Motorized Syringe-Receptacle Test Device for Automated Pump Testing
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing infusion pumps require manual testing for functionality, which is inefficient and lacks comprehensive automation for simulating various operating states and error scenarios.
Innovation Solution
A test device and system that includes a movable actuator, electric motor, and computer-controlled test commands to automatically test infusion pumps and blood treatment apparatuses, simulating different operating states and error scenarios.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Productivity
If manual testing is used for infusion pumps, then testing can be performed with simple equipment, but testing efficiency and comprehensiveness are reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The test device creates a virtual copy of a syringe with identical mechanical and electrical characteristics, allowing automated testing without requiring actual syringes. The virtual syringe includes a piston flange, cylinder, and electronic components that replicate real syringe behavior, enabling comprehensive automated testing while reducing equipment complexity
Solution Approach 2:
The test device is designed to be inserted into the pump's syringe receptacle and automatically executed by the pump's control unit. The device self-configures and performs multiple test functions (mechanical movement, electrical signal generation, error scenario simulation) without requiring external testing equipment or manual operation, thereby improving testing efficiency while maintaining simplicity
2Reliability
If automated testing is implemented, then testing comprehensiveness and safety are improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The test device integrates multiple testing functions into a single universal platform that can simulate various operating states (continuous infusion, bolus mode), error scenarios (occlusions, air bubbles), and mechanical movements. This multi-functionality comprehensively tests pump reliability without requiring multiple separate complex testing systems
Solution Approach 2:
The test device acts as an intermediary between the pump system and external testing requirements. It translates complex safety and reliability testing needs into simple mechanical movements and electrical signals that the pump can process, thereby improving reliability assessment without increasing overall system complexity
3Difficulty of detecting and measuring
If comprehensive test scenarios are simulated, then error detection capability is improved, but testing time increases
Solution Approach 1:
The test device executes comprehensive test scenarios through periodic automated cycles controlled by the pump's control unit. Multiple test functions (mechanical movement, electrical signal generation, error simulation) are performed in structured sequences, enabling thorough error detection within standardized timeframes rather than requiring extended continuous testing
Solution Approach 2:
The test device pre-configures various error scenarios (occlusions, air bubbles, mechanical failures) and test conditions before actual pumping operations. By preparing test situations in advance, the system can quickly detect and measure errors during routine operation without requiring time-consuming manual setup for each test scenario
Data Source
AI summary
The present disclosure relates to a test device to be inserted into the syringe receptacle of a pump, for example for a blood treatment apparatus, for testing at least one function of the pump and/or of the blood treatment apparatus. The test device includes a holding device for releasably holding the test device on the housing of the blood treatment apparatus. In addition, the test device includes at least one movable actuator and at least one electric motor arranged to directly or indirectly move said movable actuator or a section thereof.