Optical Drip Chamber Flow Control With Tube-Deforming Valve
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing fluid flow management systems in medical settings lack precise control and monitoring capabilities, particularly in situations requiring strict adherence to set flow rates, such as intravenous infusion therapy.
Innovation Solution
A system comprising a flow meter with optical sensors to monitor fluid flow, coupled with a valve that can be remotely controlled, allowing for precise regulation and monitoring of fluid flow rates in real-time.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Device complexity
If manual flow regulation is used, then device complexity is reduced, but flow rate precision and control accuracy deteriorate
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces manual mechanical flow regulation with an automated system comprising optical sensors, flow meters, and electronically controlled valves. The optical sensors detect fluid flow characteristics, the flow meters quantify flow rates, and the electronically controlled valves adjust flow precisely based on sensor feedback, eliminating the need for manual regulation while achieving high flow rate precision.
Solution Approach 2:
The system implements a feedback control mechanism where optical sensors continuously monitor fluid flow characteristics, the flow meter measures the actual flow rate, and this information is used to automatically adjust the electronically controlled valve to maintain the desired flow rate, thereby improving control accuracy without increasing operational complexity.
2Measurement precision
If real-time monitoring is implemented, then flow control accuracy is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The optical sensors serve multiple functions: they detect the presence of fluid, measure flow rate, and monitor flow characteristics simultaneously. This multi-functionality allows real-time monitoring and precise flow control to be achieved without proportionally increasing system complexity, as a single sensor system performs multiple measurement tasks.
Solution Approach 2:
The flow meter acts as an intermediary device that translates complex fluid flow characteristics into quantifiable measurements. By placing the flow meter in the fluid path, it provides standardized flow data that can be used by the control system, simplifying the overall monitoring architecture while maintaining high measurement precision.
3Measurement precision
If optical sensors are used for flow detection, then measurement precision is improved, but device complexity and cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
The optical sensors are designed to utilize the fluid's own optical properties (refraction, absorption, or scattering) for detection without requiring additional markers, dyes, or complex preparation. The sensors detect flow characteristics directly from the fluid itself, achieving high measurement precision while avoiding the complexity of auxiliary systems.
Solution Approach 2:
The optical sensors create optical copies or images of the fluid flow characteristics, converting physical flow parameters into optical signals that can be measured and analyzed. This copying mechanism allows precise non-contact measurement of flow rate and characteristics without physically interfering with the fluid stream, maintaining measurement accuracy while minimizing 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 system enables accurate and controlled fluid flow, preventing free flow conditions and ensuring that fluid delivery adheres to predetermined rates, thereby enhancing patient safety and treatment efficacy.
Implementation Method 1
A sensor, such as an optical sensor, may be used to detect the flow of fluid
Data Source
AI summary
An apparatus, system and method for regulating fluid flow are disclosed. The apparatus includes a flow rate sensor and a valve. The flow rate sensor uses images to estimate flow through a drip chamber and then controls the valve based on the estimated flow rate. The valve comprises a rigid housing disposed around the tube in which fluid flow is being controlled. Increasing the pressure in the housing controls the size of the lumen within the tube by deforming the tube, therefore controlling flow through the tube.