Cartridge Detection via Displaceable Element and Sensor
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing dispensing and infusion devices lack reliable and automated methods for detecting the presence and type of cartridges, which can lead to errors in substance delivery, especially in medical applications where different concentrations and types of substances are used.
Innovation Solution
Incorporating a displaceable element with a detection element that shifts upon cartridge insertion, allowing for optical or capacitive sensing to determine the presence and type of cartridge without direct contact, ensuring safe and accurate operation by using sensors linked to the length-adjusting element for calibration and contamination protection.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If direct sensing of cartridge presence is used, then detection reliability is improved, but sensor contamination and calibration difficulties increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces a displaceable element as an intermediary between the cartridge and the sensor. This element is displaced by the cartridge during insertion, and the sensor detects the position of this element rather than directly sensing the cartridge. This intermediary approach maintains detection reliability while preventing sensor contamination from the cartridge substance.
2Adaptability or versatility
If multiple cartridge types are supported, then device versatility is improved, but detection complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent uses multiple sensors positioned at different locations to detect the displaceable element at different positions. Each sensor corresponds to a specific cartridge type, allowing the system to distinguish between different cartridge types through a segmented detection approach. This enables support for multiple cartridge types while keeping the detection logic relatively simple through positional mapping.
3Reliability
If automated cartridge detection is implemented, then operational safety is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements cartridge detection as a preliminary action before allowing device operation. The system automatically detects cartridge presence and type during the insertion process, and only enables operation after successful detection. This preliminary automated detection ensures operational safety while using a relatively simple mechanical-displacement-based detection mechanism.
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
This solution provides a robust, reliable, and automated method for detecting cartridge presence and type, preventing device malfunction and ensuring accurate substance delivery by blocking operation if a cartridge is not present and adapting infusion parameters based on detected cartridge characteristics.
Implementation Method 1
taking an optical measurement or capacitive measurement, or both, to detect whether or not the displaceable element has a predefined position within the accommodating device
Implementation Method 2
taking an optical measurement or capacitive measurement, or both, to detect whether or not the displaceable element has a predefined position within the accommodating device
Data Source
AI summary
The present disclosure relates to an accommodating device for a dispensing or infusion device, comprising: a displaceable element which is displaced within the accommodating device when a cartridge is inserted into the accommodating device; and at least one sensor which can detect the presence or absence of the displaceable element or a detection element disposed on or in the displaceable element.