Optical Drip Chamber Flow Regulation With Tube-Deforming Valve
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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, particularly in settings where traditional infusion pumps are not available or suitable, 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 real-time feedback and adjustment, and can be remotely controlled to ensure accurate and controlled fluid delivery, even in the absence of a traditional infusion pump.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Device complexity
If traditional infusion pumps are not used, then device complexity is reduced, but fluid flow control precision deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces the mechanical infusion pump system with an optical sensing and electronic control system. Optical sensors detect fluid flow characteristics and transmit signals to a processor that controls a valve, substituting mechanical pumping action with a combination of optical detection and electronic regulation to achieve precise flow control without a traditional pump
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements a feedback control loop where optical sensors continuously monitor fluid flow and provide real-time data to a processor. The processor adjusts valve positioning based on this feedback to maintain precise flow rates, enabling accurate fluid delivery without requiring a complex mechanical pump system
2Measurement precision
If optical sensors and real-time feedback are implemented, then fluid flow measurement precision is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces optical sensors as intermediary devices that indirectly measure fluid flow characteristics by detecting light interactions with the flowing fluid. This intermediary approach enables precise measurement without requiring direct mechanical contact or complex flow measurement instruments
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces mechanical flow measurement mechanisms with optical sensing technology. Light-based detection methods substitute for traditional mechanical flow meters, reducing moving parts while achieving high measurement precision through optical property detection of the flowing fluid
3Manufacturing precision
If valve positioning is continuously adjusted, then fluid flow control precision is improved, but energy consumption increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs periodic adjustment of valve positioning based on sampled flow measurements rather than continuous adjustment. The system takes periodic readings from optical sensors and makes corresponding valve adjustments, reducing the frequency of actuator operations while maintaining flow control precision through strategically timed corrections
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 provides precise control over fluid flow rates, preventing free flow conditions and ensuring delivery within predetermined ranges, thereby enhancing the accuracy and safety of medical fluid administration.
Implementation Method 1
A sensor, such as an optical sensor, may be used to detect the flow rate
Data Source
AI summary
An apparatus, system and method for regulating fluid flow are disclosed. The apparatus includes a flow rate sensor and a valve. The flow rate sensor uses images to estimate flow through a drip chamber and then controls the valve based on the estimated flow rate. The valve comprises a rigid housing disposed around the tube in which fluid flow is being controlled. Increasing the pressure in the housing controls the size of the lumen within the tube by deforming the tube, therefore controlling flow through the tube.