Bistable Fluid Path Valve for Wearable Pump Footprint Reduction
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional wearable medicament delivery devices face challenges in achieving a compact and energy-efficient pumping mechanism that can accurately manage fluid flow while minimizing device size and power consumption.
Innovation Solution
A bistable fluid path valve system utilizing a shape memory alloy actuator and a detent mechanism within a V-shaped fluid path, allowing reliable alternation between filling and delivery states, is introduced, featuring a bistable push-push mechanism that reduces energy consumption and efficiently manages fluid flow.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If a conventional valve switch is used to manage fluid flow in three states (closed, open for filling, open for dispensing), then the device can differentiate between filling and dispensing operations, but the device footprint increases and space efficiency decreases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines multiple valve functions into a single integrated valve mechanism that can operate in different states (filling, dispensing, closed) through a unified structure. The valve switch integrates the flow control functionality for both filling and dispensing operations, eliminating the need for separate valve components and reducing the overall device footprint while maintaining the ability to differentiate between operational states.
2Area of stationary object
If the device components are made smaller to reduce overall size, then the device becomes less obtrusive and more wearable, but the pumping mechanism loses effectiveness and reliability
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs dynamic elements within the compact pumping mechanism, including a movable valve switch that can transition between different positions to control fluid flow effectively. The mechanism incorporates dynamic sealing surfaces and movable components that maintain reliable sealing and flow control despite the reduced size, ensuring pumping effectiveness is preserved in the miniaturized design.
3Device complexity
If the valve mechanism is simplified to reduce device complexity, then manufacturing becomes easier and device complexity decreases, but the ability to accurately manage fluid flow between filling and dispensing states is compromised
Solution Approach 1:
The patent utilizes asymmetric valve geometry and non-uniform sealing surfaces that are optimized for different flow directions. The valve switch incorporates asymmetric features that provide different flow control characteristics for filling versus dispensing operations, enabling accurate fluid management with a relatively simple overall structure. The asymmetric design allows precise flow control to be achieved without requiring complex multi-component valve assemblies.
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
The solution enables a compact, energy-efficient, and accurate fluid delivery system that effectively alternates between filling and dispensing states, enhancing the usability and efficiency of wearable medicament delivery devices.
Implementation Method 1
the actuator may include a shape memory alloy
Data Source
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AI summary
Wearable fluid delivery devices and pump systems having a bistable valve for setting a fluid path in one of a fluid fill state or a fluid delivery state are described. For example, in one embodiment, a fluid pump system for a wearable fluid delivery device may include a pump chamber to store a fluid, a fluid path valve operable with the pump chamber, the fluid path valve may include a fixed portion and a movable portion, a shaft configured to move along the fixed portion to engage the movable portion responsive to a force imparted by an actuator, the movable portion comprising an offset to deflect movement of the shaft to cause the movable portion to pivot from one of a first position to a second position to the other of the first position or the second position responsive to being engaged by the shaft. Other embodiments are described.