Portable Infusion Pump Eliminates IV Pole Dependency
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional intravenous (IV) infusion systems require patients to be close to an IV pole for gravity-based infusions, limiting mobility and independence during treatment.
Innovation Solution
A portable infusion pump that replaces the drip chamber, allowing for controlled fluid delivery independent of gravity, enabling patients to wear or carry the IV bag and pump, thus eliminating the need for an IV pole.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If gravity-based IV infusion is used, then fluid delivery is simple and reliable, but patient mobility is limited and IV pole is required
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces the gravity-based mechanical fluid delivery system with an electrically-driven pump system. The infusion pump uses a motor-driven piston to push fluid through the IV line, eliminating the need for gravity and IV pole. This substitution enables patients to be mobile while receiving IV fluids, as the pump actively delivers fluid regardless of patient position or orientation.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces an intermediary pump device between the IV fluid container and the patient's IV line. This pump acts as a mediator that takes over the fluid delivery function from the gravity-based system, allowing the IV bag to be positioned anywhere (even on the patient's body) while maintaining controlled fluid delivery through active pumping rather than gravity-dependent flow.
2Adaptability or versatility
If IV bag is placed above patient level, then gravity-driven flow is achieved, but patient cannot freely move or change position
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces gravity-dependent passive flow with an active electric pump system. The pump's motor-driven mechanism pushes fluid through the IV line regardless of the IV bag's position relative to the patient, enabling the patient to change positions freely while maintaining reliable fluid delivery. The pump compensates for any gravitational effects by actively applying pressure to the fluid.
3Ease of operation
If conventional IV set with drip chamber is used, then system is simple and inexpensive, but patient independence and mobility are reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements a self-service system where the infusion pump automatically controls fluid delivery without requiring patient intervention or external IV pole support. The pump is programmed with flow rate parameters and autonomously manages the infusion process, allowing patients to independently mobile while receiving IV fluids. The system monitors and regulates its own operation, eliminating the need for continuous external support structures.
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
Enhances patient mobility and independence during IV treatments by providing continuous fluid delivery without orientation dependence on gravity, promoting improved patient outcomes and reducing the burden of IV pole constraints.
Implementation Method 1
a drive system for pumping the fluid through the spike member and out the outlet of the housing
Data Source
AI summary
An infusion pump for delivery of a fluid is disclosed. The infusion pump allows a user to selectively control a flow rate of a fluid and includes a spike member that is connectable to an injection port of an intravenous fluid container.