Distal Rate Control Device with Segmented Flow Plate
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Existing fluid flow control devices are often complex, costly, unreliable, and difficult to manufacture, lacking ease of adjustability for varying fluid rates, particularly in medical applications where precise control is necessary.
Innovation Solution
A compact, readily adjustable flow rate control device with a novel flow control plate featuring elongated serpentine-like micro channels and a rotatable rate selector member, integrated with priming means to purge gases and ensure precise fluid delivery, utilizing medical-grade polymers and advanced manufacturing techniques like injection molding and hot embossing.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If conventional flow controllers are used, then fluid flow rate control is achieved, but the device complexity increases and manufacturing cost rises
Solution Approach 1:
The flow control plate is segmented into multiple distinct flow control channels, each with specific flow rates. The rate selector member is segmented with corresponding flow control openings that align with specific channels. This segmentation allows precise flow control through modular channel design while keeping the overall device structure simple and manufacturable.
Solution Approach 2:
The flow control plate serves multiple functions: it provides flow restriction through its channels, acts as a sealing surface with peripheral sealing portions, and works with the rate selector member to enable selective flow path activation. This multi-functionality reduces the need for separate components, simplifying the overall device structure while maintaining reliable flow control.
2Reliability
If conventional flow controllers are used, then fluid flow control is achieved, but manufacturing cost increases
Solution Approach 1:
The flow control channels, sealing portions, and flow control openings are merged into an integrated flow control plate assembly that works cooperatively with the rate selector member. This merging of functions into unified components simplifies manufacturing processes and reduces assembly steps while ensuring reliable flow control through the coordinated operation of integrated elements.
Solution Approach 2:
The invention controls flow rate by changing geometric parameters of the flow control channels (cross-sectional area, length, configuration) and their alignment with the rate selector member openings. This parameter-based control allows precise flow regulation through simple geometric variations that are easy to manufacture using standard molding or machining processes.
3Ease of operation
If conventional flow controllers are used, then basic flow control is achieved, but ease of adjustability for varying fluid rates is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The rate selector member is designed to be rotatable relative to the flow control plate, allowing dynamic selection of different flow control channels. This rotational movement enables quick adjustment between different flow rates by simply rotating the selector member to align different flow control openings with the corresponding channels, providing ease of operation without complex mechanisms.
Solution Approach 2:
The flow control plate and rate selector member are designed as simple, disposable components that can be easily manufactured and replaced. The simple geometric features and lack of complex moving parts make them cost-effective to produce and replace if needed, while the rotational selector provides ample adjustability during use.
Data Source
AI summary
A distal rate control device, which can be conveniently interposed between a fluid supply line and fluid delivery line for precisely controlling the rate of fluid flow toward the delivery line. The device includes a readily adjustable flow rate control device having a novel flow control plate that can be placed in fluid communication with the fluid supply line and with the fluid delivery line. The flow control plate is provided with a plurality of elongated fluidic flow control channels that are in communication with a rate selector member that is rotatably carried by the device housing. Rotation of the rate selector member places a selected one of the flow control channels in communication with the fluid delivery line.