×

Device and method employing shape memory alloy

  • US 8,079,983 B2
  • Filed: 09/23/2009
  • Issued: 12/20/2011
  • Est. Priority Date: 10/09/2002
  • Status: Active Grant
First Claim
Patent Images

1. A medical device for pumping insulin, comprising:

  • a plunger configured for reciprocal movement;

    a displacement cavity defined by a moveable diaphragm with a wetted surface and a non-wetted surface;

    a shape memory alloy wire for imparting movement to the plunger;

    a digital timing circuit for activating the shape memory alloy wire including a battery for providing electrical energy to the shape memory alloy wire to cause the wire to shorten; and

    a reservoir containing insulin and being in fluid communication with the displacement cavity so that as the shape memory alloy wire shortens the wire imparts movement to the plunger to move the plunger away from the diaphragm whereby the diaphragm expands and draws a predetermined volume of insulin from the reservoir into the displacement cavity.

View all claims
  • 0 Assignments
Timeline View
Assignment View
    ×
    ×