Variable volume, shape memory actuated insulin dispensing pump
First Claim
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1. A method for dispensing a liquid from a pump, comprising:
- providing a piston connected to a shape memory element;
providing a potential to the shape memory element in order to change the length of the element;
monitoring the position of the piston;
adjusting the potential applied to the shape memory element to move the piston and intake liquid, based upon the monitored position;
adjusting the potential applied to the shape memory element to move the piston and dispense liquid, based upon the monitored position;
measuring a first time period, wherein the first time period is the time it takes for the piston to complete an intake stroke;
comparing the first time period to a predetermined time period; and
determining that the pump is not primed when the first time period is below the predetermined time period by a threshold amount of time.
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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.
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Citations
20 Claims
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1. A method for dispensing a liquid from a pump, comprising:
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providing a piston connected to a shape memory element; providing a potential to the shape memory element in order to change the length of the element; monitoring the position of the piston; adjusting the potential applied to the shape memory element to move the piston and intake liquid, based upon the monitored position; adjusting the potential applied to the shape memory element to move the piston and dispense liquid, based upon the monitored position; measuring a first time period, wherein the first time period is the time it takes for the piston to complete an intake stroke; comparing the first time period to a predetermined time period; and determining that the pump is not primed when the first time period is below the predetermined time period by a threshold amount of time. - View Dependent Claims (2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9)
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10. A method for dispensing liquid, comprising:
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applying a potential to a shape memory alloy to cause a piston disposed within a chamber of a pump to move between a first position and a second position; monitoring the position of the piston as the piston moves from the first position to the second position during an intake stroke and from the second position to the first position during discharge stroke; measuring a first time period, wherein the first time period is the time it takes to move the piston from the first position to the second position during the intake stroke; comparing the first time period to a predetermined time period; and determining that the pump is not primed when the first time period is below the predetermined time period by a threshold amount of time. - View Dependent Claims (11, 12, 13, 14, 15, 16, 17, 18, 19, 20)
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Specification