Infusion Line Illuminator With Fiber Optic Tube Identification
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Solution Overview
Problem
Distinguishing between multiple infusion tubes in medical infusion systems is difficult, leading to medication delivery errors due to high cognitive load on practitioners, which can be life-threatening.
Innovation Solution
An electronic illuminator system with a printed circuit board, light emitting diode, lens, power source, and sensory assemblies, including ambient light, fiber detection, and cap color detection, is used to illuminate and verify medical infusion tubes, reducing confusion and improving identification.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If multiple infusion tubes are used simultaneously to deliver different medications, then patient treatment capability is improved, but identification difficulty increases leading to medication errors
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies color-coded identification bands on infusion tubes and corresponding color detection using optical sensors. Different colors represent different medication types or patient identifiers, enabling rapid visual and electronic differentiation between multiple infusion tubes without increasing cognitive load on practitioners.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces an intermediary identification system consisting of optical markers, color bands, and detection sensors that mediate between the infusion tubes and the practitioner's identification process. This intermediary system translates the complex task of distinguishing multiple tubes into simple color or pattern recognition, reducing errors while maintaining the ability to deliver multiple medications simultaneously.
2Device complexity
If traditional visual identification methods are used for infusion tubes, then device complexity is minimized, but medication error risk increases due to high cognitive load
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements feedback mechanisms where optical sensors detect identification markers on infusion tubes and provide real-time verification to the infusion pump system. The system confirms proper tube identification before allowing medication delivery, providing immediate feedback to prevent errors while keeping the interface simple for practitioners.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces manual visual inspection and cognitive matching with automated optical detection systems. Optical sensors and image processing algorithms automatically identify and verify infusion tube identities, substituting the mechanical/cognitive process of human identification with an automated optical system that reduces errors without significantly increasing operational complexity.
3Measurement precision
If advanced sensor assemblies and electronic illuminators are implemented, then infusion tube identification accuracy is improved, but device complexity and cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the identification system into distinct functional modules: illumination sources, optical markers on tubes, detection sensors, and processing units. Each module performs a specific function, allowing for targeted optimization and simplified integration. The segmentation enables the system to achieve high identification accuracy through specialized components rather than a monolithic complex system.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent designs the electronic identification system with universal components that can identify multiple types of infusion tubes using the same optical markers and detection principles. The system is engineered to handle various tube types, colors, and configurations through a single multi-functional platform, reducing overall system complexity compared to having separate identification systems for each tube type.
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 enhances accurate identification of infusion tubes, reducing medication errors by providing intuitive illumination and reducing cognitive load, thus improving patient safety.
Implementation Method 1
a light emitting diode (LED)
Implementation Method 2
a lens configured with the LED
Implementation Method 3
the protective end cap is polished on an interior surface to reflect light from the LED of the electronic illuminator
Data Source
AI summary
Aspects of systems and apparatuses for medical infusion illumination are disclosed. In one aspect a system for medical infusion line illumination is disclosed. The system comprising an electronic illuminator. The electronic illuminator comprising a printed circuit board (‘PCB’), a light emitting diode (‘LED’), a lens configured with the LED, a power source to supply power to the PCB and LED; and at least one sensory assembly. The LED and lens of the electronic illuminator are configured to a side scattering fiber optic cable. The side scattering fiber optic cable comprises a fiber funnel cap at a proximal end to receive light from the LED through the lens of the electronic illuminator. The side scattering fiber optic cable further comprises a protective end cap at a distal end, wherein the protective end cap is polished on an interior surface to reflect light from the LED of the electronic illuminator.