Transfer Guard Fluid Path and Air Flow Control for Infusion Pumps
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current systems for transferring fluidic media, such as insulin, in infusion pumps face challenges in efficiently refilling reservoirs without compromising sterility and ensuring accurate measurement of fluid volumes during the transfer process.
Innovation Solution
A system comprising a transfer guard, handle, and casing that allows for the transfer of fluidic media from a vial to a reservoir, with a plunger arm mechanism for axial movement within the reservoir, and an air flow control mechanism to equalize pressure, ensuring sterility and visibility of fluid levels through fill lines for precise measurement.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If a transfer guard system is introduced to enable refilling of reservoirs, then the ability to refill reservoirs is improved, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The transfer guard system is divided into separate functional components: a transfer guard body, a plunger arm mechanism, a handle assembly, and a casing. Each component performs a specific function in the refilling process, allowing for modular assembly and simplified maintenance while enabling the complex refilling capability.
Solution Approach 2:
The transfer guard acts as an intermediary device between the vial and the reservoir, providing a controlled interface for fluid transfer. This intermediary structure enables refilling functionality while isolating the complex mechanisms within the transfer guard from the simple reservoir and vial interfaces.
2Measurement precision
If a plunger arm mechanism is used to transfer fluidic media, then the precision of fluid transfer is improved, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The plunger arm mechanism is designed to be manually actuated by the user through the handle assembly. The plunger arm automatically engages with the reservoir and performs the fluid transfer when the user applies force through the handle, eliminating the need for complex automated positioning and control systems while maintaining precise fluid volume transfer.
3Reliability
If the transfer guard is designed to maintain sterility during refilling, then the reliability of the system is improved, but the ease of operation decreases
Solution Approach 1:
The transfer guard incorporates a flexible membrane or septum that allows controlled access to the vial and reservoir while maintaining the sterile barrier. This flexible element enables the plunger arm to interact with the fluidic media while preserving sterility, and can be easily manipulated by the user during the refilling process.
4Measurement precision
If fill lines are added for fluid level visibility, then the measurement precision is improved, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The fill lines are implemented as visual indicators, potentially using color-coded markings or transparent portions of the casing that allow the user to see the fluid level. This visual approach provides precise fluid level measurement without requiring complex electronic sensors or additional mechanical components.
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
Facilitates efficient and sterile refilling of reservoirs with precise fluid measurement, enhancing the usability and reliability of infusion pumps for patients with chronic diseases like diabetes.
Implementation Method 1
an air flow control mechanism to equalize pressure
Implementation Method 2
The plunger head is axially movable within the reservoir to draw fluid in via the fluid path when it is retracted
Data Source
Figure 1
Figure 2
Figure 3~4
AI summary
A transfer guard may provide a fluid path from a vial to a reservoir containing a plunger head connected to a plunger arm operatively engagable with a handle that at least partially covers a casing configured to allow the handle to operatively engage the plunger arm to move the plunger head to transfer fluidic media from the vial to the reservoir. A support structure may have a chamber, a first adapter for mating with a vial containing fluidic media, and a second adapter for mating with a reservoir containing a plunger head moveable within the reservoir. A first needle may provide a fluid path from the vial to the reservoir and a second needle may connect the vial and the chamber containing an air flow control mechanism for allowing air to flow in one direction.