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.
224 Citations
21 Claims
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1-14. -14. (canceled)
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15. A pump comprising:
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a reservoir having a maximum volume; an actuator comprising a shape memory alloy that moves a plunger, the plunger displacing liquid from the reservoir; and a control system that utilizes linear feedback to sense the position of the actuator and to manipulate the actuator to provide doses of variable volume less than the maximum volume. - View Dependent Claims (16, 17, 18, 19)
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20. A pump comprising:
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a shape memory alloy; a piston connected to the shape memory alloy, said piston having a stroke length; means for sensing the precise position of the piston at any point of the piston stroke; and means for controlling the position of the piston by changing the length of the shape memory alloy, said means for controlling able to position the piston at any point of the piston stroke thereby enabling the pump to pump variable dosage sizes of a liquid.
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21-27. -27. (canceled)
Specification