Magnetic Coupling for Infusion Piston Reliability
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing liquid infusion devices face challenges in achieving precise control over small amounts of liquid injection into the human body, particularly in devices designed for pediatric diabetic patients.
Innovation Solution
A liquid infusion device is designed with a reusable module and a disposable module, where the piston for liquid discharge is coupled using a magnet at the joint between the two modules, enhancing the reliability and accuracy of the connection.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a magnetic coupling is used to connect the piston between reusable and disposable modules, then the reliability of coupling is improved, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces traditional mechanical coupling methods (screws, clips, or interlocking mechanisms) with a magnetic coupling system. The reusable module contains a magnet that magnetically couples with a ferromagnetic material in the disposable module's piston, enabling secure connection without mechanical fasteners. This substitution improves coupling reliability by eliminating mechanical wear and assembly errors while reducing structural complexity.
2Ease of operation
If the device is divided into reusable and disposable modules, then the ease of operation is improved, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The infusion device is divided into two distinct modules: a reusable module containing the motor, control electronics, and magnetic coupling mechanism, and a disposable module containing the reservoir, piston, and magnetic coupling interface. This segmentation allows users to easily replace the disposable module after use while retaining the expensive reusable module, improving ease of operation and hygiene. The magnetic coupling enables simple attachment and detachment without complex assembly procedures.
3Manufacturing precision
If a magnet is used for coupling the piston, then the manufacturing precision is improved, but the cost of manufacture increases
Solution Approach 1:
The magnetic coupling system allows for tolerance compensation through parameter adjustments. By selecting appropriate magnet strengths and ferromagnetic material properties, the system can accommodate variations in manufacturing tolerances for the coupling interfaces. This enables achieving high coupling precision without requiring extremely tight manufacturing tolerances, thereby maintaining ease of manufacture while improving coupling accuracy.
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 device ensures precise and reliable injection of small amounts of liquid, improving the accuracy and consistency of liquid delivery, which is particularly beneficial for pediatric diabetic patients.
Implementation Method 1
a solenoid 130 that generates magnetic force when powered
Implementation Method 2
the piston-check valve module is connected to the second movable body through the attractive force of a magnet
Data Source
AI summary
The present invention relates to a liquid infusion device composed of a combination of a reusable module, which can be used repeatedly, and a disposable module, which is replaced after use. The reusable module (100) includes a solenoid (130) that generates magnetic force when powered, a first movable body (140) that performs a reciprocating motion driven by the magnetic force from the solenoid, and a second movable body (150) that moves in conjunction with the reciprocating motion of the first movable body. The disposable module (200) consists of a reservoir (230) for storing the liquid and a piston-check valve module (250) that receives the liquid stored in the reservoir and discharges it externally. When the reusable module and the disposable module are coupled, the piston-check valve module is connected to the second movable body through the attractive force of a magnet.