Removable Infusion Pump Controller With Side-by-Side Modular Design
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing infusion pump systems lack a secure, compact, and portable design that allows for easy detachment and replacement of components, while ensuring reliable electrical connections and resistance to external contaminants.
Innovation Solution
A portable infusion pump system with a reusable controller device that removably attaches to a disposable pump device in a side-by-side configuration, featuring a secure fitting, compact size, and reliable electrical connection, along with a release member for easy detachment, and seals to resist external contaminants.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of repair
If the controller device and pump device are designed as separate components, then the system provides ease of maintenance and component replacement, but the overall device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The infusion pump system is divided into separate functional modules: a reusable controller device and a disposable pump device. This segmentation allows independent replacement of components, improving maintenance ease while the standardized interface design minimizes the complexity increase by creating modular, self-contained units.
Solution Approach 2:
The attachment mechanism between controller and pump device is designed to be dynamically changeable - easily attachable and detachable through a release member mechanism. This dynamic connection allows quick component replacement without permanent assembly, balancing ease of repair with manageable device complexity.
2Adaptability or versatility
If the controller device is designed to removably attach to the pump device, then the system provides adaptability and ease of operation, but the connection reliability may be compromised
Solution Approach 1:
The electrical connection mechanism is nested within the mechanical attachment structure. When the controller and pump device are attached through the release member mechanism, electrical contacts are automatically engaged within the assembled structure, ensuring reliable electrical connection while maintaining removable attachment capability.
Solution Approach 2:
An intermediary electrical connector mechanism mediates between the removable attachment requirement and connection reliability. The connector includes contact elements that establish reliable electrical pathways when engaged, while the overall assembly remains detachable through the release member, balancing adaptability with connection reliability.
3Volume of moving object
If the pump device and controller device are arranged side-by-side, then the overall system size is reduced, but the manufacturing precision requirements increase
Solution Approach 1:
The side-by-side arrangement creates an asymmetric compact configuration where the controller and pump device are positioned at different heights and depths rather than being stacked symmetrically. This asymmetric layout reduces the overall volume while the asymmetric attachment interface design incorporates alignment features that compensate for manufacturing tolerances, reducing the impact of precision requirements.
Solution Approach 2:
Instead of stacking components vertically (one dimension), the design utilizes a side-by-side arrangement that distributes components across multiple spatial dimensions. This dimensional redistribution reduces the volume in any single dimension while the attachment mechanism includes built-in alignment features that manage the increased manufacturing precision requirements through mechanical guidance.
Data Source
AI summary
Some embodiments of an infusion pump system include a controller device that is configured to removably attach to a pump device in a manner that provides a secure fitting, an overall compact size, and a reliable electrical connection. In particular embodiments, the controller device can be secured to the pump device in a generally side-by-side arrangement. The compact size can enhance discreteness and portability of the infusion pump system.