Modular Infusion Pump Segmentation for Patient Mobility
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing IV pumps are often large and heavy, making it difficult for patients to move around while receiving fluid infusions, and modular IV pumps often have 'trapped' modules that cannot be removed without affecting other modules.
Innovation Solution
A modular infusion system with a primary control unit and removable, independently operable pumping modules that can be docked and undocked without impacting other modules, allowing for increased mobility and convenience for patients.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If a traditional IV pump system is used, then fluid delivery control is achieved, but the system is large and heavy making patient mobility difficult
Solution Approach 1:
The IV pump system is divided into separate modular components: a main control unit and individual pumping modules. Each pumping module can be independently removed and attached to the fluid delivery set, allowing the heavy main control unit to remain stationary while the lightweight pumping module moves with the patient.
2Ease of operation
If modular IV pumps are used, then mobility is improved, but modules become trapped and cannot be removed without affecting other modules
Solution Approach 1:
The pumping module is extracted as a separate, self-contained unit that can be independently removed from the main control unit. The module includes its own processor and control capabilities, allowing it to function autonomously or be reattached to different fluid delivery sets without requiring removal of other modules.
3Adaptability or versatility
If pumping modules are removed from the primary control unit, then patient mobility increases, but the modules need to maintain independent operation
Solution Approach 1:
The pumping module is designed with universal functionality to operate in multiple modes: it can be controlled by the main control unit when docked, or operate independently when removed. The module includes an integrated processor that can receive commands from either source, making it adaptable to different operational scenarios without increasing overall system complexity.
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 modular infusion system enables patients to easily move around while receiving fluid infusions, as the small, independently operable pumping modules can be carried separately from the primary control unit, and modules can be easily reassigned within the system.
Implementation Method 1
For a peristaltic type of pump, this segment may be as simple as a length of tubing that is fitted into the pumping compartment
Data Source
AI summary
A pump system is disclosed that comprises a control unit and one or more modular infusion devices removably docked to the primary control unit. Each modular infusion device comprises a pumping mechanism and a processor configured to control the pumping mechanism and communicate with the control unit. The modular infusion device is configured to manipulate a portion of a fluid delivery set to pump a fluid. The first processor and the second processor are configured to exchange one or more operating parameters when the modular infusion device is docked to the primary control unit. The modular infusion device is configured to pump the fluid after being undocked.