Differential Force Sensor for Intravenous Injection Monitoring
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current methods for monitoring manual injections through intravenous lines are prone to errors and increase patient discomfort due to the need for manual recording and repeated manipulations, lacking an efficient and comfortable automated solution.
Innovation Solution
A differential force sensor system utilizing piezoresistive sense die packaged in close proximity to the injection point, with plungers and ASIC components for thermal calibration and differential calculation, allowing for accurate and automated force measurement and reduced patient discomfort through a small and lightweight design.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If manual recording methods are used for monitoring injections, then device complexity is reduced, but measurement precision and reliability deteriorate due to human error
Solution Approach 1:
The sensor system is divided into two separate piezoresistive sense die positioned on opposite sides of the orifice, each measuring force independently. This segmentation allows for differential measurement that cancels out common-mode errors and improves measurement precision while keeping each individual sensor element relatively simple
Solution Approach 2:
The patent combines force measurement capability with injection monitoring function into an integrated sensor system. The differential force sensor merges the measurement of forces on both sides of the orifice into a single monitoring system that automatically detects injection events, eliminating the need for separate manual recording processes
2Ease of manufacture
If a large-sized sensor is used, then manufacturing is easier, but patient discomfort increases due to inability to place close to injection point
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs a nested packaging structure where the two piezoresistive sense die are housed within a compact common package. The plungers, diaphragms, and electronic components are nested within the housing in a space-efficient arrangement, enabling small overall dimensions that reduce patient discomfort while maintaining manufacturability
Solution Approach 2:
The use of thin diaphragms in the sensor design allows for flexible, compact construction. The diaphragms serve as both structural elements and sensing elements, enabling the sensor to be made small enough for comfortable patient placement while remaining manufacturable with standard thin-film fabrication techniques
3Ease of operation
If multiple manual steps are used in injection procedures, then ease of operation is reduced, but device complexity is minimized
Solution Approach 1:
The differential force sensor system performs automatic detection and monitoring of injection events without requiring manual intervention. The sensor self-measures the forces, the electronics automatically process the differential signals, and the system autonomously monitors injection parameters, eliminating multiple manual steps and reducing operational complexity despite increased device complexity
Solution Approach 2:
The sensor system provides real-time feedback on injection forces and parameters. By continuously monitoring the differential force across the orifice, the system automatically detects injection events and can provide feedback signals, reducing the need for manual checking steps and improving ease of operation
4Measurement precision
If piezoresistive sense die are packaged in close proximity, then measurement precision improves through differential measurement, but manufacturing precision requirements increase
Solution Approach 1:
By segmenting the measurement into two separate but identical piezoresistive sense die, the patent enables differential measurement that improves precision. The segmentation into two independent sensing elements allows each to be manufactured with standard precision while their close proximity packaging enables cancellation of common-mode errors
Solution Approach 2:
The patent changes the measurement parameter from absolute force to differential force. By measuring the difference between two closely positioned sensors rather than absolute values, the system achieves higher measurement precision. This parameter transformation allows the use of standard manufacturing tolerances while achieving high measurement accuracy through the differential measurement principle
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 system enables precise and automated monitoring of manual injections, reducing the risk of errors and patient discomfort by providing accurate force measurements and improving safety through close proximity to the injection site.
Implementation Method 1
The differential force sensor includes two piezoresistive sense die packaged in close proximity... The two piezoresistive sense die can be utilized to measure force exerted on a diaphragm
Data Source
AI summary
A differential force sensor method and apparatus for automatically monitoring manual injections through an intravenous line. The differential force sensor includes two piezoresistive sense die that are packaged in close proximity utilizing a number of packaging processes. The two piezoresistive sense die can be utilized to measure forces exerted on a diaphragm on either side of an orifice. The piezoresistive sense die can be packaged in close proximity to make intimate contact with the diaphragms on either side of the orifice. The differential force sensor further includes two plungers that make intimate contact with the diaphragm and transfer the force into the piezo-resistive sense dies. Additionally, one or more ASICs and microcontrollers can be utilized to provide thermal calibration and differential calculation.