Automated Infusion Device with Dual Flow Paths and Liquid Sensors
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current infusion systems require manual operation for priming, switching between liquids, and setting flow rates, leading to a high workload for nurses and a risk of errors, which can result in critical medical accidents.
Innovation Solution
An automated infusion apparatus with a controller that manages a flow path with valves, sensors, and an air discharge tube to automatically switch between containers and set flow rates, reducing manual intervention and minimizing errors.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Extent of automation
If manual operation is used for priming, switching between liquids, and setting flow rates, then the system structure remains simple, but the workload on nurses increases and the risk of operation errors rises
Solution Approach 1:
The infusion system is divided into multiple independent flow paths (first flow path for main infusion, second flow path for premedication/sub-injection). Each flow path has its own open/close valve and can be controlled independently. The drip chamber is segmented with distinct sensing zones (first liquid surface sensor for main liquid level, second liquid surface sensor for premedication liquid level), allowing separate monitoring and control of different liquid volumes and types.
Solution Approach 2:
The system performs priming of the second flow path (premedication line) in advance before the actual infusion begins. The controller opens the second open/close valve to allow premedication liquid to flow through the second flow path and fill it, completing the priming operation beforehand. This eliminates the need for manual priming during the infusion process and prevents air injection into the patient.
2Reliability
If automated control is implemented for switching infusion bags and setting flow rates, then operation accuracy improves, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The system incorporates multiple sensors that provide continuous feedback to the controller: droplet sensors detect liquid flow status, first and second liquid surface sensors monitor liquid levels in the drip chamber, and air detection sensors identify air bubbles. The controller processes these feedback signals and automatically adjusts valve positions and flow rates accordingly, ensuring accurate liquid switching and preventing errors without requiring complex manual intervention.
Solution Approach 2:
The controller serves multiple functions: it controls the first and second open/close valves for liquid switching, regulates the variable valve for flow rate control, monitors liquid levels through both liquid surface sensors, detects air bubbles, and manages the priming sequence. This multi-functional control unit consolidates what would otherwise require multiple separate devices, achieving high reliability without proportionally increasing overall system complexity.
3Object-affected harmful factors
If multiple sensors and valves are added to automate the infusion process, then operation safety improves, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The system implements preventive measures before harmful events can occur: air detection sensors are positioned to detect air bubbles in advance before they can be injected into the patient. The controller is programmed to respond to sensor signals by closing appropriate valves and stopping infusion before air reaches the patient. Liquid surface sensors prevent overfilling and ensure proper liquid levels are maintained throughout the infusion process.
Solution Approach 2:
The drip chamber serves as an intermediary component between the infusion bags and the patient. It provides a visible chamber where liquid flow can be monitored, air bubbles can be detected and managed, and liquid level can be controlled. The air discharge tube with its open/close valve acts as an intermediary mechanism to safely vent air from the system without allowing it to reach the patient, mediating the removal of harmful air bubbles.
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 automates the infusion process, reducing the workload on operators, enhancing accuracy and safety by automatically managing the switching between liquids and setting flow rates, thereby minimizing the risk of human error.
Implementation Method 1
a droplet sensor, a first liquid surface sensor, and a second liquid surface sensor that the drip chamber is provided with
Implementation Method 2
a first liquid surface sensor, and a second liquid surface sensor that the drip chamber is provided with in this order from an upper side toward a lower side
Implementation Method 3
an air discharge tube that is in communication with a gas storing portion in the drip chamber; and an air discharge tube open/close valve that the air discharge tube is provided with
Data Source
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AI summary
An infusion set (1) includes: a first flow path (10a) having a first connector (11a) and a downstream connector (19); a first open/close valve (12a), a first liquid surface sensor (13a), a second liquid surface sensor (13b), a drip chamber (14), and a variable valve (17) that are provided in this order on the first flow path from the first connector side toward the downstream connector side; a droplet sensor (15) with which the drip chamber is provided; a second flow path (10b) having a second connector (11b); and a second open/close valve (12b) provided on the second flow path. The second flow path is in communication with a portion of the first flow path between the first liquid surface sensor and the second liquid surface sensor. The controller is configured to control the first and second open/close valves and the variable valves based on signals from the first and second liquid surface sensors and the droplet sensor.