Linear IV Tubing Flow Controller for Precise Infusion Rate Control
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing IV fluid administration systems using roller clamps struggle to accurately control the flow rate of medical fluids, making it difficult to achieve a desired infusion rate.
Innovation Solution
A linearly actuated flow controller with interlocking wedge structures that allow for precise control of IV tubing compression, incorporating a rotary control mechanism to translate rotational motion into linear motion, and featuring friction-reducing and friction-increasing surfaces to enhance control and stability.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If a roller clamp is used to control flow rate, then the device structure remains simple, but the flow rate control precision deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces the traditional roller clamp mechanical system with a linear actuated flow controller that uses a linearly movable member guided by ramped surfaces. This substitution transforms the control mechanism from a simple roller design to a more sophisticated linear actuation system that provides superior flow rate precision through controlled compression of the IV tubing.
Solution Approach 2:
The invention implements a dynamically controllable flow regulation system where the linearly movable member can be precisely positioned along the IV tubing length. The ramped surfaces convert linear motion into controlled compression force, enabling dynamic adjustment of flow rate with high precision while maintaining operational simplicity through linear actuation.
2Ease of operation
If friction-reducing surfaces are added to the cavity, then the linear sliding control improves, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies friction-reducing surfaces selectively to specific portions of the cavity where the linearly movable member slides. This localized application of low-friction coatings or materials improves the smoothness and precision of linear sliding control without requiring the entire device to be redesigned, thereby minimizing the increase in overall device complexity.
Solution Approach 2:
The invention modifies the surface properties of the cavity by changing friction parameters through coatings or material selection. This parameter change enables smoother linear motion of the controllable member along the IV tubing, enhancing operational ease while maintaining the fundamental simplicity of the linear actuation mechanism.
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
Provides fine control over fluid flow rates, maintaining consistency and user-friendly operation, ensuring accurate infusion by allowing for tactile feedback and maintaining the desired flow rate without drift.
Implementation Method 1
a third structural member disposed on one of the first or second structural member, the third structural member comprising a friction-reducing surface for at least a portion of a cavity disposed between the first and second structural members
Implementation Method 2
A linearly actuated flow controller with interlocking wedge structures that allow for precise control of IV tubing compression, incorporating a rotary control mechanism to translate rotational motion into linear motion
Data Source
AI summary
Flow controllers for intravenous (IV) tubing are provided. A flow controller may include a first structural member comprising a first outer surface and a first inner surface disposed at an angle to the first outer surface, a second structural member comprising a second outer surface parallel to the first outer surface and a second continuous inner surface parallel to the first inner surface, and a third structural member disposed on one of the first or second structural member and having a friction-reducing surface for at least a portion of a cavity disposed between the first and second structural members. The first structural member is linearly slidable along a length of the IV tubing disposed in the cavity to compress a portion of the IV tubing to control flow of a medical fluid through the IV tubing. Other flow controllers and IV sets that include a flow controller are also provided.