Infusion System Backpressure Regulator Occlusion Detection
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Solution Overview
Problem
Infusion systems face challenges in detecting occlusions due to the sensitivity of existing detection systems to the compliance of syringe pump components, leading to slower and less reliable occlusion detection.
Innovation Solution
The infusion system incorporates a backpressure regulator that isolates the syringe pump from downstream components, allowing for quicker and more accurate occlusion detection by a sensor assembly with sensors placed along the infusion line, reducing the impact of syringe compliance on pressure readings.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Device complexity
If a force sensor is disposed between the plunger and electromotive drive to detect occlusions, then the detection system is simple, but the compliance of syringe components causes slower and less reliable occlusion detection
Solution Approach 1:
A backpressure regulator is introduced as an intermediary component between the syringe and the infusion line. This regulator isolates the compliance of the syringe components from the pressure measurements, allowing the force sensor to detect occlusions more reliably without being affected by syringe body and plunger compliance
Solution Approach 2:
The system changes the pressure measurement parameters by measuring pressure downstream of the backpressure regulator rather than directly at the syringe outlet. This parameter change eliminates the influence of syringe compliance on the pressure readings, improving occlusion detection accuracy
2Ease of operation
If pressure measurements are taken at the syringe outlet to detect occlusions, then the measurement location is simple, but syringe compliance varies the pressure readings and slows detection
Solution Approach 1:
The backpressure regulator serves as a mediator that decouples the pressure measurement point from the syringe compliance. By placing the pressure sensor downstream of the regulator, the system achieves precise pressure measurements that are not influenced by syringe body or plunger compliance
Solution Approach 2:
The infusion system is segmented into distinct zones: the syringe zone with its compliant components, the backpressure regulator zone that isolates pressures, and the infusion line zone where measurements are taken. This segmentation allows each zone to function independently, with the regulator protecting the measurement zone from compliance effects
Data Source
AI summary
An infusion system includes an infusion device, an infusion set, and a sensor assembly. The infusion device includes a syringe including a barrel with an outlet end and a plunger, and a pusher device in engagement with the plunger. The set occludes an infusion line having a first end in communication with the outlet end of the barrel and a second end, and a backpressure regulator disposed between the first end and the second end of the infusion line. The sensor assembly includes a first sensor disposed along the infusion line between the backpressure regulator and the second end of the infusion line. The infusion device also includes a controller coupled to the sensor assembly.