IV Set Frame Asymmetry and Information Device for Pump Compatibility
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Solution Overview
Problem
There is a need for infusion pump systems that facilitate the proper coupling of an IV set to a modular pump device, ensuring compatibility and safety in infusing different types of fluids, as some fluids are not directly compatible and require specific pump devices and IV sets.
Innovation Solution
The IV set includes a fluid lumen, a frame for alignment with the pump device, and an information device that stores and provides information about the IV set, ensuring correct placement and compatibility with the modular pump device, which includes a valve assembly and attachment members to secure the lumen and prevent incorrect orientation.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If an IV set is designed to be compatible with multiple pump devices, then the adaptability of the IV set is improved, but the ability to prevent incorrect fluid combinations is worsened
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies local quality by providing different information identifiers on different portions of the IV set (cassette) that correspond to different pump device types. Each local region of the IV set has a specific identifier that matches with the corresponding pump device, allowing selective compatibility while maintaining safety through precise matching.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements feedback by having the pump device read the information identifier from the IV set and verify compatibility before allowing operation. The system provides feedback to the user indicating whether the IV set is compatible or incompatible with the pump device, preventing incorrect fluid combinations through active verification.
2Reliability
If an information device is added to the IV set to store compatibility information, then the reliability of fluid compatibility is improved, but the device complexity is worsened
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies copying by using a simplified information identifier (such as a code, symbol, or visual marker) that represents the compatibility information, rather than storing complex data. The pump device reads this simplified copy of the compatibility information to determine whether the IV set is compatible, reducing the complexity of the information device while maintaining reliability.
3Reliability
If the frame is designed with specific alignment features to prevent incorrect orientation, then the safety of infusion is improved, but the ease of operation is worsened
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies asymmetry by designing the frame with asymmetric alignment features such as asymmetric protrusions, recesses, or shape characteristics that only fit into the pump device in the correct orientation. This asymmetric design prevents incorrect orientation and ensures safe infusion, while the self-aligning nature of the asymmetric features actually facilitates proper insertion when the user orients the IV set correctly.
Data Source
AI summary
An IV set is configured for coupling with a pump device. The IV set comprises a fluid lumen adapted for passage of an infusion fluid toward a patient. A frame is coupled to the fluid lumen and is adapted to be inserted into a seat of a pump device, wherein the frame provides a platen relative to the fluid lumen, wherein the frame is sized and shaped such that the frame can only be inserted into the pump device when aligned in a predetermined orientation relative to the pump device. An information device is adapted to store information associated with the IV set, wherein the information device is accessed in response to proper placement of the IV set in the pump device.