Automated intravenous fluid regulating and administering apparatus
First Claim
1. In combination in intravenous fluid regulator apparatus, timing circuit means including a timing capacitor, plural current sources, plural controlled gate means each selectively connecting an associated current source with said timing capacitor, fluid drop sensing means, and logic means having plural inputs connected to said fluid drop sensing means and to said timing means and plural outputs each connected to a different one of said controlled gate means for selectively enabling said gate means.
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Accused Products
Abstract
Automated intravenous fluid dispensing apparatus regulating intravenously administered electrolyte solution, nutrient or other fluid flow employs a bidirectionally motor-driven clamp for selectively constricting a fluid passing conduit, typically a tube. The apparatus employs a relaxation oscillator, or timing circuit, having a variable period dependent upon whether fluid is being administered at a specified rate, or too rapidly or too slowly. When either of the latter two conditions obtain, the tube pinch-off motor is excited in an appropriate corrective direction to cause the desired fluid flow rate.
In accordance with varying aspects of the present invention, motor and timing circuit modulation (i.e., speed of system correction response) varies for excess/deficient flow rate conditions depending upon the specified flow rate and upon the constrictive state of the fluid delivery tubing. Also, audio/visual alarming is provided for defined conditions.
27 Citations
11 Claims
- 1. In combination in intravenous fluid regulator apparatus, timing circuit means including a timing capacitor, plural current sources, plural controlled gate means each selectively connecting an associated current source with said timing capacitor, fluid drop sensing means, and logic means having plural inputs connected to said fluid drop sensing means and to said timing means and plural outputs each connected to a different one of said controlled gate means for selectively enabling said gate means.
Specification