Coordinated Diaphragm Pumping for Precise Catheter Channel Flushing
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing technologies face challenges in controlling the flow rate and minimizing liquid loss while ensuring no abrasion of parts in channels, particularly in medical applications, where precise and slow liquid movement is required.
Innovation Solution
A supply device using diaphragm pumps controlled for pressure and delivery rate, with coordinated operation of multiple pumps to manage pressure differences and flow rates, and adjustable parameters to minimize liquid loss and prevent abrasion.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Speed
If a pump is used to transport liquid through the channel, then the liquid can be moved through the channel, but abrasion of parts in the channel may occur and liquid loss may increase
Solution Approach 1:
The diaphragm pump operates with periodic suction and pressure phases, creating pulsating flow that moves liquid through the channel without continuous high-speed contact that would cause abrasion. The periodic expansion and contraction of the diaphragm generates controlled fluid movement while minimizing mechanical wear on channel components.
2Productivity
If the liquid flow rate is increased to improve flushing efficiency, then channel flushing is enhanced, but liquid loss from the channel increases
Solution Approach 1:
The control device monitors the liquid flow and adjusts the diaphragm pump operation to maintain optimal flow rates that achieve thorough channel flushing while minimizing liquid loss. The feedback mechanism ensures the pump delivers precisely the amount of liquid needed for effective flushing without excessive flow that would cause unnecessary liquid loss.
3Loss of substance
If the liquid flow rate is decreased to minimize liquid loss, then liquid loss is reduced, but the channel may not be thoroughly flushed
Solution Approach 1:
The system dynamically adjusts the diaphragm pump operation parameters including stroke frequency, stroke volume, and pressure levels to optimize flushing efficiency at minimal liquid loss. The control device modifies pump characteristics in real-time based on channel conditions, achieving effective flushing with reduced liquid consumption compared to constant high-flow operation.
4Measurement precision
If a light barrier and impeller wheel are used to detect flow rate, then flow rate can be measured, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The diaphragm pump itself serves as the measurement reference by using its controlled stroke frequency and stroke volume to determine delivery rate. The system leverages the inherent periodic motion of the diaphragm pump to infer flow characteristics without requiring separate measurement devices, thereby achieving flow rate determination while minimizing device complexity.
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
Ensures controlled, slow, and efficient liquid flow with minimal loss, effectively preventing abrasion and ensuring thorough channel flushing.
Implementation Method 1
The diaphragm pump is controlled in respect of the generated pressure (which in some embodiments may also include a negative pressure or a vacuum) and/or the delivery rate
Data Source
AI summary
The present invention relates to a supply device for a channel, in particular within a hollow catheter, and to a method for operating a supply device of this type that supplies a channel with a liquid and has two pumps arranged at points of the channel distanced from one another, characterised in that the parameter values of at least one operating parameter of both pumps are coordinated with one another in a controlled manner. As a result of the method, interruption-free and precisely controllable operation is to be ensured with simple structural means, in particular in the case of use of wear-free diaphragm pumps.