Fluid Volume Detection in Syringes Using Optical Sensors
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Existing fluid injection systems are prone to user error when tracking the volume of fluid in syringes, leading to incomplete procedures and unnecessary diagnostic scans due to incorrect volume entries and difficulty distinguishing between fluids, especially in translucent containers.
Innovation Solution
A system that uses sensors, such as optical devices or cameras, to measure the fill volume in syringes by detecting the liquid-gas interface and communicating this information to a control module for real-time display, eliminating the need for manual entry and enhancing fluid differentiation.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If manual entry of fluid volume is used, then the system is simple to operate, but user error occurs leading to incorrect volume tracking
Solution Approach 1:
The system uses sensors to automatically detect and track fluid volume in the syringe without requiring manual user input. The sensor system self-monitors the fluid level and communicates with the control module to provide accurate volume tracking independently of user action.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces manual mechanical entry methods with automated sensor-based detection. Optical or other sensors detect fluid characteristics and translate them into volume measurements, substituting the manual writing/entry process with an automated detection system.
2Difficulty of detecting and measuring
If translucent syringes are used, then the syringe is easy to handle and less visible to patient, but fluid level detection becomes difficult
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces sensors as an intermediary between the fluid in the translucent syringe and the detection system. The sensors detect fluid properties (such as optical characteristics) and translate them into measurable signals, allowing fluid level detection without requiring direct visual observation through the translucent material.
3Adaptability or versatility
If clear or slightly tinted fluids are used, then the medical procedure is standardized, but fluid differentiation becomes difficult
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies different detection methods or sensor types tailored to specific fluid characteristics. By adapting the detection approach to local fluid properties (such as using optical sensors for clear fluids versus other sensors for tinted fluids), the system can differentiate between fluid types while maintaining compatibility with standardized medical fluids.
4Measurement precision
If real-time sensor monitoring is implemented, then accurate fluid tracking is achieved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent designs the sensor system to perform multiple functions: detecting fluid level, identifying fluid type, and providing real-time volume tracking. By making the sensor system universal and multi-functional, the patent reduces the need for separate systems for each measurement task, thereby managing complexity while achieving comprehensive monitoring.
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
Accurately tracks the remaining fluid volume during procedures, preventing incomplete injections and reducing waste by providing real-time data and alerts when fluid levels are low, thus ensuring efficient use of medical fluids.
Implementation Method 1
A sensor, such as an optical device or camera, is provided that detects a liquid-gas interface in the fluid chamber
Data Source
Figure 1
Figure 2
Figure 3
AI summary
A system and method for determining the fill volume of a fluid chamber includes a fluid injector, at least one fluid chamber in fluid communication with the fluid injector, one or more sensors positioned relative to the at least one fluid chamber and configured to detect a position of a liquid-gas interface of the fluid contained in the at least one fluid chamber, and at least one processor in communication with the sensors and the fluid injector, and configured to: determine the position of the liquid-gas interface of the fluid, calculate the volume of fluid in the at least one fluid chamber based on the position of the liquid-gas interface, and at least one of: i) display the volume of the fluid; ii) enable the fluid injector to perform an action; and iii) disable the fluid injector from performing the action.