IV Flow Meter Valve With Optical Feedback for Precise Infusion
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current fluid flow monitoring and regulation systems in medical settings, such as intravenous infusion therapy, often rely on manual methods or infusion pumps, which may not be suitable for all environments or require strict adherence to set flow rates, lacking precision and reliability in fluid delivery.
Innovation Solution
A system comprising a flow meter with optical sensors to monitor fluid flow, coupled with a valve that can be remotely controlled, allowing for real-time adjustment and feedback to ensure accurate fluid delivery, using a closed-loop or feedback configuration to maintain predetermined flow rates and prevent free flow conditions.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If manual methods or infusion pumps are used for fluid flow monitoring and regulation, then the system is simple to operate, but the precision and reliability of fluid delivery is insufficient
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces manual mechanical flow regulation methods with an automated valve system controlled by optical sensors and a processor. The optical sensors detect fluid flow characteristics, and the processor automatically adjusts the valve position to maintain precise flow rates, eliminating the need for manual intervention while achieving high measurement and control precision.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements a closed-loop feedback system where optical sensors continuously monitor fluid flow, the processor compares the measured flow against the target flow rate, and the valve is automatically adjusted to correct any deviations. This feedback mechanism ensures precise and reliable fluid delivery without requiring complex manual operation.
2Adaptability or versatility
If infusion pumps are used to enforce strict adherence to set flow rates, then flow rate control is precise, but the system lacks adaptability for various environments and applications
Solution Approach 1:
The patent creates a universal fluid control system that can function in both pump-driven and gravity-driven configurations. The valve and optical sensing system can adapt to different fluid sources and delivery methods, making the system versatile for various medical environments while maintaining reliable flow control through automatic feedback adjustment.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent employs a dynamic control system where the valve position is continuously adjusted based on real-time optical sensor feedback. This dynamic adaptation allows the system to maintain reliable flow control regardless of changes in fluid source pressure or delivery conditions, enhancing both adaptability and reliability simultaneously.
3Reliability
If optical sensors and automated valve control are implemented, then fluid flow control precision is improved, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent integrates the optical sensors, processor, and valve control into a unified automated system that works together seamlessly. By merging these components into a coordinated feedback loop, the system achieves reliable fluid delivery through automated precision control while managing complexity through integrated design rather than separate manual control elements.
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 provides precise control over fluid flow, issuing alarms for deviations and automatically adjusting flow rates, ensuring accurate and reliable fluid delivery in various medical applications, enhancing patient safety and treatment efficacy.
Implementation Method 1
The sensor detects a characteristic of the fluid flow, such as a flow rate of the fluid flow, a volume of the fluid flow, or a pressure of the fluid flow
Data Source
AI summary
A flow control apparatus includes a body, a door, a drip chamber holster, and a valve. The door is pivotally coupled to the body. The drip chamber holster is coupled to one of the body or the door to retain a drip chamber. The valve is disposed within the body and is configured to receive a fluid line coupled to the drip chamber when the door is in an open position. The valve is operatively coupled to the door to secure the fluid line within the valve when the door is in a closed position.