Ultrasonic Flow Sensor Assembly for Accurate IV Bolus Documentation
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Solution Overview
Problem
There is a need to reduce medication errors during intravenous bolus delivery by providing an automated record of medication, concentration, volume, and time of injection, while also alerting healthcare professionals of inconsistencies with a patient's medical record.
Innovation Solution
A flow sensor system comprising a single-use flow sensor and a reusable base unit that attaches to an injection site, featuring a flow tube with piezo elements and a base with a controller and transmitter for wireless communication, allowing for real-time monitoring and documentation of medication delivery and alerting healthcare professionals of potential errors.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If manual IV injection monitoring is used, then device complexity is reduced, but measurement precision and reliability of medication delivery are worsened
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces manual mechanical monitoring with an ultrasonic flow sensor system that uses acoustic waves to measure fluid flow. The ultrasonic transducers convert mechanical vibrations into electrical signals, enabling automated, precise measurement of medication delivery without complex mechanical moving parts in the fluid path.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces an ultrasonic coupling medium (such as gel or fluid) as an intermediary between the ultrasonic transducers and the IV tubing. This intermediary enables the transmission of ultrasonic waves through the tubing wall to detect flow characteristics without direct contact with the medication, maintaining sterility while enabling measurement.
2Reliability
If automated monitoring and documentation systems are implemented, then reliability and safety are improved, but device complexity and ease of operation are worsened
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements a system where the ultrasonic flow sensor automatically detects flow characteristics and the controller autonomously calculates and documents medication delivery parameters. The system self-calibrates by detecting the IV tubing characteristics and automatically adjusts measurement parameters, reducing the need for manual configuration and minimizing user error.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent incorporates a feedback loop where the ultrasonic flow sensor continuously monitors medication flow, the controller processes the data in real-time, and the system provides immediate alerts or notifications when abnormal conditions are detected. This closed-loop feedback ensures reliable monitoring while automating the documentation process in the patient's medical record.
3Loss of substance
If reusable base units with integrated electronics are used, then loss of substance and cost are reduced, but manufacturing precision and reliability are worsened
Solution Approach 1:
The patent divides the monitoring system into two distinct segments: a disposable flow sensor assembly that contacts the medication and is discarded after single use, and a reusable base unit containing the ultrasonic transducers, controller, and documentation system. This segmentation ensures that the precision-critical reusable portion can be manufactured with high tolerances and reused, while the disposable portion handles the sterile, single-contact requirement.
Solution Approach 2:
The reusable base unit is designed as a universal platform that can interface with different disposable sensor assemblies for various types of IV tubing and medication delivery systems. The base unit contains standardized mounting mechanisms and electrical connections that accommodate multiple sensor configurations, reducing the need for custom-manufactured components for each application.
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 system effectively reduces medication errors by providing accurate and automated documentation of medication administration, ensuring consistency with patient records and alerting healthcare professionals to potential hazards, thereby enhancing patient safety.
Implementation Method 1
first and a second piezo elements that are mounted to the end fittings
Implementation Method 2
The system has an ultrasonic flow sensor
Data Source
AI summary
A system includes a flow sensor contained within a flow sensor housing, a base, and a seal. The base houses a controller that generates at least one operation modification signal, and the flow sensor is separable from and mountable onto the base. A bottom surface of the flow sensor housing includes the seal. The seal forms a liquid-tight engagement between the flow sensor housing and the base when the flow sensor is mounted onto the base.