Inflatable Fluid Bag Dispensing System for Controlled Infusion
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing fluid dispensing systems, such as IV infusion systems, face challenges with variable pressure exerted on the fluid due to bag inflation, leading to inconsistent fluid delivery rates.
Innovation Solution
A fluid dispensing system comprising a housing with a fixed or adjustable chamber, an inflatable fluid bag within the chamber, and a pressure source to inflate the bag against the housing's inner surface, ensuring a controlled fluid delivery rate before the bag is fully inflated.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Productivity
If the bag is inflated to exert pressure on the fluid, then the fluid is forced out of the bag, but the bag stretches and inflates further resulting in variable pressure being exerted on the fluid
Solution Approach 1:
The system transitions from a static bag to a dynamically controllable system where the bag can be inflated and deflated in controlled cycles. The pressure source inflates the bag to a predetermined volume to force fluid out, then allows deflation, creating a dynamic process that maintains consistent pressure delivery while enabling repeated use.
Solution Approach 2:
The system changes the volume parameter of the bag from its initial state to a predetermined inflated volume, then back again. This controlled parameter change allows the bag to exert consistent pressure on the fluid during each inflation cycle without the uncontrolled stretching that occurs in traditional continuous inflation systems.
2Quantity of substance
If the bag is fully inflated to maximize fluid delivery, then more fluid can be dispensed, but the pressure becomes uncontrolled and variable
Solution Approach 1:
The system performs preliminary action by inflating the bag to a predetermined volume before fluid delivery begins. This pre-set volume ensures that the pressure exerted on the fluid is controlled and consistent from the start of each delivery cycle, eliminating the need for uncontrolled full inflation.
Solution Approach 2:
The system incorporates feedback through pressure sensors that monitor the pressure within the bag during inflation and fluid delivery. This feedback mechanism allows the system to maintain pressure within a predetermined range, adjusting the inflation process to ensure consistent pressure control while maximizing fluid delivery volume.
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 achieves a consistent and controlled fluid delivery rate by maintaining a stable pressure on the fluid bag, reducing variability and ensuring reliable infusion processes.
Implementation Method 1
a pressure source for inflating the bag to force the fluid from the bag to the flow path at a controlled rate
Data Source
AI summary
Provided is a system for dispensing fluid. The system includes a housing defining a chamber; an inflatable bag disposed in the chamber and adapted to contain a fluid, the bag being in fluid communication with a flow path for flow of the fluid out of the bag; and a pressure source for inflating the bag to force the fluid from the bag to the flow path at a controlled rate. The bag inflates against an inner surface of the housing such that, prior to the bag being fully inflated, the fluid contained in the bag is forced from the bag at the controlled rate.