALKENHORST Page 3.

[0017] The present invention provides an improved infusion pump system that, in addition to spectral coding, uses at least one further identification feature to mark and identify items of an infusion set. This increases the safety and reliability of identification and reduces the risk of using incompatible or unauthorized items.

[0018] The additional identification features are preferably implemented in four main variants, which can be combined with each other:

[0019] • Geometric features: pin or prong or associated receptacle with specific cross-sectional shape.

[0020] • Optical features: Imprints, embossings or engravings, especially laser engravings, such as barcodes, QR codes or other two-dimensional codes.

[0021] • Hole patterns: Specific patterns formed by holes, through holes or milled sections in the article.

[0022] • Key blade contours: Special contour shapes that are mechanically detected by scanning, similar to a lock.

[0023] The hole patterns are of particular importance here; the other variations can be implemented additionally.

[0024] When detecting "hole present or not?", the information content of the set 2 can be determined for n predefined hole positions. n This can be achieved. In combination with dye or spectral coding, a high information density can be attained.

[0025] The associated detector system is expediently adapted to the additional recognition feature and, in addition to a spectral sensor (in particular a color sensor) for capturing the spectral coding, includes, for example, a camera for optically capturing a print, a light barrier arrangement or an optical sensor system, in particular a photosensitive array or a camera, for detecting a hole pattern, or a mechanical scanning unit for TWIP - TERGAU & WALKENHORST Page 4

[0026] Scanning of a key bar contour. The detector system can be integrated into an infusion pump, for example, or exist as a separate component.

[0027] According to the invention, the additional identification feature comprises a specific hole pattern formed by holes or through-holes or milled sections in the article, wherein the sensor system comprises a light barrier or an optical sensor, in particular a photosensitive array or a camera, for detecting the hole pattern.

[0028] Preferably, the optical sensor system detects both the dye or spectral code and the additional identification feature. That is, one and the same sensor preferably performs both tasks. For example, this can be achieved by switching from a first operating mode for detecting the dye or spectral code to a second operating mode for detecting the additional identification feature (and vice versa).

[0029] The optical sensor system can include an optical filter that enables color recognition of the dyeing or spectral coding in the relevant wavelength range.

[0030] One advantage of the invention is the prevention of misuse: By implementing additional identification features, it is ensured that only the intended and compatible items are integrated into or used in the infusion pump system. This reduces the risk of errors and guarantees that the system is operated only with correct and safe components.

[0031] The additional identification feature enables redundant identification. This means that, in addition to spectral coding, further recognition features are introduced to allow redundant detection. This increases the accuracy of identification and reduces the possibility of errors or malfunctions going undetected. TWIP - TERGAU & WALKENHORST Page 5

[0032] Furthermore, the system according to the invention allows for individual customization: The invention makes it possible to code the components of an infusion set specifically for different applications, users, or patients. This allows the infusion pump system to be tailored to different medical requirements and usage scenarios.

[0033] By using multiple identifying features, such as geometric shapes, imprints, perforated patterns, or specific contour shapes, the items can be designed in a variety of ways to cover different applications. A high degree of customization is therefore achievable.

[0034] In summary, the invention aims to provide an improved infusion pump system that, through additional identification features, enables reliable and safe use of infusion set components and increases the adaptability and flexibility of the system.

[0035] Various embodiments of the invention are explained in more detail below with reference to the accompanying drawings. These show:

[0036] FIG. 1 - 4 each shows a hose clamp (as an example of an item from an infusion set) with a color code and with an additional identification feature, and

[0037] FIG. 5 schematically shows an infusion pump system with an infusion pump, a sensor system and an item of an infusion set.

[0038] FIGS. 1 to FIGS. 4 each show a tubing clamp 2 as an example of an article 4 or component of an infusion set. Typically, the tubing clamp 2 is a single-use infusion item designed for one-time use and disposed of after application. However, it can also be a reusable item that can be sterilized and reused multiple times. TWIP - TERGAU & WALKENHORST Page 6

[0039] Hose clamps 2 are used to regulate or stop the flow in an infusion tube. In this example, the hose clamp 2 has a base 6 that encloses a tapered elongated hole 8. When the hose clamp 2 is used, an infusion tube is passed through the elongated hole 8. If the infusion tube is in the wide end of the elongated hole 8, it is not compressed and remains open. If the infusion tube is pushed to the other, narrow end of the elongated hole 8, it is compressed and closed. A hose clamp 2 designed in this way is also called a sliding clamp.

[0040] To identify the type of hose clamp 2, it is color-coded (a special case of spectral coding) in this example. In one possible implementation, the entire base body 6 or only a section thereof is specifically colored on its surface. The correlation between color and information content can be stored in a corresponding color table. Advantageously, the color coding can be read by an associated sensor, which can be part of an infusion pump system 10. By way of example, the sensor can be integrated into a clamping module of an infusion pump 12, which is designed to hold the hose clamp (see also FIG. 5 and the description below).

[0041] To increase the information content, the hose clamp 2 according to FIGS. 1 to FIGS. 4 has, in addition to the color coding, a further identifying feature (additional identification feature 14) or a further encoding, which can preferably be detected and verified by sensors. This allows either the total amount of encoded information to be increased, or information contained in one encoding can be redundantly contained in the other encoding for increased security. In the latter case, diverse redundancy, i.e., an encoding that can be read by other physical means, is particularly preferred. TWIP - TERGAU & WALKENHORST Page 7

[0042] In the variant according to FIG. 1, the hose clamp 2 has, in addition to the color coding, a receptacle for a pin or prong 16 with a specific cross-sectional shape (e.g., circular, oval, triangular, quadrilateral, composed of elementary geometric shapes, complex shape, etc.) as a further distinguishing feature or additional identification feature 14. Only if the cross-sections of the pin or prong 16 and the corresponding receptacle match each other can the pin or prong 16 be fully inserted into the receptacle and thus a positive fit be established. The pin or prong 16 can, purely by way of example, be a component of an infusion pump 12 into which the hose clamp 2 is inserted for operation.

[0043] Conversely, a pin or dome 16 with a specific cross-sectional shape can also be firmly inserted into, molded onto, or otherwise connected to the hose clamp 2 and protrude outwards from the base body 6, so that the pin or dome 16 interacts with an external receptacle, for example on / in an infusion pump 12. In this case as well, the shape coding ensures that only "compatible" hose clamps 2 can be used.

[0044] In a variant of the previous embodiment, the pin or dome 16 can itself bear a color-coded spectral code. This color-coded code, which exists in addition to the shape-coded code, can be provided as a supplement to or alternative to the color-coded code of the base body 6. In FIG. 1, different colors and cross-sectional shapes are shown below the illustrated hose clamp 2, which can be combined as desired.

[0045] In the variant according to FIG. 2, in addition to the color coding, a dedicated section of the hose clamp 2 is provided with a print 18 containing coded information. A "simple screen print" is particularly advantageous. Simple screen printing, also known as serigraphy, is a printing process in which ink is applied through a fine mesh screen onto a substrate (here: the base body 6 of the hose clamp 2). This process makes it possible to create detailed and uniform prints suitable for displaying information. For example, a barcode, a QR code, or another two-dimensional code could be used as a printed information carrier (see TWIP - TERGAU & WALKENHORST, page 8).

[0046] The imprint 18 is preferably detected by an associated camera (as part of a sensor system 20) and evaluated by an evaluation unit, which can be integrated into the camera or external. Advantageously, the contrast between the imprint and the clamp color is so high that a black and white image and, for example, an edge filter can be used to detect the imprint 18 and distinguish it from the rest of the hose clamp 2.

[0047] In the variant according to FIG. 4, the hose clamp 2 has, in addition to the color coding, a further distinguishing feature or additional identification feature 14: a number of holes 22, through-holes, or slots penetrating the base body 6, which together form a specific hole pattern 24. The hole pattern 24 can advantageously be optically detected and evaluated with regard to the information encoded therein. Optical scanning can be carried out in various ways, e.g., by means of a light barrier, photosensitive array, one-dimensional position-sensitive detector (PSD), multi-dimensional position-sensitive detector, charge coupler device (CCD), position-sensitive phototransistor, etc.

[0048] As in the other cases, the corresponding detector unit or sensor system 20 can, for example, be integrated into an infusion pump 12 or another device of an infusion pump system 10.

[0049] In the variant shown in FIG. 4, a type of key blade coding or key blade contour 28 is realized by suitable shaping of a section of the outer contour of the hose clamp 2. A key blade is normally the lower, usually complexly shaped section of a key, which is specifically designed to move associated pins or levers in the lock into the correct position. Analogously, in the present case, the aforementioned shape coding of the hose clamp 2 moves the plunger 30 of an associated scanning unit 32 into a corresponding position or orientation, which can be detected by sensors (TWIP - TERGAU & WALKENHORST, page 9), in the simplest case, for example, by switching contacts. Multiple coding (top, back, bottom, and / or on the side(s)) is possible. The scanning unit 32 can, for example, be integrated into an infusion pump 12.

[0050] Instead of a mechanical scanning of the key blade contour 28, a true key function can be implemented. This means that the hose clamp 2 can only be inserted into a corresponding receptacle ("lock cylinder") if it is coded correctly.

[0051] Although the preceding description focused on hose clamps 2, the invention is not limited to these. Rather, the described codings can also be used on other components of an infusion set to enable identification and prevent unintended use, such as infusion tubing, drip chamber, air filter, adapter, needle, or catheter.

[0052] FIG. 5 provides a purely schematic overview of an exemplary configuration of the overall system (infusion pump system 10), which here comprises an infusion pump 12 with integrated control unit 34, at least one infusion set article 4 equipped with a spectral code, in particular a color code, and an additional identification feature 14, as well as a sensor system 20 for detecting the spectral code and the additional identification feature 14. The sensor system 20 can be integrated into the infusion pump 12. The control unit 34 can be designed to control the sensor system 20 and to evaluate the measured values. Based on the sensor evaluation, the control unit 34 controls the operation of the infusion pump 12. Thus, the article 4 can be identified and dedicated to a corresponding application or enabled for potentially parameterized use. TWIP - TERGAU & WALKENHORST Page 10

[0053] Reference symbol list

[0054] 2 hose clamps

[0055] 4 items

[0056] 6 basic shapes

[0057] 8 elongated holes

[0058] 10 Infusion pump systems

[0059] 12 Infusion pump

[0060] 14 additional identifying features

[0061] 16 Pen or Cathedral

[0062] 18 Print

[0063] 20 sensor system

[0064] 22 holes

[0065] 24-hole pattern

[0066] 28 Key blade contour

[0067] 30 pestles

[0068] 32 scanning units

[0069] 34 Control

Claims

TWIP - TERGAU & WALKENHORST Page 1 1 Claims 1. Infusion pump system (10), comprising: • one item (4) of an infusion set, • a color coding in the optical spectrum in the range from including UV to including IR, in particular in the visible range, preferably including a possible fluorescence coding, on the article (4) as an identification feature, • at least one additional identification feature (14) on the article (4), selected from a group consisting of geometric features, imprints, hole patterns or specific contour shapes, • a sensor system (20) that can detect and evaluate both the color coding and the additional identification feature (14), wherein the additional identification feature (14) comprises at least one specific hole pattern (24) formed by holes or through holes or milled sections in the article (4), and wherein the sensor system (20) comprises a light barrier or an optical sensor, in particular a photosensitive array or a camera, for detecting the hole pattern (24).

2. Infusion pump system (10) according to claim 1, wherein the article (4) is a hose clamp (2), an infusion tube, a drip chamber, an air filter, an adapter, a needle or a catheter.

3. Infusion pump system (10) according to claim 3, wherein the hose clamp (2) is a sliding clamp with a base body (6) and with an elongated hole (8) through which an infusion tube is guided.

4. Infusion pump system (10) according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the additional identification feature (14) comprises a pin or dome (16) with a specific cross-sectional shape. TWIP - TERGAU & WALKENHORST Page 12 5. Infusion pump system (10) according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the additional identification feature (14) comprises a print (18), an embossing and / or an engraving containing coded information, preferably in the form of a barcode, QR code or other two-dimensional code.

6. Infusion pump system (10) according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the sensor system (20) comprises an optical sensor, in particular a camera, which optically detects (18) the color coding and / or the additional identification feature (14).

7. Infusion pump system (10) according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the additional identification feature (14) comprises a key-bit contour (28) on the outer contour of the article (4).

8. Infusion pump system (10) according to claim 7, wherein the sensor system (20) comprises a mechanical scanning unit (32) for the key blade contour (28).

9. Infusion pump system (10) according to one of the preceding claims, which is designed such that only compatible articles (4) with specific color coding and / or with a specific additional identification feature (14) can be used.

10. Infusion pump system (10) according to claim 11, which, upon detection of an incompatible or uncoded article (4), refuses or restricts operation.

11. Infusion pump system (10) according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the additional identification feature (14) on the article (4) serves for individualization to specific applications, users or patients.

12. Infusion pump system (10) according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the sensor system (20) is integrated into an infusion pump (12).

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