Consumable Component Detection in Fluid Infusion Devices
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Solution Overview
Problem
There is a need for a system and method to ensure proper alignment and detection of a consumable component in fluid infusion devices, such as insulin pumps, to facilitate accurate insulin delivery, as existing methods lack reliable mechanisms for coupling and detecting the consumable component with the durable component.
Innovation Solution
The system employs electrical contacts and a magnetic field to determine if the consumable component is correctly coupled to the durable component, using a method that compares signal states and sensor data to confirm proper alignment and contact, ensuring accurate insulin delivery.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a consumable component is coupled to a durable component in a fluid infusion device, then insulin delivery is enabled, but reliable detection and alignment of the coupling is challenging
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces an intermediary detection mechanism using electrical contacts and magnetic field sensors. The electrical contacts serve as intermediaries to detect physical coupling between the consumable base plate and durable pump body, while magnetic field sensors act as intermediaries to verify proper alignment. This intermediary approach enables reliable detection without requiring complex direct observation mechanisms.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces complex mechanical alignment and detection mechanisms with electrical and magnetic field-based detection. Instead of using mechanical interlocks or visual alignment systems, the invention uses electrical contacts to detect coupling state and magnetic field sensors to detect alignment, thereby reducing mechanical complexity while improving detection reliability.
2Manufacturing precision
If electrical contacts and magnetic sensors are used to detect coupling, then alignment accuracy is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements multi-functionality by having the electrical contacts serve dual purposes: they both establish electrical connectivity for device operation and simultaneously detect the coupling state between components. The magnetic field sensors similarly serve both to detect alignment and to potentially guide the alignment process. This universal approach improves precision without proportionally increasing complexity.
Solution Approach 2:
The detection system is designed to be self-verifying through the use of electrical contacts that automatically detect coupling status and magnetic sensors that automatically detect alignment. The system performs self-diagnosis of the coupling state without requiring external calibration or complex adjustment mechanisms, thereby achieving high precision with manageable complexity.
3Measurement precision
If multiple signals are compared to confirm coupling, then detection accuracy is improved, but processing complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs a multi-signal comparison approach where electrical contacts provide primary coupling detection and magnetic field sensors provide secondary alignment verification. By using multiple independent detection signals, the system achieves high detection accuracy through redundant verification. The processing complexity is managed by comparing signals against predetermined thresholds rather than requiring complex algorithmic analysis.
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 enables reliable detection and alignment of the consumable component with the durable component, ensuring consistent and accurate insulin delivery, enhancing the operational reliability of fluid infusion devices.
Implementation Method 1
sampling a sensor coupled to the durable component to acquire sensor data indicative of a magnetic field emitted by a magnetic source on the consumable component
Data Source
AI summary
Systems and methods for alignment and detection of a consumable component are disclosed herein. For example, a method for determining if a consumable component is coupled to a durable component to enable dispersion of a medicine is provided. The method includes determining if a signal from an electrical contact coupled to a durable component has changed an electrical state, and comparing the signal to a reference signal from a second electrical component coupled to the durable component. The method includes sampling a sensor coupled to the durable component to acquire sensor data indicative of a magnetic field observed by the sensor, and outputting data that a consumable component is coupled to the durable component if the signal is different than the reference signal, and the sensor data is within an acceptable range.