Doppler Fluid Viscosity Analysis for Rapid, Continuous Monitoring

The patent replaces conventional mechanical viscosity measurement systems with an acoustic Doppler-based system. The ultrasonic transducer emits sound waves that interact with moving particles in the fluid, and the Doppler shift of the reflected waves provides information about fluid velocity and viscosity. This substitution enables rapid, continuous measurements without the time-consuming mechanical procedures of traditional viscometers.

The patent changes the measurement parameter from direct mechanical resistance measurement to acoustic Doppler frequency shift measurement. By measuring the Doppler shift of ultrasonic waves scattered by moving particles in the fluid, the system can rapidly determine viscosity through acoustic means rather than mechanical means, achieving both speed and continuity in measurement.

The patent integrates the viscosity measurement function into a broader cardiac assist system that already contains ultrasonic transducers for other purposes. The same ultrasonic element used for pump monitoring or flow characterization can simultaneously perform viscosity measurement through Doppler analysis, eliminating the need for a separate dedicated viscosity instrument and reducing overall system complexity.

The system uses the natural movement of particles already present in the fluid (such as red blood cells or suspended particles) as the scattering medium for the Doppler measurement. No additional tracers, contrast agents, or special fluid preparation is required - the fluid's own properties and existing contents serve the measurement function, simplifying the device and sample handling requirements.