Infusion Pump Actuator Occlusion Detection via Motor Current Analysis
Solution Overview
Problem
Existing infusion pump devices require force sensors or dedicated occlusion detection components, which increase costs and complexity, and are not always reliable.
Innovation Solution
The use of electromechanical actuation devices and methods that detect anomalous conditions in infusion devices by measuring the relationship between active and passive actuation of the actuation arrangement, without the need for force sensors or dedicated occlusion detection components.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If force sensors or dedicated occlusion detection components are used, then occlusion detection reliability is improved, but device complexity and cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
The existing motor control circuit is made multi-functional by enabling it to perform both motor control and occlusion detection functions. The circuit utilizes existing components (motor driver, controller) to detect occlusion through analysis of motor current characteristics during actuation cycles, eliminating the need for separate dedicated occlusion detection hardware while maintaining detection reliability
Solution Approach 2:
The motor control circuit performs self-diagnosis by monitoring its own operational parameters (current draw, actuation cycles) to detect occlusion conditions. The system uses its existing resources to detect anomalies in its own performance, turning the motor control circuit into both the actuator driver and the detection system without requiring external specialized sensors
2Reliability
If force sensors or dedicated occlusion detection components are used, then occlusion detection reliability is improved, but manufacturing cost increases
Solution Approach 1:
The motor control circuit is made multi-functional by enabling it to perform both motor control and occlusion detection functions. The circuit utilizes existing components (motor driver, controller) to detect occlusion through analysis of motor current characteristics during actuation cycles, eliminating the need for separate dedicated occlusion detection hardware while maintaining detection reliability
Solution Approach 2:
The motor control circuit performs self-diagnosis by monitoring its own operational parameters (current draw, actuation cycles) to detect occlusion conditions. The system uses its existing resources to detect anomalies in its own performance, turning the motor control circuit into both the actuator driver and the detection system without requiring external specialized sensors
3Reliability
If dedicated occlusion detection components are added, then detection capability is improved, but device size increases
Solution Approach 1:
The motor control circuit is made multi-functional by enabling it to perform both motor control and occlusion detection functions. The circuit utilizes existing components (motor driver, controller) to detect occlusion through analysis of motor current characteristics during actuation cycles, eliminating the need for separate dedicated occlusion detection hardware while maintaining detection reliability
Data Source
AI summary
Infusion devices, systems, and related operating methods are provided. A method of detecting an anomalous condition with respect to a fluid path involves providing energy to an actuation arrangement to produce actuation, wherein the actuation arrangement is coupled to a plunger configured to deliver fluid via the fluid path, monitoring an orientation of the actuation arrangement using a sensing arrangement, and detecting an anomalous condition based on the orientation of the actuation arrangement.