Adjustable-Orifice Flow Regulator for Non-Electric Infusion
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Existing non-electric infusion systems lack precise flow rate control, are prone to contamination, and are affected by fluid viscosity and environmental factors, leading to inaccuracies and safety concerns.
Innovation Solution
A flow control device with manually adjustable dimensions and multiple orifices, capable of withstanding pressures up to 40 PSI, allowing precise flow rate adjustment through a rotatable dial system, and providing graduated markings for accurate fluid flow control.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If non-electric infusion systems use small diameter tubing (rate set) to regulate flow, then flow rate control is achieved, but the flow rate cannot be adjusted during infusion and multiple rate sets must be changed
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies dynamics by making the flow regulator adjustable during infusion. The flow regulator includes a body with a flow path and an adjustable component that can be rotated to change the effective flow path dimensions, allowing dynamic adjustment of flow rate without changing the entire rate set.
Solution Approach 2:
The flow regulator is segmented into distinct components: a body portion with a flow path, an adjustable portion that can rotate, and a seal. This segmentation allows the adjustable component to be independently modified while remaining part of the integrated flow regulator assembly.
2Measurement precision
If flow regulators are used in gravity infusions to control flow rate, then flow rate determination is possible, but precision is poor and accuracy is limited due to imprecise positioning and environmental factors
Solution Approach 1:
The patent incorporates feedback through graduated markings on the flow regulator body that correspond to specific flow rates. The adjustable portion has indicia that align with these markings, providing visual feedback to the user about the current flow rate setting, thereby improving measurement precision and reducing errors.
Solution Approach 2:
The flow regulator allows parameter changes by enabling adjustment of the effective flow path dimensions through rotation of the adjustable portion. This changes the flow characteristics dynamically, allowing precise control of flow rate while compensating for environmental factors and fluid viscosity variations.
3Ease of operation
If flow regulators are positioned at specific locations to achieve desired flow rates, then flow control is attempted, but significant variances occur due to imprecise positioning and patient backpressure factors
Solution Approach 1:
The adjustable portion can be rotated to dynamically change the effective flow path dimensions, allowing real-time adjustment of flow rate to compensate for patient backpressure variations and achieve consistent flow control despite changing conditions.
Solution Approach 2:
The effective flow path dimensions are changed as a parameter by rotating the adjustable portion to different angular positions. This modifies the flow characteristics to maintain consistent flow rates despite variations in patient backpressure and environmental conditions.
4Ease of manufacture
If flow regulators are used without considering fluid viscosity effects, then flow rate labeling is simplified, but actual flow rates differ significantly from labeled rates leading to clinician confusion
Solution Approach 1:
The flow regulator allows adjustment of the effective flow path dimensions to compensate for fluid viscosity effects. By changing the flow path characteristics, the device can deliver accurate flow rates for different fluid viscosities while maintaining simple graduated markings for user convenience.
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
Enhances flow rate precision and safety by enabling adjustable flow rates, reducing contamination risks, and accounting for fluid viscosity and environmental factors, meeting regulatory standards.
Implementation Method 1
A flow control device with manually adjustable dimensions and multiple orifices, capable of withstanding pressures up to 40 PSI
Data Source
AI summary
A device, system and method are provided for controlling the rate of infusion of fluids during infusion therapy using non-electric infusion devices. Rotation of a flow regulator dial causes an orifice connected to the inlet to modify its position relative to a particular one or more orifices or groove portions, the characteristics of which provide a certain flow rate characteristic. The flow regulator allows for the infusion pump to infuse at a rate that may be varied during use by the user. Additionally, the flow regulator is made from a material selected to operate under a wide range of pressures, from 5-40 PSI, making the flow regulator compatible with pressurized devices, such as, a non-electric pump.