Matrix Infusion Cassette Segmentation for Flow Rate Accuracy
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Solution Overview
Problem
Infusion pumps face challenges in providing accurate delivery at very low flow rates while maintaining a maximum flow capability suitable for most patients, with existing technologies limited in their ability to control fluid flow over a wide range of rates.
Innovation Solution
A matrix infusion cassette and pump system with multiple pumping chambers and fluid conduits, actuated by pumping actuators and controlled by a processor, allowing for precise control of fluid flow rates through interconnecting conduits and valves, enabling a wide range of flow rates from low to high.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If a single pumping chamber is used, then the device complexity is reduced, but the ability to deliver accurate low flow rates while maintaining high flow capability is compromised
Solution Approach 1:
The pumping system is divided into multiple pumping chambers (first, second, third chambers) with different volumes. Each chamber can be independently actuated to deliver fluid at different flow rates. The smaller chambers enable accurate low flow rate delivery, while the larger chamber provides high flow capability, resolving the contradiction between flow rate accuracy and flow capability range.
2Adaptability or versatility
If multiple pumping chambers are used, then the range of flow rates is expanded, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The system segments the pumping function across multiple chambers of different volumes, allowing adaptation to different flow rate requirements. The controller selectively actuates appropriate chambers based on the desired flow rate, providing versatility without requiring all chambers to be simultaneously complex.
Solution Approach 2:
Multiple pumping chambers serve universal pumping functions but with different volume capacities. Each chamber can independently deliver fluid, and the controller selects which chambers to use based on flow rate requirements, making the system versatile across a wide flow rate range while maintaining relatively simple individual chamber designs.
3Productivity
If volumetric pumps are used for high flow rates, then the maximum flow capability is sufficient, but the accuracy at very low flow rates is compromised
Solution Approach 1:
The pumping system segments flow delivery across chambers of different volumes. Smaller chambers are used for low flow rate applications where accuracy is critical, while larger chambers handle high flow rate requirements. This segmentation allows the system to achieve both high maximum flow capability and accurate low flow rate delivery, resolving the contradiction between productivity and measurement precision.
Data Source
Figure 1A~1B
Figure 2A~2D
Figure 3~4D
AI summary
A matrix infusion cassette for use with an intravenous (IV) pump is disclosed. The matrix infusion cassette includes a body configured to attach to the IV pump, the body having one or more inlet ports, an outlet port, and a plurality of pumping chambers, and a plurality of fluid conduits connecting the inlet ports to at least one pumping chamber, interconnecting the pumping chambers, and connecting at least one pumping chamber to the outlet port.