Drip Chamber Imaging and Valve Control for Precise IV Flow
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current medical fluid delivery systems, such as those used in intravenous infusion therapy, often lack precise control over fluid flow rates, especially in settings where traditional infusion pumps are not available, leading to potential inaccuracies in fluid administration.
Innovation Solution
A system comprising a flow meter and valve configuration that uses optical sensors to monitor and regulate fluid flow, allowing for remote control and feedback mechanisms to maintain precise flow rates, either standalone or integrated with pumps, and can be used in closed-loop or open-loop configurations.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Device complexity
If traditional infusion pumps are not available, then device complexity is reduced, but fluid flow control precision deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces complex mechanical infusion pump systems with a simplified system using optical sensors to detect fluid flow and electronic control to regulate flow rates. The flow sensor optically detects fluid passage and generates signals that are processed by a microprocessor to control valve actuation, substituting mechanical complexity with optical-electronic control mechanisms.
Solution Approach 2:
The system incorporates automatic flow rate adjustment through feedback from optical flow sensors. The microprocessor continuously monitors fluid flow and automatically regulates the flow rate by controlling valve actuation, eliminating the need for manual pump operation and maintaining precise control without complex mechanical intervention.
2Measurement precision
If optical sensors and feedback mechanisms are added, then fluid flow measurement precision is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs optical sensors instead of complex mechanical flow measurement devices. The optical sensor uses light detection to measure fluid flow, replacing traditional mechanical flow meters with moving parts. This optical approach provides high measurement precision while reducing mechanical complexity through non-contact sensing.
Solution Approach 2:
The system implements feedback control where optical flow sensors continuously monitor fluid flow rates and send signals to a microprocessor. The microprocessor processes these signals and automatically adjusts valve actuation to maintain precise flow rates, creating a closed-loop feedback system that improves measurement utility while managing complexity through automated control.
3Ease of operation
If remote control capability is implemented, then ease of operation is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces a remote interface as an intermediary between the user and the fluid control system. This remote control interface communicates with the microprocessor-controlled valve system, allowing users to adjust flow rates and monitor fluid administration from a distance. The intermediary interface simplifies user interaction while the automated control system manages the complexity of remote signal processing and valve actuation.
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
Enables accurate and controlled fluid administration by monitoring flow rates and adjusting as necessary, reducing the risk of inaccuracies and ensuring safe fluid delivery even in environments without traditional infusion pumps.
Implementation Method 1
A sensor, such as an optical sensor, can be used to detect the flow of fluid
Data Source
AI summary
A flow meter, and related system and method are provided. The flow meter includes a coupler, a support member, an image sensor, a valve, and one or more processors. The coupler is adapted to couple to a drip chamber. The support member is operatively coupled to the coupler. The image sensor has a field of view and is operatively coupled to the support member. The image sensor is positioned to view the drip chamber within the field of view. The one or more processors are operatively coupled to the image sensor to receive image data therefrom and to the actuator to actuate the valve. The one or more processors are configured to estimate a flow of fluid through the drip chamber and to actuate the valve to control the flow of fluid through the drip chamber to achieve a target flow rate.