Peristaltic Infusion Pump Finger Stabilization for Noise Reduction
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing peristaltic infusion pumps generate noise due to vibrations of the pumping fingers during operation.
Innovation Solution
A pumping mechanism with coordinated and synchronized pumping fingers that include protrusions with flexible, retractable attachments to the chassis sidewalls, reducing vibrations and noise by providing steadying and stabilizing forces.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Object-affected harmful factors
If traditional pumping fingers are used in peristaltic infusion pumps, then fluid delivery function is achieved, but noise and vibrations are generated during operation
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces an intermediary damping element between the pumping finger and the cam mechanism. This damping element absorbs vibrations and reduces noise while allowing the pumping finger to maintain its fluid delivery function, thus resolving the contradiction between achieving smooth operation and maintaining pumping effectiveness.
Solution Approach 2:
The pumping finger is constructed using composite materials with different damping properties. The finger includes a rigid portion for structural integrity and a flexible portion with damping characteristics that reduces vibrations and noise during operation, enabling both smooth operation and reliable fluid delivery.
2Manufacturing precision
If pumping fingers move in coordinated fashion to control fluid flow, then precise fluid delivery is achieved, but mechanical complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The pumping mechanism is segmented into multiple independent pumping fingers, each capable of controlled movement. This segmentation allows precise control of fluid flow through coordinated action of individual fingers while simplifying the overall mechanism design compared to a single complex pumping unit.
Solution Approach 2:
The pumping fingers are designed with dynamic characteristics that allow them to move in a coordinated fashion through cam mechanisms. The dynamic design enables precise control of fluid flow rates while the cam-finger interaction simplifies the coordination complexity through mechanical advantage and synchronized motion.
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 mechanism significantly reduces or eliminates noise and vibrations, ensuring smooth operation and improved patient care through controlled fluid delivery.
Implementation Method 1
the proximal end is in surface contact with the sidewall of the recess
Data Source
AI summary
Features relating to a pumping mechanism of a peristaltic infusion pump are provided. Stabilizing protrusions are provided for one or more pumping fingers of the pumping mechanism, where the one or more pumping fingers move in a coordinated and synchronized fashion with respect to one another to provide a controlled peristaltic action against a flexible tube for delivery of a fluid to a patient. The protrusions extend outward from one or more side regions of the pumping fingers to create points of contact on a side-wall of a recess in a chassis in which the pumping mechanism is positioned. The points of contact serve to stabilize the fingers to prevent vibration and/or movement of the fingers against the sidewall.