Verification of Continuity

• US 20070107517A1
• Filed: 11/06/2006
• Published: 05/17/2007
• Est. Priority Date: 11/10/2005
• Status: Abandoned Application

• Current Assignee: David Arnold, Robert Wayne Dickinson
• Original Assignee: David Arnold, Robert Wayne Dickinson
• Inventors: Dickinson, Robert, Arnold, David
• Application Number:
  US11/556,708
• Publication Number:
  US 20070107517A1
• Time in Patent Office: Days
• US Class Current: 73/584
• CPC Class Codes: A61M 2205/3569 sublocal, e.g. between console and disposable
• CPC Class Codes: A61M 2205/3576 with non implanted data transmission devices, e.g. using external transmitter or receiver
• CPC Class Codes: A61M 2205/6018 providing set-up signals for the apparatus configuration
• CPC Class Codes: A61M 5/14 Infusion devices, e.g. infusing by gravity; Blood infusion; Accessories therefor
• CPC Class Codes: A61M 5/172 electrical or electronic A61M5/16804, A61M5/16831 take precedence

Abstract

Techniques are described for eliminating the potential continuity errors in fluid connection devices, such as tubes, which can arise in complex systems where many tubes are used. The techniques are based upon the use of ultrasound, light or pressure waves being transmitted along the connecting device using a transmitter and a receiver at either end. Methods are described to cover the external coupling of the transmitter and/or the receiver into the tubing thereby eliminating the need to compromise the connection. The described apparatus can be external to the system or integrated within it. The potential to carry information along the connection device is also disclosed.

Claims

1. An apparatus comprising a transmitter and receiver which when coupled into opposite ends of a fluid connection device can be used to verify the connection integrity of the fluid connection device, wherein if the connection is found not to be continuous appropriate investigation and corrective action can take place.

2. An apparatus, as claimed in claim 1, wherein the transmitter and receiver are based on the use of ultrasound, either pulsed or continuous.

3. An apparatus, as claimed in claim 1, wherein the transmitter and receiver are not integral to the connection device and their use is undertaken when required, for example during system set-up and/or system checking.

4. An apparatus, as claimed in claim 1, wherein information is transmitter along the connection device between the transmitter and receiver.

5. An apparatus, as claimed in claim 1, where the apparatus is an integral part of a system which is used to control the flow of fluid in the connection device.

6. An apparatus, as claimed in claim 1, wherein the transmitter and receiver are based on the use of light waves.

7. An apparatus, as claimed in claim 1, wherein the transmitter and receiver are based on the use of pressure waves

8. An apparatus as claimed in any proceeding claim wherein the system comprises a pumped drug delivery system.

9. An apparatus as claimed in any proceeding claim wherein information relating to the fluid being connected is transmitted along the connection device.