Fluid Dispenser with Constant Force Spring and Micro Capillary Flow Control
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current fluid delivery devices for medicinal agents are cumbersome, imprecise, and require constant monitoring, limiting their use in ambulatory settings and necessitating a more reliable and precise method for controlling fluid flow rates.
Innovation Solution
A compact, lightweight fluid dispenser with a novel adjustable flow rate control mechanism using micro capillary, multichannel flow rate control channels and a constant force spring member for precise and uniform dispensing of medicinal agents, enabling easy use in non-hospital environments and allowing for precise dosage control.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Manufacturing precision
If gravity flow methods are used for fluid delivery, then the device structure is simple, but the flow rate control precision is poor and the device is cumbersome
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies parameter changes by varying the dimensions (width, length, depth) of micro-capillary channels to precisely control fluid flow rates. Multiple channels with different geometric parameters allow for adjustable and precise flow rate control, resolving the contradiction between precision and complexity.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent utilizes capillary action (a hydraulic principle) within micro-capillary channels to drive fluid flow without requiring complex mechanical pumps or gravity-dependent setups. This enables precise flow control through channel geometry rather than complex device mechanisms.
2Reliability
If traditional infusion apparatus are used, then the device can deliver fluid, but periodic monitoring by nursing staff is required to detect malfunctions
Solution Approach 1:
The device incorporates self-monitoring features including a visual indicator that shows remaining fluid volume and a flow verification mechanism that allows patients to confirm proper flow without professional assistance. This self-service capability eliminates the need for periodic nursing monitoring while maintaining reliability.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent uses color changes in the visual indicator to communicate device status and remaining fluid volume to the patient. This visual feedback system enables patients to monitor their own infusion without requiring professional staff intervention.
3Manufacturing precision
If gravity flow methods are used, then no additional energy source is needed, but the patient requires bed confinement and the flow rate is imprecise
Solution Approach 1:
The device employs capillary action within micro-capillary channels to drive fluid flow, eliminating the need for gravity-dependent positioning. This allows patients to move freely while maintaining precise and consistent flow rates, resolving the contradiction between flow precision and patient mobility.
Solution Approach 2:
By changing the geometric parameters of the micro-capillary channels, the device achieves precise flow rate control independent of gravitational effects, enabling both accurate dosing and patient mobility.
4Manufacturing precision
If micro capillary multichannel flow rate control channels are used, then precise flow rate control is achieved, but the manufacturing complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The device divides the fluid delivery function into multiple separate micro-capillary channels, each with specific geometric parameters for different flow rates. This segmentation allows precise flow control through simple geometric variations rather than complex mechanisms, balancing precision with manufacturability.
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 device provides reliable, precise, and continuous fluid delivery with minimal professional assistance, enabling ambulatory patients to use it safely and effectively, while being cost-effective and easy to manufacture in large quantities.
Implementation Method 1
a stored energy source in the form of a constant force spring member that provides the force necessary to substantially, uniformly dispense various solutions from the device reservoir
Implementation Method 2
a novel, rotatable fluid flow rate control means that includes uniquely formed micro capillary, multichannel flow rate control channels which enable precise control of the rate of fluid flow of the medicament to the patient
Data Source
AI summary
A compact fluid dispenser for use in controllably dispensing fluid medicaments, such as, antibiotics, analgesics, and like medicinal agents from the device reservoir. The fluid dispenser includes a unique stored energy mechanism which takes the form of a constant force spring member of novel design that provides the force necessary to continuously and substantially uniformly expel fluid from the device reservoir. The device also includes novel adjustable flow rate control assembly that is disposed intermediate the fluid reservoir outlet and the outlet port of the device for precisely controlling the rate of fluid flow from the outlet port toward the patient.