Interchangeable Syringe Pump Assemblies for Fail-Safe Delivery
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing syringe pumps lack flexibility and reliability in administering agents to patients, particularly in medical and non-medical applications, with limited interchangeability between syringe and peristaltic pumps and insufficient safety features for precise fluid delivery.
Innovation Solution
A syringe pump design that allows for interchangeable pump assemblies between syringe and peristaltic modes, featuring a sliding block assembly with a cam mechanism for engaging and disengaging with a lead screw, clamping mechanisms for various plunger flange sizes, and redundant sensors for fail-safe operation, along with a monitoring system for precise control and detection of syringe presence.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If a syringe pump is designed with fixed pump assembly, then the device structure is simple, but the adaptability to different pump types (syringe vs peristaltic) is limited
Solution Approach 1:
The pump assembly is designed with universal mounting interfaces and standardized coupling mechanisms that allow both syringe pump and peristaltic pump configurations to be installed on the same pump housing. The drive mechanism incorporates adaptable components that can accommodate different pump types through simple assembly changes rather than requiring complete redesign.
2Reliability
If redundant sensors are added for fail-safe operation, then the reliability is improved, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The system incorporates redundant sensors that are pre-installed and activated to provide backup detection capabilities before any failure occurs. These sensors monitor critical parameters such as plunger position and fluid flow, and are integrated into the control system to automatically take over if primary sensors fail, ensuring continuous safe operation.
3Adaptability or versatility
If clamping mechanisms for various plunger flange sizes are implemented, then the adaptability is improved, but the ease of operation deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The clamping mechanism employs dynamically adjustable components that can be quickly reconfigured to accommodate different plunger flange sizes. The adjustment process is designed to be simple and intuitive, allowing operators to switch between different syringe configurations rapidly without complex tooling or procedures.
Data Source
AI summary
A pump for administering an agent to a patient includes a housing, a motor, a gearbox, a sensor, and a controller. The motor may be coupled to housing. The gearbox is operatively connected to the motor. The sensor senses a rotation of the motor. The controller acts to control operation of the motor and monitor the quantity of the agent delivered to the patient. The pump also includes a pump assembly such that the pump is configured such that the pump assembly may be interchangeable from a syringe pump assembly and a peristaltic pump assembly.