Passive Variable Flow Resistor for Pressure-Independent Infusion
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current fluid transfer systems, particularly in healthcare settings, face challenges in accurately controlling fluid flow rates independently of pressure changes, leading to inefficiencies and safety concerns in infusion processes.
Innovation Solution
A passive variable flow resistor system is introduced, featuring a fluid chamber with a moveable element and restrictor that adjusts resistance based on pressure differences, ensuring a consistent flow rate regardless of input pressure variations, utilizing a combination of geometric and mechanical properties to regulate fluid flow.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If passive flow resistors (manual or fixed valves, orifice plates) are used to control flow, then flow control is achieved, but accuracy is dependent on maintaining fairly constant pressure
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs a moveable element that dynamically adjusts its position in response to pressure differential changes, transforming a static resistance system into a dynamic one. This allows the flow resistor to automatically compensate for pressure variations without external control, maintaining accurate flow control across varying pressure conditions
Solution Approach 2:
The flow resistor system uses the pressure differential itself as the actuating force to move the moveable element, creating a self-regulating mechanism. The system serves itself by using its own operating parameter (pressure differential) to control its resistance, eliminating the need for external actuators or power sources
2Measurement precision
If active pressure sources (pumps) or resistors (valves) with feedback loops are used, then flow control accuracy is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent extracts and eliminates the complex feedback control system, sensors, and external actuators from the flow control mechanism. By using a passive moveable element that responds directly to pressure differential, the invention removes unnecessary system components while maintaining flow control accuracy
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces complex mechanical feedback systems (motors, sensors, control electronics) with a simple mechanical response system where the moveable element directly translates pressure differential into resistance adjustment, substituting complex control mechanics with direct mechanical coupling
3Adaptability or versatility
If passive variable resistors are designed to be independent of pressure source and fluid reservoir, then adaptability is improved, but maintaining consistent flow rate becomes more difficult
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements passive feedback where the pressure differential automatically feeds back to the moveable element, causing it to adjust its position to maintain consistent flow. This self-feedback mechanism allows the system to adapt to different pressure sources and reservoirs while maintaining flow rate consistency without being structurally linked to specific devices
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
This solution enables precise and consistent fluid delivery, reducing the need for complex pumps and enhancing safety by maintaining accurate flow rates across varying pressures, thus improving the efficiency and reliability of infusion processes.
Implementation Method 1
a moveable element (120) designed to move along a reduced cross-sectional area (104a) to define a fluid flow channel (104b) between the reduced cross-sectional area and the moveable element
Data Source
AI summary
The systems and methods of the present disclosure provides an independent passive variable resistor that can be interposed between a fluid reservoir at an inlet pressure and receptacle at an outlet pressure. The resistor can adjust resistance to the pressure difference from the input to the output so that the flow rate through it is a constant rate. The resistor can include a moveable element and a biasing mechanism located in a chamber to create a flow channel. Each side of the moveable element is exposed to the inlet and outlet pressures and moves within the flow channel to modify the resistance of the flow through the chamber in response to the pressures. The balance of these forces determines the position moveable element, which interacts with the fluid channel to determine the flow resistance through variable resistor. The biasing mechanism can provide the necessary pressure to establish equilibrium flow rate.