Sensor Assembly With Threshold-Deflecting Loading Member
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Solution Overview
Problem
Force sensors in infusion pump devices are susceptible to damage from physical impacts or forces exceeding their intended measurement range, compromising their sensitivity and accuracy in detecting occlusions in fluid paths.
Innovation Solution
A sensor assembly with a beam and a loading member that deflects in response to applied forces, featuring a mechanism to prevent further deflection when forces exceed a threshold value, protecting the sensing elements from damage and maintaining measurement accuracy.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If small force sensors are used to provide high sensitivity and accuracy for occlusion detection, then measurement precision is improved, but the sensors become more susceptible to damage from physical impact or forces exceeding the intended measurement range
Solution Approach 1:
A protective structure with a loading member is positioned between the force sensor and potential impact sources. This loading member is designed to deflect under excessive force, absorbing impact energy before it reaches the sensor. The structure includes a beam that can bend and a loading member with a feature that prevents further deflection when force exceeds a threshold, effectively cushioning the sensor from damaging forces while allowing normal operation.
Solution Approach 2:
The loading member acts as an intermediary element between the external environment and the force sensor. It transfers normal forces to the sensor for accurate measurement while blocking and dissipating excessive forces through controlled deflection. This mediator protects the sensor from direct exposure to harmful forces that would otherwise cause damage.
2Adaptability or versatility
If the beam is allowed to deflect freely in response to applied forces, then the sensor can measure a wide range of forces, but the sensing elements may be damaged when forces exceed the intended measurement range
Solution Approach 1:
The protective structure employs dynamic characteristics where the beam and loading member can deflect elastically in response to applied forces. This dynamic behavior allows the structure to adapt to varying force levels - deflecting to accommodate normal measurement forces while resisting further deflection when forces exceed the threshold, thereby protecting the sensing elements.
Solution Approach 2:
The system changes its mechanical parameters based on the applied force. Under normal operating conditions, the beam and loading member have flexibility to allow deflection for measurement. When force exceeds the threshold, the structural parameters change as the loading member's feature engages to prevent further deflection, effectively changing the system's stiffness from flexible to rigid to protect the sensor.
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 solution effectively limits deflection of the sensor assembly at high forces, preventing damage and ensuring continued accurate measurement of forces within the intended range, thereby enhancing the reliability of infusion pump devices.
Implementation Method 1
The loading member deflects the beam in response to a force applied to the sensor assembly
Implementation Method 2
a sensing element disposed on the beam
Data Source
AI summary
Apparatus are provided for sensor assemblies and related medical devices. An embodiment of a sensor assembly includes a beam and a sensing element disposed on the beam. The sensor assembly also includes a loading member to deflect the beam in response to a force applied to the sensor assembly. The loading member has a feature that prevents deflection of the beam when the force applied is greater than a threshold value.