Mechanical Eccentric Cam Infusion Pump for Precise Dosing
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing fluid infusion devices, such as gravity infusion devices and volumetric pumps, lack precision in dosage rates, are bulky, have limited user interfaces, and can cause unintended suspension of medication due to door assembly issues, making them difficult to prime and use.
Innovation Solution
A fluid infusion system with a housing containing a motor-driven eccentric cam mechanism, a display for user input, and sensors for monitoring vital signs, allowing precise control over fluid flow rates and featuring a separable display for ergonomic positioning, a valve to prevent unintended fluid flow, and latching mechanisms for secure cartridge attachment.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If volumetric pumps are used to provide precise dosage rates, then measurement precision is improved, but device complexity and bulk increase
Solution Approach 1:
The pump system is divided into modular components: a motor assembly, an eccentric cam mechanism, and a cartridge assembly. This segmentation allows each component to perform its specific function independently, reducing overall system complexity while maintaining precision through the specialized eccentric cam design that converts rotational motion to precise linear piston movement.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces complex electronic control systems with a purely mechanical eccentric cam mechanism. The eccentric cam converts continuous rotational motion from a simple motor into precise reciprocating linear motion of the piston, eliminating the need for complex electronic dosing controls while achieving accurate dosage rates through mechanical geometry.
2Productivity
If traditional infusion pumps are used, then fluid delivery control is achieved, but ease of operation deteriorates due to limited user interface and difficult priming
Solution Approach 1:
The cartridge assembly is designed to be self-priming through its integrated valve mechanism. When the cartridge is inserted into the pump housing, the valve automatically opens to allow fluid entry and closes to prevent backflow, eliminating the need for manual priming operations and improving ease of operation while maintaining fluid delivery control.
Solution Approach 2:
The pump housing serves multiple functions: it contains the motor, houses the eccentric cam mechanism, provides the user interface, and acts as the structural framework for cartridge insertion and removal. This multi-functionality reduces the number of separate components needed, simplifying the overall system and improving ease of operation.
3Reliability
If door assembly mechanisms are added to infusion pumps, then reliability is improved for medication suspension, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The door assembly mechanism is merged with the cartridge insertion and latching system. The same mechanical interface that secures the cartridge also controls the door position, allowing the door to be automatically closed and locked when the cartridge is properly installed. This merging reduces the number of independent components while maintaining reliable medication suspension control.
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 system provides precise fluid delivery with user-friendly operation, preventing unintended suspension and facilitating easy priming, while ensuring secure and controlled infusion.
Implementation Method 1
A pump unit is disposed within the housing and comprises a motor that is mechanically coupled with an eccentric cam via one or more gears, such that the motor causes rotation of the eccentric cam. Preferably, the eccentric cam is connected or coupled to one or more pistons that are configured to move as the eccentric cam rotates.
Implementation Method 2
The cartridge preferably comprises an actuator coupled to a valve that inhibits a flow of fluid in the tubing. The valve is configured to compress the tubing to prevent fluid flow in the tubing of the cartridge when the valve is in a first position.
Data Source
AI summary
Various fluid delivery systems are described comprising an infusion pump having a housing with a first opening and a hollow interior portion that is configured to receive a cartridge having a tubing. A pump unit can be disposed within the housing. The pump unit comprises a motor mechanically coupled with a crank shaft or eccentric cam that is configured to move a set of pistons or other objects to thereby compress one or more portions of the tubing over time as the crank shaft or eccentric cam rotates.