Pressure Sensor Seal for Infusion Pump Occlusion Detection
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing infusion pump sensors face challenges in detecting occlusions effectively while providing a microbial barrier and protecting against fluid damage, leading to potential contamination and reduced sensitivity due to elastomeric membranes that deform under pressure changes.
Innovation Solution
A flexible, waterproof membrane is used as a microbial barrier around a transfer rod that connects the infusion set tubing to a sensor, allowing direct contact and maintaining sensitivity by preventing fluid entry into the pump, with the membrane being preformed as part of the infusion pump and attached via overlay molding for durability and positioning.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If a sensor is positioned to detect occlusions in infusion tubing, then occlusion detection capability is improved, but the sensor becomes vulnerable to fluid contamination and damage
Solution Approach 1:
A flexible membrane acts as an intermediary barrier between the sensor and the infusion tubing. The membrane allows the sensor to detect pressure changes and occlusions in the tubing while preventing direct contact with fluids, thus maintaining measurement precision while protecting against fluid contamination and damage.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent employs a flexible membrane (thin film) that conforms to the tubing and transmits pressure changes to the sensor. This flexible barrier maintains sensor sensitivity for occlusion detection while providing a protective seal that prevents fluid ingress and contamination.
2Object-affected harmful factors
If a flexible membrane is used to protect the sensor, then protection against fluid damage is improved, but sensitivity to pressure changes may be reduced due to membrane deformation
Solution Approach 1:
The patent uses a specifically designed flexible membrane that is thin and compliant enough to transmit pressure changes accurately while still providing fluid protection. The membrane's flexibility allows it to deform minimally under pressure changes, maintaining sensor sensitivity while offering protection against fluid damage.
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 solution enhances occlusion detection sensitivity and prevents contamination, ensuring accurate fluid delivery and pump protection from spills, while being cost-effective and easy to use.
Implementation Method 1
a flexible membrane (128) connected to the transfer rod (118) between the first end and the second end
Implementation Method 2
the flexible membrane being overlay molded on the pump body (114) and the transfer rod (118)
Data Source
Figure 1
Figure 1A
Figure 2
AI summary
A pressure sensor and method of use provides for the detection of a sudden increase or decrease of pressure within tubing during the administration of solutions to a patient. Detection of an occlusion, partial occlusion or other significant pressure change in the tubing is accomplished by measuring the compression and/or expansion of the tubing. Transfer of the change in force within the tubing is communicated from the tubing to a sensor by a transfer rod which as a membrane attached thereto to provide a seal thereabout.