Infusion Pump Priming Cap and Occlusion Alarm Checks
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing infusion pump assemblies face challenges in efficiently priming, occlusion detection, and ensuring proper connection and power supply management, which can lead to unreliable fluid administration.
Innovation Solution
The system includes a priming cap with a septum for tubing connection, occlusion alarm checks, and a removable power supply cover assembly with a spring-based electrical coupling, along with RFID and optical sensors for connection verification, to ensure proper priming and connection, and a dual-power supply system for reliable operation.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a priming cap with septum is used for tubing connection, then connection reliability is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The priming cap with septum acts as an intermediary component between the tubing and the priming needle, providing a reliable sealing interface that prevents fluid leakage while maintaining system integrity during the priming process
Solution Approach 2:
The connection system is divided into separate functional components: the priming cap, the septum, the male connector with needle, and the female connector. This segmentation allows each component to be optimized for its specific function while improving overall connection reliability
2Measurement precision
If occlusion alarm checks are implemented, then detection precision is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The occlusion alarm check system implements feedback by continuously monitoring fluid flow through the tubing and providing real-time alerts when occlusions are detected, allowing the system to respond to abnormal conditions and maintain accurate delivery
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces complex mechanical occlusion detection mechanisms with simpler electronic sensors and processing logic that can detect occlusions through electrical or optical signals, reducing mechanical complexity while improving detection precision
3Ease of repair
If a removable power supply cover assembly with spring-based electrical coupling is used, then ease of repair is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The power supply system is segmented into a removable cover assembly that can be independently accessed and replaced, allowing the power supply components to be separated from the main pump body for easier maintenance and repair
Solution Approach 2:
The spring-based electrical coupling provides dynamic connectivity that maintains electrical contact while allowing for the removable nature of the cover assembly, enabling easy assembly and disassembly without compromising electrical connection reliability
4Measurement precision
If RFID and optical sensors are used for connection verification, then measurement precision is improved, but use of energy increases
Solution Approach 1:
The RFID and optical sensors operate periodically rather than continuously, verifying connections at key moments in the infusion process such as when the priming cap is attached or when the power supply cover is removed, reducing energy consumption while maintaining verification precision
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces continuous mechanical monitoring systems with energy-efficient RFID and optical sensors that can verify connections using electromagnetic or optical fields, consuming less energy while providing more precise detection
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 the reliability and efficiency of infusion pump operations by ensuring proper priming, detecting occlusions, and managing power supply, thereby improving fluid administration accuracy and safety.
Implementation Method 1
a spring attached to the power supply contact assembly and the conductor assembly, wherein an electrical coupling between a power supply to the conductor assembly is formed through the spring
Implementation Method 2
RFID and optical sensors for connection verification
Data Source
AI summary
A system for priming an infusion pump is disclosed. The system includes a priming cap including a septum and configured to matably connect with a male part comprising a needle and attached to a length of tubing for fluid, wherein when matably connected with the male part, the priming cap occludes the tubing.