DUAL CHANNEL INFUSION PUMP FOR CONTINUOUS INFUSION

An infusion pump includes first and pumping segments configured to operate in parallel with each other, each pumping segment including a group of serially-aligned pumping elements configured to compress an elongated compressible channel loaded within the pumping segment. Each group of serially aligned pumping elements of the multiple pumping segments is caused to pump according to respective timing patterns offset from each other to deliver a first fluid from a first compressible channel loaded in the first pumping segment to a common delivery tubing while filling a second compressible channel loaded in the second pumping segment with a second fluid, and to deliver the second fluid from second compressible channel to the common delivery conduit while filling the first compressible channel using the first pumping segment.

TECHNICAL FIELD

This application relates generally to a pumping mechanism for an infusion pump.

BACKGROUND

As a result of the ongoing need for improved health care, there is a continuous effort with regard to administering intravenous fluid to patients. As is well known, medication dispensers and infusion devices are used for infusion of predetermined amounts of medication into the body of a patient. Various types of medication dispensers employing different techniques for a variety of applications are known to exist. Some existing infusion devices employ a finger type pump unit having fingers which are moved in predetermined sequence to squeeze a feeding tube to infuse predetermined amounts of medication continuously, by way of pulsed boluses, into a patient. In many cases it is of critical importance to provide precisely controlled and consistent flow rates of intravenous fluid to patients. This need for more controlled IV flow rates is only partially fulfilled by the above-mentioned displacement pumps.

SUMMARY

The subject technology provides a modified design of an infusion pump with a dual channel pumping segment array that changes pulse infusion to a continuous infusion. The subject technology provides a medication infusion device having two or more pumping segments which operate in parallel to alternately and collaboratively drive an intravenous (IV) tubing set so that one channel delivers a fluid to the patient while the other one completes the filling phase, simultaneously.

According to various implementations, an infusion system comprises an infusion device having multiple pumping segments configured to operate in parallel with each other, each pumping segment including a group of serially-aligned pumping elements configured to compress an elongated compressible channel loaded within the pumping segment; a processor configured to, when a respective compressible channel is loaded in each of the multiple pumping segments: operate each group of serially aligned pumping elements of the multiple pumping segments according to respective timing patterns offset from each other to deliver a first fluid from a first compressible channel loaded in a first pumping segment to a common delivery conduit while filling a second compressible channel loaded in a second pumping segment with a second fluid, and to deliver the second fluid from second compressible channel to the common delivery conduit while filling the first compressible channel using the first pumping segment.

In some implementations, the multiple pumping segments comprise a first pumping segment and a second pumping segment, the pumping elements of each of the first and second pumping segments comprising an upstream occluder, a downstream occluder, and a plunger, wherein delivering a fluid from a respective compressible channel comprises: filling the respective compressible channel while the upstream occluder is open and the downstream occluder is closed, closing the upstream occluder and opening the downstream occluder after the compressible channel is filled, and compressing the compressible channel using the plunger while the downstream occluder is opened, wherein the processor is further configured to: open the upstream occluder of the first pumping segment while the upstream occluder of the second pumping segment is closed or closing; and close the upstream occluder of the first pumping segment while the upstream occluder of the second pumping segment is open or opening.

Other aspects include corresponding methods, apparatuses, and computer program products for implementation of the foregoing features of the disclosed system.

According to various implementations, a machine-implemented method comprises receiving a first compressible channel into a first pumping segment of an infusion device, the first pumping segment comprising a first group of serially aligned pumping elements that operate collectively to delivery a first fluid from a first compressible channel when the first compressible channel is received into the first pumping segment; receiving, while the first compressible channel is received into the first pumping segment, a second compressible channel into a second pumping segment of the infusion device, the second pumping segment comprising a second group of serially aligned pumping elements that operate collectively to delivery a second fluid from a second compressible channel when the second compressible channel is received into the second pumping segment; and operating each group of serially aligned pumping elements of the first and second pumping segments according to respective timing patterns offset from each other to deliver the first fluid from the first compressible channel received in the first pumping segment to a common delivery conduit while filling the second compressible channel loaded in the second pumping segment with the second fluid, and to deliver the second fluid from second compressible channel to the common delivery conduit while filling the first compressible channel using the first pumping segment.

In some implementations, each of the first and second pumping segments comprise an upstream occluder, a downstream occluder, and a plunger, wherein delivering a fluid from a respective compressible channel comprises: filling the respective compressible channel while the upstream occluder is open and the downstream occluder is closed, closing the upstream occluder and opening the downstream occluder after the compressible channel is filled, and compressing the compressible channel using the plunger while the downstream occluder is opened, and wherein the machine-implemented method further comprises: opening the upstream occluder of the first pumping segment while the upstream occluder of the second pumping segment is closed or closing; and closing the upstream occluder of the first pumping segment while the upstream occluder of the second pumping segment is open or opening.

Other aspects include corresponding apparatuses, systems, and computer program products for implementation of the foregoing features of the disclosed method.

According to various implementations, an infusion pump comprises first and second pumping segments configured to operate in parallel with each other, each pumping segment including a group of serially-aligned pumping elements configured to compress an elongated compressible channel loaded within the pumping segment; and a processor configured to, when a respective compressible channel is loaded in each of the first and second pumping segments: cause each group of serially aligned pumping elements of the first and second pumping segments to pump according to respective timing patterns offset from each other to deliver a first fluid from a first compressible channel loaded in the first pumping segment to a common delivery conduit while filling a second compressible channel loaded in the second pumping segment with a second fluid, and to deliver the second fluid from second compressible channel to the common delivery conduit while filling the first compressible channel using the first pumping segment.

Other aspects include corresponding systems, methods, apparatuses, and computer program products for implementation of the foregoing features of the infusion pump.

DESCRIPTION

FIG.1Adepicts an example pumping mechanism10of an infusion device12including two occluder valves100,110, according to various aspects of the subject technology. A typical peristaltic medical pump for IV infusion delivery has two occluders, a first occluder100located upstream and a second occluder110located downstream, with a plunger120in between. The occluders and plunger coordinate with each other in programmable, sequential steps, controlled by a cam shaft to have two phases: 1) a filling phase, and 2) a delivery phase. The occluders move fluid in a tubing103by sequentially compressing the tubing, thereby causing a flow in a direction104according to the particular compression sequence of the occluders.

During the medication infusion process, in the filling phase, the upstream occluder100lifts to suck the medication into the tubing segment, which creates a pause, followed by the delivery phase to push the fluid out. These sequences can repeat through multiple cycles. To specify, when the plunger of a single plunger/tubing design is lifted from the tubing segment during the filling phase, there will be a disruption in the continuous infusion process. As a result of using this design, the medication delivery will behave with a pulse pattern as shown inFIG.1B.

FIG.2depicts an example dual channel infusion pump unit12and a corresponding dual channel infusion set for providing continuous fluid infusion, according to various aspects of the subject technology. The subject technology provides a dual channel of pumping tubing segment array design to overcome the shortcomings of pulse infusion. By choosing two appropriate sets of occluders and plungers and linking them to the pump's mechanical cam shaft and motor, the medication delivery pattern may be changed from a pulse infusion to a continuous and consistent infusion.

In this regard, the subject technology may include a dual channel infusion set200. In the depicted example, the infusion set200includes two different elongated tubular segments202,204that merge at a distal end206downstream (e.g., by way of a y-connector) to form a single intravenous (IV) line that may connect to a patient infusion site (not shown). Each tubing segment may be connected to an upstream delivery line, further connected to a respective fluid container208,210(e.g., containing a medication or carrier fluid). Each tubing segment202,204may be rigid or semi-rigid and configured to be installed or mounted within a dual channel infusion pump, as depicted inFIG.3.

As will be described further, in a certain time interval, a first tubing segment202may be driven by pump mechanical parts to deliver the medication. In the meantime, a second tubing segment204may be recovering from its previous delivery phase to suck the fluid and move to the next measurement phase. To have a continuous infusion pattern, the time duration in the delivery phase in the first channel may be equal to the time duration of the combination of the filling phase and measurement phase in the second channel and vice versa in the coming cycles alternatively.

FIG.3depicts a perspective view of an example dual channel infusion pump unit showing a dual channel infusion set in place within the infusion pump, according to various aspects of the subject technology. An infusion system for parenteral infusion of a medical fluid to a patient comprises a pump unit, a major part of which comprises a housing which accommodates, in manner known per se, a cam system (not shown) controlling a plurality of fingers of a peristaltic pumping mechanism, an electric motor and associated gearing, driving said cam mechanism, and further accommodates electronic control and processing circuitry for controlling such motor and processing signals from pressure sensors etc. provided on the unit. The pump unit, as shown, may also comprise an electronically operated display, an alarm light, an input keyboard or other manually operated controls, all in manner known per se.

As shown inFIG.3, the infusion device may include a door330or face plate which may be opened to reveal the internal loading mechanism for the dual channel infusion set200. Within the housing of the infusion device (e.g., behind the door or face place), the infusion device includes first and second pumping segments configured to operate in parallel with each other. Each pumping segment including a group of serially-aligned pumping elements configured to compress an elongated compressible channel of the infusion set200, when loaded within the pumping segment. As will be described further, each pumping segment includes a group of serially-aligned pumping elements (e.g., occluders and/or pumping finger(s)) configured to compress the elongated compressible channel (e.g., an IV tubing segment) loaded within the pumping segment.

The infusion set200includes upper and lower sections380and334respectively of a plastics tubing, an intermediate section336of resiliently compressible tubing, for example of silicone rubber and, in some implementations, upper and/or lower fittings338and/or340via which each tubing section336may be connected respectively with a respective upper line320and with the lower line334. In use, each upper line320extends upwardly to a source of the medical fluid to be administered whilst the lower line334extends from the infusion pump to an infusion needle or the like inserted into the patient. In use, the infusion set200is extended across the face or deck of the pump unit so that the fittings338and340are received in respective brackets322and324respectively and so that each tubing segment202,204extends over a respective peristaltic assembly326as illustrated inFIG.3. The infusion set200is fitted in place in this fashion whilst the door330is in the open position. After the infusion line has been so fitted, the door330may be moved to the closed position and is secured by a catch37which may include a lever mounted on the outer edge of the door.

The infusion device12includes a pump housing302and the multiple pumping segments326are retained by the pump housing of the infusion device. According to various aspects of the subject technology, the pump housing is configured to simultaneously receive the first and second compressible channels.

Each pumping segment326may include a peristaltic assembly with respective fingers that are movable by a cam system (not shown) inwards and outwards from the face or deck of the pump to compress a respective tubing segment202,204against a counter surface or anvil to propel fluid within the infusion line. According to various implementations, two cam systems operate the two depicted peristaltic assemblies independent of each other. A first cam system including one or more cams for operating the pumping elements326a,326b,326c(see alsoFIG.4A) of the first pumping segment, and a second cam system including one or more cams for operating the pumping elements326a,326b,326cof the second pumping segment.

In order to make it easier to maintain sterile conditions, these fingers may be covered by a thin flexible membrane, (not shown), sealed at its edges with respect to the deck. The fingers of the peristaltic assembly326periodically press the flexible resilient tubing against the counter surface which may be configured on an opposite side, for example, on an inner portion of the door330. In the example pump shown, each peristaltic assembly includes an upper occluder326aand a lower occluder326bwhich are of a relatively limited extent in the longitudinal direction of the infusion line, and an intermediate finger or pad326c,between the upper and lower fingers and which one or more fingers326cis extended or elongated in the longitudinal direction of the infusion line. In operation, assuming the fluid is to be propelled downwards, as viewed inFIGS.1A and4Aand, along the infusion line, the peristaltic assembly performs a repeating cycle in which, with the intermediate pad326cspaced from the counter surface, the upper finger presses the flexible tube against the counter surface or anvil to close the tube at the location of the upper finger326a,the lower finger is then withdrawn from the counter surface to open the tube at the location of the lower finger326b,then the intermediate pad or finger326cis moved towards the counter surface to drive the fluid in the tube adjacent the intermediate pad326cdownward along the tube, then the tube is pinched closed again between the lower finger326band the counter surface, then the upper finger326ais withdrawn from the counter surface and the intermediate finger326cwithdrawn from the counter surface to draw fresh fluid into the part of the tube adjacent the intermediate finger326c.

FIG.4Adepicts an example dual channel pumping mechanism of a dual channel infusion pump, according to various aspects of the subject technology. As described previously, the subject technology includes a dual channel of two pumping segments in parallel that interact with two groups of occluders and plungers to drive the tubing alternately and collaboratively in a programmable mechanical movement. In this manner, one channel delivers the fluid while the other one completes the filling phase simultaneously. The overall delivery pattern over time in the jointed downstream conduit is continuous.FIG.4Bdepicts an example delivery volume pattern over time for the dual channel pumping mechanism ofFIG.4A.

Accordingly, multiple pumping segments (100,101,102) are configured to operate in parallel with each other. Each pumping segment includes a group of serially-aligned pumping elements (e.g., occluders and/or pumping finger(s)) configured to compress an elongated compressible channel (e.g., an IV tubing segment) loaded within the pumping segment. Each group of serially aligned pumping elements may be caused (e.g., by a processor) to pump according to respective timing patterns offset from each other to deliver a first fluid from a first compressible channel loaded in the first pumping segment to a common delivery conduit while filling a second compressible channel loaded in the second pumping segment with a second fluid, and to deliver the second fluid from second compressible channel to the common delivery conduit while filling the first compressible channel using the first pumping segment.

FIGS.5A and5Bdepict example phase shifted delivery volume patterns over time for the dual channel pumping mechanism ofFIG.4A, according to various aspects of the subject technology. In some implementations, a lever500can be linked between the two upstream occluders100, the two downstream occluders101, and the two plungers120respectively to have a balanced and optimized coordination between channels1and2. The timing of channel1with regard to channel2may be biased, for example, by approx. 180 degrees of one cam revolution as shown inFIG.5to express the phase shift of downstream valve, upstream valve and plunger.

In some implementations, the two sets of occluders and plungers can be linked to a separate cam shaft/motor and can be programmed to change the way the pump is to deliver either a pulse infusion or continuous infusion on demand. For example, there may be some benefit of flushing catheters before and after use to prevent catheter occlusions. The pulsatile flushing with saline solution may be more efficient at clearing catheters of solid deposits than flushing the catheter with a single bolus. Accordingly, in some implementations, more overlap of flow between channels1and2can be programmed to provide optimal flow continuity during the “wrap around” where the pump moves from “delivery” to “refill”.

Some of mediations (e.g., chemotherapy, antibiotics, electrolytes) are administered (e.g., by way of intermittent infusions) through a secondary IV bag (Piggyback) attached to a Y-port below the pump. The Y-port may provide for a flushing, thus minimizing medication loss in the residual volume left behind in the tubing. In some implementations, the dual channel delivery pattern ofFIGS.4-5may be accomplished by algorithm control of multiple pump modules (seeFIG.7) of a single pump. A split between secondary and primary infusion could be upstream of the pump. The primary and secondary infusate can be run separately to draw the medication from respective IV containers. One module may function as channel1and the other module as channel2, with a control unit14(seeFIG.7) providing timing signals to each respective pump mechanism to provide a timed delivery volume, as shown inFIGS.4B,5A, and5B. Additionally or in the alternative, the two types of infusate may be mixed precisely in a predetermined and controlled manner by way of programming the pumping mechanism to fire at specific intervals determined to proportionally delivery the medication from each container.

When connected appropriately, after the intermittent infusion is complete, the fluid from primary line may be infused to flush residual drug from the tubing. This would remove many constraints of the existing architecture and allow for a much smaller residual volume and reduce secondary clamp errors, connection errors and pressure differential errors.

FIG.6depicts an example process for providing continuous fluid infusion using a dual channel infusion pump, according to aspects of the subject technology. For explanatory purposes, the various blocks of example process60are described herein with reference toFIGS.1through5, and the components and/or processes described herein. The one or more of the blocks of process60may be implemented, for example, by one or more computing devices including, for example, within infusion device12ofFIGS.2,3, and/or7. In some implementations, one or more of the blocks may be implemented based on one or more machine learning algorithms. In some implementations, one or more of the blocks may be implemented apart from other blocks, and by one or more different processors or devices. Further for explanatory purposes, the blocks of example process60are described as occurring in serial, or linearly. However, multiple blocks of example process60may occur in parallel. In addition, the blocks of example process60need not be performed in the order shown and/or one or more of the blocks of example process60need not be performed.

In the depicted example, a first compressible channel is received into a first pumping segment of an infusion device (62). The first pumping segment326includes a first group of serially aligned pumping elements that operate collectively to delivery a first fluid from a first compressible channel when the first compressible channel is received into the first pumping segment. The pumping elements may include, for example, an upstream occluder326a,100, a downstream occluder326b,110, and a plunger326c,120. In this regard, delivering a fluid from a respective compressible channel may include, for example, filling the respective compressible channel while the upstream occluder is open and the downstream occluder is closed, closing the upstream occluder and opening the downstream occluder after the compressible channel is filled, and compressing the compressible channel using the plunger while the downstream occluder is opened.

While the first compressible channel is received into the first pumping segment, a second compressible channel is received into a second pumping segment of the infusion device (64). Similar to the first pumping segment, the second pumping segment includes a second group of serially aligned pumping elements that operate collectively to delivery a second fluid from a second compressible channel when the second compressible channel is received into the second pumping segment. The pumping elements may include, for example, an upstream occluder, a downstream occluder, and a plunger.

A processor operates each group of serially aligned pumping elements of the first and second pumping segments according to respective timing patterns offset from each other to deliver the first fluid from the first compressible channel received in the first pumping segment to a common delivery conduit while filling the second compressible channel loaded in the second pumping segment with the second fluid (66). Likewise, the pumping element groups are coordinated to deliver the second fluid from second compressible channel to the common delivery conduit while filling the first compressible channel using the first pumping segment. The coordination may include opening the upstream occluder of the first pumping segment while the upstream occluder of the second pumping segment is closed or closing, and closing the upstream occluder of the first pumping segment while the upstream occluder of the second pumping segment is open or opening.

A processor (or processors) associated with the infusion device causes the occluders to move according to a cam motion to apply a periodic compression to a flexible infusion line when the flexible infusion line is placed between the occluder element and a plate assembly, and to move a fluid within the flexible infusion line. According to various implementations, the infusion device12includes a pump housing302, and the pump housing302houses the first and second pumping segments, as depicted inFIG.3. Accordingly, example process60may further include simultaneously receiving the first and second compressible channels into the pump housing. In some implementations, one or more cams are controlled to operate the pumping elements of the first pumping segment, and one or more cams are controlled to operate the pumping elements of the second pumping segment. The timing pattern for operating the first pumping segment maybe offset from the timing pattern for operating the second pumping segment based on a rotation of a first cam system being rotationally offset from a rotation of a second cam system by a predetermined number of degrees greater than zero (e.g., 30°).

Additionally or in the alternative, each upstream occluder, each downstream occluder, and each plunger of the first and second pumping segments may be joined together by respective levers to coordinate movement of the first and second pumping segments as a respective pumping element set. The lever may coordinate a motion of each pumping element of the respective pumping element set based on a motion of the other pumping element of the respective pumping element set. Each group of serially aligned pumping elements may be operated according to respective timing patterns comprises operating the groups of serially aligned pumping elements so that the respective deliveries of the first and second fluids are continuous but do not overlap.

As will be described further with regard toFIG.7, infusion device may include a control unit14and first and second pump modules16,18,20,22removably connected to the control unit14by way of respective plugin ports on the control unit. The first pump module may include the first pumping segment and the second pump module comprising the second pumping segment. In this regard, the control unit14may include a processor50that communicates with the first and second pump modules via electrical signals communicated through the respective plug in ports.

Many of the above-described devices, systems and methods, may also be implemented as software processes that are specified as a set of instructions recorded on a computer readable storage medium (also referred to as computer readable medium), and may be executed automatically (e.g., without user intervention). When these instructions are executed by one or more processing unit(s) (e.g., one or more processors, cores of processors, or other processing units), they cause the processing unit(s) to perform the actions indicated in the instructions. Examples of computer readable media include, but are not limited to, CD-ROMs, flash drives, RAM chips, hard drives, EPROMs, etc. The computer readable media does not include carrier waves and electronic signals passing wirelessly or over wired connections.

FIG.7depicts an example diagram of an institutional patient care device70of a healthcare organization, according to aspects of the subject technology. InFIG.7, a patient care device (or “medical device” generally)12is connected to a hospital network10. The term patient care device (or “PCD”) may be used interchangeably with the term patient care unit (or “PCU”), either which may include various ancillary medical devices such as an infusion pump, a vital signs monitor, a medication dispensing device (e.g., cabinet, tote), a medication preparation device, an automated dispensing device, a module coupled with one of the aforementioned (e.g., a syringe pump module configured to attach to an infusion pump), or other similar devices. As described previously, PCU/PCD12(and/or the infusion pump) functions as the previously described reporter104.

Each device12may be connected to an internal healthcare network10by a transmission channel31. Transmission channel31is any wired or wireless transmission channel, for example an 802.11 wireless local area network (LAN). In some implementations, network10also includes computer systems located in various departments throughout a hospital. For example, network10ofFIG.1optionally includes computer systems associated with an admissions department, a billing department, a biomedical engineering department, a clinical laboratory, a central supply department, one or more unit station computers and/or a medical decision support system. As described further below, network10may include discrete subnetworks. In the depicted example, network10includes a device network40by which patient care devices12(and other devices) communicate in accordance with normal operations.

Additionally, institutional patient care system70may incorporate a separate information system server30. According to various implementations, server30and/or database37may incorporate, function as, or include a remote records system configured to store electronic medication administration records (eMAR) for patients admitted or cared for within the hospital organization. Although the information system server30is shown as a separate server, the functions and programming of the information system server30may be incorporated into another computer, if such is desired by engineers designing the institution's information system. Institutional patient care system100may further include one or multiple device terminals32for connecting and communicating with information system server30. Device terminals32may include personal computers, personal data assistances, mobile devices such as laptops, tablet computers, augmented reality devices, or smartphones, configured with software for communications with information system server30via network10.

Patient care device12comprises a system for providing patient care, such as for providing an infusion of medication to a patient. Patient care device12may include or incorporate an infusion pump, a physiological monitor (e.g., heart rate, blood pressure, ECG, EEG, pulse oximeter, and other patient monitors), therapy device, and other drug delivery device. In the depicted example, patient care device12comprises a control unit14, also referred to as interface unit14or docking station, connected to one or more functional modules16,18,20,22. Interface unit14includes a central processing unit (CPU)50connected to a memory, for example, random access memory (RAM)58, and one or more interface devices such as user interface device54, a coded data input device60, a network connection52, and an auxiliary interface62for communicating with additional modules or devices. Interface unit14also, although not necessarily, includes a main non-volatile storage unit56, such as a hard disk drive or non-volatile flash memory, for storing software and data and one or more internal buses64for interconnecting the aforementioned elements.

In various implementations, user interface device54is a touch screen for displaying information to a user and allowing a user to input information by touching defined areas of the screen. Additionally, or in the alternative, user interface device54could include any means for displaying and inputting information, such as a monitor, a printer, a keyboard, softkeys, a mouse, a track ball and/or a light pen. Data input device60may be a bar code reader capable of scanning and interpreting data printed in bar coded format. Additionally or in the alternative, data input device60can be any device for entering coded data into a computer, such as a device(s) for reading a magnetic strips, radio-frequency identification (RFID) devices whereby digital data encoded in RFID tags or smart labels (defined below) are captured by the reader60via radio waves, PCMCIA smart cards, radio frequency cards, memory sticks, CDs, DVDs, or any other analog or digital storage media. Other examples of data input device60include a voice activation or recognition device or a portable personal data assistant (PDA). Depending upon the types of interface devices used, user interface device54and data input device60may be the same device. Although data input device60is shown inFIG.1to be disposed within interface unit14, it is recognized that data input device60may be integral within pharmacy system34or located externally and communicating with pharmacy system34through an RS-232 serial interface or any other appropriate communication means. Auxiliary interface62may be an RS-232 communications interface, however any other means for communicating with a peripheral device such as a printer, patient monitor, infusion pump or other medical device may be used without departing from the subject technology. Additionally, data input device60may be a separate functional module, such as modules16,18,20and22, and configured to communicate with controller14, or any other system on the network, using suitable programming and communication protocols.

Network connection52may be a wired or wireless connection, such as by Ethernet, WiFi, BLUETOOTH, an integrated service digital network (ISDN) connection, a digital subscriber line (DSL) modem or a cable modem. Any direct or indirect network connection may be used, including, but not limited to a telephone modem, an MIB system, an RS232 interface, an auxiliary interface, an optical link, an infrared link, a radio frequency link, a microwave link or a WLANS connection or other wireless connection.

Functional modules16,18,20,22are any devices for providing care to a patient or for monitoring patient condition. As shown inFIG.7, at least one of functional modules16,18,20,22may be an infusion pump module such as an intravenous infusion pump for delivering medication or other fluid to a patient. For the purposes of this discussion, functional module16is an infusion pump module, and includes the forgoing pumping mechanism10including occluder valves. Each of functional modules18,20,22may be any patient treatment or monitoring device including, but not limited to, an infusion pump, a syringe pump, a PCA pump, an epidural pump, an enteral pump, a blood pressure monitor, a pulse oximeter, an EKG monitor, an EEG monitor, a heart rate monitor or an intracranial pressure monitor or the like. Functional module18,20and/or22may be a printer, scanner, bar code reader or any other peripheral input, output or input/output device.

Each functional module16,18,20,22may communicate directly or indirectly with interface unit14, with interface unit14providing overall monitoring and control of device12. Functional modules16,18,20,22may be connected physically and electronically in serial fashion to one or both ends of interface unit14as shown inFIG.7. However, it is recognized that there are other means for connecting functional modules with the interface unit that may be utilized without departing from the subject technology. It will also be appreciated that devices such as pumps or patient monitoring devices that provide sufficient programmability and connectivity may be capable of operating as stand-alone devices and may communicate directly with the network without connected through a separate interface unit or control unit14. As described above, additional medical devices or peripheral devices may be connected to patient care device12through one or more auxiliary interfaces62.

Each functional module16,18,20,22may include module-specific components76, a microprocessor70, a volatile memory72and a nonvolatile memory74for storing information and performing the functions and/or operations described herein. It should be noted that while four functional modules are shown inFIG.7, any number of devices may be connected directly or indirectly to central controller14. The number and type of functional modules described herein are intended to be illustrative, and in no way limit the scope of the subject technology. Module-specific components76include any components necessary for operation of a particular module, such as a pumping mechanism for infusion pump module16.

While each functional module may be capable of a least some level of independent operation, interface unit14monitors and controls overall operation of device12. For example, as will be described in more detail below, interface unit14provides programming instructions to the functional modules16,18,20,22and monitors the status of each module.

Patient care device12is capable of operating in several different modes, or personalities, with each personality defined by a configuration database. The configuration database may be a database56internal to patient care device, or an external database37. A particular configuration database is selected based, at least in part, by patient-specific information such as patient location, age, physical characteristics, or medical characteristics. Medical characteristics include, but are not limited to, patient diagnosis, treatment prescription, medical history, medical records, patient care provider identification, physiological characteristics or psychological characteristics. As used herein, patient-specific information also includes care provider information (e.g., physician identification) or a patient care device's10location in the hospital or hospital computer network. Patient care information may be entered through interface device52,54,60or62, and may originate from anywhere in network10, such as, for example, from a pharmacy server, admissions server, laboratory server, and the like.

Medical devices incorporating aspects of the subject technology may be equipped with a Network Interface Module (NIM), allowing the medical device to participate as a node in a network. While for purposes of clarity the subject technology will be described as operating in an Ethernet network environment using the Internet Protocol (IP), it is understood that concepts of the subject technology are equally applicable in other network environments, and such environments are intended to be within the scope of the subject technology.

Data to and from the various data sources can be converted into network-compatible data with existing technology, and movement of the information between the medical device and network can be accomplished by a variety of means. For example, patient care device12and network10may communicate via automated interaction, manual interaction or a combination of both automated and manual interaction. Automated interaction may be continuous or intermittent and may occur through direct network connection54(as shown inFIG.1), or through RS232 links, MIB systems, RF links such as BLUETOOTH, IR links, WLANS, digital cable systems, telephone modems or other wired or wireless communication means. Manual interaction between patient care device12and network10involves physically transferring, intermittently or periodically, data between systems using, for example, user interface device54, coded data input device60, bar codes, computer disks, portable data assistants, memory cards, or any other media for storing data. The communication means in various aspects is bidirectional with access to data from as many points of the distributed data sources as possible. Decision-making can occur at a variety of places within network10. For example, and not by way of limitation, decisions can be made in HIS server30, decision support48, remote data server49, hospital department or unit stations46, or within patient care device12itself.

All direct communications with medical devices operating on a network in accordance with the subject technology may be performed through information system server30, known as the remote data server (RDS). In accordance with aspects of the subject technology, network interface modules incorporated into medical devices such as, for example, infusion pumps or vital signs measurement devices, ignore all network traffic that does not originate from an authenticated RDS. The primary responsibilities of the RDS of the subject technology are to track the location and status of all networked medical devices, and maintain open communication.

With further reference toFIG.7, an infusion device, as used herein, may be a patient care device12, interface control unit14, or a module16,18,20,22. According to various implementations, the infusion device includes a pump and a control unit. The control unit14is configured to provide, using the pump, an intravenous infusion of a medication to a current patient, and display on a display screen, while the infusion is being provided by the pump, a representation of a status of the intravenous infusion.

FIG.8is a conceptual diagram illustrating an example electronic system600for providing continuous fluid infusion using a dual channel infusion pump, according to aspects of the subject technology. Electronic system600may be a computing device for execution of software associated with one or more components and processes provided byFIGS.1to7, including but not limited to controller406, or computing hardware within pump401or system330. Electronic system600may be representative of a device used in connection or combination with the disclosure regardingFIGS.1to7. In this regard, electronic system600may be a personal computer or a mobile device such as a smartphone, tablet computer, laptop, PDA, an augmented reality device, a wearable such as a watch or band or glasses, or combination thereof, or other touch screen or television with one or more processors embedded therein or coupled thereto, or any other sort of computer-related electronic device having network connectivity.

Electronic system600may include various types of computer readable media and interfaces for various other types of computer readable media. In the depicted example, electronic system600includes a bus608, processing unit(s)612, a system memory604, a read-only memory (ROM)610, a permanent storage device602, an input device interface614, an output device interface606, and one or more network interfaces616. In some implementations, electronic system600may include or be integrated with other computing devices or circuitry for operation of the various components and processes previously described.

Bus608collectively represents all system, peripheral, and chipset buses that communicatively connect the numerous internal devices of electronic system600. For instance, bus608communicatively connects processing unit(s)612with ROM610, system memory604, and permanent storage device602.

ROM610stores static data and instructions that are needed by processing unit(s)612and other modules of the electronic system. Permanent storage device602, on the other hand, is a read-and-write memory device. This device is a non-volatile memory unit that stores instructions and data even when electronic system600is off. Some implementations of the subject disclosure use a mass-storage device (such as a magnetic or optical disk and its corresponding disk drive) as permanent storage device602.

Other implementations use a removable storage device (such as a floppy disk, flash drive, and its corresponding disk drive) as permanent storage device602. Like permanent storage device602, system memory604is a read-and-write memory device. However, unlike storage device602, system memory604is a volatile read-and-write memory, such as random access memory. System memory604stores some of the instructions and data that the processor needs at runtime. In some implementations, the processes of the subject disclosure are stored in system memory604, permanent storage device602, and/or ROM610. From these various memory units, processing unit(s)612retrieves instructions to execute and data to process in order to execute the processes of some implementations.

Bus608also connects to input and output device interfaces614and606. Input device interface614enables the user to communicate information and select commands to the electronic system. Input devices used with input device interface614include, e.g., alphanumeric keyboards and pointing devices (also called “cursor control devices”). Output device interfaces606enables, e.g., the display of images generated by the electronic system600. Output devices used with output device interface606include, e.g., printers and display devices, such as cathode ray tubes (CRT) or liquid crystal displays (LCD). Some implementations include devices such as a touchscreen that functions as both input and output devices.

Also, as shown inFIG.8, bus608also couples electronic system600to a network (not shown) through network interfaces616. Network interfaces616may include, e.g., a wireless access point (e.g., Bluetooth or WiFi) or radio circuitry for connecting to a wireless access point. Network interfaces616may also include hardware (e.g., Ethernet hardware) for connecting the computer to a part of a network of computers such as a local area network (“LAN”), a wide area network (“WAN”), wireless LAN, or an Intranet, or a network of networks, such as the Internet. Any or all components of electronic system600can be used in conjunction with the subject disclosure.

Illustration of Subject Technology as Clauses:

Various examples of aspects of the disclosure are described as numbered clauses (1, 2, 3, etc.) for convenience. These are provided as examples, and do not limit the subject technology. Identifications of the figures and reference numbers are provided below merely as examples and for illustrative purposes, and the clauses are not limited by those identifications.

Clause 1. An infusion system, comprising: an infusion device having multiple pumping segments configured to operate in parallel with each other, each pumping segment including a group of serially-aligned pumping elements configured to compress an elongated compressible channel loaded within the pumping segment; and a processor configured to, when a respective compressible channel is loaded in each of the multiple pumping segments: operate each group of serially-aligned pumping elements of the multiple pumping segments according to respective timing patterns offset from each other to deliver a first fluid from a first compressible channel loaded in a first pumping segment to a common delivery conduit while filling a second compressible channel loaded in a second pumping segment with a second fluid, and to deliver the second fluid from second compressible channel to the common delivery conduit while filling the first compressible channel using the first pumping segment.

Clause 2. The infusion system of Clause 1, wherein the multiple pumping segments comprise a first pumping segment and a second pumping segment, the pumping elements of each of the first and second pumping segments comprising an upstream occluder, a downstream occluder, and a plunger, wherein delivering a fluid from a respective compressible channel comprises: filling the respective compressible channel while the upstream occluder is open and the downstream occluder is closed, closing the upstream occluder and opening the downstream occluder after the respective compressible channel is filled, and compressing the respective compressible channel using the plunger while the downstream occluder is opened, wherein the processor is further configured to: open the upstream occluder of the first pumping segment while the upstream occluder of the second pumping segment is closed or closing; and close the upstream occluder of the first pumping segment while the upstream occluder of the second pumping segment is open or opening.

Clause 3. The infusion system of Clause 2, wherein the infusion device includes a pump housing and the multiple pumping segments are retained by the pump housing of the infusion device, wherein the pump housing is configured to simultaneously receive the first and second compressible channels.

Clause 4. The infusion system of Clause 3, wherein the infusion device comprises: a first cam system including one or more cams for operating the pumping elements of the first pumping segment; and a second cam system including one or more cams for operating the pumping elements of the second pumping segment.

Clause 5. The infusion system of Clause 3 or Clause 4, wherein each upstream occluder, each downstream occluder, and each plunger of the first and second pumping segments are joined together by respective levers to coordinate movement of the first and second pumping segments as a respective pumping element set, a respective lever coordinating a motion of each pumping element of the respective pumping element set based on a motion of the other pumping element of the respective pumping element set.

Clause 6. The infusion system of any one of Clauses 3 through 5, wherein the timing pattern for operating the first pumping segment is offset from the timing pattern for operating the second pumping segment based on a rotation of a first cam system being rotationally offset from a rotation of a second cam system by a predetermined number of degrees greater than zero.

Clause 7. The infusion system of any one of Clauses 1 through 6, wherein the infusion device comprises a control unit and first and second pump modules removably connected to the control unit by way of respective plugin ports on the control unit, the first pump module comprising the first pumping segment and the second pump module comprising the second pumping segment, wherein the control unit comprises the processor and the processor communicates with the first and second pump modules via electrical signals communicated through the respective plugin ports.

Clause 8. The infusion system of any one of Clauses 1 through 7, further comprising: a dual channel infusion set comprising the first compressible channel and the second compressible channel each joining together at a downstream junction for fluidic communication with the common delivery conduit, wherein the first compressible channel and the second compressible channel each include an upstream connector for connecting to a different fluid source.

Clause 9. The infusion system of any one of Clauses 1 through 8, wherein the common delivery conduit is an intravenous tubing connected to a patient.

Clause 10. The infusion system of Clause 9, wherein operating each group of serially aligned pumping elements according to respective timing patterns comprises operating the groups of serially aligned pumping elements so that the respective deliveries of the first and second fluids are continuous but do not overlap.

Clause 11. A machine-implemented method, comprising: receiving a first compressible channel into a first pumping segment of an infusion device, the first pumping segment comprising a first group of serially-aligned pumping elements that operate collectively to delivery a first fluid from a first compressible channel when the first compressible channel is received into the first pumping segment; receiving, while the first compressible channel is received into the first pumping segment, a second compressible channel into a second pumping segment of the infusion device, the second pumping segment comprising a second group of serially-aligned pumping elements that operate collectively to delivery a second fluid from a second compressible channel when the second compressible channel is received into the second pumping segment; and operating each group of serially-aligned pumping elements of the first and second pumping segments according to respective timing patterns offset from each other to deliver the first fluid from the first compressible channel received in the first pumping segment to a common delivery conduit while filling the second compressible channel loaded in the second pumping segment with the second fluid, and to deliver the second fluid from second compressible channel to the common delivery conduit while filling the first compressible channel using the first pumping segment.

Clause 12. The machine-implemented method of Clause 11, wherein each of the first and second pumping segments comprise an upstream occluder, a downstream occluder, and a plunger, wherein delivering a fluid from a respective compressible channel comprises: filling the respective compressible channel while the upstream occluder is open and the downstream occluder is closed, closing the upstream occluder and opening the downstream occluder after the respective compressible channel is filled, and compressing the respective compressible channel using the plunger while the downstream occluder is opened, wherein the machine-implemented method further comprises: opening the upstream occluder of the first pumping segment while the upstream occluder of the second pumping segment is closed or closing; and closing the upstream occluder of the first pumping segment while the upstream occluder of the second pumping segment is open or opening.

Clause 13. The machine-implemented method of Clause 12, wherein the timing pattern for operating the first pumping segment is offset from the timing pattern for operating the second pumping segment based on a rotation of a first cam system being rotationally offset from a rotation of a second cam system by a predetermined number of degrees greater than zero.

Clause 14. The machine-implemented method of Clause 12 or Clause 13, wherein operating each group of serially-aligned pumping elements according to respective timing patterns comprises operating the groups of serially-aligned pumping elements so that the respective deliveries of the first and second fluids are continuous but do not overlap.

Clause 15. The machine-implemented method of any one of Clauses 12 through 14, wherein the infusion device includes a pump housing, the pump housing comprising the first and second pumping segments, the method further comprising: simultaneously receiving the first and second compressible channels into the pump housing.

Clause 16. The machine-implemented method of any one of Clauses 12 through 15, further comprising: causing one or more cams to operate the pumping elements of the first pumping segment; and causing one or more second cams to operate the pumping elements of the second pumping segment.

Clause 17. The machine-implemented method of any one of Clauses 12 through 16, wherein each upstream occluder, each downstream occluder, and each plunger of the first and second pumping segments are joined together by respective levers to coordinate movement of the first and second pumping segments as a respective pumping element set, the method further comprising: a respective lever coordinating a motion of each pumping element of the respective pumping element set based on a motion of the other pumping element of the respective pumping element set.

Clause 18. The machine-implemented method of any one of Clauses 11 through 17, wherein the infusion device comprises a control unit and first and second pump modules removably connected to the control unit by way of respective plugin ports on the control unit, the first pump module comprising the first pumping segment and the second pump module comprising the second pumping segment, wherein the control unit comprises a processor and the processor communicates with the first and second pump modules via electrical signals communicated through the respective plugin ports.

Clause 19. The machine-implemented method of any one of Clauses 11 through 18, wherein the common delivery conduit is an intravenous tubing connected to a patient.

Clause 20. An infusion pump, comprising: first and second pumping segments configured to operate in parallel with each other, each pumping segment including a group of serially-aligned pumping elements configured to compress an elongated compressible channel loaded within the pumping segment; and a processor configured to, when a respective compressible channel is loaded in each of the first and second pumping segments: cause each group of serially-aligned pumping elements of the first and second pumping segments to pump according to respective timing patterns offset from each other to deliver a first fluid from a first compressible channel loaded in the first pumping segment to a common delivery conduit while filling a second compressible channel loaded in the second pumping segment with a second fluid, and to deliver the second fluid from second compressible channel to the common delivery conduit while filling the first compressible channel using the first pumping segment. Further Consideration:

In some embodiments, any of the clauses herein may depend from any one of the independent clauses or any one of the dependent clauses. In one aspect, any of the clauses (e.g., dependent or independent clauses) may be combined with any other one or more clauses (e.g., dependent or independent clauses). In one aspect, a claim may include some or all of the words (e.g., steps, operations, means or components) recited in a clause, a sentence, a phrase or a paragraph. In one aspect, a claim may include some or all of the words recited in one or more clauses, sentences, phrases or paragraphs. In one aspect, some of the words in each of the clauses, sentences, phrases or paragraphs may be removed. In one aspect, additional words or elements may be added to a clause, a sentence, a phrase or a paragraph. In one aspect, the subject technology may be implemented without utilizing some of the components, elements, functions or operations described herein. In one aspect, the subject technology may be implemented utilizing additional components, elements, functions or operations.

The term website, as used herein, may include any aspect of a website, including one or more web pages, one or more servers used to host or store web related content, etc. Accordingly, the term website may be used interchangeably with the terms web page and server. The predicate words “configured to”, “operable to”, and “programmed to” do not imply any particular tangible or intangible modification of a subject, but, rather, are intended to be used interchangeably. For example, a processor configured to monitor and control an operation or a component, may also mean the processor being programmed to monitor and control the operation or the processor being operable to monitor and control the operation. Likewise, a processor configured to execute code can be construed as a processor programmed to execute code or operable to execute code.

The term automatic, as used herein, may include performance by a computer or machine without user intervention; for example, by instructions responsive to a predicate action by the computer or machine or other initiation mechanism. The word “example” is used herein to mean “serving as an example or illustration.” Any aspect or design described herein as “example” is not necessarily to be construed as preferred or advantageous over other aspects or designs.