Linear IV Flow Controller With Wedge Actuation for Precise Infusion
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing IV fluid administration systems using roller clamps struggle to provide precise control over flow rates, making it difficult to maintain desired infusion rates during gravity-driven medical fluid delivery.
Innovation Solution
A linearly actuated flow controller with interlocked wedge structures and a rotational control mechanism that translates rotational motion into linear motion to compress the IV tubing, allowing for precise control of fluid flow through the use of a pair of ramped wedge structures and a scotch yoke mechanism.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If a roller clamp is used to control flow rate in IV tubing, then the device structure is simple, but the flow rate control precision is insufficient
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces the traditional roller clamp mechanical system with a microfluidic-based flow control system that uses a occlusion member positioned within a recess to compress the tubing. This substitution allows for more precise flow rate control through controlled compression while maintaining relative structural simplicity through the use of a linear actuator and microfluidic channel geometry.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent changes the control parameter from rotational motion (roller clamp) to linear compression distance. The occlusion member's linear displacement along the microfluidic channel allows for precise adjustment of compression force and contact point, enabling fine control over flow rate by varying the compression parameter rather than relying on roller pressure alone.
2Manufacturing precision
If a roller clamp is used for flow control, then the device is easy to manufacture, but the flow rate adjustment precision is difficult to achieve
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the flow control function into distinct components: the occlusion member for compression, the recess structure for positioning, the linear actuator for precise displacement control, and the microfluidic channel for fluid guidance. This segmentation allows each component to be optimized for its specific function while maintaining manufacturability through modular assembly.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces a linear actuator as an intermediary device between the user input and the occlusion member. This intermediary provides precise control of the occlusion member's position and compression force, enabling fine flow rate adjustment without requiring complex manual manipulation of the clamp mechanism itself.
3Ease of operation
If gravity infusion is used to deliver medical fluid, then the system is simple, but the flow rate control is difficult to provide
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs a linear actuator that can be manually operated to provide self-contained flow rate control within the device. The actuator translates user input directly into precise linear motion of the occlusion member, allowing the device to self-regulate flow rate without requiring external control systems or complex mechanical linkages.
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
This solution provides finer control and improved maintenance of flow rates compared to roller clamps, enabling constant adjustable control of fluid flow from full open to complete occlusion, with tactile feedback and secure locking in the closed position.
Implementation Method 1
a pair of ramped wedge structures and a scotch yoke mechanism
Implementation Method 2
first ramped wedge structure, a second ramped wedge structure configured to slide over the first ramped wedge structure to compress a portion of the IV tubing
Implementation Method 3
a yoke having a linear slot, a wheel having a pin that is radially separated from a center of the wheel and is slidably disposed in the linear slot, and a transfer structure coupled to the yoke and the first ramped wedge structure
Data Source
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AI summary
Flow controllers for intravenous (IV) tubing are provided. A flow controller may include first and second structural members defining a cavity therebetween for a portion of the tubing, wherein the first structural member is linearly slidable along a length of the tubing to compress at least part of the portion of the tubing to control flow of a medical fluid through the tubing. A flow controller may include a first ramped wedge structure, a second ramped wedge structure configured to slide over the first ramped wedge structure to compress a portion of the IV tubing disposed between the first ramped wedge structure and the second ramped wedge structure, a yoke having a linear slot, a wheel having a pin that is radially separated form a center of the wheel and is slidably disposed in the linear slot, and a transfer structure coupled to the yoke and the first ramped wedge structure. IV sets that include a flow controller are also provided.