Optical Drip Chamber Flow Meter for Precise IV Flow Regulation
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current fluid flow monitoring and regulation systems in medical settings, such as intravenous infusion therapy, often lack precision and reliability, particularly in environments where traditional infusion pumps are not available, leading to potential inaccuracies in fluid delivery rates.
Innovation Solution
A system comprising a flow meter with optical sensors to monitor fluid flow in a drip chamber, coupled with a valve that can be remotely controlled, allowing for real-time adjustments and feedback to ensure accurate fluid delivery, even in the absence of a traditional infusion pump.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Device complexity
If traditional infusion pumps are not available, then device complexity is reduced, but measurement precision and reliability of fluid delivery deteriorate
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces mechanical infusion pumps with an optical sensing system that uses light absorption measurements to detect fluid flow rates. The optical sensor system substitutes mechanical pumping mechanisms with optical field-based measurement, eliminating complex mechanical components while achieving precise fluid delivery monitoring through photodetector arrays and light source modulation.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces an optical intermediary medium (light) that interacts with the fluid to convey flow information. By using light absorption characteristics of the fluid as an intermediary, the system translates mechanical fluid motion into optical signals that can be precisely measured and processed, enabling accurate flow rate determination without direct mechanical contact or pumping.
2Measurement precision
If optical sensors are used to monitor fluid flow, then measurement precision improves, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent designs the optical sensor system to perform multiple functions simultaneously: the same light source and detector array are used for both measuring fluid flow rate and detecting fluid presence, while also providing information about fluid composition through absorption spectroscopy. This multi-functionality reduces the need for separate sensing systems for each measurement type, thereby limiting the increase in device complexity despite the high precision capabilities.
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 monitoring and regulation of fluid flow, preventing free flow conditions and ensuring delivery within predetermined ranges, thereby enhancing the accuracy and safety of medical fluid administration.
Implementation Method 1
A flow meter with optical sensors to monitor fluid flow
Data Source
AI summary
A system for regulating fluid flow having a processor configured to reduce image noise is provided. The system includes an image sensor to capture an image of the drip chamber. The processor captures the image of the drip chamber using the image sensor, performs an edge detection on the image to generate a first processed image, and performs an AND-operation on a pixel on a first side of an axis of the first processed image with a corresponding mirror pixel on a second side of the axis of the first processed image to generate a second processed image.