Autonomous IV Fluid Transport Device with Error-Resistant Delivery
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Solution Overview
Problem
The current manual process of delivering intravenous fluids is prone to errors and risks, including incorrect labeling, mishandling, and contamination due to the floppy design of IV bags, which can lead to leakage or incorrect administration to patients.
Innovation Solution
A self-propelled transport device with wheels and a control system that can autonomously move IV products from a pharmacy to a patient's location, equipped with communication links and information readers to ensure accurate delivery and reduce manual labor, featuring a chassis with ports for IV containers and a mechanism for expelling fluid from flexible bags.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If manual handling of IV bags is used, then labor flexibility is maintained, but error rate increases and reliability decreases
Solution Approach 1:
The transport device is self-propelled with autonomous navigation capabilities, allowing it to transport IV products without human intervention. The device reads destination information and navigates automatically, eliminating manual handling errors while maintaining operational simplicity through automated functions.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces manual mechanical handling with an automated transport system that uses electronic controls, sensors, and automated navigation. This substitution eliminates human error in handling and delivery while managing complexity through integrated electronic systems.
2Reliability
If automated transport device is implemented, then delivery accuracy improves, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The transport device is designed to handle multiple IV product types and destinations using a single multi-functional platform. The device can transport different container types (rigid and flexible) to various locations within a facility, reducing the need for multiple specialized systems and managing overall complexity.
Solution Approach 2:
The transport device features a hierarchical structure with a main chassis containing modular components. The IV product containers are nested within the chassis, and the entire system is controlled by an integrated control unit that coordinates all subsystems, managing complexity through organized nesting.
3Strength
If rigid container housing is used, then protection against mishandling improves, but adaptability to different fluid bags decreases
Solution Approach 1:
The container system is divided into two separate components: a rigid protective housing and a flexible fluid bag. The rigid housing provides structural protection and mounting capabilities, while the flexible bag contains the fluid. This segmentation allows the rigid housing to protect the contents while the flexible bag maintains adaptability to different fluid types and volumes.
Solution Approach 2:
The rigid container housing acts as an intermediary between the flexible fluid bag and the external environment. It provides structural support and protection to the flexible bag without constraining the bag's ability to expand and contract with fluid volume changes, thus protecting the contents while maintaining fluid bag versatility.
Data Source
AI summary
An IV product transport device is configured to transport an IV product from one location to another in automated fashion. The transport device may comprise a chassis with one or more ports for IV products. A drive mechanism is configured to move the transport device. In one embodiment, the transport device includes a controller. Information may be provided to the controller about an IV product, such as its intended destination or use. The controller may also exchange information with a delivery device, such as an infusion pump, to verify that the IV product is delivered to the proper destination. The transport device may include a delivery mechanism for off-loading an IV product. The transport device may deliver IV products of various configurations, including one in which the product comprises a flexible bag and a container housing for supporting and protecting the fluid bag.