Modular Tubing Set for Variable Flow Rate Infusion
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Current infusion systems lack versatility in adjusting flow rates during administration, requiring users to replace tubing multiple times, which can lead to contamination and user error, especially when transitioning from slow to faster infusion rates.
Innovation Solution
A modular tubing system comprising multiple tubing segments with different pre-set flow rates, connectable in-series or parallel configurations, allowing users to easily adjust flow rates by removing or blocking segments using clamps, compatible with constant-pressure pumps.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If users replace pre-set flow tubing with other tubing to vary flow rate, then flow rate adjustment is achieved, but contamination risk and user error increase
Solution Approach 1:
The tubing system is divided into multiple segments with different pre-set flow rates that can be selectively activated. Each segment contains a specific flow rate (e.g., slow, medium, fast), and users can switch between segments by opening or closing specific ports, eliminating the need to physically replace tubing and reducing contamination risk.
Solution Approach 2:
A single multifunctional tubing set incorporates multiple flow rate capabilities through integrated segments and selectable ports. The system provides slow flow rate port, fast flow rate port, and combination port options within one tubing assembly, allowing users to adjust flow rates without switching to different tubing sets, thereby maintaining reliability and reducing user error.
2Adaptability or versatility
If users replace tubing multiple times to achieve desired flow rates, then flow rate control is improved, but administration time and complexity increase
Solution Approach 1:
The tubing system is pre-configured with multiple segments having different flow rates before use. The segments are prepared in advance with open/close configurations that correspond to desired flow rates, allowing users to simply open or close ports during administration rather than performing time-consuming tubing replacement procedures.
Solution Approach 2:
The system allows dynamic adjustment of flow rates during administration by enabling users to open or close specific ports on demand. This dynamic control mechanism provides real-time flow rate adjustment without interrupting the administration process or requiring time-consuming tubing changes.
3Ease of operation
If pre-set flow tubing is used, then ease of operation is maintained, but flow rate versatility is limited
Solution Approach 1:
The tubing is segmented into distinct sections with different flow characteristics, and each segment can be independently activated or deactivated by closing specific ports. This segmentation maintains ease of operation through simple port closure while providing versatile flow rate options through different segment combinations.
Solution Approach 2:
The tubing set is designed as a universal system that combines multiple flow rate functions in one device. It includes slow flow rate port, fast flow rate port, and combination port, allowing users to access different flow rates through a single multifunctional tubing set rather than requiring multiple specialized tubing sets.
Data Source
AI summary
The invention provides a modular tubing system with a set of tubing segments that can be configured to provide a desired flow rate. In the modular systems described herein, multiple tubes with pre-set flow rates are attached either in-series or in parallel to allow the user to vary the flow rate of the therapy. The modular systems described herein may be used in connection with a constant pressure pump for subcutaneous administration of therapeutic agents.