Medical Reservoir Level Sensor Using Segmented Electrodes
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current medical fluid systems lack efficient methods for detecting the level of fluid in medical reservoirs and controlling pump flow rates and venous line occlusion, which can lead to undesirable consequences during medical procedures, requiring continuous monitoring by clinicians.
Innovation Solution
A medical fluid reservoir system equipped with a level sensor featuring multiple electrode pairs at different elevations, which measures resistances to determine fluid levels and sends signals to adjust pump speed or venous occlusion, automating control and reducing the need for continuous clinician monitoring.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Productivity
If manual monitoring of fluid level is used, then device complexity is reduced, but productivity decreases due to continuous clinician monitoring requirement
Solution Approach 1:
The fluid level detection is segmented into multiple discrete measurement points using electrode pairs at different elevations. Each electrode pair independently detects fluid presence at its specific height, dividing the continuous monitoring task into discrete, manageable segments that can be processed individually to determine overall fluid level.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces manual mechanical monitoring by clinicians with an automated electrical detection system. The electrode pairs utilize electrical conductivity measurements to automatically detect fluid levels, substituting the mechanical observation and manual control system with an electrical sensing and automated control system.
2Ease of operation
If automated pump control is implemented, then operator stress is reduced, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The system implements a feedback loop where the electrode pairs continuously monitor fluid level and automatically adjust pump operation accordingly. When fluid level drops below electrode pairs, the system receives feedback and automatically reduces or stops pumping, eliminating the need for operator intervention and reducing operator stress while maintaining simple operation.
3Measurement precision
If multiple electrode pairs are used, then measurement precision improves, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The fluid level detection is segmented into multiple discrete measurement points using electrode pairs at different elevations. Each electrode pair independently detects fluid presence at its specific height, dividing the continuous monitoring task into discrete, manageable segments that can be processed individually to determine overall fluid level.
Solution Approach 2:
The electrode pairs serve multiple functions: they detect fluid presence at specific elevations, determine overall fluid level, and trigger automated pump control. This multi-functionality achieves precise measurement without proportionally increasing system complexity, as the same basic electrode structure performs multiple detection and control tasks.
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
This solution automates pump control and venous occlusion, enhancing procedural efficiency, reducing operator stress, improving patient safety, and minimizing blood dilution, while allowing for smaller reservoirs and lower costs.
Implementation Method 1
The level sensor includes a plurality of electrode pairs that are electrically uninsulated in relation to the interior space. Individual electrode pairs of the plurality of electrode pairs are disposed at respectively differing elevations in relation to the reservoir shell.
Data Source
AI summary
Devices can be used to detect a level of a fluid in a medical fluid reservoir. Methods for controlling the flow rate of a medical pump, and/or the occlusion amount of a medical fluid tube, that are based on the detected level of fluid in the medical reservoir can be used in a clinical setting.