Variable Volume, Shape Memory Actuated Insulin Dispensing Pump
2 Assignments
0 Petitions
Accused Products
Abstract
A portable pumping system provides insulin or other drugs to a user. A shape memory element is used to actuate the pump and an intelligent system controls the actuator in order to minimize stresses within the system and provide accurate and reliable dosage delivery. The control system utilizes various types of feedback to monitor and optimize the position of the pumping mechanisms. Physical design aspects also minimize stress and the combination of the physical design aspects and the intelligent operation of the system results in a lightweight and cost effective pump that may be used in a disposable fashion if desired.
118 Citations
27 Claims
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1-26. -26. (canceled)
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27. A pumping system comprising:
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a chamber; a first piston within the chamber; a shape memory element within the chamber that changes length when a current flows through the element, the element moving the first piston between a first and second physical limit, such that when the first piston is at the first limit the chamber is occupied with liquid and when the chamber is at the second limit the chamber is substantially discharged of liquid; and a second piston coupled to the shape memory element that moves to accommodate changes in the shape memory element and reduce stress on the pumping system.
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Specification