Optical Imaging System for Infusion Pump Volume Control
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Solution Overview
Problem
Monochrome image sensors cannot effectively separate and process multiple images simultaneously, limiting their ability to generate distinct images for different portions of an infusion pump, such as a drip chamber with distinct light spectrums.
Innovation Solution
An optical imaging system using a single color image sensor and a microprocessor to process data from multiple light spectrums, with a single lens and beam combiners, allowing for the generation of distinct images for different portions of the infusion pump by emitting specific light spectrums and using chromatic multiplexing.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of manufacture
If a monochrome image sensor is used, then cost is reduced, but the ability to separate and process multiple images simultaneously is lost
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the optical spectrum into multiple wavelength bands using dichroic mirrors and bandpass filters. Each wavelength band carries image information from a different portion of the infusion pump, allowing a single monochrome sensor to capture multiple distinct images simultaneously by spatially separating them through spectral segmentation.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent changes the optical parameter of wavelength by using multiple light sources emitting at different wavelengths (e.g., 450nm, 530nm, 630nm) and optical filters to select specific wavelength bands. This allows the system to encode different spatial information into different wavelength channels, which are then detected by the monochrome sensor and separated through spectral filtering.
2Adaptability or versatility
If a single color image sensor is used with chromatic multiplexing, then multiple distinct images can be generated from different portions of the pump, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges multiple optical paths into a single imaging path using beam combiners and dichroic mirrors. Light from different portions of the pump, carrying different wavelength information, is combined and directed to a single image sensor. This reduces the number of separate imaging systems needed while maintaining the ability to capture multiple distinct images.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent makes a single optical imaging system perform multiple functions by using chromatic multiplexing. The same lens and image sensor are used to capture images of different portions of the pump (drip chamber, drip tube, etc.) by selectively filtering different wavelength bands, eliminating the need for multiple dedicated imaging systems.
3Adaptability or versatility
If multiple light sources with different spectrums are used, then distinct images for different portions can be generated, but device complexity and cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent uses periodic action by sequentially activating different light sources or using a single broadband light source with temporal modulation. Combined with optical filters that select specific wavelength bands at different times, this allows a single image sensor to capture multiple spectral channels sequentially, reducing the need for simultaneous multi-wavelength illumination.
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
Enables accurate calculation of the volume of a pendant drop and effective control of fluid flow through the infusion pump by distinguishing and processing multiple light spectrums, enhancing the precision and efficiency of fluid administration.
Implementation Method 1
at least one light source for emitting at least two of first, second, or third spectrums of light; an optics system including a single lens for receiving and transmitting at least two of the first spectrum of light transmitted through the first portion, the second spectrum of light transmitted through the second portion, or the third spectrum of light transmitted through the third portion
Implementation Method 2
a single color image sensor for: receiving the at least two of the first, second, or third spectrums of light from the single lens; and generating and transmitting data characterizing the at least two of the first, second, or third spectrums of light received from the single lens
Data Source
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Figure 3A~3D
AI summary
A computer-implemented method of calculating a volume of a drop pendant using a microprocessor, comprising: generating, using the microprocessor, a gravity vector based on a direction of gravity with respect to the drop pendant; establishing, using the microprocessor, a reference frame of the drop pendant for an image processing based on a reference point of the drop pendant and the gravity vector; generating, using the microprocessor, a first reference line associated with the reference frame for representing an actual orientation of the drop pendant; generating, using the microprocessor, a second reference line associated with the reference frame for representing a longitudinal axis of a chamber in which the drop pendant is located; comparing, using the microprocessor, the first and second reference lines with respect to the gravity vector; and calculating, using the microprocessor, the volume of the drop pendant based on the comparison of the first and second reference lines and the gravity vector.