Elastomeric Infusion Pump Bladder Elongation Sensor
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional intravenous infusion devices lack the ability to effectively communicate whether they are dispensing liquid, making it difficult for users to determine if the pump is functioning correctly.
Innovation Solution
An elastomeric pump with sensors that measure changes in bladder elongation, providing feedback through indicators such as light emitting diodes or displays, allowing users to monitor the pump's operation and fluid flow.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Loss of information
If conventional infusion devices without sensors are used, then the device structure remains simple, but users cannot determine whether the pump is dispensing liquid
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies feedback by implementing sensors that detect bladder elongation and convert it into electrical signals, which are then processed to provide real-time information about pump operation status, flow rate, and volume dispensed to the user through visual or audible indicators
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces direct mechanical observation with electrical sensing by using strain sensors, dielectric elastomer sensors, or capacitive sensors to detect mechanical elongation of the bladder and convert it into electrical signals for processing and display
2Reliability
If sensors are added to measure bladder elongation, then users can monitor pump operation, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs flexible sensing elements such as strain gauges, dielectric elastomer films, or capacitive sensors that can conform to the bladder surface and measure elongation without adding significant structural complexity or rigidity to the system
Solution Approach 2:
The patent utilizes composite material structures, particularly dielectric elastomer composites that combine the bladder material with sensing functionality in a single integrated layer, reducing the need for separate sensor components and simplifying the overall device structure
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
Enables users to accurately determine if the pump is dispensing liquid, improving user confidence and ensuring proper operation by providing real-time feedback on flow rate and volume.
Implementation Method 1
an elastomeric pump having at least one sensor for sensing changes in elongation of a bladder of the pump
Implementation Method 2
a dielectric material may be incorporated into the material the bladder is made from such that the dielectric elastomer material of the bladder forms the sensor
Data Source
AI summary
An elastomeric pump having at least one sensor for sensing changes in elongation of a bladder of the pump is provided. Also provided is an infusion assembly including an elastomeric pump having a bladder, at least one sensor for sensing changes in elongation of the bladder, and an indicator for providing one or more outputs of the sensor. The sensor may be a flexible sensor positioned in contact with the bladder of the pump, or a dielectric material may be incorporated into the material the bladder is made from such that the dielectric elastomer material of the bladder forms the sensor.