SERS Sensor Segmentation for IV Fluid Flow and Detection
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing disposable sets for intravenous therapy using Raman spectroscopy and surface-enhanced Raman spectroscopy sensors face challenges with fluid flow interference and reduced sensing accuracy due to the placement of sensors within tubing, which affects the accuracy of fluid type and concentration verification.
Innovation Solution
The integration of SERS sensors within the tubing of a disposable set, with configurations such as sensing members having flanges and through holes to minimize fluid restriction, and positioning SERS sensors flush with the interior wall to enhance Raman scattering, allowing for improved fluid flow and interference-free laser light transmission.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If SERS sensors are placed within the tubing to enable fluid contact for detection, then sensing capability is improved, but fluid flow is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The sensor is divided into a sensing portion that contacts the fluid and a non-sensing portion that does not contact the fluid. The sensing portion includes the SERS substrate positioned within the tubing lumen to contact the fluid, while the non-sensing portion extends outside the tubing. This segmentation allows the sensor to perform its detection function while minimizing obstruction to fluid flow through the tubing.
2Measurement precision
If SERS sensors are placed within the tubing to enable fluid contact, then sensing capability is improved, but laser light transmission is interfered with by tubing material
Solution Approach 1:
A window member is introduced as an intermediary component that is transparent to laser light. The window member is positioned within the tubing to allow laser light to pass through while enabling the SERS substrate to contact the fluid. The window member acts as a mediator that permits both fluid access to the sensor and optical transmission, eliminating the interference caused by the opaque tubing material.
3Productivity
If sensing member diameter is reduced to minimize fluid restriction, then fluid flow is improved, but structural stability may be compromised
Solution Approach 1:
The sensing member is segmented into different portions with different diameters optimized for different functions. The sensing portion has a smaller diameter to minimize fluid restriction and allow adequate flow, while the non-sensing portion has a larger diameter to provide structural stability and facilitate handling. This segmentation allows each portion to be optimized independently for its specific function.
Solution Approach 2:
The sensor design transitions from a single-diameter structure to a multi-diameter structure along its length. By varying the diameter along the longitudinal dimension, the design accommodates both fluid flow requirements (smaller diameter sensing portion) and structural requirements (larger diameter non-sensing portion) without compromise.
Data Source
AI summary
A disposable set (100) includes a tube; and a sensing member (104) press-fittingly insertable into the tube, the sensing member including: a first end (106) having a first diameter and including at least one through hole (112) positioned along a perimeter of the first end; a second end (108) having a second diameter and including at least one through hole positioned along a perimeter of the second end, the first diameter and the second diameter being substantially equal to an interior diameter of the tube; and a middle portion (110) located between the first end and the second end having a diameter that is less than the first diameter, the middle portion including at least one SERS sensing element (114), wherein the through holes in the first and second ends enable fluid to pass through the sensing member.