BR112015015081B1 - SYRINGE PUMP - Google Patents

Abstract

SYRINGE PUMP. The present invention relates to a method for discharging fluid from a syringe and for mitigating occlusion conditions which includes actuating the plunger of a syringe within a barrel. The method monitors the fluid pressure within the syringe barrel and determines that there is an occlusion when the fluid pressure exceeds a predetermined threshold. The method actuates the plunger out of the barrel by a predetermined amount in response to the detected occlusion and actuates the syringe plunger into the barrel until a fluid pressure measured within the syringe barrel exceeds another predetermined threshold.

Description

CROSS REFERENCES TO RELATED ORDERS

[0001] The present application is a Non-Provisional Application claiming the benefit of the Provisional Patent Application in the U.S. series. 61/904,123, filed on November 14, 2013 and entitled Syringe Pump and Related Method (Lawyer Dossier Number L33); and Provisional Patent Application No. U.S. 61/894,801, filed on October 23, 2013 and titled Syringe Pump and Related Method (Attorney Dossier Number K88), each of which is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety.

[0002] The present application is also a continuation in part of the U.S. Serial Patent Application. 13/833,432, filed March 15, 2013 and titled Syringe Pump and Related Method, now Publication No. US-2013-0281965-A1, published October 24, 2013 (Attorney Dossier Number K21), which claims priority and the benefit of the following:

[0003] Provisional Patent Application No. U.S. 61/679,117, filed on August 3, 2012 and entitled System, Method, and Apparatus for Monitoring, Regulating, or Controlling Fluid Flow (Lawyer Dossier Number J30); and

[0004] Provisional Patent Application No. U.S. 61/651,322, filed on May 24, 2012 and entitled System, Method, and Apparatus for Electronic Patient Care (Attorney Dossier Number J46), both of which are incorporated herein by reference in their entirety.

[0005] Patent Application No. U.S. 13/833,432 (Attorney Dossier Number K21) claims priority for and is also a Continuation Request in Part of the following:

[0006] Patent Application Serial Number U.S. 13/333,574, filed December 21, 2011 and titled System, Method, and Apparatus for Electronic Patient Care, now Publication No. US-2012-0185267-A1, published July 19, 2012 (Attorney Dossier Number I97 ), and

[0007] PCT Application Serial No. PCT/US11/66588, filed December 21, 2011 and titled System, Method, and Apparatus for Electronic Patient Care, now International Publication No. WO 2013/095459, published September 12, 2013 (Lawyer Dossier Number I97WO); and

[0008] U.S. Serial Patent Application No. 13/723,238, filed December 21, 2012 and titled System, Method, and Apparatus for Clamping, now Publication No. US-2013-0182381-A1, published July 18, 2013 (Attorney Dossier Number J47), which claims priority and benefit from the following:

[0009] Provisional Patent Application No. U.S. 61/578,649, filed on December 21, 2011 and entitled System, Method, and Apparatus for Infusing Fluid (Lawyer Dossier Number J02);

[00010] Provisional Patent Application No. U.S. 61/578,658, filed on December 21, 2011 and entitled System, Method, and Apparatus for Estimating Liquid Delivery (Lawyer Dossier Number J04);

[00011] Provisional Patent Application No. U.S. 61/578,674, filed on December 21, 2011 and entitled System, Method, and Apparatus for Dispensing Oral Medications (Lawyer Dossier Number J05);

[00012] Provisional Patent Application No. U.S. 61/679,117, filed on August 3, 2012 and entitled System, Method, and Apparatus for Monitoring, Regulating, or Controlling Fluid Flow (Lawyer Dossier Number J30); and

[00013] Provisional Patent Application No. U.S. 61/651,322, filed on May 24, 2012 and entitled System, Method, and Apparatus for Electronic Patient Care (Attorney Dossier Number J46), each of which is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety.

[00014] Patent Application No. U.S. 13/723,238 (Attorney File J47) claims priority for and is a Continuation Request in Part of the following:

[00015] Patent Application Serial Number U.S. 13/333,574, filed December 21, 2011 and titled System, Method, and Apparatus for Electronic Patient Care, now Publication No. US-2012-0185267-A1, published July 19, 2012 (Attorney Dossier Number I97) , and

[00016] PCT Application Serial No. PCT/US11/66588, filed December 21, 2011 and titled System, Method, and Apparatus for Electronic Patient Care, now International Publication No. WO 2013/095459, published September 12, 2013 (Lawyer Dossier Number I97WO), both of which are incorporated herein by reference in their entirety.

[00017] Patent Application No. U.S. 13/833,432 (Attorney Dossier Number K21) claims priority for and is also a Continuation Application in Part of the U.S. Serial Patent Application. 13/723,235, filed December 21, 2012 and titled System, Method, and Apparatus for Dispensing Oral Medications, now Publication No. US-2013-0197693-A1, published August 1, 2013 (Attorney Dossier Number J74) , which claims priority and benefit from the following:

[00018] Provisional Patent Application No. U.S. 61/578,649, filed on December 21, 2011 and entitled System, Method, and Apparatus for Infusing Fluid (Lawyer Dossier Number J02);

[00019] Provisional Patent Application No. U.S. 61/578,658, filed on December 21, 2011 and entitled System, Method, and Apparatus for Estimating Liquid Delivery (Lawyer Dossier Number J04);

[00020] Provisional Patent Application No. U.S. 61/578,674, filed on December 21, 2011 and entitled System, Method, and Apparatus for Dispensing Oral Medications (Lawyer Dossier Number J05);

[00021] Provisional Patent Application No. U.S. 61/679,117, filed on August 3, 2012 and entitled System, Method, and Apparatus for Monitoring, Regulating, or Controlling Fluid Flow (Lawyer Dossier Number J30); and

[00022] Provisional Patent Application No. U.S. 61/651,322, filed on May 24, 2012 and entitled System, Method, and Apparatus for Electronic Patient Care (Attorney Dossier Number J46), each of which is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety.

[00023] Patent Application No. U.S. 13/723,235 (Attorney Dossier Number J74) claims priority for and is a Continuation Request in Part of the following:

[00024] Patent Application Serial Number U.S. 13/333,574, filed December 21, 2011 and titled System, Method, and Apparatus for Electronic Patient Care, now Publication No. US-2012-0185267-A1, published July 19, 2012 (Attorney Dossier Number I97) , and

[00025] PCT Application Serial No. PCT/US11/66588, filed December 21, 2011 and titled System, Method, and Apparatus for Electronic Patient Care, now International Publication No. WO 2013/095459, published September 12, 2013 ( Lawyer's Dossier Number I97WO), both of which are incorporated herein by way of reference in their entirety.

[00026] Patent Application No. U.S. 13/833,432 (Attorney Dossier Number K21) is also a Request for Continuation of Part of the PCT Application Serial PCT/US12/71131, filed December 21, 2012 and entitled System, Method, and Apparatus for Dispensing Oral Medications , now International Publication No WO 2013/096718, published on June 27, 2013 (Lawyer Dossier Number J74WO), which claims priority and benefit from the following:

[00027] Provisional Patent Application No. U.S. 61/578,649, filed on December 21, 2011 and entitled System, Method, and Apparatus for Infusing Fluid (Lawyer Dossier Number J02);

[00028] Provisional Patent Application No. U.S. 61/578,658, filed on December 21, 2011 and entitled System, Method, and Apparatus for Estimating Liquid Delivery (Lawyer Dossier Number J04);

[00029] Provisional Patent Application No. U.S. 61/578,674, filed on December 21, 2011 and entitled System, Method, and Apparatus for Dispensing Oral Medications (Lawyer Dossier Number J05);

[00030] Provisional Patent Application No. U.S. 61/651,322, filed on May 24, 2012 and entitled System, Method, and Apparatus for Electronic Patient Care (Lawyer Dossier Number J46); and

[00031] Provisional Patent Application No. U.S. 61/679,117, filed on August 3, 2012 and entitled System, Method, and Apparatus for Monitoring, Regulating, or Controlling Fluid Flow (Lawyer Dossier Number J30), each of which is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety.

[00032] PCT Request Serial No. PCT/US12/71131 (Attorney Dossier Number J74WO) claims priority for and is a Continuation Request in Part of the following:

[00033] Patent Application Serial Number U.S. 13/333,574, filed December 21, 2011 and titled System, Method, and Apparatus for Electronic Patient Care, now Publication No. US-2012-0185267-A1, published July 19, 2012 (Attorney Dossier Number I97) , and

[00034] PCT Application Serial No. PCT/US11/66588, filed December 21, 2011 and titled System, Method, and Apparatus for Electronic Patient Care, now International Publication No. WO 2013/095459, published September 12, 2013 (Lawyer Dossier Number I97WO), both of which are incorporated herein by reference in their entirety.

[00035] Patent Application No. U.S. 13/833,432 (Attorney Dossier Number K21) claims priority for and is also a Continuation Application in Part of the U.S. Serial Patent Application. 13/724,568, filed December 21, 2012 and titled System, Method, and Apparatus for Estimating Liquid Delivery, now Publication No. US-2013-0184676-A1, published July 18, 2013 (Attorney Dossier Number J75) , which claims priority and benefit from the following:

[00036] Provisional Patent Application No. U.S. 61/578,649, filed on December 21, 2011 and entitled System, Method, and Apparatus for Infusing Fluid (Lawyer Dossier Number J02);

[00037] Provisional Patent Application No. U.S. 61/578,658, filed on December 21, 2011 and entitled System, Method, and Apparatus for Estimating Liquid Delivery (Lawyer Dossier Number J04);

[00038] Provisional Patent Application No. U.S. 61/578,674, filed on December 21, 2011 and entitled System, Method, and Apparatus for Dispensing Oral Medications (Lawyer Dossier Number J05);

[00039] Provisional Patent Application No. U.S. 61/679,117, filed on August 3, 2012 and entitled System, Method, and Apparatus for Monitoring, Regulating, or Controlling Fluid Flow (Lawyer Dossier Number J30); and

[00040] Provisional Patent Application No. U.S. 61/651,322, filed on May 24, 2012 and entitled System, Method, and Apparatus for Electronic Patient Care (Attorney Dossier Number J46), each of which is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety.

[00041] Patent Application No. U.S. 13/724,568 (Attorney Dossier Number J75) claims priority for and is a Continuation Request in Part of the following:

[00042] Patent Application Serial Number U.S. 13/333,574, filed December 21, 2011 and titled System, Method, and Apparatus for Electronic Patient Care, now Publication No. US-2012-0185267-A1, published July 19, 2012 (Attorney Dossier Number I97) , and

[00043] PCT Application Serial No. PCT/US11/66588, filed December 21, 2011 and titled System, Method, and Apparatus for Electronic Patient Care, now International Publication No. WO 2013/095459, published September 12, 2013 (Lawyer Dossier Number I97WO), both of which are incorporated herein by reference in their entirety.

[00044] Patent Application Serial U.S. 13/833,432 (Attorney Dossier Number K21) claims priority for and is also a Continuation Application in Part of the U.S. Serial Patent Application. 13/725,790, filed December 21, 2012 and titled System, Method, and Apparatus for Infusing Fluid, now Publication No. US-2013-0177455-A1, published July 11, 2013 (Attorney Dossier Number J76), which claims priority and benefit from the following:

[00045] Provisional Patent Application No. U.S. 61/578,649, filed on December 21, 2011 and entitled System, Method, and Apparatus for Infusing Fluid (Lawyer Dossier Number J02);

[00046] Provisional Patent Application No. U.S. 61/578,658, filed on December 21, 2011 and entitled System, Method, and Apparatus for Estimating Liquid Delivery (Lawyer Dossier Number J04);

[00047] Provisional Patent Application No. U.S. 61/578,674, filed on December 21, 2011 and entitled System, Method, and Apparatus for Dispensing Oral Medications (Lawyer Dossier Number J05);

[00048] Provisional Patent Application No. U.S. 61/679,117, filed on August 3, 2012 and entitled System, Method, and Apparatus for Monitoring, Regulating, or Controlling Fluid Flow (Lawyer Dossier Number J30); and

[00049] Provisional Patent Application No. U.S. 61/651,322, filed on May 24, 2012 and entitled System, Method, and Apparatus for Electronic Patient Care (Attorney Dossier Number J46), each of which is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety.

[00050] Patent Application No. U.S. 13/725,790 (Attorney Dossier Number J76) claims priority for and is a Continuation Request in Part of the following:

[00051] Patent Application Serial Number U.S. 13/333,574, filed December 21, 2011 and titled System, Method, and Apparatus for Electronic Patient Care, now Publication No. US-2012-0185267-A1, published July 19, 2012 (Attorney Dossier Number I97) , and

[00052] PCT Application Serial No. PCT/US11/66588, filed December 21, 2011 and titled System, Method, and Apparatus for Electronic Patient Care, now International Publication No. WO 2013/095459, published September 12, 2013 (Lawyer Dossier Number I97WO), both of which are incorporated herein by reference in their entirety.

[00053] Patent Application No. U.S. 13/833,432 (Attorney Dossier Number K21) is also an Application for Continuation of Part of the PCT Application Serial PCT/US12/71490, filed December 21, 2012 and entitled System, Method, and Apparatus for Infusing Fluid, now International Publication in WO 2013/096909, published on June 27, 2013 (Lawyer Dossier Number J76WO), which claims priority and benefit from the following:

[00054] Provisional Patent Application No. U.S. 61/578,649, filed on December 21, 2011 and entitled System, Method, and Apparatus for Infusing Fluid (Lawyer Dossier Number J02);

[00055] Provisional Patent Application No. U.S. 61/578,658, filed on December 21, 2011 and entitled System, Method, and Apparatus for Estimating Liquid Delivery (Lawyer Dossier Number J04);

[00056] Provisional Patent Application No. U.S. 61/578,674, filed on December 21, 2011 and entitled System, Method, and Apparatus for Dispensing Oral Medications (Lawyer Dossier Number J05);

[00057] Provisional Patent Application No. U.S. 61/679,117, filed on August 3, 2012 and entitled System, Method, and Apparatus for Monitoring, Regulating, or Controlling Fluid Flow (Lawyer Dossier Number J30); and

[00058] Provisional Patent Application No. U.S. 61/651,322, filed on May 24, 2012 and entitled System, Method, and Apparatus for Electronic Patient Care (Attorney Dossier Number J46), each of which is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety.

[00059] PCT Request Serial No. PCT/US12/71490 (Attorney Dossier Number J76WO) claims priority for and is a Continuation Request in Part of the following:

[00060] Patent Application Serial Number U.S. 13/333,574, filed December 21, 2011 and titled System, Method, and Apparatus for Electronic Patient Care, now U.S. Publication. US-2012-0185267-A1, published on July 19, 2012 (Lawyer Dossier Number I97), and

[00061] PCT Application Serial No. PCT/US11/66588, filed December 21, 2011 and titled System, Method, and Apparatus for Electronic Patient Care, now International Publication No. WO 2013/095459, published September 12, 2013 (Lawyer Dossier Number I97WO), both of which are incorporated herein by reference in their entirety.

[00062] Patent Application No. U.S. 13/833,432 (Attorney Dossier Number K21) claims priority for and is also a Continuation Application in Part of the U.S. Serial Patent Application. 13/723,239, filed December 21, 2012 and titled System, Method, and Apparatus for Electronic Patient Care, now Publication No. US-2013-0297330-A1, published November 7, 2013 (Attorney Dossier Number J77) , which claims priority and benefit from the following:

[00063] Provisional Patent Application No. U.S. 61/578,649, filed on December 21, 2011 and entitled System, Method, and Apparatus for Infusing Fluid (Lawyer Dossier Number J02);

[00064] Provisional Patent Application No. U.S. 61/578,658, filed on December 21, 2011 and entitled System, Method, and Apparatus for Estimating Liquid Delivery (Lawyer Dossier Number J04);

[00065] Provisional Patent Application No. U.S. 61/578,674, filed on December 21, 2011 and entitled System, Method, and Apparatus for Dispensing Oral Medications (Lawyer Dossier Number J05);

[00066] Provisional Patent Application No. U.S. 61/651,322, filed on May 24, 2012 and entitled System, Method, and Apparatus for Electronic Patient Care (Lawyer Dossier Number J46); and

[00067] Provisional Patent Application No. U.S. 61/679,117, filed on August 3, 2012 and entitled System, Method, and Apparatus for Monitoring, Regulating, or Controlling Fluid Flow (Lawyer Dossier Number J30), each of which is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety.

[00068] Patent Application No. U.S. 13/723,239 (Attorney Dossier Number J77) claims priority for and is a Continuation Request in Part of the following:

[00069] Patent Application Serial Number U.S. 13/333,574, filed December 21, 2011 and titled System, Method, and Apparatus for Electronic Patient Care, now Publication No. US-2012-0185267-A1, published July 19, 2012 (Attorney Dossier Number I97) , and

[00070] PCT Application Serial No. PCT/US11/66588, filed December 21, 2011 and titled System, Method, and Apparatus for Electronic Patient Care, now International Publication No. WO 2013/095459, published September 12, 2013 (Lawyer Dossier Number I97WO), both of which are incorporated herein by reference in their entirety.

[00071] Patent Application No. U.S. 13/833,432 (Attorney Dossier Number K21) claims priority for and is also a Continuation Application in Part of the U.S. Serial Patent Application. 13/723,242, filed December 21, 2012 and titled System, Method, and Apparatus for Electronic Patient Care, now Publication No. US-2013-0317753-A1, published November 28, 2013 (Attorney Dossier Number J78) , which claims priority and benefit from the following:

[00072] Provisional Patent Application No. U.S. 61/651,322, filed on May 24, 2012 and entitled System, Method, and Apparatus for Electronic Patient Care (Attorney Dossier Number J46), which is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety.

[00073] Patent Application No. U.S. 13/833,432 (Attorney Dossier Number K21) claims priority for and is also a Continuation Application in Part of the U.S. Serial Patent Application. 13/723,244, filed December 21, 2012 and titled System, Method, and Apparatus for Monitoring, Regulating, or Controlling Fluid Flow, now Publication in the U.S. US-2013-0188040-A1, published on July 25, 2013 (Lawyer Dossier Number J79), which claims priority and benefit from the following:

[00074] Provisional Patent Application No. U.S. 61/578,649, filed on December 21, 2011 and entitled System, Method, and Apparatus for Infusing Fluid (Lawyer Dossier Number J02);

[00075] Provisional Patent Application No. U.S. 61/578,658, filed on December 21, 2011 and entitled System, Method, and Apparatus for Estimating Liquid Delivery (Lawyer Dossier Number J04);

[00076] Provisional Patent Application No. U.S. 61/578,674, filed on December 21, 2011 and entitled System, Method, and Apparatus for Dispensing Oral Medications (Lawyer Dossier Number J05);

[00077] Provisional Patent Application No. U.S. 61/651,322, filed on May 24, 2012 and entitled System, Method, and Apparatus for Electronic Patient Care (Lawyer Dossier Number J46); and

[00078] Provisional Patent Application No. U.S. 61/679,117, filed on August 3, 2012 and entitled System, Method, and Apparatus for Monitoring, Regulating, or Controlling Fluid Flow (Lawyer Dossier Number J30), each of which is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety.

[00079] Patent Application Serial U.S. 13/723,244 (Attorney Dossier Number J79) claims priority for and is a Continuation Request in Part of the following:

[00080] Patent Application Serial Number U.S. 13/333,574, filed December 21, 2011 and titled System, Method, and Apparatus for Electronic Patient Care, now Publication No. US-2012-0185267-A1, published July 19, 2012 (Attorney Dossier Number I97) , and

[00081] PCT Application Serial No. PCT/US11/66588, filed December 21, 2011 and titled System, Method, and Apparatus for Electronic Patient Care, now International Publication No. WO 2013/095459, published September 12, 2013 (Lawyer Dossier Number I97WO), both of which are incorporated herein by reference in their entirety.

[00082] Patent Application Serial No. U.S. 13/833,432 (Attorney Dossier Number K21) claims priority for and is also a Request for Continuation in Part of the PCT Application Serial PCT/US12/71142, filed December 21, 2012 and entitled System, Method, and Apparatus for Monitoring, Regulating, or Controlling Fluid Flow, now International Publication No WO 2013/096722, published June 27, 2013 (Lawyer Dossier Number J79WO), which claims priority and benefit to the following:

[00083] Provisional Patent Application No. U.S. 61/578,649, filed on December 21, 2011 and entitled System, Method, and Apparatus for Infusing Fluid (Lawyer Dossier Number J02);

[00084] Provisional Patent Application No. U.S. 61/578,658, filed on December 21, 2011 and entitled System, Method, and Apparatus for Estimating Liquid Delivery (Lawyer Dossier Number J04);

[00085] Provisional Patent Application No. U.S. 61/578,674, filed on December 21, 2011 and entitled System, Method, and Apparatus for Dispensing Oral Medications (Lawyer Dossier Number J05);

[00086] Provisional Patent Application No. U.S. 61/651,322, filed on May 24, 2012 and entitled System, Method, and Apparatus for Electronic Patient Care (Lawyer Dossier Number J46); and

[00087] Provisional Patent Application No. U.S. 61/679,117, filed on August 3, 2012 and entitled System, Method, and Apparatus for Monitoring, Regulating, or Controlling Fluid Flow (Lawyer Dossier Number J30), each of which is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety.

[00088] PCT Request Serial No. PCT/US12/71142 (Attorney Dossier Number J79WO) claims priority for and is a Continuation Request in Part of the following:

[00089] Patent Application Serial Number U.S. 13/333,574, filed December 21, 2011 and titled System, Method, and Apparatus for Electronic Patient Care, now Publication No. US-2012-0185267-A1, published July 19, 2012 (Attorney Dossier Number I97) , and

[00090] PCT Application Serial No. PCT/US11/66588, filed December 21, 2011 and titled System, Method, and Apparatus for Electronic Patient Care, now International Publication No. WO 2013/095459, published September 12, 2013 (Lawyer Dossier Number I97WO), both of which are incorporated herein by reference in their entirety.

[00091] Patent Application No. U.S. 13/833,432 (Attorney Dossier Number K21) claims priority for and is also a Continuation Application in Part of the U.S. Serial Patent Application. 13/723,251, filed December 21, 2012 and titled System, Method, and Apparatus for Estimating Liquid Delivery, now Publication No. US-2013-0204188-A1, published August 8, 2013 (Attorney Dossier Number J81) , which claims priority and benefit from the following:

[00092] Provisional Patent Application No. U.S. 61/578,649, filed on December 21, 2011 and entitled System, Method, and Apparatus for Infusing Fluid (Lawyer Dossier Number J02);

[00093] Provisional Patent Application No. U.S. 61/578,658, filed on December 21, 2011 and entitled System, Method, and Apparatus for Estimating Liquid Delivery (Lawyer Dossier Number J04);

[00094] Provisional Patent Application No. U.S. 61/578,674, filed on December 21, 2011 and entitled System, Method, and Apparatus for Dispensing Oral Medications (Lawyer Dossier Number J05);

[00095] Provisional Patent Application No. U.S. 61/651,322, filed on May 24, 2012 and entitled System, Method, and Apparatus for Electronic Patient Care (Lawyer Dossier Number J46); and

[00096] Provisional Patent Application No. U.S. 61/679,117, filed on August 3, 2012 and entitled System, Method, and Apparatus for Monitoring, Regulating, or Controlling Fluid Flow (Lawyer Dossier Number J30), each of which is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety.

[00097] Patent Application Serial U.S. 13/723,251 (Attorney Dossier Number J81) claims priority for and is a Continuation Request in Part of the following:

[00098] Patent Application Serial Number U.S. 13/333,574, filed December 21, 2011 and titled System, Method, and Apparatus for Electronic Patient Care, now Publication No. US-2012-0185267-A1, published July 19, 2012 (Attorney Dossier Number I97) , and

[00099] PCT Application Serial No. PCT/US11/66588, filed December 21, 2011 and titled System, Method, and Apparatus for Electronic Patient Care, now International Publication No. WO 2013/095459, published September 12, 2013 (Lawyer Dossier Number I97WO), both of which are incorporated herein by reference in their entirety.

[000100] Patent Application No. U.S. 13/833,432 (Attorney Dossier Number K21) is also a Request for Continuation of Part of the PCT Application Serial PCT/US12/71112, filed December 21, 2012 and entitled System, Method, and Apparatus for Estimating Liquid Delivery , now International Publication No WO 2013/096713, published June 27, 2013 (Lawyer Dossier Number J81WO), which claims priority and benefit from the following:

[000101] Provisional Patent Application No. U.S. 61/578,649, filed on December 21, 2011 and entitled System, Method, and Apparatus for Infusing Fluid (Lawyer Dossier Number J02);

[000102] Provisional Patent Application No. U.S. 61/578,658, filed on December 21, 2011 and entitled System, Method, and Apparatus for Estimating Liquid Delivery (Lawyer Dossier Number J04);

[000103] Provisional Patent Application No. U.S. 61/578,674, filed on December 21, 2011 and entitled System, Method, and Apparatus for Dispensing Oral Medications (Lawyer Dossier Number J05);

[000104] Provisional Patent Application No. U.S. 61/651,322, filed on May 24, 2012 and entitled System, Method, and Apparatus for Electronic Patient Care (Lawyer Dossier Number J46); and

[000105] Provisional Patent Application No. U.S. 61/679,117, filed on August 3, 2012 and entitled System, Method, and Apparatus for Monitoring, Regulating, or Controlling Fluid Flow (Lawyer Dossier Number J30), each of which is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety.

[000106] PCT Request Serial No. PCT/US12/71112 (Attorney Dossier Number J81WO) claims priority for and is a Continuation Request in Part of the following:

[000107] Patent Application Serial Number U.S. 13/333,574, filed December 21, 2011 and titled System, Method, and Apparatus for Electronic Patient Care, now Publication No. US-2012-0185267-A1, published July 19, 2012 (Attorney Dossier Number I97) , and

[000108] PCT Application Serial No. PCT/US11/66588, filed December 21, 2011 and titled System, Method, and Apparatus for Electronic Patient Care, now International Publication No. WO 2013/095459, published September 12, 2013 (Lawyer Dossier Number I97WO), both of which are incorporated herein by reference in their entirety.

[000109] Patent Application No. U.S. 13/833,432 (Attorney Dossier Number K21) claims priority for and is also a Continuation Application in Part of the U.S. Serial Patent Application. 13/723,253, filed December 21, 2012 and titled System, Method, and Apparatus for Electronic Patient Care, now Publication No. US-2013-0191513-A1, published July 25, 2013 (Attorney Dossier Number J85) , which claims priority and benefit from the following:

[000110] Provisional Patent Application No. U.S. 61/578,649, filed on December 21, 2011 and entitled System, Method, and Apparatus for Infusing Fluid (Lawyer Dossier Number J02);

[000111] Provisional Patent Application No. U.S. 61/578,658, filed on December 21, 2011 and entitled System, Method, and Apparatus for Estimating Liquid Delivery (Lawyer Dossier Number J04);

[000112] Provisional Patent Application No. U.S. 61/578,674, filed on December 21, 2011 and entitled System, Method, and Apparatus for Dispensing Oral Medications (Lawyer Dossier Number J05);

[000113] Provisional Patent Application No. U.S. 61/651,322, filed on May 24, 2012 and entitled System, Method, and Apparatus for Electronic Patient Care (Lawyer Dossier Number J46); and

[000114] Provisional Patent Application No. U.S. 61/679,117, filed on August 3, 2012 and entitled System, Method, and Apparatus for Monitoring, Regulating, or Controlling Fluid Flow (Lawyer Dossier Number J30), each of which is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety.

[000115] Patent Application No. U.S. 13/723,253 (Attorney Dossier Number J85) claims priority for and is a Continuation Request in Part of the following:

[000116] Patent Application Serial Number U.S. 13/333,574, filed December 21, 2011 and titled System, Method, and Apparatus for Electronic Patient Care, now U.S. Publication. US-2012-0185267-A1, published on July 19, 2012 (Lawyer Dossier Number I97), and

[000117] PCT Application Serial No. PCT/US11/66588, filed December 21, 2011 and titled System, Method, and Apparatus for Electronic Patient Care, now International Publication No. WO 2013/095459, published September 12, 2013 (Lawyer Dossier Number I97WO), both of which are incorporated herein by reference in their entirety.

[000118] The present application may also be related to one or more of the U.S. patent applications. below, filed on March 15, 2013, all of which are incorporated herein by reference in their entirety:

[000119] Non-Provisional Application for Apparatus for Infusing Fluid (Lawyer Dossier Number K14) which has Serial Number 13/840,339;

[000120] PCT Application for Apparatus for Infusing Fluid (Lawyer Dossier Number K14WO);

[000121] Non-Provisional Application for System and Apparatus for Electronic Patient Care (Lawyer Dossier Number K22) which has Serial Number 13/836,497;

[000122] Non-Provisional Application for System, Method and Apparatus for Clamping (Attorney Dossier Number K23) which has Serial Number 13/833,712; and

[000123] Non-Provisional Application for System, Method, and Apparatus for Monitoring, Regulating, or Controlling Fluid Flow (Attorney Dossier Number K28) which has Serial Number 13/834,030.

[000124] This order may also be linked to the following orders which are incorporated herein by reference in their entirety:

[000125] Provisional Order for Electronic Order Intermediation System for a Medical Facility (Attorney Dossier Number H53) which has Serial Number 61/297,544, filed January 22, 2010;

[000126] Non-Provisional Application for Electronic Patient Monitoring System (Attorney Dossier Number I52) which has Serial Number 13/011,543, filed on January 21, 2011;

[000127] Provisional Application for System, Method, and Apparatus for Bubble Detection in a Fluid Line Using a Split-Ring Resonator (Attorney Dossier Number J31) which has Serial Number 61/860,398, filed on July 31, 2013 ;

[000128] Provisional Application for System, Method, and Apparatus for Detecting Air in a Fluid Line Using Active Rectification (Attorney Dossier Number J32) which has Serial Number 61/738,447, filed December 18, 2012;

[000129] Provisional Application for System, Method, and Apparatus for Communicating Data (Attorney Dossier Number J80) which has Serial Number 61/740,474, filed on December 21, 2012;

[000130] Provisional Application for System, Method, and Apparatus for Monitoring, Regulating, or Controlling Fluid Flow (Attorney Dossier Number K52) which has Serial Number 61/900,431, filed on November 6, 2013;

[000131] Non-Provisional Application for System, Method, and Apparatus for Electronic Patient Care (Attorney Dossier Number K66) which has Serial Number 13/900,655, filed May 23, 2013;

[000132] International Application for System, Method, and Apparatus for Electronic Patient Care (Attorney Dossier Number K66WO) having Serial Number PCT/US13/42350, filed May 23, 2013;

[000133] Interim Application for System, Method, and Apparatus for Clamping (Attorney Dossier Number K75) which has Serial Number 61/843,574, filed July 8, 2013;

[000134] Non-Provisional Application for Electronic Patient Monitoring System (Attorney Dossier Number K84) which has Serial Number 13/971,258, filed on August 20, 2013;

[000135] Non-Provisional Application for System, Method, and Apparatus for Detecting Air in a Fluid Line Using Active Rectification (Lawyer Dossier Number L05) which has Serial Number 14/101,848, filed on December 10, 2013;

[000136] Non-Provisional Application for Syringe Pump, and Related Method and System, filed on December 20, 2013 (Lawyer Dossier Number L50);

[000137] Non-Provisional Application for Computer-Implemented Method, System, and Apparatus for Electronic Patient Care, filed December 20, 2013 (Attorney Dossier Number K50); and

[000138] International Application for Computer-Implemented Method, System, and Apparatus for Electronic Patient Care, filed December 20, 2013 (Attorney Dossier Number K50WO).

BACKGROUND RELEVANT FIELD

[000139] The present disclosure relates to syringe pumps.

DESCRIPTION OF RELATED TECHNIQUE

[000140] Syringe pumps are used in a variety of medical applications, such as for the intravenous delivery of liquid medications, for example, to a patient in an intensive care unit (ICU), for an extended period of time. Syringe pumps can be designed so that needles, tubing or other attachments are attachable to the syringe pump. Syringe pumps typically include a plunger mounted on a shaft that pushes a liquid out of a reservoir. The reservoir may be a tube-like structure that has a port at one end so that the plunger can push (ie, discharge) liquid out of the syringe pump. Syringe pumps can be coupled to an actuator that mechanically drives the plunger to control the delivery of liquid to the patient.

[000141] Syringe pumps can also be used to deliver various drugs including analgesics, antiemetics or other fluids. Medication can be given through an IV line very quickly (eg, in a bolus) or over a period of time. Syringe pumps can also be used in non-medical applications such as in microreactors, in laboratory testing and/or in chemical processing applications.

SUMMARY

[000142] In accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure, a pump for delivering an agent to a patient may comprise a housing. Within said housing may be a motor, a gearbox operatively connected to said motor, a means for capturing the rotation of said motor, a controller which acts to control the operation of said motor and monitor the amount of said agent delivered to said patient and a pump set. The pump may be configured so that the pump is interchangeable from a syringe pump or peristaltic pump, respectively, to a peristaltic pump or syringe pump by replacing a pump assembly with a different pump assembly.

[000143] In some embodiments, the pump may be field interchangeable from a syringe pump or peristaltic pump, respectively, to a peristaltic pump or syringe pump by replacing a pump assembly with a different pump assembly.

[000144] In accordance with another embodiment of the present disclosure, a syringe pump for delivering an agent to a patient may comprise a housing, a lead screw and a slide block assembly. The slide block assembly may comprise a cam, a cam projection fixedly coupled to the cam, and a threaded portion which is capable of engaging and disengaging the lead screw. The threaded portion can be configured to be actuated between engagement and disengagement on the lead thread by rotating the cam and cam projection.

[000145] In some embodiments, the slide block assembly may comprise a slot with a straight extension and an arcuate extension.

[000146] In some embodiments, rotating the cam can cause the cam projection to move within the slot. As the cam projection moves within the straight span of the slot, the threaded portion can be configured to be actuated between engagement and disengagement with the lead thread.

[000147] In some embodiments, the syringe pump may additionally comprise gripping means configured to secure any of a range of plunger flange sizes.

[000148] In some embodiments, the cam projection may not enter the straight span of the slot until the largest of the plunger flange size range has been released by the means configured to hold any of a range of flange sizes of plunger.

[000149] In some embodiments, the syringe pump may additionally comprise a plunger head assembly coupled to the sliding and operating block for driving a plunger of a syringe within a syringe barrel. A plunger tube can couple the plunger head assembly to the slide block.

[000150] In some embodiments, the piston tube may perform at least one or more additional functions from a list consisting of: a bushing support for at least one swivel shaft, a channel for electrical conduits to and from the set of plunger head and a channel for data transmission conduits to and from the plunger head assembly.

[000151] In some embodiments, the syringe pump may further comprise a barrel flange clamp configured to retain a barrel flange of a syringe.

[000152] In some embodiments, the drum flange clamp may comprise means for detecting the presence of a drum flange. The means of detecting the presence of a drum flange may comprise an optical sensor and a light source. The light source can be obscured in the presence of the drum flange.

[000153] In some embodiments, the location of the cam of the slide block assembly can be adjustable so that a user can optimize the engagement of the threaded portion on the lead thread.

[000154] In some embodiments, the sliding block assembly may additionally include at least one biasing member. The biasing member may be configured to orient the threaded portion into one of an engaged position on the lead thread and a disengaged position on the lead thread.

[000155] In accordance with another aspect of the present disclosure, a syringe pump for delivering an agent to a patient may comprise a housing, a lead screw and a slide block assembly. The slide block assembly may comprise a threaded section configured to engage and disengage from the lead thread. The syringe pump may further comprise a plunger head assembly coupled to said sliding and operative block for driving a plunger of a syringe within a syringe barrel. The syringe pump may further comprise gripping means configured to secure any of a range of plunger flange sizes. The means configured to secure any of a range of plunger flange sizes may comprise at least a first plunger flange gripper and a second plunger flange gripper. The first and second plunger flange gripping jaws may be configured to be actuated from a first position to a position at which at least one point each of the first and second plunger flange gripping jaws is in contact. with a plunger flange edge that forces the plunger flange against the plunger head assembly and acts as an anti-siphon mechanism.

[000156] In some embodiments, the means configured to secure any of a range of piston flange sizes may comprise a cam, at least one cam follower, and at least one biasing member. The biasing member may orient said means configured to secure any one of a range of piston flange sizes towards a first position. In some embodiments, movement of the at least one cam follower along the cam can overcome the biasing member and allow the configured means to secure any of a range of plunger flange sizes to move toward a second position.

[000157] In some embodiments, the cam, at least one cam follower, and at least one biasing member may be coupled to a rotating shaft. The cam may not be rotatable with said axis, but may be displaceable along an axial dimension of said axis. The at least one cam follower may be fixedly coupled to the shaft and rotatable with the shaft. Rotation of the shaft can cause the at least one cam follower to move along the cam, thereby displacing the cam along the axial dimension of the shaft.

[000158] In some embodiments, the biasing member may automatically return the means configured to secure any range of plunger flange sizes to the first position in the absence of sufficient force to overcome the biasing member.

[000159] In some embodiments, the cam may comprise at least one detent, each of said detents being reached by one of the at least one cam follower when the means configured to secure any plunger flange size range has been enabled to move to the second position.

[000160] In some embodiments, the plunger head assembly may further comprise a pressure sensor for monitoring the pressure of the agent being dispensed from the syringe.

[000161] In some embodiments, the plunger flange of the syringe may be held against the pressure sensor by means configured to secure any range of plunger flange sizes.

[000162] In some embodiments, the syringe pump may additionally comprise a barrel flange clamp. The barrel flange clamp can be configured to retain a barrel flange from the syringe.

[000163] In some embodiments, the drum flange clamp may comprise means for detecting the presence of a drum flange. The means of detecting the presence of a drum flange may comprise an optical sensor and a light source. The light source may be obscured in the presence of said drum flange.

[000164] In accordance with another aspect of the present disclosure, a syringe pump for delivering an agent to a patient may comprise a housing, a lead screw and a slide block assembly. The slide block assembly may comprise a threaded section configured for engagement and disengagement with said lead thread and movable along said lead thread. The syringe pump may further comprise a plunger head assembly coupled to said sliding block and operative to drive a plunger of a syringe within a barrel of said syringe. The syringe pump may further comprise gripping means configured to secure any of a range of plunger flange sizes. The syringe pump may further comprise means for monitoring the gripping means. The means of monitoring the gripping means may have the ability to generate data to determine at least one characteristic of the affixed syringe.

[000165] In some embodiments, the means of monitoring the gripping means may be a potentiometer.

[000166] In some embodiments, the data generated by the grip monitoring means can be evaluated by referencing said data against a database.

[000167] In some embodiments, data generated by the grip monitoring means may be evaluated by referencing said data against a database and data generated by at least one other sensor.

[000168] In some embodiments, the gripping means may comprise a cam, at least one cam follower and at least one biasing member. The biasing member may orient said gripping means towards a first position. Movement of the at least one cam follower along the cam can overcome the biasing member and allow the gripping means to move towards a second position.

[000169] In some embodiments, the cam, at least one cam follower, and at least one biasing member may be coupled to a rotating shaft. In some specific embodiments, the cam may not be rotatable with the shaft, but may be displaceable along an axial dimension of said shaft. The at least one cam follower may be fixedly coupled to the shaft and rotatable with the shaft. Rotation of the shaft can cause the at least one cam follower to move along the cam, displacing the cam along the axial dimension of the shaft.

[000170] In some embodiments, the biasing member may automatically return the half-configured grip to the first position in the absence of sufficient force to overcome the biasing member.

[000171] In some embodiments, the cam may comprise at least one detent. Each of the detents may be reached by one of the at least one cam follower when the means for securing any range of piston flange sizes has been enabled to move to the second position.

[000172] In some embodiments, the plunger head assembly may further comprise a pressure sensor for monitoring the pressure of the agent being dispensed from the syringe.

[000173] In some embodiments, a plunger flange of the syringe may be held against the pressure sensor by the gripping means.

[000174] In some embodiments, the drum flange clamp may comprise means for detecting the presence of a drum flange. The means of detecting the presence of said drum flange may comprise an optical sensor and a light source. The light source may be obscured in the presence of said drum flange.

[000175] In accordance with another aspect of the present disclosure, a syringe pump for delivering an agent to a patient may comprise a housing, a lead screw and an operably coupled plunger head assembly for driving a plunger of a syringe therein. of the barrel of a syringe with the rotation of said lead screw. The syringe pump may additionally comprise at least one set of redundant sensors. Redundant sensors can be configured so that if part of a redundant sensor set is compromised, the syringe pump can operate in a failed operating mode for at least the duration of a therapy. One or more of the redundant sensor set is configured to monitor the volume that is infused.

[000176] In accordance with another aspect of the present disclosure, a syringe pump for delivering an agent to a patient may comprise a housing and a syringe barrel retainer which is movable between a first position and a second position. The syringe barrel retainer may be oriented by a biasing member to either the first position or the second position. The syringe pump may further comprise a syringe barrel contact member. The barrel contact member may be coupled to said syringe barrel retainer and configured to retain the syringe in place in the housing. The syringe pump may further comprise a detector which has the ability to sense the position of the syringe barrel retainer and generate position data based on the position of the syringe barrel retainer. When a syringe is in place in said housing, the syringe barrel retainer may be oriented so that the syringe is retained in place in said housing. Position data generated by said detector may be indicative of at least one characteristic of the syringe and evaluated to determine said characteristic.

[000177] In some embodiments, the detector may be a linear potentiometer.

[000178] In some embodiments, the detector may be a magnetic linear position sensor.

[000179] In some embodiments, the syringe barrel retainer may be configured to be locked in at least one of the first position and the second position.

[000180] In some embodiments, the biasing member can cause the syringe barrel retainer to automatically adjust to the size of the syringe.

[000181] In some embodiments, position data generated by the detector may be referenced against a database to determine at least one characteristic of the syringe.

[000182] In some embodiments, position data generated by the detector may be referenced against a database and data from at least one other sensor to determine the at least one characteristic of the syringe.

[000183] In accordance with another aspect of the present disclosure, a method of administering an agent to a patient via a syringe pump may comprise setting one or more parameters for an infusion through a syringe pump interface. The method may further comprise referencing said parameters against a medical database and placing restrictions on additional parameters to be set via the syringe pump interface. One of the additional parameters may be an end of the infusion behavior to be performed by the syringe pump after a volume to be infused has been infused. The method may further comprise infusing said agent to said patient in accordance with defined parameters for the infusion and performing the specified end of the infusion behavior.

[000184] In some embodiments, the end of the infusion behavior can be selected from a list consisting of: stop an infusion, infuse at an open maintenance vein rate, and continue to infuse at the rate of the finished infusion.

[000185] In some embodiments, referencing parameters against a database and placing restrictions on additional parameters may comprise referencing the agent against the database.

[000186] In accordance with one embodiment of the present disclosure, a syringe pump includes a housing, a syringe holder, and a stop. The syringe holder is coupled to the housing. The stop is coupled to the housing adjacent to the syringe holder. The stop may at least partially encircle a corner of the syringe holder.

[000187] In another embodiment of the present disclosure, a syringe pump includes a housing, a syringe holder and a power supply. The syringe holder is coupled to the housing. The power supply is coupled to the housing so that the housing is configured as a heat sink for the power supply. The syringe pump may include a motor, and the motor may be coupled to the housing so that the housing is a heat sink for the motor. Housing can be cast in mould. The housing may comprise at least one metal and/or may be a unitary body.

[000188] In another embodiment of the present disclosure, a syringe pump includes a user interface, an antenna and a split ring resonator. The user interface has a front side and a back side. The antenna is arranged on the back side of the user interface. The split ring resonator is arranged in spaced relationship with the user interface and is configured to operate with the antenna.

[000189] The user interface may include a touchscreen sensor. The split ring resonator can be arranged on a backside of the touchscreen sensor. A frame can surround the touchscreen sensor which has a gap so that the frame defines the split ring resonator. A dielectric can be arranged within the span.

[000190] In another embodiment of the present disclosure, a syringe pump includes a housing, a lead screw, a motor, a rotary position sensor, a slide block assembly, a linear position sensor, and one or more processors. The lead screw is rotating inside the housing. The motor is operatively coupled to the lead screw and is configured to turn the lead screw. The engine has an integral engine speed sensor configured to provide an engine speed signal. The rotary position sensor is operatively coupled to the motor or lead screw to provide a rotation signal. The rotary position sensor can be a magnetic encoder sensor. The slide block assembly is configured to engage the lead thread to drive the slide block assembly along the lead thread in accordance with the lead thread rotation. The linear position sensor is operatively coupled to the slide block assembly and is configured to provide a linear position signal. The one or more processors are configured to control engine speed. The one or more processors operatively receive the engine speed signal from the integral engine speed sensor, the rotation signal from the rotary position sensor and the linear position signal from the linear position sensor. The one or more processors are configured to determine if a discrepancy exists between the motor rotation signal, the rotation signal and the linear position signal. The one or more processors can be further configured to continue an infusion treatment by ignoring an inoperative among the integral motor speed sensor, the rotary position sensor and a linear position sensor.

[000191] In another embodiment of the present disclosure, a syringe pump includes a housing, a lead screw, a slide block assembly, a plunger, and first and second hinged jaw members. The lead screw is rotating inside the housing. The slide block assembly is configured to engage the lead thread to move along the lead thread in accordance with the lead thread rotation. The plunger head assembly is coupled to the slide block assembly and is configured to drive a plunger of a syringe within a syringe barrel. The first and second hinged claw members are each hingedly coupled to the plunger head assembly. The first and second hinged jaw members are configured to hinge toward each other to retain a plunger flange of the syringe. The first hinged gripper member and/or the second hinged gripper member includes a bend.

[000192] The syringe pump may additionally include a dial coupled to the slide block assembly. The display may be operatively coupled to the first and second hinged claw members to pivotally actuate the first and second hinged claw members. The pump may include a biasing member configured to orient the dial in a direction of rotation. The biasing member can be configured to automatically return the first and second hinged gripper members to a position apart from each other. The propensity member can be configured to automatically return the first and second hinged gripper members into a position towards each other.

[000193] In another embodiment, a syringe pump includes a housing, a syringe holder coupled to the housing, and a retaining finger. The retaining finger is pivotally coupled to the housing and is configured to pivot toward a syringe disposed within the syringe holder to retain the syringe.

[000194] In another embodiment of the present disclosure, a method is provided for removing backlash effects in a syringe pump which has a syringe loaded in the syringe pump. The syringe has a barrel and a plunger disposed within the barrel. The method includes the actions of: receiving a target flow rate from the syringe loaded into the syringe pump; determining a therapy actuation rate that corresponds to the target flow rate; actuating the syringe plunger out of the barrel at a first predetermined speed until a force sensor coupled to the plunger measures a force that is less than a first predetermined force threshold; actuating the syringe plunger within the barrel at a second predetermined speed greater than the therapy actuation speed until the force sensor coupled to the plunger measures a force that exceeds a second predetermined threshold; and actuating the plunger of the syringe within the barrel at the therapy actuation speed. The therapy actuation speed can match the target flow rate when there is no clearance in the syringe pump or syringe. The method may additionally include the actions of: estimating an unloaded volume that starts from the piston position when the second predetermined limit has been exceeded; and/or stop the syringe pump when the estimated volume discharged equals or exceeds a target volume.

[000195] In another embodiment of the present disclosure, a method is provided for removing the effects of backlash in a syringe pump which has a syringe loaded in the syringe pump. The syringe has a barrel and a plunger disposed within the barrel. The method includes the actions of: receiving a target flow rate from the syringe loaded into the syringe pump; determining a therapy actuation rate that corresponds to the target flow rate; actuating the syringe plunger out of the barrel at a first predetermined speed until a force sensor coupled to the plunger measures a force that is less than a predetermined first force threshold or the plunger moves out of the barrel a first predetermined distance; actuating the syringe plunger inside the barrel at a second predetermined speed greater than the therapy actuation speed until the force sensor coupled to the plunger measures a force that exceeds a second predetermined threshold or the plunger travels within the barrel at a second predetermined distance; and actuating the plunger of the syringe within the barrel at the therapy actuation speed.

[000196] The therapy actuation speed can match the target flow rate when there is no clearance in the syringe pump or syringe. The method may further include the actions of: estimating an unloaded volume that starts from the piston position when the second predetermined limit has been exceeded; stop the syringe pump when the estimated volume discharged equals or exceeds a target delivery volume; and/or using an alarm if the plunger is displaced within the barrel by the second predetermined distance without the force sensor measuring a force that exceeds the second predetermined limit.

[000197] In another embodiment of the present disclosure, a syringe pump includes a housing, a syringe holder, a lead screw, a motor, a slide block assembly, a plunger head assembly, and one or more processors. The syringe holder is coupled to the housing and is configured to hold a syringe which has a barrel and a plunger disposed within the barrel. The lead screw is rotating inside the housing. The motor is coupled to the lead screw and is configured to turn the lead screw. The slide block assembly can be configured to engage the lead thread to move along the lead thread in accordance with the lead thread rotation. The plunger head assembly is coupled to the slide block assembly and is configured to drive a plunger of a syringe within a syringe barrel. The plunger head assembly has a force sensor operably coupled to the syringe plunger to measure a plunger head assembly force on the syringe plunger. The one or more processors are operatively coupled to the motor and are configured to control the rotation of the motor to thereby control the actuation of the piston head assembly. The one or more processors are also operatively coupled to the force sensor to receive a force measured therefrom and are configured to: receive a target flow rate from the syringe loaded into the syringe pump; determining a therapy actuation rate that corresponds to the target flow rate; directing the motor to drive the syringe plunger off the barrel at a first predetermined speed until the force sensor coupled to the plunger measures a force that is less than a predetermined first force threshold; directing the motor to actuate the plunger of the syringe within the barrel at a second predetermined speed greater than the therapy actuation speed until the force sensor coupled to the plunger measures a force that exceeds a second predetermined threshold; and commanding the motor to actuate the syringe plunger within the barrel at the therapy actuation speed. The therapy actuation speed can match the target flow rate when there is no clearance in the syringe pump or syringe.

[000198] The one or more processors can be configured to estimate an unloaded volume that starts from the plunger position when the second predetermined threshold has been exceeded.

[000199] The one or more processors can be further configured to stop the syringe pump when the estimated discharge volume equals or exceeds a target delivery volume.

[000200] In yet another embodiment of the present disclosure, a syringe pump includes a housing, a syringe holder, a lead screw, a motor, a slide block assembly, a plunger head assembly, and one or more processors. The syringe holder is coupled to the housing and is configured to hold a syringe which has a barrel and a plunger disposed within the barrel. The lead screw is rotating inside the housing. The motor is coupled to the lead screw and is configured to turn the lead screw. The slide block assembly can be configured to engage the lead thread to move along the lead thread in accordance with the lead thread rotation. The plunger head assembly is coupled to the slide block assembly and is configured to drive a plunger of a syringe within a syringe barrel. The plunger head assembly has a force sensor operably coupled to the syringe plunger to measure a plunger head assembly force on the syringe plunger. The one or more processors are operatively coupled to the motor and are configured to control the rotation of the motor to thereby control the actuation of the piston head assembly. The one or more processors are also operatively coupled to the force sensor to receive a force measured therefrom and are configured to: receive a target flow rate from the syringe loaded into the syringe pump; determining a therapy actuation rate that corresponds to the target flow rate; commanding the motor to drive the syringe plunger off the barrel at a first predetermined speed until a force sensor coupled to the plunger measures a force that is less than a predetermined first force threshold or the plunger travels out of the barrel by a first predetermined distance; commanding the motor to actuate the plunger of the syringe within the barrel at a second predetermined speed greater than the therapy actuation speed until the force sensor coupled to the plunger measures a force that exceeds a second predetermined threshold or the plunger travels in the inside the drum for a second predetermined distance; and commanding the motor to actuate the syringe plunger within the barrel at the therapy actuation speed. The therapy actuation speed can match the target flow rate when there is no clearance in the syringe pump or syringe.

[000201] The one or more processors can be further configured to estimate a volume discharged that starts from the plunger position when the second predetermined limit has been exceeded and/or stop the syringe pump when the estimated volume discharged equals or exceeds one target volume.

[000202] The one or more processors can be further configured to issue an alarm if the plunger has moved within the barrel for the second predetermined distance without the force sensor having measured a force that exceeds the second predetermined limit.

[000203] The syringe pump described herein may further comprise a transceiver, and the one or more processors are configured to communicate via the transceiver with a monitoring client.

[000204] In some embodiments, the syringe pump includes a patient controlled analgesia ("PCA") button to deliver at least one pain medication.

[000205] Some embodiments of the present disclosure include a system for attaching the syringe of a syringe pump to the side of the pump. The side loading mechanism includes a pump casing, platform, clamp arm and force mechanism. The platform extends horizontally from the pump housing side when the pump is oriented for use. The clamping arm is hingedly connected to the pump housing and power mechanism. The force mechanism creates a rotational force on the clamping arm that drives it inside the platform or a syringe placed on the platform. The force mechanism can allow the clamping arm to lock into an upward position where it is removed from the syringe on the platform. A wire frame can be affixed to the end of the clamping arm opposite the axis of rotation to engage the syringe. The clamping arm can apply between 0.45 and 1.36 kilograms (one and three pounds) of force on the syringe.

[000206] In some embodiments, the force mechanism includes a second arm, a roller and a hitch plate. A first end of the second arm is connected to the first arm. The roller is attached to the second arm at the end opposite the first. The hitch plate is positioned to be engaged by the second arms and create a force on the arm that translates to the rotational force on the attached clamp arm.

[000207] In certain embodiments of the present disclosure, the hitch plate is connected to a pivot point at its first end and a spring at its second end. When the second arm engages the plate, the spring force and the shape of the plate induce the arm to rotate, ultimately resulting in the rotational force of the clamp arm. A section of the hitch plate surface engaged by the second arm may define a peak. The plate can also be sized to allow the second arm to maintain contact while being rotated thirty-five degrees.

[000208] In another embodiment of the present disclosure, the engagement plate is on a rail, allowing free movement in a plane substantially perpendicular to the surface engaged by the second arm. A spring urges the plate towards the engaged secondary arm. The shape of the plate combined with the spring force induces the arm to rotate, ultimately resulting in the rotational force of the clamp arm. A section of the hitch plate surface engaged by the second arm may define a peak. The plate can also be sized to allow the second arm to maintain contact while being rotated thirty degrees.

[000209] In yet another embodiment of the present disclosure, the force mechanism includes a second arm and an engagement plate. The second arm comprises a first component connected to the clamping arm, sharing its axis of rotation and extending outward substantially perpendicular to the pivot axis. A second component is affixed to the first component at the end opposite the pivot and had the ability to slide towards and away from the pivot while its other motions remain uniform with the first component. A spring is connected to the first and second components which pulls the two apart. A roller is attached to the second component at the end opposite the pivot. The hitch plate is positioned to be engaged by the roller and compresses the spring, resulting in forces that cause the second arm and the attached clamp arm to rotate. A section of the hitch plate surface engaged by the second arm may define a peak. The plate can also be sized to allow the second arm to maintain contact as it is rotated five degrees.

[000210] In yet another embodiment of the present disclosure, the force mechanism includes an axle, a first cam member, a second cam member, a spring and a strut. The shaft is pivotally connected to the clamping arm which has its longitudinal axis aligned with the axis of rotation of the clamping arms. The first cam component is arranged axially around but not connected to the shaft. The first cam component is connected to and rotates with the clamp arm. A first end of the first cam member has a flat portion, a portion set back from the flat portion and a portion joining the two portions with a cone. The second cam component is axially disposed around the shaft immediately after the first cam, but is not connected to the shaft. The second component has a fixed rotational orientation and the ability to slide back and forth on the axis. The end of the second component adjacent to the first end of the first cam component mirrors the shape of the first component. The spring is arranged around the shaft immediately after the second cam component on the opposite side of the first component. The strut is positioned to compress the spring which results in the spring forcing the second component towards the first.

[000211] In some embodiments a sensor can be used to capture the angle of the clamp arm. This sensor may be a Halifax sensor. Sensor data can be used to determine which type of syringe is being used. The system can also use sensor data in conjunction with sensor data from a plunger driver sensor to determine which type of syringe is being used.

[000212] Certain embodiments of the present disclosure involve a method for attaching the syringe of a syringe pump to the side of the pump. The method involves 1.) lifting a loaded clamp arm with a downward force into a locked up position, 2.) placing a syringe on a syringe retention ledge below the clamping arm, and 3.) releasing the clamp arm. from the locked position to engage the syringe with force loaded onto the clamp arm. In some embodiments, the downward force carried on the clamp arm is created by a spring. In other embodiments, a sensor tracks the positions of the arm. The sensor may be a Halifax sensor. The arm position can be used to indicate that the syringe is properly positioned or to determine the type of syringe that is used. Data from a plunger sensor can be used along with the clamp arm position to determine the type of syringe that is used.

[000213] Certain embodiments of the present disclosure use an apparatus for attaching the syringe of a syringe pump to the side of the pump. The apparatus includes a pump housing, a platform, a clamping arm and a force mechanism. The platform protrudes horizontally outward from the pump housing side when the housing is positioned for use. The swivel clamp arm has a first end operatively connected to the pump housing above the boss. The force mechanism is attached to the clamp arm and produces a rotational force on the clamp arm that drives the end of the clamp arm opposite the pivot at the top of the boss. The clamp arm may have the ability to lock in an upward position, removed from the overhang. The clamping arm may also have a wire structure, configured to engage a syringe, connected at its second end. The clamp arm can apply between 0.45 and 1.36 kilograms (one and three pounds) of force on the syringe when in a clamping position.

[000214] In some embodiments, the force mechanism may include a secondary arm, a roller and a hitch plate. The second arm has a first end operatively attached to the secondary arm sharing its pivot point. The roller is attached to the secondary arm at its opposite end. The engagement plate is positioned to engage the secondary arm with a force that causes the clamp arm to rotate at the top of the boss.

[000215] In specific embodiments, one end of the hitch plate is operatively affixed to the pump housing by a hinge connector and the opposite end is affixed to a spring. The spring is configured to force the hitch plate towards the second hitched arm, creating the rotational force on the connected arms. A section of the hitch plate surface engaged by the second arm may define a peak. The plate can also be sized to allow the second arm to maintain contact while being rotated thirty degrees.

[000216] In other embodiments, the hitch plate has a free range of motion in a single direction with a spring imparting a force on the plate parallel to the range of motion. The spring pushes the plate toward the second engaged arm, creating the rotational force on the arm. A section of the hitch plate surface engaged by the second arm may define a peak. The plate may also be sized to allow the second arm to maintain contact while being rotated thirty degrees.

[000217] In another embodiment of the present disclosure, the force mechanism includes a secondary arm and an engagement plate. The secondary arm comprises a first component connected to the clamping arm, sharing its axis of rotation and extending outward substantially perpendicular to the axis. A second component, connected to the first component at the end opposite the axis of rotation, which is free to move with respect to the longitudinal axis of the first component. A spring pulls the two components apart. A roll is connected to the end of the second component opposite the first component. The hitch plate is positioned to be engaged by the roller and compress the spring between the two components creating a force that drives the secondary arm to rotate. A section of the hitch plate surface engaged by the second arm may define a peak. The plate can also be sized to allow the second arm to maintain contact while being rotated thirty-five degrees.

[000218] In another embodiment of the present disclosure, the force mechanism includes a shaft, a first cam member, a second cam member, a spring and a strut. The shaft is connected to the clamp arm at its point of rotation by aligning its longitudinal axis with the axis of rotation of the clamp arm. The first cam component is arranged axially around but not connected to the shaft. The first cam component is connected to and rotates with the clamp arm. The first end of the component has a flat portion, a portion set back from the flat portion and a portion that joins the two portions with a cone. The second cam member is also axially disposed around the axis and positioned immediately after the first end of the first cam. The second component is not connected to the shaft, it is retained in a fixed rotation position and has the ability to slide up and down the shaft. The end of the second cam component adjacent to the first cam component mirrors the shape of the first component. The spring urges the second cam component against the first, having the ability to urge the first component and the shaft to rotate depending on the orientation of the cams.

[000219] In some embodiments a sensor can be used to capture the angle of the clamp arm. This sensor may be a Halifax sensor. Sensor data can be used to determine which type of syringe is being used. The system can also use sensor data in conjunction with sensor data from a plunger driver sensor to determine which type of syringe is being used.

[000220] In another embodiment of the present disclosure, a method is provided for mitigating lead thread eccentricity. This method can be applied to a syringe pump that uses a lead screw to control the delivery of fluid from the syringe. The method includes: tracking lead screw rotations using a rotary position sensor; tracking the linear output of the lead screw using a linear position sensor; converting the rotary position data to distance output data, creating the error data by comparing the distance sensor data and the converted rotational data, estimating a phase and amplitude of the error data using a processor; and controlling the lead screw output by incorporating the estimated deviations in the assumed direct relationship of rotation to the lead screw distance output. The estimation of the phase and amplitude of the eccentricity can be performed by cross-correlating a sine and cosine wave with the deviation data. Prior to cross-correlating the sensor data, the data can be stored as a single value for each degree of lead screw rotation and filtered through a low-pass filter. Eccentricity estimation may include taking into account changes in runout amplitude when a lead thread displacement component approaches an end of the threaded drive shaft.

[000221] The distance tracking sensor can be an optical mouse sensor. Optical mouse sensor data can be normalized before being used to estimate a phase and amplitude to prevent sensor drift. Optical sensor CIP data can be normalized every ten degrees of lead screw rotation. The optical sensor can output data in the range of 3000 CPI to 8200 CPI.

[000222] In another embodiment of the present disclosure, a system is provided for mitigating lead thread eccentricity. The system includes a distance sensor, a rotation sensor, a processor and a controller. The distance sensor has the ability to track linear changes in distance and is configured to track changes in a lead screw drive output distance and create distance data. The rotational sensor has the ability to track rotational changes of an axis and is configured to track lead screw drive shaft rotations and create rotational data. The rotational sensor can be a Halifax sensor. The processor converts the rotational data into estimated distance output data and compares this to the distance data from the distance sensor. The processor then estimates the amplitude and phase of the difference between the distance sensor data and the rotational sensor estimated distance data. Amplitude and phase can be estimated by cross-correlating a sine and cosine wave with distance sensor data. The processor can estimate the eccentricity deviation using data from just the previous four rotations. The processor can also filter distance data to a single value for each rotational degree. In some instances, the processor may not estimate the phase and amplitude of the eccentricity deviation until it has received one hundred and eighty degrees of data. The controller controls the lead thread output by using the rotational sensor to create a linear distance output and incorporating the estimated amplitude and phase of deviations to account for lead thread eccentricity. The controller can assume a decrease in the magnitude of the eccentricity deviation as the half nut approaches one end of the lead thread.

[000223] The distance tracking sensor can be an optical mouse sensor. Optical mouse sensor data can be normalized before being used to estimate a phase and amplitude to prevent sensor drift. Optical sensor CIP data can be normalized every ten degrees of lead screw rotation. The optical sensor can output data in the range of 3000 CPI to 8200 CPI.

[000224] In another embodiment of the present disclosure, an apparatus is provided to supply DC power to an infusion pump. The apparatus includes a power supply, a power input module and an output adapter. The power input module is connected to an infusion pump and is configured to receive a current from the power supply and supply power to the pump. The power supply comprises an AC to DC converter module, an AC in outlet configured to receive AC current and supply the AC side of the conversion module, and a DC off outlet configured to receive DC current from the conversion module and emit DC current. The power supply is configured to be removable from the power input module. The output adapter is in electrical communication with the AC at the power supply outlet and is configured to plug into a wall outlet and supply power to the power source. A processor can be used to monitor the pump's power requirements and adjust the power source output based on the pump's needs.

[000225] When affixed, the power supply can be located on the top, bottom, back or side of the infusion pump. The pump display can be oriented towards the side of the pump on which the power supply is located when affixed.

[000226] An AC in cord can be used to connect the output adapter and the AC to the power supply outlet. The power supply may have a winding structure affixed to it on the outside that is configured to have the AC in the cord wrapped around it when the cord is not plugged into the wall. The power supply may also have a port configured to receive the output adapter once the cable has been wrapped around the winding frame. The power supply may also incorporate a mechanism that automatically reels onto the cable when commanded by a user.

[000227] DC off cable can be used to connect DC off power supply outlet to the power input module. The DC off cable can be removable from the power input module.

[000228] The power input module can be configured to attach to a bracket, making the bracket or power supply interchangeable.

[000229] In some instances, the power supply may be affixed to a pole on which pumps to which it is supplying power are mounted.

[000230] The power supply may also include a battery that has a negative terminal in electrical communication with the DC outside the power supply outlet and the positive terminal in electrical communication with the power input module. A processor and electrical circuit may also be included. The processor and electrical circuit will be configured to charge the battery when the power supply is receiving AC power and to discharge the battery when no AC power is being received.

[000231] In some embodiments, the power supply will need to be removed from the pump in order to attach the pump to a pole.

[000232] In another embodiment of the present disclosure, a system is provided for supplying energy to an infusion pump. The system comprising a power supply and a pump. The pump includes a DC in socket (hereinafter also referred to as DC in port). The power supply comprises an AC to DC converter, an AC in port (hereinafter also referred to as an AC in outlet) and an AC out of port and is configured to supply power to the pump via the DC in the outlet. The power supply may have the ability to be removed from the pump.

[000233] The DC outside the power supply port can directly connect to the DC at the pump outlet, securing the power supply to the pump. The power supply can be located on the top, bottom, side or back of the pump when attached.

[000234] A power off the cable can be used to connect the DC outside the power module port to the DC at the outlet on the pump, putting the two in electrical communication. For instances where the power supply is connected to the pump by a cable, a case configured to retain the power supply can be mounted to the pump.

[000235] A power cord can be connected to AC at the power supply port to a wall outlet adapter, putting the two in electrical communication. The power in the cable can be detachable from the power supply. The power supply may include a winding structure configured to have power in the wire wound around it. The power supply may also include a port configured to receive the wall outlet adapter once the cord is coiled.

[000236] One power supply can be configured to power multiple pumps. The power supply can be coupled to a pole on which a pump is mounted. The pump's DC outlet can be configured to attach the pump to a bracket when the power source is not attached.

[000237] The power supply may include a battery configured to be charged by the power supply when current is flowing to the AC port and supply power to the DC outside the port when no power is flowing to the AC at the port. The AC on the power supply port must receive a current and convert it to DC current before charging the battery.

[000238] In another embodiment, a syringe pump includes a body, a motor, a lead screw, a syringe holder, and a plunger head assembly. The syringe holder can be configured to tilt towards a downward angle. The motor is operatively coupled to the body. The lead screw is operatively coupled to the motor and the motor is configured to actuate the lead screw. The plunger head assembly includes a dial, plunger tube, plunger head and half-nut assembly. The dial has a fully open position and a fully closed position. The dial is configured to operate between the fully open position and the fully closed position. The plunger tube is configured to slidably engage the body. The plunger head is operatively coupled to the plunger tube. The half nut assembly is configured to engage the lead thread when the dial is actuated a predetermined amount from the fully open position to the fully closed position. The predetermined amount may be less than an actuation position midway between the fully open position and the fully closed position.

[000239] The plunger head assembly may include two pivotable jaw members configured to grip a syringe positioned within the syringe holder. The dial can be configured to actuate the hinged gripper members in an open position.

[000240] The syringe pump may additionally include an axis operably coupled to the dial so that the axis and dial are configured so that the dial actuation actuates the axis. A cam can be coupled to the shaft. A swing arm may be pivotally coupled to the piston head assembly. The swingarm may have a cam follower configured to engage the cam. One or more pivotable claw members may be operatively coupled to the swingarm.

[000241] The syringe pump may additionally include the first and second gears. The first gear is coupled to the swingarm and pivoting grapple member. The second gear is coupled to another pivotable jaw member. The first and second gears are configured to engage each other and grip a syringe disposed within the syringe holder. The cam and rocker arm can be configured so that actuation of the dial add toward the closed position when the pivotable jaw members grip the syringe causes the cam follower to disengage from the cam. A spring can push the swingarm cam follower toward the cam. The cam may include a detent configured to retain the cam in the detent until a predetermined amount of torque is applied to the dial to urge the dial toward the closed position. The piston head may include a shaft which has a rod actuator coupled thereto. The piston tube may include a rod, and the rod is coupled to a link within the piston head. The half nut assembly further comprises a linear cam and the rod is operatively coupled to the linear cam.

[000242] The half nut assembly may additionally include first and second half nut arms each having a first end and a second end. The first ends of the first and second half nut arms are configured to engage the lead thread. The first and second half nut arms can be pivotally coupled together. The second ends of the first and second half-nut arms may be configured to engage the linear cam so that actuation of the linear cam toward the half-nut assembly causes the second ends of the first and second half-nut arms to sow are articulated close to each other. The first ends of the first and second half nut arms each include threads configured to engage the lead thread as the second ends of the first and second half nut arms approach each other.

[000243] In another embodiment, a syringe pump includes a body, a motor, a lead screw, a syringe holder, and a plunger head assembly. The motor is operatively coupled to the body. The lead screw is operatively coupled to the motor and is configured to actuate the lead screw. The plunger head assembly includes a dial, a plunger tube, a plunger head assembly and a half-nut assembly. The dial has a fully open position and a fully closed position. The dial is configured to operate between the fully open position and the fully closed position. The plunger tube is configured to slidably engage the body. The plunger head is operatively coupled to the plunger tube. The half nut assembly is configured to engage the lead screw when the dial is actuated by at least a predetermined amount from the fully open position to the fully closed position. The half nut assembly includes the first and second half nut arms pivotally coupled together and configured to engage the lead thread.

[000244] In another embodiment, a system for attaching a syringe to a syringe pump includes a pump housing, a platform, an articulated attachment arm, a force mechanism, and a display. The platform (a syringe strut) extends horizontally from one side of the housing. The pivoting clamp arm is configured to engage a syringe resting on the platform. The force mechanism is attached to the arm and is configured to apply a rotational force to the arm which results in a downward force applied to the syringe. The display can be attached to one side of the housing. The display may additionally include a power button, an alarm silence button and/or a menu button. A monitoring client may be provided that is configured to at least one of receiving data from the syringe pump or controlling the syringe pump as described herein. The monitoring client can be a tablet computer.

[000245] A method for discharging fluid from a syringe and for mitigating clogging conditions includes actuating the plunger of a syringe within a barrel. The method monitors the fluid pressure within the syringe barrel and determines that an obstruction exists when the fluid pressure exceeds a predetermined threshold. The method actuates the plunger out of the barrel by a predetermined amount in response to the detected obstruction and actuates the syringe plunger into the barrel until a fluid pressure measured within the syringe barrel exceeds another predetermined threshold.

[000246] In accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure, a system for attaching a syringe to a syringe pump may include having a pump housing, a platform extending horizontally from one side of the housing, a pivotable holding arm configured to engage a syringe resting on the platform and a force mechanism, connected to the clamp arm. The force mechanism can be configured to apply a rotational force to the clamping arm which results in a downward force applied to the syringe.

[000247] In some embodiments of the system, the force mechanism may include a second arm which has a first end connected to the clamp arm and an opposite second end. In some embodiments, a roller may be attached to the second arm at the second end. A hitch plate configured to engage the roller and push the second arm in a direction that creates the rotational force in the attached clamp arm can be included.

[000248] In some embodiments, such a system may include a first end of the hitch plate connected to a pivot point and an opposite second end affixed to a biasing member. The propensity member can be configured to create a force that propels the second arm. The biasing member may be a spring.

[000249] In some embodiments, a surface of the hitch plate engaged by the second arm may define a peak. The plate can be sized to allow the second arm to maintain contact while being rotated at least thirty degrees. The engagement plate may be configured to move freely in a plane substantially perpendicular to a surface engaged by the second arm. A biasing member which urges the hitch plate towards the second arm may be included. The hitch plate can be oriented to create a force that drives the second arm. A surface of the hook plate engaged by the second arm may define a peak. The hitch plate may be sized to allow the second arm to maintain contact with the hitch plate while being rotated substantially at least thirty degrees.

[000250] In some embodiments, the force mechanism may include a second arm connected to a clamp arm. A first component having a first end connected to the clamp arm and an opposing second end may be included. A second component affixed to the first component at its second end may be included. The second component can be configured to move back and forth with respect to a longitudinal axis of the first component while movements in other directions are in tandem with the movement of the first component. A propensity member connected to the first and second components that drives the two apart can be included. A roll affixed to an end of the second component opposite the first component may be included. An engagement plate positioned to be engaged by the roller thus pushing a force on the second arm that creates the rotational force on the clamping arm can be included. A surface of the engagement plate engaged by the second arm may define a peak. The hitch plate may be sized to allow the second arm to maintain contact with the hitch plate while being rotated substantially at least thirty degrees.

[000251] In some embodiments, the force mechanism may include a shaft affixed to the clamp arm wherein a longitudinal axis of the axis is coaxial with an axis of rotation of the clamp arm. A first cam member disposed around the axis configured to rotate with the clamp arm may be included. A first end of the component may have a flat portion, a portion set back from the flat portion and a tapered portion joining the two portions with a cone. A second cam member disposed around the axis adjacent the first end of the first cam member may be included. The component may have a fixed rotational orientation and an ability to translate back and forth on the axis. One end of the second cam component adjacent to the first cam component may mirror the shape of the first cam component. A biasing member may be disposed around the axis adjacent the second cam member on a side opposite the first cam member. A strut positioned to orient the bias member and translate a force from the bias member to urge the second cam component toward the first may be included. The tapered portions of the cams may be tapered at an angle of about forty-five degrees to the flat portion. Each cam component can have two tapered sections.

[000252] In some embodiments, the force mechanism can be configured to allow the clamp arm to lock in an upward position where it is removed from the syringe on the platform.

[000253] Some embodiments may further comprise a wire structure connected to an end of the clamp arm opposite a geometric axis of rotation. The wire structure can be configured to engage a syringe when the arm is rotated down.

[000254] In some embodiments, the clamp arm can apply between about 0.45 and 1.36 kilograms (one and three pounds) of force on the syringe when in a clamped position. Some embodiments may additionally comprise a sensor configured to track an angle of the clamp arm. The sensor can be a Hall effect sensor. Sensor data can be used to determine one or more syringe characteristics. In some embodiments, sensor data, in conjunction with data from a plunger driver sensor, may be used to determine one or more characteristics of the syringe.

[000255] In accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure, a method of attaching a syringe to a syringe pump includes: Overcoming a biasing force by moving an attachment arm to a first locked position; placing a syringe on a syringe holding platform below the clamping arm and releasing the clamping arm from the first position to thereby secure the syringe to the clamping arm by biasing force.

[000256] In some embodiments, the propensity force may be created by a spring. Some modalities may additionally include capturing the position of the clamp arm. Some embodiments of the method may include alerting a user if the clamping arm is not properly clamping the syringe based on the clamping arm position. Some embodiments of the method may additionally include determining at least one characteristic of the syringe using data collected from capturing the position of the clamp arm. Some embodiments may further include using a processor to determine fluid flow based on the change in position of a syringe plunger in conjunction with at least one determined characteristic of the syringe. Some embodiments may include using data from a plunger drive arm in conjunction with a clamp arm position to determine at least one characteristic of the syringe. Some embodiments of the method may further include using a processor to determine fluid flow based on the change in position of a syringe plunger in conjunction with at least one determined characteristic of the syringe. In some embodiments, a Hall Effect sensor is used to capture the position of the clamp arm.

[000257] In accordance with another embodiment of the present disclosure, an apparatus for attaching a syringe to a syringe pump may include a pump housing having a top, bottom and two sides; a platform projecting out horizontally from one side of the pump housing; a pivoting clamp arm having a first end affixed to the pump housing above the platform and an opposite second end configured to engage a top of the platform in a rotational position of the clamp arm; and a force mechanism affixed to the clamping arm. The force mechanism may be configured to produce a rotational force on the attachment arm to thereby urge the second end toward the top of the platform, in some embodiments, the force mechanism may include a secondary arm having a first end operatively affixed to the clamp arm that shares its axis of rotation and a second opposite end. A roll affixed to the secondary arm at the second end where the roll extends beyond the second end of the secondary arm may be included. An engagement plate configured to engage the roller with a force that causes the second arm to rotate in a direction that translates to the downward force of the clamp arm may be included. A first end of the hitch plate is operatively affixed to the pump housing by a hinge connector. A second end of the engagement plate is operatively affixed to a biasing member. The biasing member can urge the engagement plate towards the engaged second arm, thereby creating a force that causes the second arm to rotate. A surface of the engagement plate that can be engaged by the second arm may define a peak. The hitch plate may be sized to allow the second arm to maintain contact with the hitch plate while being rotated substantially at least thirty degrees. The hitch plate may have a linear free range of motion in a single plane in one degree of freedom. A biasing member may impart a force on the engagement plate, at least one component of the force may be in the direction of the range of motion. The biasing member may urge the engaging plate towards the second engaged arm to thereby induce the second arm to rotate. A section of a surface of the hitch plate engaged by the second arm may define a peak. The hitch plate may be sized to allow the second arm to maintain contact with a portion of the hitch plate while the second arm is rotated substantially at least thirty degrees. In some embodiments, the force mechanism may include a secondary arm operatively attached to the clamp arm so that it shares its axis of rotation. The second arm may include a first member having a first end connected to the clamp arm and a second end extending from the first end and oriented substantially perpendicular to the axis of rotation. A second component having a first end connected to the second end of the first component and an opposing second end may be included. The second component may have a single degree of freedom to move, but may otherwise be constrained to move in tandem with the first component. A biasing member having a first portion affixed to the first component and a second portion affixed to the second component may be included. The biasing member may be configured to impart a biasing force that orients the first component and the second component apart from each other. A roll affixed to the second end of the second component may be included. The roll may extend beyond the second end of the second component. An engagement plate configured to be engaged by the roller to thereby compress the biasing member and thereby generate the rotational force translated to the clamp arm may be included.

[000258] In some embodiments, a surface of the hitch plate engaged by the second arm may define a peak. The hitch plate may be sized to allow the second arm to maintain contact with a portion of the hitch plate while the second arm is rotated substantially at least thirty degrees.

[000259] In some embodiments, the force mechanism may include an axis affixed to the clamp arm so that it shares its axis of rotation and which has its longitudinal axis aligned with the axis of rotation. A first cam member disposed around the axis configured to rotate with the clamp arm may be included. A first end of the component may have a flat portion, a portion set back from the flat portion and a cone portion that joins the two portions with a cone. A second cam member disposed around the axis adjacent the first end of the first cam member may be included. The component can have a fixed rotational orientation and the ability to translate back and forth on the axis. One end of the component adjacent to the first cam component can mirror the shape of the first cam component. A bias member configured to urge the second cam component towards the first cam component may be included.

[000260] In some embodiments, the force mechanism can be configured to allow the clamp arm to lock in an up position where the clamp arm does not make contact with the platform. A wire frame connected to the second end of the attachment arm configured to engage a syringe when the arm is rotated into an attachment position may be included. The clamp arm can apply between about 0.45 and about 1.36 kilograms (about 1 and about 3 pounds) of force to a syringe when in a clamping position. A sensor configured to capture the angle of the clamp arm can be included. The sensor can be a Hall effect sensor. Sensor data can be used to determine at least one syringe characteristic. In some embodiments, sensor data in conjunction with data from a plunger driver sensor may be used to determine one or more characteristics of the syringe.

[000261] In accordance with one embodiment of the present disclosure, an apparatus for supplying an infusion pump with DC power may include at least one power input module connected to an infusion pump housing configured to receive DC current from a power supply and supply power to an infusion pump. The module may have a port configured to receive a current. The power supply can be configured to be detachably affixed to the power input module creating electrical communication between the power supply and the power input module when attached. The power supply may include an AC to DC converter module configured to convert AC current to DC current and supply a constant voltage current to the pump. An AC outlet configured to receive AC current and supply an AC side of the conversion module can be included. A DC off outlet configured to receive DC current from the converter module and output DC current can be included. An outlet adapter in electrical communication with AC at the power supply outlet, configured to connect to an AC wall outlet to supply, so AC to AC current at the outlet can be included. The power supply, when affixed, can be located on any one of a top, bottom, back, or side of the infusion pump. A display can be arranged near the location of the power supply when the power supply is affixed. An AC in cord (hereinafter also referred to as a power cord) can connect the AC output adapter to the power supply outlet. The AC in the cord can be detachable from the power supply. A winding structure affixed to an exterior of the power supply configured to have the power cord wrapped around it when the cord is not plugged in may be included. The power supply may include a port configured to receive the output adapter once the cable has been wrapped around the winding frame. A closed coil configured to automatically coil the power cord when commanded by a user can be included. A DC off cable to connect the DC off the power supply outlet to the power input module creating electrical communication between the two can be included. The DC off cable can be removable from the power input module. The power input module can be configured to attach to a bracket, making the bracket or power supply interchangeable. Connecting the power supply to the power input module can secure the power supply to the pump. The power supply can be configured to supply multiple pumps with power. Multiple off-the-wire DCs configured to connect DC off the power supply outlet to the power input modules of the multiple pumps creating electrical communication between the power supply and the pumps can be included. The power supply can be mounted on a pole to which pumps to which it is supplying power are also mounted. A battery that has a negative terminal operatively connected to DC outside the power supply outlet and the positive terminal operatively connected to the power input module may be included. A processor and electrical circuit configured to charge the battery when the power supply is receiving AC power and discharge the battery when no AC power is being received may be included. In some embodiments, the power supply must be removed from the pump in order to attach the pump to a pole. A processor to monitor the pump's power needs and adjust the power source output based on those needs can be included. The conversion module can regulate a voltage and current of the electricity entering the pump. In some embodiments, the pole may include a power supply and one or more attachment features for attaching an infusion pump to the pole.

[000262] In accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure, a system for supplying DC power to an infusion pump may include a pump, including a DC in the socket and a power supply configured to supply power to the pump via the DC in the socket. The power supply can be removed from the pump. The pump may include an AC-to-DC converter, an AC-on-adapter, a DC-out-adapter, and an AC output adapter configured to connect to an AC output that is communicating with the AC on the power supply adapter. DC outside the power supply adapter can connect directly to DC at the pump outlet, securing the power supply to the pump and creating electrical communication between the power supply and the DC outside the adapter. The affixed power supply can be located on any one of the back, side, top and bottom of the pump. The power supply may additionally comprise an off-the-wire DC configured to connect the DC off the power module adapter to the DC at the pump outlet, thus creating electrical communication between the two. The pump may include a case configured to secure the AC to DC converter from the power supply to the pump. An AC in cord that has a first end configured to connect to the AC at the power supply port and a second end that has a wall outlet adapter can be included. The AC in the cord can be detachable from the power supply. The power supply may additionally comprise a winding mechanism for winding the AC onto the cable. The winding structure can be configured to have an AC in the cable wound around it by a user. The power supply may include a port configured to receive the wall outlet adapter once the cord is coiled. A single power supply can be configured to power multiple pumps. The power supply may have the capability of being attached to the pole, with the pole including at least one attachment feature for an infusion pump. The DC at the pump outlet can be configured to secure the pump to a bracket and receive current from the bracket when the power source is not attached. The power supply can include a battery configured to be charged by the power supply when current is flowing to AC at the port and supply power to DC out the port when no power is flowing to AC at the port.

[000263] In accordance with one embodiment of the present disclosure, a method of mitigating lead screw runout error may include tracking the rotations of a lead screw using a rotary position sensor. The method may include tracking the distance output of a lead screw mechanism using a linear position sensor. The method may include converting the rotary position sensor output to a linear displacement output of the lead screw mechanism. The method may include creating error data by determining the difference between linear position sensor data and converted rotary position sensor data. The method may include estimating, based on the error data, a phase and an amplitude of deviations from an assumed direct relationship of rotations to the distance output of the lead screw mechanism, using a processor. The method may include controlling, with a controller, the output of the lead screw mechanism. The controller can compensate for estimated deviations.

[000264] In some embodiments, the linear position sensor may be an optical mouse sensor. The optical mouse sensor can output the data at a frequency of 3000 CPI to about 8200 CPI. The method may further comprise normalizing the optical mouse sensor data prior to estimating a phase and amplitude to thereby attenuate sensor drift. Normalizing optical mouse sensor data may involve recalibrating the optical mouse sensor CPI every ten degrees of lead screw rotation. Phase and amplitude estimation may involve cross-correlating a sine and cosine wave with the deviation data. The method may further comprise storing the error data for a single lead thread rotation degree into a value prior to cross correlation. The estimation step can account for a change in runout amplitude when a lead thread displacement component approaches an end of the threaded drive shaft. The rotary position sensor can be a Hall effect sensor. The phase and amplitude of the eccentricity deviation can be estimated using data from only the previous four rotations of the lead screw. The method may further comprise filtering the error data before estimating its phase and amplitude. Error data can be filtered using a low-pass filter.

[000265] In accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure, a system for mitigating lead screw eccentricity may include a linear position sensor configured to track the distance output of a lead screw mechanism and generate the distance data. A rotary position sensor configured to track lead thread rotations and generate rotational data can be included. A processor may be included. The processor can be configured to convert rotational data into the converted distance output of the lead screw mechanism. The processor can be configured to create error data by determining the difference between the converted rotational data and the distance data. The processor can be configured to estimate the amplitude and phase of error data. A controller configured to control the distance output of the lead screw mechanism can be included. The controller can compensate for the phase and amplitude of the error data.

[000266] In some embodiments, the linear position sensor may be an optical mouse sensor. The optical mouse sensor can output the data at a frequency of 3000 CPI to 8200 CPI. Distance data, before error data is created, can be normalized to account for deviation. Distance data can be normalized by the processor every ten degrees of lead screw rotation. The phase and amplitude of the error data can be estimated by cross-correlating a sine and cosine wave with the error data. The rotation sensor can be a Hall effect sensor. The controller can assume a decrease in amplitude error data when a lead screw drive half nut approaches one end of the lead screw. The phase and amplitude of the error data can be estimated using the error data from just the previous four rotations. Distance data can be filtered to a single value for each rotational degree of lead thread displacement. The processor may not estimate the phase and amplitude of the error data until it has received one hundred and eighty degrees of sensor data. Error data can be filtered before estimating its phase and amplitude. Error data can be filtered using a low-pass filter.

[000267] According to one embodiment of the present disclosure, a syringe pump may include a body, a motor and a lead screw operatively coupled to the motor. The motor can be configured to actuate the lead screw. A syringe holder and plunger head assembly can be included. The plunger head assembly may include a dial having a first position and a second position. The dial can be configured to act between the first position and the second position. A plunger tube configured to slidably engage the body may be included. The plunger head can be operatively coupled to the plunger tube. A half-nut assembly configured to engage the lead screw when the dial is actuated a predetermined amount from full position to second position may be included. The predetermined amount may be less than a position midway between the first position and the second position.

[000268] In some embodiments, the plunger head assembly may include two pivotable jaw members configured to grip a plunger positioned within the syringe holder. The dial can be configured to actuate the articulated gripper members. An axis may be operatively coupled to the dial. The axis and dial can be configured so that the dial actuation actuates the axis. A cam can be coupled to the shaft. A swingarm pivotally coupled to the plunger head assembly may be included. The swingarm may have a cam follower configured to engage the cam. A pivotable jaw member may be operatively coupled to the swingarm.

[000269] In some embodiments, a first gear coupled to the swingarm and pivoting jaw member may be included. A second gear coupled to another pivotable jaw member can be included. The first and second gears can be configured to mesh with each other. The pivotable claw members can be configured to grip a plunger. The cam and swingarm can be configured so that further actuation of the dial towards the second position when the pivotable jaw members grip the plunger causes the cam follower to disengage from the cam. A biasing member configured to urge the swingarm cam follower toward the cam may be included. The cam may include a detent configured to retain the cam in the detent until a predetermined amount of torque is applied to the dial to propel the dial toward the second position. The piston head may include a shaft which has a rod actuator coupled thereto. The plunger tube may include a rod. The rod can be coupled by means of a linkage inside the piston head. The half nut assembly may comprise a linear cam. The rod can be operatively coupled to the linear cam. The half nut assembly may additionally include first and second half nut arms each having a first end and a second end. The first ends of the first and second half nut arms can be configured to engage the lead thread. The first and second half-nut arms can be pivotally coupled together. The second ends of the first and second half nut arms can be configured to engage the linear cam so that actuation of the linear cam toward the half nut assembly causes the second ends of the first and second half nut arms to sow are articulated close to each other. The first ends of the first and second half nut arms may each include threads configured to engage the lead thread as the second ends of the first and second half nut arms approach each other. The syringe holder may include at least one angled face.

[000270] According to one embodiment of the present disclosure, a syringe pump may include a body, a motor and a lead screw operatively coupled to the motor. The motor can be configured to actuate the lead thread. A syringe holder and plunger head assembly can be included. The plunger head assembly may include a dial having a fully open position and a fully closed position. The dial can be configured to operate between the fully open position and the fully closed position. A plunger tube configured to slidably engage the body may be included. The plunger head can be operatively coupled to the plunger tube. A half-nut assembly configured to engage the lead thread when the dial is actuated by at least a predetermined amount from the fully open position to the fully closed position may be included. The half nut assembly may include the first and second half nut arms pivotally coupled together and configured to engage the lead thread.

[000271] In accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure, a system for attaching a syringe to a syringe pump may include a pump housing. A platform that extends horizontally from one side of the housing can be included. Hinged clamp arm configured to secure a syringe resting on the platform can be included. A force mechanism, connected to the arm, configured to apply a rotational force to the arm that results in a clamping force applied to the syringe may be included. A user interface attached to the housing can be included.

[000272] In some embodiments, the user interface may additionally include a power button, an alarm silence button, and a menu button.

[000273] A monitoring client can be configured to at least one of receiving data from the syringe pump or controlling the syringe pump. The monitoring client can be a tablet computer. A monitoring client can be configured to receive data from the syringe pump.

[000274] In accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure, a syringe pump includes a housing, a syringe holder, a plunger head, a pressure sensor and a motor and one or more processors. The syringe holder is operatively coupled to the housing and is configured to hold a syringe. The plunger head is configured to engage with a plunger of the syringe to actuate the plunger of the syringe. The pressure sensor is configured to be coupled to the syringe to operatively estimate a pressure of fluid within the syringe. The motor is operatively coupled to the piston head to actuate the piston head to actuate the head piston.

[000275] The one or more processors can be configured to cause the actuator to act in a first direction to thus cause the syringe to discharge fluid. The processor(s) can monitor the pressure sensor to estimate the fluid pressure within the syringe and determine that an obstruction exists when the fluid pressure exceeds a predetermined threshold. The processor(s) can cause the actuator to actuate the plunger out of the barrel by a predetermined amount and have the actuator actuate the plunger of the syringe inside the barrel until a pressure measurement is taken. of fluid inside the syringe exceeds another predetermined limit.

[000276] In some embodiments, the predetermined amount by which the plunger can be actuated out of the barrel may be a function of an inside diameter of the barrel. The other predetermined limit may be a function of an inner diameter of the drum.

[000277] In some embodiments, the predetermined threshold may be in a plurality of predetermined thresholds located within a lookup table. The default limit corresponds to a syringe model number as found in the lookup table.

[000278] In some embodiments, the other predetermined threshold is at a plurality of predetermined thresholds located within a lookup table. The other predetermined limit may correspond to a syringe model number as found in the lookup table.

[000279] The predetermined amount by which the plunger is actuated out of the barrel is in a plurality of predetermined amounts located within a lookup table. The predetermined amount by which the plunger is actuated out of the barrel may correspond to a syringe model number.

[000280] In some embodiments, a force sensor coupled to the plunger may be used to monitor the pressure of fluid within the syringe barrel. The predetermined amount may be a predetermined actuation distance of the plunger outside the syringe and/or may be a predetermined change in expansion volume within the barrel.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[000281] These and other aspects will become more apparent from the following detailed description of the various embodiments of the present disclosure with reference to the drawings in which:

[000282] Figure 1 is an illustration of an electronic patient care system having a syringe pump in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure;

[000283] Figures 2 to 5 show several views of a patient bedside system in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure;

[000284] Figure 6 shows a closeup view of a portion of an interface of a clamp that is attachable to a pump shown in Figures 2 to 5 in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure;

[000285] Figure 7 shows another close-up view of another portion of the interface shown in Figure 6 in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure;

[000286] Figure 8 shows a perspective view of a pump attachable to the patient bedside system of Figures 2 to 5 in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure;

[000287] Figure 9 shows a perspective view of a pump shown in Figures 2 to 5 in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure;

[000288] Figures 10 to 13 show several views of a syringe pump in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[000289] Figure 14 shows several syringe pumps of Figures 10 to 13 mounted on a pole 322 in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure;

[000290] Figures 15 and 16 illustrate operating portions of the syringe pump of Figures 10 to 13 in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure;

[000291] Figures 17 and 18 illustrate various medical devices mounted on a pole in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure;

[000292] Figures 19 to 22 show several views of a medical device of Figures 17 and 18 according to an embodiment of the present disclosure;

[000293] Figure 23 shows several assemblies mounted on a pole in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure;

[000294] Figures 24 to 26 show several views of an assembly of Figure 23 in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure;

[000295] Fig. 27 shows a circuit diagram having a speaker and a battery in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure;

[000296] Figure 28 shows a view of an exemplary embodiment of a syringe pump in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure;

[000297] Figure 29 shows a front view of an exemplary embodiment of a syringe pump in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure;

[000298] Figure 30 is a view of an exemplary embodiment of the syringe pump assembly in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure;

[000299] Fig. 31 is another view of an exemplary embodiment of the syringe pump assembly in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure;

[000300] Fig. 32 is another view of an exemplary embodiment of the syringe pump assembly in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure;

[000301] Fig. 33 is another view of an exemplary embodiment of the syringe pump assembly in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure;

[000302] Fig. 34 is another view of an exemplary embodiment of the syringe pump assembly in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure;

[000303] Fig. 35 is a view of an exemplary embodiment of the plunger head, plunger tube and slide block assembly of the syringe pump assembly in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure;

[000304] Fig. 36 is another view of an exemplary embodiment of the plunger head, plunger tube and slide block assembly of the syringe pump assembly in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure;

[000305] Figure 37 is an exploded view of an exemplary embodiment of the top of the plunger head assembly with half of the plunger head assembly removed in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure;

[000306] Figure 38 is an assembled view of an exemplary embodiment of the top of the plunger head assembly with half of the plunger head assembly removed in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure;

[000307] Figure 39 is a bottom view of an exemplary embodiment of the top of the plunger head assembly in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure;

[000308] Figure 40 is a top mounted view of an exemplary embodiment of the bottom of the plunger head assembly and plunger tube in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure;

[000309] Figure 41 is an exploded view of an exemplary embodiment of the display shaft and related parts of the syringe pump in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure;

[000310] Figure 42 is an assembled view of the exemplary embodiment of Figure 41 in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure;

[000311] Figure 43 is a partially assembled view of an exemplary embodiment of the plunger head and plunger assembly in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure;

[000312] Fig. 44 is a view of an exemplary embodiment of the plunger head assembly with the top of the plunger head assembly housing removed in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure;

[000313] Figure 45 is a top view of the exemplary embodiment of Figure 44 in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure;

[000314] Fig. 46 is a partial view of an exemplary embodiment of the plunger head assembly in which the D-shaped connector is shown in cross-section in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure;

[000315] Fig. 47 is a view of an exemplary embodiment of the plunger head, plunger tube and slide block assembly in which the slide block assembly is exploded in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure;

[000316] Fig. 48A is an exploded view of an exemplary embodiment of the slide block assembly in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure;

[000317] Fig. 48B is a view of an exemplary embodiment of the lead screw, half nut, drum cam and drive shaft according to an embodiment of the present disclosure;

[000318] Fig. 49 is a partial front view of an exemplary embodiment of the half nut and drum cam wherein the half nut is shown as transparent in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure;

[000319] Figure 50 is a front view of an exemplary embodiment of the slide block assembly in which the half nut is in an engaged position in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure;

[000320] Figure 51 is a front view of an exemplary embodiment of the slide block assembly in which the half nut is in the engaged position in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure;

[000321] Fig. 52 is a front view of an exemplary embodiment of the slide block assembly in which the half nut is in the disengaged position in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure;

[000322] Fig. 53 is a cross-sectional view of an exemplary embodiment of the sliding block assembly on the lead screw and guide rod in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure;

[000323] Fig. 54 is a view of an exemplary embodiment of the rear face of the syringe pump assembly in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure;

[000324] Fig. 55 is another view of an exemplary embodiment of the rear face of the syringe pump assembly with the gearbox in place according to an embodiment of the present disclosure;

[000325] Fig. 56 is an interior view of an exemplary embodiment of the syringe pump assembly in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure;

[000326] Figure 57A is another interior view of an exemplary embodiment of the syringe pump assembly with the slide block assembly and linear position sensors in place according to an embodiment of the present disclosure;

[000327] Fig. 57B is a top view of an embodiment of a magnetic linear position sensor in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure;

[000328] Fig. 58 is a partially assembled front view of an exemplary embodiment of the slide block, plunger tube, and plunger head assembly in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure;

[000329] Fig. 59A is a view of an exemplary embodiment of the syringe pump assembly in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure;

[000330] Figures 59B to 59J are electrical schematics of the syringe pump in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure;

[000331] Figure 60 is a partial bottom view of an exemplary embodiment of the syringe pump assembly in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure;

[000332] Fig. 61 is a partial view of an exemplary embodiment of the syringe pump assembly in which a barrel flange of a small syringe has been clamped by the barrel flange clip in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure;

[000333] Fig. 62 is a partial view of an exemplary embodiment of the syringe pump assembly in which a barrel flange of a large syringe has been clamped by the barrel flange clip in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure;

[000334] Fig. 63 is a view of an exemplary embodiment of the syringe barrel retainer in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure;

[000335] Fig. 64 is a partial view of an exemplary embodiment of the syringe barrel retainer in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure;

[000336] Fig. 65 is a view of an exemplary embodiment of the syringe barrel retainer wherein the syringe barrel retainer is locked in the fully open position in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure;

[000337] Fig. 66 is a view of an exemplary embodiment of the syringe barrel retainer linear position sensor wherein the linear position sensor printed circuit board is shown as transparent in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure;

[000338] Fig. 67 is a view of an exemplary embodiment of a phase shift detection linear position sensor in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure;

[000339] Fig. 68 shows an exemplary schematic view of a phase shift detection linear position sensor according to an embodiment of the present disclosure;

[000340] Fig. 69 shows an exemplary schematic view of a phase shift detection linear position sensor according to an embodiment of the present disclosure;

[000341] Fig. 70 shows an exemplary schematic view of a phase shift detection linear position sensor according to an embodiment of the present disclosure;

[000342] Fig. 71 shows a perspective view of a pump with the graphical user interface shown on the screen in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure;

[000343] Fig. 72 shows an exemplary graphical user interface infusion programming screen in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure;

[000344] Fig. 73 shows an exemplary graphical user interface infusion programming screen in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure;

[000345] Fig. 74 shows an exemplary graphical user interface infusion programming screen in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure;

[000346] Fig. 75 shows an exemplary graphical user interface infusion programming screen in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure;

[000347] Fig. 76 shows an exemplary graphical user interface infusion programming screen in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure;

[000348] Fig. 77 shows a graphical representation of the infusion rate over time of an exemplary infusion according to an embodiment of the present disclosure;

[000349] Fig. 78 shows a graphical representation of the infusion rate over time of an exemplary infusion according to an embodiment of the present disclosure;

[000350] Fig. 79 shows a graphical representation of the infusion rate over time of an exemplary infusion according to an embodiment of the present disclosure;

[000351] Fig. 80 shows a graphical representation of the infusion rate over time of an exemplary infusion according to an embodiment of the present disclosure;

[000352] Fig. 81 shows a graphical representation of the infusion rate over time of an exemplary infusion according to an embodiment of the present disclosure;

[000353] Fig. 82 shows an exemplary graphical user interface drug delivery library screen in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure;

[000354] Fig. 83 shows a software block diagram according to an embodiment of the present disclosure;

[000355] Fig. 84 shows a state diagram illustrating a method for providing surveillance functionality in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure;

[000356] Figs. 85A to 85F show a circuit diagram of a surveillance system which is an embodiment that implements the surveillance functionality of the state diagram of Fig. 84 in accordance with another embodiment of the present disclosure;

[000357] Fig. 86 shows another embodiment of the syringe pump having a stop according to an embodiment of the present disclosure;

[000358] Fig. 87 shows an exploded view of the syringe pump of Fig. 86 in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure;

[000359] Figure 88 shows a closeup view of the upper housing, the lower housing and the power supply of the syringe pump of Figure 86 in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure;

[000360] Fig. 89A shows a front view of the display of the pump of Fig. 86 in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure;

[000361] Figure 89B shows a rear view of the display of the pump of Figure 86 in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure;

[000362] Fig. 90 shows the rear sensor portion of the touch screen and a frame-based split ring resonator for use with a near-field antenna in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure;

[000363] Fig. 91 shows a diagram illustrating the use of the pump sensors of Fig. 86 when one or more of the sensors are unavailable in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure;

[000364] Fig. 92 shows a side view of a syringe pump having a retaining finger for retaining a syringe in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure;

[000365] Figure 93 shows a closeup view of the syringe pump of Figure 92 in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure;

[000366] Fig. 94 shows a circuit for storing data within an RFID tag associated with a syringe pump in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure;

[000367] Fig. 95 shows an equivalent circuit for the impedance as seen from the RFID tag of Fig. 94 in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure;

[000368] Fig. 96 shows another circuit for storing data within an RFID tag associated with a syringe pump in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure;

[000369] Fig. 97 shows a split ring resonator used with the circuit of Fig. 96 in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure;

[000370] Fig. 98 shows a flowchart illustrating a method for removing the effects of backlash in a syringe pump having a syringe loaded in the syringe pump in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure;

[000371] Figure 99A shows a perspective view of an apparatus for side loading a syringe into an infusion pump showing a shown syringe holding arm of the apparatus in a loading position in accordance with an embodiment of the present revelation;

[000372] Figure 99B shows another perspective view of the apparatus of Figure 99A showing the syringe attachment arm shown in an attachment position in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure;

[000373] Figure 100A shows an embodiment of a force mechanism that drives a syringe holding arm shown, the syringe holding arm shown in an attachment position, in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure;

[000374] Figure 100B shows the force mechanism driving a syringe holding arm shown in Figure 100A with the syringe holding arm shown in an attachment position in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure;

[000375] Fig. 101A shows another embodiment of a force mechanism driving a syringe holding arm shown, the syringe holding arm shown in an attachment position, in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure;

[000376] Figure 101B shows the force mechanism driving a syringe holding arm shown in Figure 101A with the syringe holding arm shown in an attachment position in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure;

[000377] Fig. 102A shows another embodiment of a force mechanism driving a syringe holding arm shown, the syringe holding arm shown in a loading position, in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure;

[000378] Figure 102B shows the force mechanism driving a syringe holding arm of Figure 102A with the syringe holding arm shown in an attachment position in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure;

[000379] Figure 103A shows another embodiment of a force mechanism driving a syringe holding arm, the syringe holding arm shown in a loading position, in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure;

[000380] Figure 103B shows the force mechanism driving a syringe holding arm of Figure 103A with the syringe holding arm shown in an attachment position in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure;

[000381] Figure 104A shows the cam of the force mechanisms of Figures 103A and 103B when the syringe holding arm is in the attachment position in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure;

[000382] Figure 104B shows the cam of the force mechanisms of Figures 103A and 103B when the clamp arm is in an intermediate position in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure;

[000383] Figure 104C shows the cam of the force mechanisms of Figures 103A and 103B when the clamp arm is in a loading position in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure;

[000384] Fig. 105 shows a flowchart of a method for side loading a syringe into an infusion pump in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure;

[000385] Fig. 106 shows an embodiment of a system for mitigating lead thread runout error according to an embodiment of the present disclosure;

[000386] Fig. 107 shows a flowchart of a method for mitigating lead thread runout error according to an embodiment of the present disclosure;

[000387] Fig. 108 shows a side view of a pump with a modular power supply affixed to the rear of the pump in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure;

[000388] Fig. 109 shows a side view of a pump with an external power supply according to an embodiment of the present disclosure;

[000389] Fig. 110 shows a side view of a pump with a power supply affixed to the bottom of the pump in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure;

[000390] Fig. 111 shows a side view of a pump with a power supply affixed to the top of the pump in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure;

[000391] Fig. 112 shows a structure for attaching a power cord to the power supply in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure;

[000392] Fig. 113 shows a system having a support with a power supply for powering several pumps attached to the support in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure;

[000393] Figures 114A to 114J show several views of a syringe pump assembly in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure;

[000394] Figures 115A to 115B show two views of a retaining clip of the syringe pump assembly shown in Figures 114A to 114J in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure;

[000395] Figures 116A to 116C show several views of the syringe pump assembly shown in Figures 114A to 114J with the syringe holder removed in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure;

[000396] Figures 117A to 117C show several views of the syringe strut of the syringe pump assembly shown in Figures 114A to 114J in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure;

[000397] Figures 118A to 118C show several views of the syringe pump assembly shown in Figures 114A to 114J with the syringe holder removed in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure;

[000398] Figures 119A to 119B show several views of the syringe pump assembly shown in Figures 114A to 114J to illustrate the action of the claw member in gripping a flange of a plunger of a syringe in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention. revelation;

[000399] Figure 120 shows the plunger head with the cover removed of the syringe pump assembly shown in Figures 114A to 114J to illustrate the mechanical effects of rotating the dial in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure;

[000400] Figures 121A to 121C show several views of the plunger head with the cover removed and a circuit board removed from the syringe pump assembly shown in Figures 114A to 114J to illustrate the mechanical effects of rotating the dial in accordance with a modality of the present revelation;

[000401] Figures 122A to 122B show two views of a cam used within the plunger head assembly of the syringe pump assembly shown in Figures 114A to 114J in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure;

[000402] Figures 123A to 123B show two close-up views of the internal cavity of the plunger head assembly of the syringe pump assembly shown in Figures 114A to 114J in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure;

[000403] Figure 124 shows the plunger head assembly of the syringe pump assembly shown in Figures 114A to 114J in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure;

[000404] Figures 125A to 125B show two views of the plunger head assembly of the syringe pump assembly shown in Figures 114A to 114J with the plunger tube removed in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure;

[000405] Figures 126A to 126I show several additional views of the syringe pump assembly of Figures 114A to 114J in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure;

[000406] Figure 127 shows a perspective side view of the syringe pump assembly shown in Figures 114A to 114J in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure wherein the assembly is coupled to a display; and

[000407] Fig. 128 shows a flowchart of a method for discharging fluid from a syringe and for providing mitigation for a clogged condition in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[000408] Figure 1 shows an exemplary arrangement of an electronic patient care system 1 in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure. System 1 includes a monitoring client 2 that is linked to various patient care devices via anchors 3 and 11, including an infusion pump 4 connected to and delivering from a smaller fluid bag 5, an infusion pump 4 infusion 6 connected to and delivering from a larger bag of liquid 7, a drip detection device 8 connected to tubing of the smaller bag 5 and a microinfusion pump 9. The system 1 also includes a syringe pump 10 seamlessly connected wired to monitoring client 2. In some embodiments, monitoring client 2 can communicate with these patient care devices in a wired manner, as shown in figure 1 for infusion pumps 4 and 6 and the infusion pump. microinfusion 9 (through anchors 3 and 11). Additionally or alternatively, monitoring client 2 can communicate wirelessly with patient care devices, as suggested by the absence of a wired connection between syringe pump 10 and monitoring client 2.

[000409] In some embodiments, a wired connection between the monitoring client 2 and a patient care device also yields an opportunity for electrical power to be supplied to the patient care device from the monitoring client 2 In this exemplary embodiment, the monitoring client 2 may include the electronic circuitry necessary to convert the voltage to power the patient care device either from a battery affixed to the monitoring client 2 or from a voltage of Alternating Current ("AC") line fed to monitoring client 2 from a power outlet (not shown) in a patient's room. Additionally or alternatively, the anchor 3 supplies power to the infusion pumps 4 and 6 and the microinfusion pump 9, for example, from a signal generated from the AC line voltage.

[000410] In one embodiment, the monitoring client 2 has the ability to receive information about each patient care device it is connected to either directly from the device itself or through a docking station, such as such as, for example, the socket 3 in which the patient care device can be mounted. Anchorage 3 may be configured to receive one or more patient care devices via a standard connection assembly or, in some cases, through an individual connection assembly for the particular device. For example, the infusion pumps 4 and 6 can be mounted on the anchor 3 by means of a similar connection assembly, while the microinfusion pump 9, for example, can be mounted on the anchor 3 by means of a connection configured for the particular dimensions of the microinfusion pump housing 9.

[000411] Docking 3 can be configured to electronically identify the particular patient care device that is mounted on the docking station and to transmit this identification information to the monitoring client 2, either wirelessly or via a wired connection. Additionally or alternatively, wireless patient care devices can wirelessly transmit the identification information to the monitoring client 2, for example during a disclosure protocol. Additionally, the particular patient care device may be pre-programmed with treatment information (e.g. patient treatment parameters such as an infusion rate for a predetermined infusion fluid) that is transmitted to the monitoring client 2 For example, syringe pump 10 may include identity information and treatment information, such as what medication has been prescribed to the patient, what liquid is in the reservoir of syringe pump 10, how much and for how long the liquid is dispensed. prescribed to be delivered to the patient, who are the authorized healthcare professionals, etc. In some embodiments of the present disclosure, the monitoring client 2 communicates with EMR records to verify that the pre-scheduled treatment information is safe for an identified patient and/or that the pre-scheduled treatment information matches the prescribed treatment stored in the EMR records.

[000412] In some embodiments, the drip detection device 8 can communicate with the monitoring client 2 either wirelessly or over a wired connection. If an aberrant liquid flow condition is detected (e.g. because the tubing to the patient has become obstructed), a signal can be transmitted to monitoring client 2, which (1) can display the liquid flow rate from the container liquid 5 at a user interface or locally on the monitoring client 2 or more remotely to a user interface at a nursing station or a portable communications device, (2) may trigger an audible or visual alarm, and/or (3) ) can cause the monitoring client 2 to change the infusion rate of a pump 4 connected to a bag 5, either terminating the infusion or otherwise changing the pumping rate. The aberrant liquid flow condition may also cause an audible alarm (and/or vibration alarm) on the infusion pump 4 or drip detection device 8 or cause the infusion pump 4 to modify or stop pumping, for example. for example, when the aberrant liquid flow condition exceeds the predefined ranges of the operation.

[000413] Alarms can occur simultaneously on several devices or can follow a predetermined schedule. For example, when an obstruction occurs in a line connected to the infusion pump 4, (1) the drip detection device 8 sounds the alarm using its internal speaker and an internal vibration motor, (2) subsequently , the infusion pump 4 sounds the alarm using its internal speaker and an internal vibration motor, (3) then the monitoring client 2 sounds the alarm using its internal speaker and a motor vibration signal, and (4) finally, a remote communicator (e.g. a smart phone, blackberry-based phone, Android-based phone, iphone, etc.) sounds the alarm using its built-in speaker and a internal vibration motor. In some embodiments, syringe pump 10 may be connected to drip detection device 8 and may detect aberrant liquid flow conditions as described above.

[000414] In some embodiments, syringe pump 10 may be programmable to allow continuous operation at a predetermined pump rate if communications fail between monitoring client 2 and syringe pump 10, or because of a malfunction in the monitoring client 2, in the communication channel between the monitoring client 2 and the syringe pump 10, or in the syringe pump 10 itself. In some embodiments, this independent option is allowed when the measurement to be infused is pre -designated not to be suspended or retained in the event of a malfunction in other parts of the system. In some embodiments, the syringe pump 10 is programmed to operate independently in a failsafe mode and may also be configured to receive information from a drip detection device 8 directly, rather than through a monitoring client 2 (for example, in the embodiment where the drip detection device 8 is used in conjunction with the syringe pump 10); with this option, the syringe pump 10 can be programmed, in some embodiments, to stop an infusion if the drip detection device 8 detects an aberrant flow condition (such as, for example, a free flow condition or a bubble of air present in the infusion line). In some embodiments, one or more of pumps 4, 6 and 10 may be internal liquid flow meters and/or may operate independently as a stand-alone device. Additionally or alternatively, an internal liquid flow meter of the syringe pump 10 may be independently determined by a flow meter of the drip detection device 8 by the monitoring client 2, in embodiments where the devices 8 and 10 are used in set.

[000415] Monitoring client 2 can also remotely send a prescription to a pharmacy. The prescription may be a prescription to infuse a fluid using the syringe pump 10. The pharmacy may include one or more computers connected to a network, for example the internet, to receive the prescription and queue the prescription within the one or more computers. The pharmacy may use the prescription to compound the drug (for example, using an automated compounding device coupled to one or more computers, or manually by a pharmacist viewing the queue of one or more computers), pre-fill a reservoir, or fluid cartridge of a syringe pump 10 and/or programming the syringe pump 10 (e.g., a treatment regimen is programmed into the syringe pump 10) at the pharmacy in accordance with the prescription. The reservoir or cartridge may be automatically filled by the automatic computing device and/or the syringe pump 10 may be automatically programmed by the automatic computing device. The automatic computing device can generate a barcode, RFID tag and/or data. Information within the barcode, RFID tag and/or data may include treatment regimen, prescription and/or patient information. The automatic computing device may: affix the barcode to the syringe pump 10 or the reservoir, cartridge or disposable portion of the syringe pump 10; affixing the RFID tag to the syringe pump 10 or the reservoir, cartridge or disposable portion of the syringe pump 10; and/or programming the RFID tag or memory within the syringe pump 10 or the reservoir, cartridge or disposable portion of the syringe pump 10 with the information or data. The data or information may be sent to a database that associates the prescription with the syringe pump 10 or the reservoir, cartridge or disposable portion of the syringe pump 10, for example, using a serial number or other identification within the barcode, RFID tag or memory.

[000416] Syringe pump 10 may have a scanning device, for example an RFID interrogator which interrogates a reservoir, disposable portion or cartridge of syringe pump 10 to determine that it is the correct fluid within the fluid reservoir or is the fluid reservoir, disposable portion or cartridge, the treatment programmed into the syringe pump 10 corresponds to the fluid within the reservoir, disposable portion or fluid cartridge and/or the syringe pump 10 and the reservoir, disposable portion or cartridge of the fluid pump. syringe 10 are correct for the particular patient (eg, as determined from a patient's barcode, RFID, or other patient identification). For example, a serial number from a reservoir, disposable portion as scanned by syringe pump 10 is compared to a serial number in electronic medical records to determine if it correctly matches a patient serial number within electronic medical records. ; syringe pump 10 can scan a patient's RFID tag or barcode to obtain a patient's serial number which is also compared to the patient's serial number within electronic medical records (e.g., the patient's serial number). a reservoir, disposable portion or cartridge of the syringe pump 10 or a serial number stored within the memory of the syringe pump 10 shall be associated with the patient's serial number as scanned into the electronic medical records). Syringe pump 10 may issue an error or alarm if the serial numbers do not match in some specific embodiments. Additionally or alternatively, the monitoring client 2 may scan the reservoir, disposable portion, cartridge or syringe pump 10 to determine that it is the correct fluid within the fluid reservoir, is it the correct fluid reservoir, the treatment programmed into the syringe pump 10 corresponds to the fluid within the fluid reservoir or cartridge and/or the fluid reservoir and syringe pump 10 are correct for the particular patient (e.g., as determined from a patient barcode, RFID, or other identification of patient). Additionally or alternatively, the monitoring client 2 or the syringe pump 10 may interrogate an electronic medical records database and/or the pharmacy to verify the prescription or download the prescription, for example, using a number barcode serial number on syringe pump 10 or a reservoir, cartridge or disposable portion of syringe pump 10.

[000417] Liquid that is delivered to a patient can be monitored by the monitoring client 2 to determine if all medications that are delivered are safe for the patient. For example, Monitoring Client 2 can record medication delivered from Syringe Pump 10 as communicated by Syringe Pump 10 to Monitoring Client 2 and Monitoring Client 2 can also record medication that is delivered by the Syringe Pumps. infusion 4 and 6 and/or by microinfusion pump 9. Monitoring client 1 can make a determination from the recorded data to determine whether the aggregated amounts and types of medication that are delivered are safe. For example, monitoring client 2 can determine if IV bag 5 is contraindicated with medication in syringe pump 10. Additionally or alternatively, in some embodiments, monitoring client 2 can monitor delivery of fluid in IV bag 8 and one or more boluses delivered by syringe pump 10 to determine if the total dose exceeds a predetermined threshold, e.g. medication in IV bag 5 and syringe pump 10 may be of the same type or class of drug and the customer Monitoring 2 can determine whether drugs are safe when combined as they are delivered to the patient. Syringe pump 10 can also communicate with infusion pumps 4 and 6 and/or microinfusion pump 9 to make the same determination; in this exemplary embodiment, syringe pump 10 can communicate with devices directly (via wired communications or wirelessly) or via monitoring client 2 (via wired communications or wirelessly). In some embodiments of the present disclosures, one or more communication modules (e.g., each capable of communicating via one or more protocols) may be connected to the syringe pump 10 and/or may be connected in assembly and then connected to the syringe pump 10 to allow the syringe pump 10 to communicate via the communication modules.

[000418] Syringe pump 10 includes a touch screen interface 11 (which may be detachable), a start button 12 and a stop button 13. However, in some alternative embodiments, the button 12 is a PCA button to deliver pain medication to a patient. User interface 11 can be used to program treatment regimens such as flow rates, bolus amounts or other treatment parameters. After a treatment regimen is programmed into the syringe pump 10, the syringe pump 10 can query a database (e.g. Electronic Medical Records ("EMR"), Drug Error Reduction System ("DERS") or another database) to determine whether the treatment regimen is safe for the particular patient or any patient. For example, syringe pump 10 may query the EMR database (e.g., over a wireless link, wired link, WiFi, mobile phone network, or other communications technology) to determine whether the treatment regimen pump 10 is safe based on patient information stored (eg age, weight, allergies, condition, etc.) in EMR records. Additionally or alternatively, syringe pump 10 may query the DERS database (e.g., over a wireless link, wired link, WiFi, mobile phone network, or other communications technology) to determine whether the Syringe Pump 10 treatment is safe based on predetermined safety criteria in the DERS records.

[000419] In some embodiments, if the treatment regimen is determined to be safe, a notice may request user confirmation of the treatment regimen. After user confirmation, the user (eg healthcare professional, nurse or other authorized person) can press the start button 12. In some embodiments, the stop button 13 can be pressed at any time to stop treatment.

[000420] In some modalities, if the EMR and/or DERS determine that the treatment regimen exceeds a first set of criteria, treatment can continue if the user confirms treatment (e.g., with an additional notice, user password, and /or additional authentication or authorization, etc.); in this modality, the EMR or DERS may prevent treatment from being delivered if the EMR and/or DERS determines that the treatment regimen exceeds a second set of criteria, e.g., the treatment is not safe under any circumstances for any patient, for example.

EXEMPLARY HEADBOARD LAYOUT

[000421] Figures 2 to 9 show various views related to a system 200. Figure 2 shows a system 200 that includes several pumps 201, 202 and 203. Pumps 201, 202, 203 can be coupled together to form a group of pumps which are connectable to a pole 208. System 200 includes two syringe pumps 201, 202 and a peristaltic pump 203; however, other combinations of various medical devices may be employed.

[000422] Each of the pumps 201, 202, 203 includes a touch screen 204 that can be used to control the pumps 201, 202, 203. The touch screen 204 of one of the pumps (e.g. 201, 202 , 203) can also be used to coordinate the operation of all pumps 201, 202, 203 and/or control the others among pumps 201, 202, 203.

[000423] Pumps 201, 202 and 203 are daisy-chained together so that they are in electrical communication with each other. Additionally or alternatively, pumps 201, 202 and/or 203 may share energy with each other or with each other; For example, one of pumps 201, 202 and/or 203 may include an AC/DC converter that converts AC electrical energy into suitable DC energy to power the other pumps.

[000424] Within the system 200, the pumps 201, 202 and 203 are stacked together using respective Z frames 207. Each of the Z frames 207 includes a lower portion 206 and an upper portion 205. A lower portion 206 of one Z frame 207 (e.g., lower portion 206 of pump 201) may engage an upper portion 205 of another Z frame 207 (e.g., upper portion 205 of Z frame 207 of pump 202).

[000425] A clamp 209 can be attached to one of the pumps 201, 202, 203 (eg the pump 202 as shown in Figure 3). That is, the bracket 209 can be attached to any of the pumps 201, 202, 203. The bracket 209 is affixable to the back of any of the pumps 201, 202, 203. As is readily seen in Figure 5, each of the pumps 201, 202, 203 includes an upper attachment member 210 and a lower attachment member 211. A clamp adapter 212 facilitates attachment of the clamp 209 to the pump 202 by means of an upper attachment member 210 and lower attachment member 211 of the respective pumps (eg 201, 202, or 203). In some embodiments, the clamp adapter 212 may be integral with the clamp 209.

[000426] Figure 6 shows a close-up view of a portion of an interface of a clamp (i.e., clamp adapter 212) that is attachable to pump 202 (or pumps 201 or 203) shown in Figures 2 to 5 of according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. The clamp adapter 212 includes a hole 213 to which a lower attachment member 211 (see Figure 5) can be attached. That is, the lower attachment member 211 is a hook-like protrusion that can be inserted into the hole 213 and subsequently rotated to secure the lower attachment member 211 therein.

[000427] As is easily seen in Figure 7, the clamp adapter 212 also includes a latch 214. The latch 214 is pivotally mounted to the clamp adapter 212 by means of pivots 216. The latch 214 may be spring oriented by means of springs 218 which are coupled to hooks 220. Stop members 219 prevent latch 214 from pivoting beyond a predetermined amount. After the hole 213 is inserted into the lower attachment member 211 (see Figures 5 and 6), the clamp adapter 212 can be rotated to bring the latch 214 towards the upper attachment member 210 so that the latch 214 is compressed. downward by upper attachment member 210 until protrusion 215 engages a complementary space in upper attachment member 210. Hooks 220 help secure clamp adapter 212 to pump 202.

[000428] Each Z frame 207 of pumps 201, 202, 203 includes a recessed portion 223 (see figure 5) and a protrusion 224 (see figure 8). A protrusion 224 of the Z frame 207 of a bomb (e.g., bombs 201, 202, or 203) may engage a recessed portion 223 of another bomb to allow the bombs to be stacked one on top of the other. Each of the pumps 201, 202, 203 includes a latch engaging member 221 which allows another of the pumps 201, 202, 203 to be attached thereto by means of a latch 222 (see Figure 8). Latch 222 may include a small spring loaded flange that can "snap" into the space formed under latch engaging member 221. Latch 222 may be pivotally coupled to lower portion 206 of Z-frame 207.

[000429] As seen in Figure 3, the latch 222 of the pump 201 can be pulled to pull a portion of the latch 222 out of the space under the latch engaging member 221 of the pump 202. Thereafter, the pump 201 can be rotated to extracting the protrusion 224 of the pump 201 out of the recessed portion 223 of the Z frame 207 of the pump 202 so that the pump 201 can be removed from the stack of pumps 202, 203 (see Figure 4).

[000430] Pumps 201, 202, 203 each include an upper connector 225 (see figure 9) and a lower connector 226 (see figure 8). Connectors 225 and 226 allow stacked pumps 201, 202 and 203 to communicate with each other and/or supply power to each other. For example, if the battery of the intermediate pump 202 (see Figure 2) fails, then the upper pump 201 and/or the lower pump 203 can supply power to the intermediate pump 202 as a backup while sounding the alarm audibly.

EXAMPLE SYRINGE PUMP MODALITY AND RELATED HEADLAND ARRANGEMENT

[000431] Figures 10 to 13 show several views of a syringe pump 300 in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure. Syringe pump 300 can have a syringe 302 loaded either to the left (as shown in Figures 10 to 13) or to the right (see Figure 16, described below). That is, the syringe pump 300 is a bi-directional syringe pump.

[000432] The syringe 302 may be loaded into a syringe retainer 306 of the syringe pump 300. A flange end piece 310 of the syringe 302 may be placed on the left flange receiver 311 or the right flange receiver 312. flange end 310 is inserted into left flange receiver 311, syringe 302 is facing left outlet 308, which may retain a tube that is fluidly coupled to syringe 302. A catch member 314 may be coupled to a fitting end 315 of syringe 302 when or after syringe 302 is loaded into syringe retainer 306. A threaded shaft 315 which is coupled to a motor may be rotated to move engagement member 314 in either direction to discharge fluid from the syringe 302.

[000433] Syringe 302 can also be loaded on the right (not shown in figures 10 to 13). Syringe retainer 306 can be moved and/or adjusted so that it is moved to the right so that syringe 302 can be loaded. Syringe retainer 306 can be manually moved and/or an electric motor can move syringe retainer 306 to the right. In some embodiments of the present disclosure, the syringe retainer 306 extends far enough left and right that no adjustment is used.

[000434] In the case where the syringe 302 is loaded facing to the right, the flange end piece 310 is loaded into the right flange receiver 312. The engagement member 314 subsequently moves to the right so that the fluid can be discharged through a pipe passing through a right outlet 309.

[000435] Pump 300 may be controlled via touch screen 304 to set flow rate, flow profile and/or to monitor or otherwise control syringe pump 300. A clamp 316 may be used to secure the syringe pump 300 to a pole (eg using a screw-type clamp).

[000436] Figure 14 shows several syringe pumps 300 of Figures 10 to 13 mounted on a pole 322 in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure. That is, Figure 14 shows a system 320 that uses multiple syringe pumps 300 mounted on pole 312. Pole 322 can be used in a hospital and/or home environment.

[000437] Figures 15 and 16 illustrate the operating portions 327 of the syringe pump 300 of Figures 21 to 24 in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure. Figure 15 shows the loaded syringe 302 facing to the left and Figure 16 shows the syringe 302 loaded to the right. As shown in Figures 15 and 16, a motor 326 is coupled to the threaded shaft 315 so that the motor 326 can rotate the threaded shaft 315.

[000438] A left syringe diameter sensor 324 measures the diameter of the syringe 305 to estimate the cross-sectional size of the internal space of the syringe barrel 302. The left syringe diameter sensor 325 may be a bar that is affixed to a column so that the bar is raised to cover the syringe 302; column movement outside the syringe pump body 300 can be measured by a linear sensor to estimate the diameter of the syringe barrel 302. Any linear sensor can be used including a linear potentiometer technology, an optical linear sensor technology , a hall effect sensor technology, etc. The movement of the motor 326 can therefore be correlated to the fluid discharged from the syringe 302 using the diameter estimate of the inner space of the syringe barrel 302. Similarly, the straight syringe diameter sensor 325 can be used to estimate the diameter. barrel of syringe 302, which can be used to estimate fluid discharged from syringe 302 to the right.

[000439] In some embodiments of the present disclosure, touch screen 304 prompts for user information when syringe 302 is loaded into syringe pump 300 (in left or right configuration) and syringe diameter sensor 324 or 325 is used to estimate the diameter of the inner space of the barrel of the syringe 305; the user is prompted by a request from touchscreen 304 for the user to enter on touchscreen 304 the manufacturer of syringe 305. An internal database within syringe pump 300 can be used to narrow the range of syringe numbers. possible models associated with an estimate of the diameter of the syringe 305. When the user enters the manufacturer of the syringe 305, the database can be used to identify a particular model number of the syringe 305 and/or a subset of possible model numbers that corresponds to the 305 syringe diameter estimate and user-entered information which in turn can provide a more accurate inner diameter value (as stored within the database). The user may be prompted by the touch screen display 304 to select the syringe model from a list or enter the syringe model that will deliver the medication. The user can be guided through a selection process on the 304 touchscreen to identify the syringe loaded in the machine using one or more of the following: syringe barrel size, plunger head size, manufacturer, syringe images and model numbers. The selection process can access a database of syringes including manufacturer, model, bore and image. Syringe pump 300 can use the identified syringe to set the inner diameter value for volume calculations.

EXEMPLARY HEADEND ARRANGEMENTS

[000440] Figures 17 and 18 illustrate various medical devices 402 mounted on a pole 403 in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure. Figures 19 to 22 show several views of the medical device 402 of Figures 17 and 18. The medical device 402 is mounted on the pole by means of the clamp 401. The clamp 401 allows the medical device 402 to be extracted and adjusted. Medical device 402 can be any medical device, such as an infusion pump, syringe pump, monitoring client, etc.

[000441] Medical device 402 is coupled to pole 403 via arms 403 so that medical device 402 can be pulled away from pole (see figure 20) and/or pivoted to arms 403.

[000442] Figure 23 shows several assemblies 406 mounted on a pole 405 and Figures 24 to 26 show various views of an assembly of Figure 23 according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. Each of the assemblies 406 includes a bracket 407 (e.g., a threaded bracket), a first arm 408 pivotally mounted to bracket 407, and a second arm 411 pivotally mounted to first arm 408 via a hinge 409 The end of the second arm 411 includes a coupling member 410 that can be coupled to a medical device.

EXAMPLE SPEAKER AND BATTERY TEST

[000443] Fig. 27 shows a circuit diagram 420 having a speaker 423 and a battery 421 in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure. Battery 421 may be a backup battery and/or speaker 423 may be a backup alarm speaker. That is, circuit 420 may be a backup alarm circuit, for example, a backup alarm circuit in a medical device, such as a syringe pump.

[000444] In some embodiments of the present disclosure, the battery 421 may be tested simultaneously with the speaker 423. When a switch 422 is in an open position, a voltmeter 425 may be used to measure the open circuit voltage of the battery 421 Afterwards, the switch 422 can be closed and the loop voltage of the battery 421 can be measured. The internal resistance of battery 421 can be estimated using the known impedance, Z, of speaker 423. A processor can be used to estimate the internal resistance of battery 421 (eg, a syringe pump processor). The processor may correlate the internal resistance of the battery 421 to the operation of the battery 421. In some embodiments of the present disclosure, if the loop voltage of the battery 421 is not in a predetermined range (the range may be a function of the loop voltage battery 421), speaker 423 can be determined to have failed.

[000445] In some additional embodiments of the present disclosure, switch 422 may be modulated so that speaker 423 is tested simultaneously with battery 421. A microphone may be used to determine if speaker 423 is transmitting properly. audible signal within predetermined operating parameters (e.g. volume, frequency, spectral compositions, etc.) and/or the internal impedance of battery 421 can be estimated to determine whether it is within predetermined operating parameters (e.g. complex impedance, for example). The microphone can be coupled to the processor. Additionally or alternatively, a test signal can be applied to speaker 423 (e.g., by modulating switch 422) and the current waveform from speaker 423 can be monitored by a current sensor 426 to determine the total harmonic distortion of the speaker 423 and/or the magnitude of the current; a processor can monitor these values using the current sensor 426 to determine if a fault condition exists within the speaker 423 (e.g., total harmonic distortion or current magnitude is not within predetermined ranges) .

[000446] Various sine waves, periodic waveforms, and/or signals may be applied to speaker 423 to measure its impedance and/or to measure the impedance of battery 421. For example, a syringe pump processor disclosed herein you can modulate switch 422 and measure the voltage across battery 421 to determine if battery 421 and speaker 423 have an impedance within predetermined ranges; if the estimated impedance of the 421 battery is outside a first range, the processor will determine that the battery is in a fault condition and/or if the estimated speaker impedance is outside a second range, the processor will determine that the high Speaker 423 is in a fault condition. Additionally or alternatively, if the processor cannot determine whether the battery 421 or speaker 423 has a fault condition, but has determined that at least one exists in a fault condition, the processor may issue an alert or alarm that circuit 420 is in a fault condition. The processor can alarm or alert a user or remote server of the fault condition. In some embodiments of the present disclosure, the syringe pump will not operate until the failure is addressed, mitigated and/or corrected.

EXAMPLE SYRINGE PUMP MODE

[000447] In an exemplary embodiment, as shown in Figure 28, a syringe pump 500 is depicted. Syringe pump 500 can be used to deliver an agent, such as, but not limited to, an analgesic, drug, nutrient, chemotherapeutic agent, etc. to a patient. The syringe pump can be used to deliver a precise amount of an agent to a patient or to deliver a precise amount of an agent over a period of time. The syringe pump 500 can be used in any suitable application, such as, but not limited to, intravenous delivery, intrathecal delivery, intra-arterial delivery, enteral delivery or feeding, etc.

[000448] Syringe pump 500 comprises housing 502 and syringe pump assembly 501. In the exemplary embodiment in Figure 28, housing 502 is substantially a rectangular box. In alternative embodiments, housing 502 may take any one of a variety of other suitable shapes. Housing 502 may be made of any one of a number of materials or combinations of materials including, but not limited to, metal or plastic. Housing 502 may be extruded, injection molded, die-cast, etc. In some embodiments, housing 502 may comprise a plurality of separate parts that may be coupled together by any suitable means. In some embodiments, housing 502 may be disassembled or comprise a removable panel to allow syringe pump 500 to be easily serviced.

[000449] As shown in Figure 28, a syringe 504 may be seated in the syringe pump assembly 501. The syringe 504 may be a glass, plastic or any other type of syringe 504. The syringe 504 may be a syringe 504 of any type. capacity. In some embodiments, including the embodiment in Figure 28, the syringe 504 may be seated in a syringe holder 506 that comprises part of the syringe pump assembly 501. The syringe holder 506 may comprise a contour that allows the syringe 506 to be supported by syringe holder 506. Syringe holder 506 may be made of the same material as the rest of housing 502, a different material, or may be made of different materials. Syringe holder 506 may be coupled to housing 502 by an assembly 508 which may also serve as a shield against leakage, splash, drip, fluid or debris.

[000450] In some embodiments, the syringe holder 506 may comprise part of the housing 502. In the embodiment shown in Figure 28, the syringe holder 506 is part of a syringe pump assembly housing 503 of the syringe pump assembly 501. In some embodiments, the syringe pump assembly housing 503 may be at least partially formed as an extrusion. In such embodiments, the contours of the syringe holder 506 may be formed during extrusion.

[000451] Syringe pump assembly 501 may be inserted into housing 502 or may be coupled thereto. In the exemplary embodiment in Figure 28, the syringe pump assembly 501 is primarily disposed within the housing 502. The syringe holder 506, the syringe barrel retainer 518, the barrel flange clamp 520, the head assembly plunger 522 and plunger tube 524, each part of syringe pump assembly 501, are not disposed within housing 502 in the exemplary embodiment shown in Figure 28. In embodiments where syringe holder 506 is not part of the housing 502, assembly 508 may comprise a gasket that functions as a seal to prevent unwanted foreign material from entering housing 502 and reaching portions of syringe pump assembly 501 which are disposed within housing 502. In some embodiments, assembly 508 can project syringe holder 506 and can function as a drip edge, splash guard, etc. which will pour liquid out and away from the syringe pump 500.

[000452] In some embodiments, the syringe pump 500 may be converted to a different device such as, but not limited to, a peristaltic large volume pump. This can be accomplished by removing the syringe pump assembly 501 from the housing 502 and replacing the syringe pump assembly 501 with another desired assembly. Replacement sets may include, for example, other infusion pump sets such as a peristaltic infusion pump set.

[000453] In some embodiments, a clamp 510 may be coupled to housing 502. The clamp 510 may be any type of clamp, for example, a standard pole clamp 510 or a quick release pole clamp 510 (shown). The clamp 510 can be used to hold the syringe pump 500 in a desired location on an object such as an I.V. The clamp 510 may be removably attached to the housing 502 via a clamp assembly 512. In some embodiments, the clamp assembly 512 may comprise any of a variety of fasteners such as threads, dowels, adhesive, Velcro tape, quick fit, friction fit, magnets, etc. In some embodiments, bracket 510 or a portion of bracket 510 may be formed as an integral part of housing 502 during manufacture.

[000454] As shown in Figure 28, housing 502 may also include a display 514. Display 514 may function as a graphical user interface and allow a user to program and monitor pump operation. The 514 display can be an electronic visual display such as a liquid crystal display, touch screen, L.E.D. display, plasma display, etc. In some embodiments, the display may be supplemented by any number of input means 516. In the exemplary embodiment, the input means 516 are multiple user-pressable buttons. The buttons can have fixed functions such as "on", "stop", "silence", "emergency stop", "start therapy" or "lock". The lock function can lock all user inputs to prevent inadvertent commands being issued to the syringe pump 500, due to a touchscreen display 514 being tapped, buttons being pressed or tapped, or any other inadvertent gesture. The input means 516 of other embodiments may differ. In embodiments where the display 514 is a touch screen display, the data input means 516 may include a number of physically pressable buttons. Physically pressable button input means 516 may be a support for touch screen display 514 and may be used in the event that touch screen display 514 is compromised or otherwise rendered non-functional .

[000455] In an example of non-limiting embodiment, the data input means 516 may be constructed in the function of a touch screen monitor 514. The touch screen monitor may detect the position of a finger or fingers of the user on the screen. The touchscreen can be a capacitive touchscreen or any other type of touchscreen. The software can display virtual buttons, swipes and other controls. The software can also detect the user's touch or the touch of a pen to control the machine and interact with remote computers that can communicate with the 500 syringe pump. The software can also recognize multi-touch gestures that can control: the monitor , operation of the syringe pump 500, interaction of the syringe pump 500 with one or more remote computers, etc. In some embodiments, the syringe pump 500 may include sensors that detect user gestures when the user is not in contact with the monitor. These motion detection sensors may comprise a device that transmits invisible near-infrared light, which measures its "time of flight" after it bounces off objects. Such a measure may allow the syringe pump 500 to detect the location of objects and the distance from the syringe pump 500 to said objects. Syringe pump 500 may thus have the ability to monitor and receive commands through the user's limbs, hands and fingers or movements of the user's limbs, hands and fingers. An example of a motion detector is the PrimeSense 3D sensor made by the Israeli company Prime-Sense. In some embodiments, monitor 514 and input means may be mounted on housing 502 during manufacture of syringe pump 500. Monitor 514 may be removed and replaced during maintenance if necessary.

[000456] Syringe pump 500 may include a syringe barrel retainer 518. Syringe barrel retainer 518 may securely hold syringe barrel 540 against syringe strut 506. Syringe barrel retainer 518 may be easily adjusted by a user to accommodate 504 syringes of various sizes. In some embodiments, syringe barrel retainer 518 may be oriented to automatically adjust to syringe diameter 504 of any size after syringe barrel retainer 518 is pulled out by a user. Syringe barrel retainer 518 will be further elaborated later in the specification.

[000457] The syringe pump 500 may also include a barrel flange clamp 520. The barrel flange clamp 520 in the exemplary embodiment depicted in Figure 28 is disposed at one end of the syringe pump assembly housing 503 and has the ability to hold the syringe barrel flange 542 in place against the end of the syringe pump assembly housing 503. The barrel flange clamp 520 also has the ability to retain any of a variety of flange types and sizes. syringe barrel 542 that may be available to a user. Drum flange clamp 520 will be further elaborated later in the specification. For a more detailed description of the 520 Drum Flange Clamp, see Figure 61 and Figure 62.

[000458] Syringe pump 500 may additionally include a plunger head assembly 522. Plunger head assembly 522 may be attached to syringe pump assembly 501 by a plunger tube 524. In the exemplary embodiment depicted in Fig. 28, plunger head assembly 522 and plunger tube 524 extend out of housing 502 toward the right of the page.

[000459] The syringe pump 500 may also comprise a downstream pressure sensor 513 as shown in Figure 28. The downstream pressure sensor 513 may comprise part of the syringe pump assembly 501 or the housing 502. The pressure sensor downstream 513 can take pressure measurements from a fluid line, i.e. tubing extending from syringe 504 to a patient. In some embodiments, the fluid line may include a span of tubing that is different from the rest of the tubing. For example, a fluid line span can be made of a deformable PVC material. Such modalities can make fluid line pressures easier to determine.

[000460] The downstream pressure sensor 513 may comprise a support with a pressure sensor, such as a force sensor. In such embodiments, the fluid line may be held against the support and pressure sensor of the downstream pressure sensor 513 by a non-deformable or deflectable structure. The downstream pressure sensor 513 can cause the syringe pump 500 to alarm if the detected pressure is outside an acceptable range. The measurement from the downstream pressure sensor 513 can be used as a reference against a lookup table to determine the pressure in the fluid line. If an abnormal pressure reading (e.g., a high pressure generated during an occlusion event beyond a predetermined threshold) is obtained, a syringe pump control system 500 may interrupt fluid delivery. In some embodiments, the syringe pump 500 can be induced to pause and relieve some of the pressure in response to detection of pressures that suggest an occlusion.

[000461] Figure 29 shows the syringe pump 500 from another perspective. In that view, the monitor 514 and input means 516 coupled to the housing 502 are facing the front of the page. The clamp 510 is coupled to the housing 502 by a clamp assembly 512. The syringe pump assembly 501 is disposed mostly within the housing 502. The syringe holder 506, which comprises part of the syringe pump assembly 501, forms a substantial portion of one side of housing 502. Assembly 508 retains syringe pump assembly 501 and helps seal the interior of housing 502 against exposure to debris. In embodiments where the assembly 508 functions as a rail edge, the assembly 508 may cover the syringe pump assembly 501 and assist in draining liquid away from the interior of the housing 502. The syringe barrel clamp 518 extends through the syringe holder 506. In the position depicted in Figure 29, syringe barrel clamp 518 has been pulled away from the rest position thereof and is oriented so that it can automatically retract back toward housing 502. In some embodiments , the syringe barrel clamp 518 may be locked in a position other than the rest position, such as the position depicted in Figure 31. The barrel flange clamp 520 is visible and disposed at the end of the syringe pump assembly housing 503. closest to plunger head assembly 522. Plunger tube 524 connects plunger head assembly 522 to the rest of syringe pump assembly 501 as described above. Downstream pressure sensor 513 is arranged on syringe strut 506.

[000462] In some specific embodiments, a camera 8127 is positioned to view the syringe. The 8127 camera can be coupled to the RTP 3500 and/or the 3600 processor of Fig. 59J to provide image data thereto. The 8127 camera may include a CCD image sensor, a CMOS image sensor, or any other type of imaging sensor. In some embodiment of the present disclosure, camera 8127 includes an array of image sensors.

[000463] An image of the syringe loaded inside syringe holder 506 can be displayed on monitor 514 as viewed from camera 8127. Processors 3500 and/or 3600 can use images from camera 8127 to: read QR codes in the syringe to identify the syringe, detect particulates or bubbles in the syringe, measure the location of the plunger to measure the volume delivered and thereby the volume remaining, determine when the state of the syringe has changed, determine if the syringe is present, estimate discharges bolus, check the color of the fluid to determine if it is the correct fluid and/or determine if the syringe is missing or improperly loaded.

[000464] Through the use of frame differentiation to detect motion and a gaussian filter to help reduce the 8127 camera's shooting noise (which refers to an impurity, but smaller), moving impurities can be detected. To locate the plunger of the syringe, the fiducials on the syringe can be used, a template equality test (where the plunger is the template) can use pattern recognition to locate the fiducials and thus the plunger.

[000465] Figures 30 to 34 illustrate how a user can allocate a syringe 504 within the syringe pump assembly 501. The syringe pump assembly 501 is shown in isolation in Figure 30. The syringe 504 is not seated against the strut. syringe 506. As shown, the plunger head assembly 522 comprises two jaws, an upper plunger gripper 526 and a lower plunger gripper 528. The upper plunger gripper 526 and the upper plunger gripper 526. lower plunger 528 is in the open position. The upper plunger gripper 526 and the lower plunger gripper 528 have the ability to grip and retain the plunger flange 548 on the plunger 544 of the syringe 504. The upper plunger gripper 526 and the Lower plunger gripper 528 may be actuated to open or closed positions by rotating a dial 530 comprising part of the plunger head assembly 522. The plunger head assembly 522 may also comprise a plunger pressure sensor 532 .

[000466] In Figure 31, the syringe pump assembly 501 is shown again in isolation. Syringe 504 that was not seated on syringe holder 506 in Figure 30 is seated in place on syringe holder 506 in Figure 31. Syringe barrel flange 542 is clamped in place by barrel flange clamp 520. Syringe barrel 518 has been pulled out so that syringe 504 can be placed inside syringe pump assembly 501, but has not yet been allowed to automatically adjust to the diameter of syringe barrel 540. In the example embodiment shown in Fig. Figure 31, syringe barrel retainer 518 has been rotated 90° clockwise from its orientation in Figure 30 to lock it in place. Alternative embodiments may require counterclockwise rotation, a different degree of rotation, or may not require rotation to lock the syringe barrel retainer 518 in position. Plunger tube 524 and attached plunger head assembly 522 are fully extended away from the rest of syringe pump assembly 501. Since dial 530 has not been rotated from the orientation shown in Figure 30, the gripper upper plunger grip 526 and lower plunger gripper 528 are still in the open position.

[000467] In Figure 32, the syringe pump assembly 501 is shown again in isolation. Syringe 504 is seated against syringe strut 506. Syringe barrel retainer 518 has been rotated out of the locked position and allowed to automatically adjust to the diameter of syringe barrel 540. Syringe barrel retainer 518 maintains the syringe 504 in place on syringe pump assembly 501. Syringe 504 is further held in place on syringe pump assembly 501 by barrel flange clamp 520 which retains syringe barrel flange 542. Plunger tube 524 and the attached plunger head assembly 522 are fully extended away from the rest of the syringe pump assembly 501. Since the dial 530 has not been rotated from the orientation shown in Figure 30, the upper plunger gripper 526 and the lower plunger gripper 528 are still in the open position.

[000468] In Figure 33, the syringe pump assembly 501 is shown again in isolation. Syringe 504 is seated against syringe strut 506. Syringe barrel retainer 518 is pressed against syringe barrel 540 and holds syringe 504 in place in syringe pump assembly 501. Barrel flange clamp 520 holds the syringe barrel flange 542 and helps hold the syringe 504 in place in the syringe pump assembly 501. The amount that the plunger tube 524 extends away from the rest of the syringe pump assembly 501 has been adjusted so that the plunger head assembly 522 is in contact with plunger flange 548 on syringe plunger 544. Since dial 530 has not been rotated from the orientation shown in Figure 30, upper plunger gripper 526 and jaw plunger gripper 528 are still in the open position. Plunger flange 548 is in contact with plunger pressure sensor 532.

[000469] In figure 34 the syringe pump assembly 501 is shown again in isolation. Syringe 504 is seated against syringe strut 506. Syringe barrel retainer 518 is pressed against syringe barrel 540 and holds syringe 504 in place on syringe pump assembly 501. Barrel flange clamp 520 clamps the syringe barrel flange 542 and helps hold the syringe 504 in place in the syringe pump assembly 501. The amount that the plunger tube 524 extends away from the rest of the syringe pump assembly 501 has been adjusted so that the plunger head assembly 522 is in contact with the plunger flange 548 on the syringe plunger 544. The dial 530 has been rotated from the orientation depicted in Figures 30 through 33. Accordingly, the upper plunger gripper 526 and the lower plunger gripper 528 have moved to a closed position wherein the plunger flange 548 of the syringe plunger 544 is retained by the plunger head assembly 522. Whereas the upper plunger gripper 526 and the plunger gripper 526 Lower piston rings 528 close over the horizontal centerline of piston head assembly 522, piston flange 548 has been centered on piston head assembly 522.

[000470] In the preferred embodiment, each of the upper plunger gripping jaw 526 and the lower plunger gripping jaw 528 comprises a fin 529 as shown in Figure 34. The fins 529 curve away from the assembly. head 522 and toward the left of the page (relative to Fig. 34). The fins 529 are disposed over the upper plunger gripper 526 and the lower plunger gripper 528 so that the fins 529 are the only part of the upper plunger gripper 526 and the lower plunger gripper 528 to make contact with a plunger flange 548 when a syringe 504 is allocated to the syringe pump assembly 501. As the upper plunger gripping jaw 526 and lower plunger gripping jaw 528 are enclosed in a plunger flange 548 the thickness and diameter of the plunger flange 548 determine when the upper plunger gripper 526 and the lower plunger gripper 528 stop moving. At least some portion of the fins 529 will protrude the piston flange 548 and ensure that the piston flange 548 is retained. Since the upper plunger gripper 526 and the lower plunger gripper 528 do not deflect, this forces the plunger flange 548 against the rest of the plunger head assembly 522. That is, the contact angle of the gripper plunger gripping force 526 and bottom plunger gripping jaw 528 on plunger flange 548 results in a force with a component that pushes plunger flange 548 against plunger head assembly 522. This resulting force additionally has a component that centers the plunger flange 548 on the plunger head assembly 522. This is especially desirable due to the fact that such an arrangement does not allow for any "jittering" of the plunger flange 548 between the upper plunger gripper 526 and the upper plunger gripper 526. lower piston 528 and the rest of the piston head assembly 522. Additionally, such an arrangement is desirable due to the fact that it not only holds the piston flange 548 in place against the head assembly plunger element 522 securely, but also functions as an anti-siphon mechanism. Such an arrangement further ensures that the plunger flange 548 consistently makes contact with the plunger pressure sensor 532. Any force components generated by the upper plunger gripper 526 and the lower plunger gripper 528 that may affecting 532 plunger pressure sensor readings can be predicted and subtracted or otherwise rewarded.

[000471] In other embodiments, the upper plunger gripper 526 and the lower plunger gripper 528 may not comprise fins 529. Instead, the upper plunger gripper 526 and the lower plunger gripper 528 protrude from a portion of the plunger flange 548 when in the gripping position. The upper plunger gripper 526 and the lower plunger gripper 528 may stop movement when they come into contact with the cruciform comprising the plunger rod 546. In other embodiments, the upper plunger gripper 526 and lower plunger gripper 528 can hold a plunger rod 546 which need not be a cruciform. In another embodiment, the upper plunger gripper 526 and the lower plunger gripper 528 may include a wedge, ramp, or tapered rib feature on the gripper surfaces that face the pump head assembly 522. wedge, ramp, or tapered rib serves to push plunger flange 548 toward pump head assembly 522 until plunger flange 548 is held securely against pump head assembly 522.

[000472] To dispense the contents of the syringe 504, the syringe pump 500 may actuate the plunger head assembly 522 to thereby push the plunger 544 into the syringe barrel 540. As the contents of the syringe 504 may does not flow through or beyond the plunger impeller 550, the contents of the syringe 504 are forced out of the syringe outlet 552 as the plunger 544 is advanced into the syringe barrel 540. Any pressure generated as the plunger 544 is advanced within from syringe barrel 540 is transmitted to plunger pressure sensor 532. Plunger pressure sensor 532 may, in some embodiments, comprise a force sensor such as a stress beam. When occlusion occurs, fluid within syringe barrel 540 and/or fluid lines prevent movement of plunger 544. As plunger head assembly 522 continues to advance, high forces are produced between plunger 544 and head assembly. plunger pressure sensor 522. The pressure transmitted to plunger pressure sensor 532 may have an acceptable programmed range so that possible occlusions can be identified. If the pressure applied to the plunger pressure sensor 532 exceeds a predetermined threshold, the syringe pump 500 can trigger the alarm or issue an alert.

[000473] Figure 35 shows the plunger head assembly 522 with the upper plunger gripper 526 and the lower plunger gripper 528 in the fully closed position. The dial 530 is oriented so that the raised portion of the dial 530 is in a plane substantially parallel to the top and bottom faces of the plunger head assembly 522. The plunger tube 524 is shown to extend from the head assembly 522. 522 to slide block assembly 800. One end of a flexible connector 562 is attached to slide block assembly 800. A position indicator mark has been placed on dial 530 for illustrative purposes only in Figure 35 and Figure 36.

[000474] The view shown in Figure 36 is similar to the view shown in Figure 35. In Figure 36, the dial 530 on the plunger head assembly 522 has been rotated approximately 135° clockwise. This rotation, in turn, caused the upper plunger gripper 526 and the lower plunger gripper 528 to separate and move to the fully open position. In alternative embodiments, the dial 530 may require more or less rotation than the approximately 135° shown in the exemplary embodiment to transition the upper plunger gripper 526 and the lower plunger gripper 528 from a fully open to a fully closed position. The plunger head assembly may have the ability to remain in that position (described later in the specification).

[000475] An exploded view of the top half of the plunger head assembly 522 is shown in Figure 37. As shown, the upper plunger gripper 526 comprises two brackets 570. In other embodiments, there can only be one bracket 570. In some embodiments, there may be more than two mounts 570. When the plunger head assembly 522 is fully engaged, the mounts 570 may interdigitate with a corresponding amount of upper-jaw pinion gears 572. The upper-jaw pinion gears 572 rotate about the axis of an upper jaw drive shaft 574. The upper jaw drive shaft 574 may also comprise an upper jaw drive gear 604 which will be elaborated later.

[000476] Piston head assembly 522 may comprise a number of bearing surfaces for upper gripper drive shaft 574. In the exemplary embodiment in Fig. 37, piston head assembly 522 comprises two upper bearing surfaces 576 and a lower bearing surface 578 for the upper jaw drive shaft 574. The upper bearing surfaces 576 may be coupled to the interior of the top of the piston head assembly housing 600. The upper bearing surfaces 576 may be coupled to the top of plunger head assembly housing 600 by any of a variety of means including, but not limited to, threads, screws, adhesive, grip fit, friction fit, welds, a tongue in a grooved arrangement, pins , or may be formed as a continuous part of the top of the piston head assembly housing 600 (shown). The upper bearing surfaces 576 provide a bearing surface for at least an amplitude of the top half of the upper jaw drive shaft 574.

[000477] The lower bearing surface 578 is coupled within the top of the piston head assembly housing 600. The lower bearing surface 578 may be coupled to the top of the piston head assembly housing 600 by any suitable means such as such as, but not limited to, 580 threads (shown), screws, adhesive, grip fit, friction fit, magnets, welds, a tongue in a groove arrangement, etc. In some embodiments, the lower bearing surface 578 may be formed as a continuous portion of the top of the piston head assembly housing 600. The lower bearing surface 578 provides a bearing surface for at least an amplitude of the bottom half of the piston. top gripper drive shaft 574.

[000478] In some embodiments, there may also be an upper dial shaft bearing surface 651 that engages inside the top of the piston head assembly housing 600. The upper display shaft bearing surface 651 may be engaged in the inside the top of the piston head assembly housing 600 by any of a variety of means including, but not limited to, threads, screws, adhesive, grip fit, friction fit, welds, a tongue in a slot arrangement (shown), pins, or may be formed as a continuous part of the top of the piston head assembly housing 600. The upper dial shaft bearing surface 651 will be further elaborated later.

[000479] The top jaw drive shaft 574 may also comprise a D-shape span 582. The D-shape span 582 may be located at one end of the top jaw drive shaft 574 as shown in the embodiment example in Figure 37. The D-shaped span 582 of the upper jaw drive shaft 574 can mate inside a complementary shaped hole on one side of a D-Shaped connector 584. The D-Shaped span 582 of the 574 top jaw drive may not extend all the way through the 584 D-shaped connector. In some embodiments, the hole may travel through the entire 584 D-shaped connector. The other side of the 584 D-shaped connector can mate to a 586 D-shaped shaft that projects out of a 588 plunger gripping jaw position sensor. Any rotation of the 574 top jaw drive shaft can cause the 574 shaped connector to the one of D 584 also rotates. In turn, this can generate rotation of the D 586 shaped shaft that projects from the 588 plunger gripping jaw position sensor. In some embodiments, the D 582 shaped amplitude of the jaw drive shaft 574 may extend directly into the 588 plunger gripper position sensor. In such embodiments, the D-shaped connector 584 and D-shaped shaft 586 may not be required. In some embodiments, the D 582 shaped span, the D 584 shaped connector and the D 586 shaped shaft do not need to be D shaped. In some embodiments they may have a triangular shape, square shape , star shape, etc.

[000480] In some embodiments, the plunger gripper position sensor 588 may comprise a potentiometer. As the D-shaped shaft 586 projecting from the plunger gripping jaw position sensor 588 rotates, the potentiometer wiper is slid across the potentiometer's resistive element, thereby varying the resistance measured by the potentiometer. potentiometer. The resistance value can then be interpreted to indicate the position of the upper plunger gripper 526 and the lower plunger gripper 528. Alternatively, the plunger gripper position sensor 588 may comprise a magnet at the end of the plunger. 574 upper gripper drive shaft and a rotary encoder such as the AS5030ATSU from Austrianmicrosytems of Austria. Alternatively, the position of upper jaw 526 and/or lower jaw 528 can be measured with a linear encoder or linear potentiometer.

[000481] By obtaining a position from the plunger gripper position sensor 588, the syringe pump 500 may be able to determine a number of factors. The position can be used to indicate whether a plunger flange 548 has been held by the 522 plunger head assembly. The position can indicate whether a plunger flange has been properly secured by the 522 plunger head assembly. This can be achieved by making reference to the position determined with respect to a position or a range of positions that may be acceptable for a specific syringe 504. Information about the specific syringe 504 that is used may be entered by a user or may be gathered by one or more other sensors comprising other parts of the syringe pump 500.

[000482] Since the position measured by the 588 Plunger Grip Position Sensor depends on the diameter and thickness of a 548 clamped plunger flange, the positional information can also be used to determine information about the specific 504 syringe that is used (for example, type, brand, volume, etc.). This can be achieved by referencing the measured position against a database of positions that would be expected for different syringes 504. In embodiments where there are a number of sensors that gather information about the syringe 504, the positional information generated by the sensor position of plunger grippers 588 can be checked against data from other sensors to make a more informed decision on which specific syringe 504 is used. If the position measured by the plunger gripping jaw position sensor 588 does not correlate with data gathered by other sensors, the syringe pump 500 may trigger the alarm.

[000483] As shown in Figure 37, the top of the piston head assembly housing 600 can also house the aforementioned piston pressure sensor 532. Plunger pressure sensor 532 may comprise a plunger pressure sensor thrust plate 590. The plunger pressure sensor thrust plate 590 may be a bulge, a disc, or any other suitable shape. The 590 plunger pressure sensor thrust plate can be flat or round. The plunger pressure sensor thrust plate 590 may extend away from the plunger head assembly 522 so that it can physically make contact with a plunger flange 548 secured against the plunger head assembly 522. 590 plunger pressure sensor thrust plate may directly transmit any force applied thereto to a 596 plunger pressure sensor inlet surface. In some embodiments, the 590 plunger pressure sensor thrust plate may be attached to a lever Piston Pressure Sensor Pivot 592. Plunger Pressure Sensor Lever 592 may be pivotally coupled to a Plunger Pressure Sensor Pivot 594. Plunger Pressure Sensor Pivot 594 may be disposed at any point along the along the length of the plunger pressure sensor lever 594. In the example embodiment in Fig. 37, any force applied to the plunger pressure sensor thrust plate 590 is transmitted through the lever from plunger pressure sensor 592 to the inlet surface of plunger pressure sensor 596. In some specific embodiments, plunger pressure sensor lever 592 and plunger pressure sensor pivot 594 may serve to constrict movement of the piston. plunger pressure plate 590 to a plane perpendicular to plunger flange 548 and minimize resistance to unhinder movement of plunger pressure plate 590. plunger pressure 590 does not multiply the force exerted against the inlet surface of plunger pressure sensor 596 in Fig. 37, other embodiments may use different arrangements to create a mechanical advantage.

[000484] The measured force that is read through the plunger pressure sensor 532 can be interpreted to determine the hydraulic pressure of the fluid being dispensed. This can contribute to the safety of operation due to the fact that the fluid pressure captured can be useful for the identification of possible occlusions so that they can be corrected. The pressure can be monitored so that if the pressure exceeds a preset value, the syringe pump 500 can trigger an alarm. The pressure measured from the plunger pressure sensor 532 can be checked against the pressure measured from the downstream pressure sensor 513 (see figure 28) in embodiments that include both a plunger pressure sensor 532 and a sensor downstream pressure gauge 513. This can help ensure greater accuracy. If pressure measurements do not correlate, an alarm may be generated. Additionally, since the sensors are redundant, if one of the plunger pressure sensor 532 or downstream pressure sensor 513 fails during therapy, the syringe pump 500 can operate on only one of the sensors in a faulty operating mode.

[000485] As shown in Figure 37, a number of conduits 598 run to and from both the plunger pressure sensor 532 and the plunger grip position sensor 588. The conduits 598 provide power to the plunger pressure sensor 588. 532 plunger pressure and 588 plunger grip position sensor. The 598 electrical conduits also comprise data communication routes to and from the 532 plunger pressure sensor and 588 plunger grip position sensor. .

[000486] Fig. 38 shows an attached view of the top half of the plunger head assembly 522. In Fig. 38, the upper plunger gripper 526 is in a closed position. The two brackets 570 on the upper ram gripper 526 are engaged with the two pinion gears 572 on the top gripper drive shaft 574 so that any rotation of the upper gripper drive shaft 574 translates to linear displacement of the gripper grip. - upper plunger drive 526. Upper jaw drive shaft 574 is surrounded by upper bearing surfaces 576 and lower bearing surface 578.

[000487] The 582 D-shape span of the 574 upper jaw drive shaft and the 586 D-shape shaft of the 588 plunger gripper position sensor are coupled together by the 584 D-shape connector. Any rotation of the top jaw drive shaft 574 will generate amplitude rotation of D-shape 582, D-shape connector 584, and D-shape 586 shaft. As mentioned above, this rotation can cause the wiper to slide through the resistive element of the plunger grip position sensor 588 in embodiments where the plunger grip position sensor 588 comprises a potentiometer.

[000488] Plunger pressure sensor 532 is also shown in Figure 38. Plunger pressure sensor thrust plate 590 may extend out of plunger head assembly 522 so that it can physically make contact with a 548 plunger flange (see figure 30) secured against the 522 plunger head assembly. The 590 plunger pressure sensor thrust plate can directly transmit any force applied to it to a plunger pressure sensor inlet surface 596. In some embodiments, including the one shown in Figure 38, the plunger pressure sensor thrust plate 590 may be attached to a plunger pressure sensor lever 592. The plunger pressure sensor lever 592 may be attached to hingedly to a plunger pressure sensor pivot 594. The plunger pressure sensor pivot 594 can be arranged at any point along the length of the plunger pressure sensor lever 592. In the modal example As shown in Figure 38, any force applied to the plunger pressure sensor thrust plate 590 is transmitted through the plunger pressure sensor lever 592 to the inlet surface of plunger pressure sensor 596. pressure sensor 594 relative to the plunger pressure sensor thrust plate 590 does not multiply the force exerted against the inlet surface of plunger pressure sensor 596 in Figure 38, other embodiments may use different arrangements to create a mechanical advantage.

[000489] The top of the piston head assembly housing 600 also includes the top half of a dial axis passage 648 for a dial axis 650 (not shown) which will be explained later in the specification. In the exemplary embodiment shown in Fig. 38, the dial shaft passage 648 passes through the top right face of the piston head assembly housing 600.

[000490] Figure 39 shows another coupled view of the top half of the piston head assembly 522. As shown in Figure 39 the top of the piston head assembly housing 600 may comprise upper jaw guides 569. upper jaw 569 are sized and arranged so that they form a tracking path along which the upper plunger gripping jaw 526 can move. In the exemplary embodiment, the upper jaw guides 569 are formed as a continuous part of the top of the piston head assembly housing 600 and span the entire height of the side wall of the top of the piston head assembly housing 600. In others In embodiments, the upper jaw guides 569 can only span a portion of the height of the top side wall of the piston head assembly housing 600.

[000491] As shown in Figure 39, the plunger pressure sensor 532 may comprise a plunger pressure sensor force concentrator 595. In embodiments where the plunger pressure sensor thrust plate 590 transmits force directly to the surface 596 plunger pressure sensor inlet, the 595 plunger pressure sensor force concentrator can help to concentrate the force applied to the 590 plunger pressure sensor thrust plate while exerting the same against the inlet surface of the 596 plunger pressure sensor. plunger pressure sensor 596. In embodiments where the plunger pressure sensor 532 comprises a plunger pressure sensor lever 592 on a plunger pressure sensor pivot 594, the plunger pressure sensor force concentrator 595 may be at the end and face of the 592 plunger pressure sensor lever that presses against the 596 plunger pressure sensor inlet surface. This can help to concentrate the force exerted against It is the 596 plunger pressure sensor inlet surface which can raise the accuracy. It can also help to focus the force at the center of the 596 plunger pressure sensor inlet surface, which makes measurements more consistent and accurate.

[000492] The bottom half of the plunger head assembly 522 and the plunger tube 524 are shown in Figure 40. As shown, the lower plunger gripper 528 comprises two lower plunger gripper holders 610. In In other embodiments, there can be only one lower plunger gripper holder 610. In some embodiments, there may be more than two lower plunger gripper holders 610. Each lower plunger gripper holder 610 interdigitates with a gear Piston Gripper Pinion Gear 612. Lower Piston Gripper Pinion Gears 612 have the ability to rotate about the axis of a lower Gripper Gripper Drive Shaft 614. A Drive Gear The lower gripper drive 620 is also arranged on the lower gripper drive shaft 614. The lower gripper drive gear 620 will be elaborated later.

[000493] Similar to the upper half of the piston head assembly 522, the lower half of the piston head assembly 522 may comprise a number of bearing surfaces for the lower jaw drive shaft 614. In the example embodiment in Fig. 40, the piston head assembly 522 comprises an upper bearing surface 616 and two lower bearing surfaces 618 for the lower jaw drive shaft 614. The upper bearing surface 616 is coupled to the bottom of the piston head assembly housing 602. The upper bearing surface 616 may be coupled to the bottom of the piston head assembly housing 602 by any of a variety of means including, but not limited to, threads 617 (shown), screws, adhesive, gripping , friction fit, welds, a tongue in a grooved arrangement, pins or may be formed as a continuous part of the bottom of the plunger head assembly housing 602 The upper bearing surface 616 provides a bearing surface for at least an amplitude of the top half of the lower jaw drive shaft 614.

[000494] The lower bearing surfaces 618 are coupled to the bottom of the piston head assembly housing 602. The lower bearing surfaces 618 may be coupled to the bottom of the piston head assembly housing 602 by any suitable means such as, but not limited to threads, screws, adhesive, grip fit, friction fit, magnets, welds, a tongue in a groove arrangement, pin (shown), etc. In some embodiments, the lower bearing surfaces 618 may be formed as a continuous part of the bottom of the piston head assembly housing 602. The lower bearing surfaces 618 provide a bearing surface for at least an amplitude of the bottom half of the piston. bottom jaw drive shaft 614.

[000495] In some embodiments, there may also be a lower dial shaft bearing surface 649 that is coupled to the bottom of the plunger head assembly housing 602. The lower dial shaft bearing surface 649 may be coupled to the bottom of the piston head assembly housing 602 by any of a variety of means including, but not limited to, threads, screws, adhesive, grip fit, friction fit, welds, a tongue in a slotted arrangement, pins or may be formed as a continuous part of the bottom of the piston head assembly housing 602 as shown. The lower half of the above-mentioned dial shaft passage 648 is cut through the bottom right face of the plunger head assembly housing 602 the lower display shaft bearing surface 649 and the dial shaft passage 648 will additionally be elaborated later.

[000496] As shown in Figure 40, the plunger tube 524 can be coupled inside the bottom half of the plunger head assembly 522. In the exemplary embodiment shown in Figure 40, the plunger tube 524 is coupled by two threads 630 in a plunger tube holder 631. In other embodiments, the amount or type of coupling/closing method may be different. For example, plunger tube 524 may be coupled to plunger tube support 631 by any other suitable means such as, but not limited to, screws, adhesive, grip fit, friction fit, magnets, welds, a tongue in slot arrangement, pin, etc. Plunger tube support 631 may comprise arcuate ribs 633 that are domed so that they are aligned with the outer surface of plunger tube 524 and support plunger tube 524. In some embodiments, a portion of the arc of the plunger tube 524 plunger 524 may be eliminated in the span of plunger tube 524 which is coupled within plunger head assembly 522 when syringe pump 500 is fully coupled. In the embodiment shown in Figure 40, about 180° of the segment, or upper half, of the plunger tube 524 has been eliminated. The end of plunger tube 524 opposite the end of plunger tube 524 coupled to plunger tube support 631 may comprise a number of plunger tube cutouts 802 which will be explained later. There may also be a conduit opening 632 near the plunger tube cutouts 802.

[000497] In Figure 41, the dial 530 of the plunger head assembly 522 is shown exploded away from a dial axis 650 to which it mates when coupled. As shown, the dial shaft 650 comprises a square shaped end 653. The square shaped end 653 of the dial shaft 650 fits into a square shaped hole 655 in the dial 530 so that as per the dial 530 is rotated, the dial axis 650 is also induced to rotate. In other embodiments, the square-shaped end 653 of the dial axis 650 and the square-shaped hole 655 on the dial 530 need not necessarily be square-shaped, but rather D-shaped, hexagonal, or any other suitable shape. .

[000498] A dial axis gear 652 can be arranged about the dial axis 650. As the dial axis 650 is rotated, the dial axis gear 652 can be induced to rotate about the axis of the dial axis 650 A dial axis cam 654 may be slidably coupled to the dial axis 650 so that the dial axis cam 654 has the ability to slide along the axial direction of the dial axis 650 and the dial axis 650 rotates freely within dial axle cam 654. Dial axle cam 654 may comprise one or more dial axle cam lugs 656. Dial axle cam lugs 656 may also be called dial cam guides. dial axis as they perform a guiding function. In the exemplary embodiment, the dial axis cam 654 comprises two dial axis cam lugs 656. In the exemplary embodiment, the cam surface of the dial axis cam 654 is substantially a section of a double helix. At the cam surface end of the dial axle cam 654 there may be one or more dial axle cam detents 660. The end of the dial axle cam 654 opposite the cam surface may be substantially flat.

[000499] A dial axis cam follower 658 can be coupled within the dial axis 650 so that it rotates with the dial axis 650. In the exemplary embodiment shown in Fig. 41, the axis cam follower The dial axis 658 runs through the dial axis 650 so that at least a portion of the dial axis cam follower 658 projects from the dial axis 650 on either side of the dial axis 650. This effectively creates two dial followers. dial axis cam 658 which are offset 180° from each other. Each end of the 658 dial-shaft cam follower follows a helix from the double-helical-shaped cam surface of the 654 dial-shaft cam.

[000500] A biasing member may also be allocated on the dial axis 650. In the example embodiment, a dial axis compression spring 662 is allocated on the dial axis 650. The dial axis compression spring 662 may have a spool diameter sized to fit concentrically about dial axis 650. In the exemplary embodiment depicted in Fig. 41, dial axis compression spring 662 is retained at each end by dial axis washers 664. A display shaft retaining ring 665 may fit into an annular groove 666 retained within the display shaft 650.

[000501] In Figure 41, the end of the dial shaft 650 opposite the square-shaped end 653 features a peg-type projection 770. The peg-type projection 770 can mate within a joint of a joint. double universal joint 772. Projection dowel type 770 may mate within the double universal joint 772 by any suitable means such as, but not limited to, threads, screws, adhesive, grip fit, friction fit, magnets, welds , a tongue in groove arrangement, pin (shown), etc. The other joint of the double universal joint 772 may also be coupled to a driven shaft 774. The other joint of the double universal joint 772 may be coupled to the driven shaft 774 by any suitable means such as, but not limited to, threads, screws, adhesive , grip fit, friction fit, magnets, welds, a tongue in a groove arrangement, pin (shown), etc. The dial axis 650 and the driven axis 774 can be oriented approximately perpendicular to each other.

[000502] In some embodiments, a driven axle pad 776 may be included in the driven axle 774. In the example embodiment shown in Fig. 41 the driven axle pad 776 is a sleeved pad. The inner surface of the driven axle pad 776 comprises the bearing surface for the driven axle 774. The outer surface of the driven axle pad 776 may comprise a number of driven axle pad projections 778 extending outward from the outer surface. of the driven axle pad 776. In the example embodiment in Figure 41, the projections of the driven axle pad 778 are spaced approximately 120° apart along the arc of the outer surface of the driven axle pad 776. In the example embodiment shown in Figure 41 , the driveshaft pad projection 778 projecting toward the top of the page comprises a protrusion 780 extending from the top edge of the driveshaft pad projection 778 toward the top of the page. Drive Shaft Cushion 776 is held in place on Drive Shaft 774 by Drive Shaft Retaining Rings 782. One of the Drive Shaft Retaining Rings 782 may be clipped in place to the Drive Shaft 774 on either side of the Drive Shaft Cushion. 776. The uncoupled end of the driven shaft 774 within the double universal joint 772 may comprise a D-shaped driven shaft segment 784.

[000503] When coupled as shown in Figure 42, the dial axle compression spring 662 biases the dial axle cam 654 against the dial axle cam follower 658 so that the ends of the axle cam follower dial 658 are on the bottom of the cam surface of dial axle cam 654. One dial axle washer 664 is in contact with dial axle retaining ring 665 and the other dial axle washer 664 is in contact with the flat side of dial axle cam 654. Preferably, the distance between dial axle washers 664 is at no point greater than or equal to the rest length of dial axle compression spring 662. This ensures that there is no "spine" and that the dial axle cam 654 is always angled against the ends of the dial axle cam follower 658.

[000504] As shown, double universal joint 772 connects dial shaft 650 to driven shaft 774 when coupled. The 776 driven shaft pad is clamped in place on the 774 driven shaft by 782 driven shaft retaining rings (see figure 41). In the embodiment depicted in Figure 42 the dial shaft 650 functions as the drive shaft for the driven shaft 774. Any rotation of the dial shaft 650 generated through rotation of the dial 530 will be transmitted through the double universal joint 772 to the driven shaft 774. .

[000505] Figure 43 shows the entire piston head assembly 522 with the piston tube 524 coupled in place. The top half of the plunger head assembly 522 is blown away from the bottom half of the plunger head assembly 522. The bottom half of the dial axle 650 rests on the lower dial axle bearing 649 in the bottom of the dial housing. piston head assembly 602. A further span of the bottom half of dial shaft 650 is seated in portion of the dial shaft passage 648 located at the bottom of the piston head assembly housing 602. As shown, the shaft passage 648 serves as a second bearing surface for the dial axis 650. The square-shaped end 653 of the dial axis 650 extends beyond the dial axis passage 648 and engages within the square-shaped hole 655 on display 530.

[000506] As shown in Figure 43 , the display shaft gear 652 on the display shaft 650 interdigitates with the lower jaw drive gear 620. As the display 530 is rotated, the display shaft 650 and display shaft gear 652 also rotate. Rotation is transmitted through the dial shaft gear 652 to the lower gripper drive gear 620. Rotation of the lower gripper drive gear 620 rotates the lower gripper drive shaft 614 and the lower gripper pinion gears 614. lower gripper 612 on lower gripper jaw drive shaft 614. Since the lower gripper jaw pinion gears 612 interdigitate with the lower gripper gripper jaw brackets 610, any rotation of the lower gripper jaw pinion gears 610 612 is translated into linear displacement of lower plunger gripping jaw 528. Thus, in the embodiment shown, rotating dial 530 is the means by which a user can actuate lower plunger gripping jaw 528 to an open or closed position. of hold.

[000507] In the embodiment shown in Fig. 43, rotation of the display 530 also generates a linear displacement of the display axis cam 654 away from the display 530 and in the axial direction of the display axis 650. As shown in the example embodiment, the surface Upper bearing 616 for lower gripping jaw drive shaft 614 comprises a dial shaft cam lug 690 that functions as a track for a display shaft cam lug 656. One of the cam lugs axis cam 656 projects into the ear groove of dial axis cam 690. This ensures that dial axis cam 654 cannot rotate with dial 530 and dial axis 650 due to the fact that the rotation of the dial dial shaft cam lug 656 is locked by the rest of the upper bearing surface 616 to the lower gripper drive shaft 614.

[000508] Dial axis cam ear groove 690, however, allows dial axis cam 654 to move linearly along the axial direction of dial axis 650. As per dial 530 and dial axis 650 are rotated, the 658 dial shaft cam follower also rotates. The location of the dial axis cam follower 658 on the dial axis 650 is fixed so that the dial axis cam follower 658 is not capable of linear displacement. As the ends of the dial axle cam follower 658 ascend the cam surface of the dial axle cam 654, the dial axle cam 654 is forced to move toward the right face of the bottom of the head assembly housing. piston rod 602 (with reference to Fig. 43). The dial axle cam lugs 656 also slide in that direction within the dial axle cam lug 690. This causes the dial axle compression spring 662 to compress between the dial axle washer 664 which is in contact with the dial shaft cam 654 and the dial shaft washer 664 which is in contact with the dial shaft retaining ring 665. The restoring force of the dial shaft compression spring 662 serves to orient the dial 530, and all parts actuated by display 530 to their original positions prior to any rotation of display 530. If display 530 is released, display 530 and all parts actuated by display 530 will be forced to automatically return to the orientations originals thereof prior to any dial rotation 530 due to expansion of the compressed dial axis compression spring 662. In the exemplary embodiment, the original position prior to which Any dial rotation 530 is the position depicted in Figure 35 where the upper plunger gripper 526 and the lower plunger gripper 528 are fully closed.

[000509] In some embodiments, including the embodiment shown in Fig. 43, the dial axle cam 654 may comprise a detent dial axle cam 660 along the cam surface of the dial axle cam 654. The axle cam detent dial 660 may allow a user to "park" the dial axis cam follower 658 at a desired point along the cam surface of the dial axis cam 654. In the example embodiment, the dial axis cam detent 660 can be reached by dial shaft cam follower 658 when dial 530 has been fully rotated. When the dial axis cam follower 658 is on the detent dial axis cam 660, the dial axis compression spring 662 may not automatically return the dial 530 and all parts actuated by the dial 530 to their previous orientation. at any rotation of the dial 530. A user may need to rotate the dial 530 so that the dial axle cam follower 658 moves off the detent dial axle cam 660 before the restoring force of the compression spring compressed dial axis 662 may be allowed to expand dial axis compression spring 662 to a less compressed state.

[000510] Fig. 44 shows a view similar to the view shown in Fig. 43. In Fig. 44, the top of the piston head assembly housing 600 and some parts comprising the top half of the piston head assembly 522 are not visible. Among the parts that are visible are the top-grip shaft bearing 651, the upper-grip drive shaft 574, the upper-grip pinion gears 572, and the upper-grip drive gear 604. As shown in Figure 44, when coupled, the dial shaft 650 is sandwiched between the upper dial axis bearing 651 and the lower dial axis bearing 649, wherein the dial axis gear 652 on the dial axis 650 is interdigitated with the upper claw drive gear 604. As the dial 530 is rotated, the dial shaft 650 and dial axis gear 652 also rotate. Rotation is transmitted through dial shaft gear 652 to upper gripper drive gear 604. Rotation of top gripper drive gear 604 rotates gripper top gripper drive shaft 574 and gripper pinion gears. 572 gripper on the 574 gripper gripper drive shaft.

[000511] Referring again to Figure 38, the upper gripping jaw pinion gears 572 interdigitate with the upper ram gripping jaw brackets 570. Any rotation of the upper gripping jaw pinion gears 572 is translated into linear displacement of upper plunger gripper 526. Thus, rotation of dial 530 is the means by which a user can actuate upper plunger gripper 526 (not shown in Figure 44) to an open or gripping position. .

[000512] The lower bearing surface 578 for the upper jaw drive shaft 574 is also visible in Figure 44. The lower bearing surface 578 for the upper jaw drive shaft 574 may comprise a second shoulder cam lug groove. dial axis 690 in embodiments where the dial axis cam 654 comprises more than one dial axis cam lug 656. The second dial axis cam lug 690 may function as a track for a dial cam lug 690. dial axis 656. One of the dial axis cam lugs 656 projects into the second dial axis cam lug 690. This ensures that the dial axis cam 654 cannot rotate with the dial 530 and the dial axis 650 due to the fact that the rotation of the dial axis cam lug 656 is blocked by the rest of the lower bearing surface 578 to the gripping upper jaw drive axis 574.

[000513] The second dial axis cam ear groove 690, however, allows the dial axis cam 654 to move linearly along the axial direction of the dial axis 650. As the dial 530 and dial axis 650 are rotated, the 658 dial shaft cam follower also rotates. The location of the dial axis cam follower 658 on the dial axis 650 is fixed so that the dial axis cam follower 658 is not capable of linear displacement. As the ends of the dial axle cam follower 658 ascend the cam surface of the dial axle cam 654, the dial axle cam 654 is forced to move toward the right face of the bottom of the head assembly housing. piston rod 602 (with reference to Fig. 44). A dial axle cam lug 656 also slides in that direction within the second dial axle cam lug 690. This causes the dial axle compression spring 662 to compress between the dial axle washer 664 which is in contact with the dial shaft cam 654 and the dial shaft washer 664 which is in contact with the dial shaft retaining ring 665. The dial shaft compression spring 662, the dial 530 and all parts actuated by display 530 can then behave as described above.

[000514] In some embodiments, the upper jaw drive gear 604 (best shown in Figure 37) and the lower jaw drive gear 620 (best shown in Figure 43) may be substantially identical gears. Additionally, the upper gripper pinion gears 572 (best shown in Fig. 37) and lower gripper pinion gears 612 (best shown in Fig. 40) can be substantially identical gears. In such embodiments, the upper plunger gripper 526 and the lower plunger gripper 528 (see Figures 30 to 34) will experience an equal amount of linear displacement per degree of dial rotation 530. of the upper jaw drive gear 604 on dial shaft gear 652 is opposite the interdigitation point of the lower jaw drive gear 620 on dial shaft gear 652, the upper plunger gripping jaw 526 and the upper jaw drive gear 620 on the dial shaft gear 652 plunger gripper 528 will move linearly in opposite directions.

[000515] Figure 45 shows a view similar to the view shown in Figure 44. Figure 45 depicts an attached view of the plunger head assembly 522 from a slightly different perspective. As shown in Figure 45, the display 530 is coupled to the display shaft 650. The display shaft gear 652 is in an interdigitating relationship with both the upper jaw drive gear 604 and the lower jaw drive gear 620. The upper jaw drive gear 604 is arranged on the upper jaw drive shaft 574 together with two upper jaw pinion gears 572. The upper jaw pinion gears 572 can be separated by the lower bearing surface 578 for the top jaw drive shaft 574 as shown in figure 45.

[000516] Plunger pressure sensor 532 in the embodiment depicted in Figure 45 comprises a plunger pressure sensor thrust plate 590 that extends out of the plunger head assembly 522 so that it can physically make contact with a 548 plunger flange (as shown in figure 34) secured against the 522 plunger head assembly. The 590 plunger pressure sensor thrust plate is attached to a 592 plunger pressure sensor lever. The plunger pressure sensor pivot 592 is pivotally coupled to a plunger pressure sensor pivot 594. The plunger pressure sensor pivot 594 is disposed at the left end of the plunger pressure sensor lever 594 (refer to Fig. 45). In the example embodiment in Fig. 45, any force applied to the plunger pressure sensor thrust plate 590 is transmitted through the plunger pressure sensor lever 594 to the plunger pressure sensor inlet surface 596. location of plunger pressure sensor pivot 594 relative to plunger pressure sensor thrust plate 590 does not multiply the force exerted against the inlet surface of plunger pressure sensor 596 in figure 45, other embodiments may use different arrangements to create a mechanical advantage. The plunger pressure sensor 532 in Fig. 45 also comprises a plunger pressure sensor force concentrator 595 which is a small projection that extends from the plunger pressure sensor lever 592 to the plunger pressure sensor inlet surface 592. 596 Plunger Pressure. The 595 Plunger Pressure Sensor Force Concentrator concentrates force exerted against the inlet surface of the 596 Plunger Pressure Sensor to help provide a more accurate pressure reading.

[000517] Figure 46 shows an approximation of how the upper gripper drive shaft 574 is connected to the D-shaped shaft 586 that projects from the plunger gripper grip position sensor 588. In the embodiment depicted in figure 46 , the upper jaw drive shaft 574 comprises a D-shape span 582. The D-shape span 582 of the top jaw drive shaft 574 projects into a complementary shaped hole in the D-shape connector 584. The D-shaped connector 584 in Figure 46 is shown in cross-section. A 586 D-shape shaft that projects out of the 588 plunger grip position sensor also projects into the 584 D-shape connector. Any rotation of the 574 upper gripper drive shaft can cause the D-shaped connector 584 also rotates. In turn, this can generate rotation of the D-shaft 586 that projects from the 588 Plunger Grip Position Sensor. As mentioned above, this rotation can cause the wiper to slide through the sensor's resistive element. grip position sensor 588 in embodiments where the plunger grip position sensor 588 comprises a potentiometer.

[000518] Figure 46 also shows the dial shaft 650 connected to the double universal joint 772. As shown in the embodiment example in figure 46, the driven shaft 774 is also coupled to the double universal joint which projects downwards into the tube. 524. The protrusion 780 on the driven shaft pad projection 778 of the driven shaft pad 776 is seated in a plunger tube notch 786 retained within the edge of the plunger tube 524 to lock the protuberance 780 within the notch of plunger tube 786. Seating boss 780 in plunger tube notch 786 prevents driven shaft pad 776 from rotating due to the fact that boss 780 may not rotate through sides of plunger tube notch 786. Each projection axle pad 778 is in contact with the interior surface of plunger tube 524 which keeps the driven axle pad 776 centered on plunger tube 524.

[000519] Plunger tube 524 can also serve as a conduit for electrical conduits 598 to and from the plunger grip position sensor 588 and plunger pressure sensor 532. Whereas plunger tube 524 sealed to liquid when the syringe pump is fully engaged, the plunger tube 524 protects the electrical conduits 598 from exposure to liquid. Electrical conduits 598 leave plunger tube 524 through conduit opening 632 of plunger tube 524 shown in Figure 47.

[000520] Figure 47 depicts an exploded view of a slide block assembly 800. As shown, the plunger tube 524 extending from the plunger head assembly 522 comprises two plunger tube cutouts 802. plunger tube 802 are cut into the front and rear sides of plunger tube 524. In Figure 47, only the front plunger tube cutout 802 is visible. Plunger tube cutouts 802 allow the plunger tube to be non-rotationally coupled to the slide block assembly 800. In the exemplary embodiment, two plunger tube coupling threads 804 run through a plunger tube clevis 806 , below the plunger tube cutouts 802 and into a plunger tube support 808. The plunger tube 524 is thereby snugly sandwiched between the plunger tube yoke 806 and the tube support plunger tube 808. Any rotation of plunger tube 524 is obstructed by plunger tube coupling threads 804 which contact the top and bottom edges of plunger tube cutouts 802. Similarly, any axial displacement of the tube plunger tube 524 is obstructed by plunger tube coupling threads 804 which contact the sides of plunger tube cutouts 802. In other embodiments, plunger tube 524 may be coupled to slide block assembly 800 by any means. other suitable means such as, but not limited to, screws, adhesive, gripping fit, friction fit, magnets, solders, a tongue in slot arrangement, pin, etc.

[000521] A closer exploded view of the slide block assembly 800 is shown in Figure 48A. Sliding block assembly 800 comprises a number of parts. Sliding block assembly 800 comprises a half nut housing 810, a drum cam 820, a half nut 830 and a half nut cover plate 840. The half nut housing 810 can be produced from any suitable strong material that will not significantly deform under applied loads such as metal, nylon, glass filled plastics, molded plastic, a polyoxymethylene plastic such as Delrin, etc. The half nut 830 is preferably manufactured from bearing metals such as brass, bronze, etc., which interact well with stainless steel surfaces typical of lead threads. Drum cam 820 is preferably manufactured from a carbide such as stainless to form a good bearing pair with half nut 830. Half nut housing 810 comprises a lead screw void 810A. Lead thread void 810A allows lead thread 850 (not shown, see figure 48B) to pass through half nut housing 810. Lead thread void 810A has a larger diameter than lead thread void 810A. lead 850 which ensures that lead thread 850 passes unimpeded through the lead thread void 810A regardless of the point on lead thread 850 where slide block assembly 800 is located. Slide block assembly 800 includes ribbon cable 562 for receiving power from and for communications with circuit board 1150 (referring to Fig. 58A).

[000522] The half nut housing 810 may also comprise a guide rod pad 810B. The guide rod pad 810B in the exemplary embodiment depicted in Fig. 48A is formed as a continuous part of the half-nut housing. Guide rod 852 (not shown, see figure 48B) extends through guide rod pad 810B into half nut housing 810 with the interior surface of guide rod pad 810B serving as a bearing surface for the guide rod 852. In some embodiments, guide rod pad 810B may not be formed as a continuous part of half nut housing 810, but instead coupled to half nut housing 810 in any number of suitable ways. The guide rod pad 810B can be made from a slippery material such as bronze, brass, PTFE, delrin etc, which provides a low friction surface to pair with the hard surface of a guide rod 852 (Figure 48B).

[000523] The half nut housing 810 may also comprise a drum cam void 810C. Drum cam void 810C can be sized so that it has a diameter slightly larger than the diameter of drum cam 820. When slide block assembly 800 is fully engaged, drum cam 820 can fit inside of the drum cam void 810C in the half nut housing 810. In some embodiments, the drum cam void 810C may extend all the way through the half nut housing 810. In the example embodiment shown in the figure 48A, the drum cam void 810C does not extend all the way through the half nut housing 810. The drum cam void 810C can function as a pad for the drum cam 820 when the slide block assembly 800 is fully coupled. The void of drum cam 810C and drum cam 820 can be manufactured with a loose fit. In one example the diameter clearance between the drum cam void 810C and the drum cam 820 is 0.03 to 0.13 millimeters (0.001 to 0.005 inches).

[000524] In some embodiments, including the embodiment depicted in Figure 48A, the half nut housing 810 may include a half nut void 810D. The half nut void 810D can be retained within the half nut housing 810 so that the half nut 830 can fit in the half nut void 810D when the slide block assembly 800 is fully engaged. In some embodiments, lead screw void 810A, barrel cam void 810C and half nut void 810D may all be part of a single void retained within the half nut housing 810.

[000525] The half nut housing 810 may comprise a driven shaft slot 810E. Drive shaft slot 810E extends through half-nut housing 810 and into drum cam void 810C. In Fig. 48A the D-shape driven shaft segment or shaft collar 784 is shown as projecting into the drum cam void 810C through the driven shaft slot 810E.

[000526] The half nut housing 810 may additionally comprise a half nut housing groove 810F. In the exemplary embodiment in Fig. 48A, the half nut housing groove 810F is retained within the half nut housing 810. The half nut housing groove 810F is retained along the entire side of the half nut housing 810F. -nut 810. Half-nut housing groove 810F extends in a direction parallel to the elongation direction of plunger tube 524, lead thread 850, and guide rod 852 (shown, for example, in Figure 48B).

[000527] In some embodiments, the half-nut housing 810 may comprise at least one limit switch 810G (not shown). In the exemplary embodiment depicted in Fig. 48A, the half-nut housing 810 may comprise two limit switches 810G (not shown). One 810G limit switch is located in the front of the half nut housing 810 and the other 810G limit switch is located in the rear of the half nut housing 810. The 810G limit switch(s) can( m) be used to limit the range of motion of the slide block assembly along lead thread 850 (figure 48B). 810G limit switches will be further elaborated later.

[000528] As previously mentioned, the drum cam 820 fits within the drum cam void 810C in the half nut housing 810 when the slide block assembly 800 is fully engaged. As shown, the drum cam 820 comprises a D-shaped hole 820A that extends through the entire drum cam 820 along the axial direction of the drum cam 820. The D-shaped hole 820A is sized and shaped to allow drum cam 820 to be mated to D-shape driven shaft segment 784. When D-shape hole 820A of drum cam 820 is mated to D-shape driven axle segment 784 any rotation of the driven shaft 774 and D-shape driven shaft segment 784 causes the drum cam 820 to rotate as well. Drum cam 820 may be joined to drive shaft 774 in any of the standard methods including, but not limited to, threading, pins, adhesive, friction fit, welds, etc.

[000529] As shown in Figure 48A, the drum cam 820 is generally a truncated cylinder and comprises a drum cam plane 820B that is cut into the drum cam 820 along a base line directed toward the front of the drum. drum cam cylinder 820. The drum cam plane 820B may be cut so that some distance from the centerline of the drum cam so that the full diameter of the drum cam 820 is maintained. Drum cam material 820 remaining on the side farthest from the centerline relative to the bearing surface of the half nut 830B provides a bearing surface to transfer forces from the half nut 820 to the void of drum cam 820C along the entire length of the drum cam 820.

[000530] Drum cam plane 820B may not extend along the entire drum cam 820 which leaves part of drum cam cylinder 820 to have a classic cylindrical shape unadulterated. This is desirable due to the fact that the classically cylindrical-shaped portion of the barrel cam 820 can act as a trunnion within the barrel cam void 810C which can act as a pad. In the example embodiment depicted in Fig. 48A , drum cam plane 820B extends along drum cam 820 until a drum cam shoulder 820C starts. Drum cam shoulder 820C may extend perpendicularly from the surface of drum cam plane 820B. In the exemplary embodiment in Fig. 48A, the expansion of drum cam 820 with the unadulterated classical cylindrical shape is drum cam shoulder 820C.

[000531] As shown, the drum cam 820 may also comprise a drum cam pin 820D. Drum cam pin 820D in the example embodiment in Fig. 48A projects perpendicularly from the forward-directed base of the drum cam cylinder 820. Drum cam pin 820D projects from the forward-directed base of the drum cam 820 near the line from which the drum cam plane 820B has been extended within the drum cam cylinder 820.

[000532] The slide block assembly 800 may also comprise a half nut 830 as mentioned above. In the exemplary embodiment in Fig. 48A, the half nut 830 comprises a half nut slot 835. The half nut slot 835 is sized so that it can act as a tracking path for the drum cam pin. 820D. The half nut slot 835 comprises an arcuate section 835A and an end section 835B which is not curved or domed. The half nut slot 835 can be cut into a half nut slot plate 835C that extends perpendicularly from a half nut cam follower surface 830B. The half-nut cam follower surface 830B and the half-nut slot 835 will be further elaborated in the following paragraphs.

[000533] The half nut 830 may comprise a guide rod pad void 830A. Guide rod pad void 830A of half nut 830 allows guide rod pad 810B to pass through half nut 830. In the exemplary embodiment shown in Fig. 48A, guide rod pad void 830A is substantially greater than the diameter of the 810B guide rod pad. Additionally, the guide rod pad void 830A in the half nut 830 can be elliptical or stadium shaped. Such a shape allows guide rod pad 810B to fit comfortably within guide rod pad void 830A when half nut 830 is engaged, disengaged, or transitioning between both positions.

[000534] The half nut 830 may also comprise a range of threads of half nut 830C. The 830C half nut threads have the ability to engage the 850 lead thread threads (not shown, see figure 48B). In the example embodiment shown in Figure 48A, the 830C half nut threads are V-shaped threads. V-shaped threads may be desirable due to the fact that such a shape can help self-align the half-nut threads. 830C on lead thread 850.

[000535] As mentioned above, the slide block assembly 800 may also comprise a slide block cover plate 840. In the slide block, the cover plate 840 may be coupled to the half nut housing 810 so that the drum 820 and half nut 830 are held in place within slide block assembly 800 when slide block assembly 800 is fully engaged. In the exemplary embodiment shown in Fig. 48A, slide block cover plate 840 may be coupled to half nut housing 810 by sliding block cover plate threads 840A as shown, or by any suitable means such as, but not limited to a, screws, adhesive, grip fit, friction fit, magnets, welds, a tongue in groove arrangement, pin, etc. Sliding block cover plate 840 may comprise cover plate groove 840B to assist in guiding half-nut housing 810. Cover plate groove 840B may be retained within the slip block cover plate 840. In the exemplary embodiment shown in Fig. 48A, cover plate groove 840B is retained along an entire side edge of sliding block cover plate 840. Cover plate groove 840B can be sized and arranged so that it align with the 810F half nut housing groove in the 810 half nut housing.

[000536] The sliding block cover plate 840 may comprise a guide rod pad slot 840C. The guide rod cushion crack 840C is sized and arranged so that the guide rod cushion 810B can protrude through the guide rod cushion crack 840C. Guide rod pad fissure 840C may have a diameter substantially equal to, or slightly greater than, the outside diameter of guide rod pad 810B.

[000537] The edge of the sliding block cover plate 840 opposite the cover plate groove 840B, may comprise a lead thread undercut 840D. The 840D lead thread countersink may be a domed section retained within the edge of the 840 slide block cover plate. The 840D lead thread countersink, in conjunction with the 810A lead thread void of the half-housing nut 810 allows slide block assembly 800 to be placed on lead thread 850.

[000538] In operation, slide block assembly 800 can be induced to move along the axial direction of lead screw 850 and guide rod 852 as a result of rotation of lead thread 850. Slide block assembly 800 can also be moved along the axial direction of the lead thread 850 and guide rod 852 by a user. For a user to move the slide block assembly 800 along the axial direction of the lead thread 850 the user may need to adjust the location of the plunger head assembly 522 in relation to the rest of the syringe pump assembly 501 as shown and described in figures 32 to 33. This can only be done by a user when half nut 830 is not engaged with lead thread 850

[000539] Figure 48B shows half nut 830 in a position engaged with lead thread 850. Half nut housing 810 and half nut cover plate 840 visible in figure 48A have been removed in figure 48B. When the half nut 830 is in engagement with the lead thread 850, the half nut threads 830C may be operatively engaged with the threads of the lead thread 850. Any rotation of the lead thread 850 can cause the half-nut to nut 830 moves in the axial direction of lead thread 850.

[000540] To move half nut 830 between an engaged and disengaged position on lead thread 850, barrel cam 820 must be rotated. As drum cam 820 is rotated, drum cam pin 820D can move along half nut slot 835 in half nut slot plate 835C. In the exemplary embodiment shown in Fig. 48B, when the drum cam pin 820D is located in the arcuate section 835A of the half nut slot 835, the half nut 830 is engaged with the lead thread 850. The arcuate section 835A of the half nut slot 835 may be shaped so that any movement of drum cam pin 820D within arcuate section 835A of half nut slot 835 does not result in any movement of half nut 830.

[000541] When the drum cam 820 is rotated so that the drum cam pin 820D enters the straight end section 835B of the half-nut slot 835, further rotation of the drum cam 820 may cause the half-nut nut 830 disengages from lead thread 850. The straight nature of end section 835B ensures that additional rotation of drum cam 820 causes drum cam pin 820D to draw half nut 830 away from lead thread 830. advance 850 until drum cam pin 820D reaches the end of end section 835B. Rotation of drum cam 820 in the opposite direction will cause drum cam pin 820D to push half nut 830 back into engagement with lead thread 850.

[000542] In the example embodiment in Fig. 48B, when barrel cam 820 disengages half nut 830 from lead thread 850, cam follower surface half nut 830B rests in the void created by the plane of 820B drum cam. When the half nut 830 is disengaged, the distance between the half nut threads 830C and the point of full engagement of the half nut threads on the lead thread 850 is less than or equal to the sagitta length of the cylindrical segment removed from the cam. drum 820 to create the drum cam plane 820B. As drum cam 820 is rotated to engage half nut 830 with lead thread 850, pin 820D in straight end section 835B moves half nut toward lead thread 850 until half nut 830 is at least partially engaged with lead thread 850. As pin 820D leaves end section 835B, untruncated arc of barrel cam 820 rotates on half nut 830B cam follower surface of half nut 830. The non-truncated arc of the drum can drive the half nut 830 into full engagement with the lead thread 850 and supplement the action of the drum cam pin 820D in the half nut slot 835.

[000543] Referring again to the example embodiment shown in Figure 48A, the driven shaft 774 to which the drum cam 820 is coupled may not deflect when the drum cam 820 is engaged, disengaged, or transitioning between half nut 830 from an engaged or disengaged position on lead thread 850. As shown, barrel cam void 810C in half nut housing 810 supports barrel cam 820 when slide block assembly 800 is in place. fully coupled. Consequently, any force causing the deflection of the driven shaft 774 is checked by the drum cam 820 which is in contact with the sides of the drum cam void 810C. This ensures that the 830C half nut threads cannot jump into the 850 lead thread threads under high axial loads. It also creates minimal drag as the slide block assembly 800 travels along lead thread 850 with lead thread rotation 850.

[000544] In some embodiments, the fit of the half nut 830 and the drum cam 820 may be adjustable. In such embodiments, a portion of the drum cam housing 810 defining the drum cam void 810C may have an adjustable position with respect to the guide rod which can be adjusted, for example, by rotating an assembly thread or other means. of adjustment. This can also allow a user to adjust the 820 drum cam to an ideal or close to ideal position. Alternatively, inserts can be added for the void of drum cam 810C or drum cam 820 can be replaced with differently sized drum cam 820 to position the half nut 830D/drum cam 820 interface in the ideal location. In such a position, the drum cam 820 can engage the half nut threads 830C on the lead thread 850 so that there is zero or minimal kickback without loading the half nut threads 830C against the lead thread 850 and create excessive drag.

[000545] In alternate embodiments, the 820D drum cam pin may be optional. In some alternative embodiments, the drum cam pin 820D may be replaced by one or more biasing members. The biasing members can orient the half nut 830 to the disengaged position. In such embodiments, rotation of drum cam 820 can cause half-nut 830 to engage or disengage with lead thread 850. When drum cam plane 820B is not connected to half cam follower surface nut 830B the one or more bias members can be overcome and the half nut threads 830C can be engaged with the threads of lead thread 850. As the drum cam plane 820B rotates on the half cam follower surface nut 830B, bias member(s) may act as a spring return that automatically tilts half nut 830 out of engagement with lead thread 850 and against barrel cam plane 820B. Drum cam 820 may include a transition cam surface between drum cam plane 820B and drum cam truncated arc 820 to facilitate displacement of half nut 830 toward lead thread 850. Use of the drum cam pin 820D may be desirable due to the fact that such an arrangement requires less torque to engage or disengage the half-nut 830 than arrangements which may employ one or more biasing members as a substitute. Some embodiments may use both the drum cam pin 820D and one or more biasing members to engage or disengage the half nut 830.

[000546] In some embodiments, the bias member may orient the half nut 830 towards the engaged position, in which case the drum cam pin 820 may be configured to lift the half nut threads 830C to from lead thread 850.

[000547] In another alternative embodiment, the drum cam 820 may not comprise a drum cam pin 820D and the half nut 830 may not comprise a half nut slot 835. In such embodiments, the cam plane of drum 820B may comprise a magnet and the half-nut cam follower surface 830B may also comprise a magnet. Instead of using the 820D barrel cam pin to extract the half nut 830 away from the lead thread 850, the magnet on the cam follower surface of half nut 830B can be attracted to the magnet in the cam plane of drum 820B and being extracted from the lead screw 850 towards the drum cam plane 820B when the drum cam 820 has been rotated the appropriate amount. In some embodiments, the drum cam 820 may be a simple two-pole magnet. In such embodiments, the drum cam 820 can be arranged so that it can repel or attract a magnet on the half-nut cam follower surface 830B. When like poles of the magnets are directed towards each other, the half nut is forced into engagement with the lead thread 850. By turning the driven shaft 774 and hence the magnetic drum cam 820, opposite poles can be induced to be directed towards each other. This, in turn, can cause the half nut 830 to disengage from the lead thread 850 as it is attracted to the magnetic drum cam 820.

[000548] In some embodiments, a magnet may be configured to guide the half nut 830 towards the engaged position, in which case the drum cam pin 820 may be configured to lift the half nut threads 830C from lead thread 850.

[000549] Guide rod 852 is also visible in figure 48B. In Figure 48B the guide rod 852 extends in an axial direction parallel to the same as the lead thread 850. The guide rod passes through the guide rod pad void 830A in the half nut 830. In the exemplary embodiment, the guide rod 852 is made of a rigid and durable material. For example, in some embodiments, guide rod 852 may be made of a material such as stainless steel. In other embodiments, guide rod 852 may be chrome plated.

[000550] Figure 49 shows a close-up view of the half-nut slot plate 835C. The half-nut slot plate 835C is transparent in Figure 49. The half-nut slot 835 is shown in the half-nut slot plate 835C. As described above, the half nut slot 835 comprises an arcuate section 835A and a straight end section 835B. Drum cam 820 is shown behind clear half-nut slot plate 835C. As shown, the drum cam pin 820D is located in the arcuate section 835A of the half nut slot 835. As mentioned above, when the drum cam pin 820D is in the arcuate section 835A of the half nut slot 835 half nut 830 is engaged with lead thread 850 as shown in Figure 48B. Drum cam 820 is arranged in drum cam void 810C in half-nut housing 810. Drum cam void 810C acts as a pad for drum cam 820 and supports drum cam 820.

[000551] Figures 50 to 52 show the slide block assembly 800 with the half nut cover plate 840 and half nut 830 shown as transparent. In Figures 50 to 52, the half nut 830 transitions from an engaged position (Figure 50) to a disengaged position (Figure 52). As shown in Figure 50 the half nut 830 is in the engaged position. The 820D drum cam pin is located in the arcuate section 835A of the 835 half nut slot. same. The guide rod pad 810B of the half nut housing 810 projects through the guide rod pad void 830A of the half nut 830. As shown, the guide rod pad 810B is located at the far right end of the guide rod pad void 810B. guide rod pad 830A. In the exemplary embodiment shown in Figures 50 to 52, the guide rod pad void 830A in the half nut 830 is approximately stadium-shaped.

[000552] Drum cam 820 has been rotated so that drum cam pin 820D is about to pass through from the arcuate section 835A of the half nut slot 835 and into the end section 835B of the half slot -nut 835 in Figure 51. As shown, the half-nut threads 830C have not moved from the engaged position and are still in the far left extension (relative to Figures 50 to 52) of their range of motion. Similarly, half nut 830 may not have moved relative to guide rod pad 810B from the position pictured and described with respect to Fig. 50.

[000553] In Figure 52 the drum cam 820 has been rotated so that the drum cam pin 820D has moved within the straight end section 835B of the half nut slot 835. As described above, further rotation of the drum cam 820 once drum cam pin 820D enters end section 835B of half nut slot 835 causes half nut 830 to disengage. As shown, the half nut 830, and consequently the half nut threads 830C, have moved from the extreme left extension (relative to figures 50 to 52) of their range of motion and towards the right. from page. The half nut 830 has moved relative to the guide rod pad 810B so that the guide rod pad 810B is now near the far left end of the guide rod pad void 830A.

[000554] Figure 53 shows a cross-section of most components comprising an embodiment of the slide block assembly 800. The slide block assembly 800 is pictured fully coupled in Figure 53. The lead screw 850 and guide rod 852 are not 53. As shown, lead thread 850 extends through lead thread void 810A in half nut housing 810 and over lead thread recess 840D in half nut cover plate. nut 840. Guide rod extends through guide rod pad 810B. The guide rod pad 810B extends through both the guide rod pad void 830A in the half nut 830 and the lead rod pad slot 840C in the half nut cover plate 840.

[000555] In the example embodiment shown in figure 53, the half nut 830 is in the disengaged position. The 830C half nut threads are not operatively interdigitated with the 850 lead thread threads. The guide rod pad 810B is near the top of the guide rod pad void 830A in the half nut 830. half nut cam follower 830B is close to or makes contact with (depending on modality) the drum cam plane 820B on drum cam 820. Additionally, drum cam pin 820D is at the end of the straight end section 835B of the half nut slot 835 which is cut into the half nut slot plate 835C.

[000556] Figure 53 also shows the D-shaped hole 820A of the drum cam 820 coupled to the D-shaped driven shaft segment 784 of the driven shaft 774. The piston tube 524 through which the driven shaft 774 is disposed can be seen coupled to slide block assembly 800 by means of threads that run through plunger tube cutouts 802 and into plunger tube holder 808.

[000557] Fig. 54 shows a view of a portion of an embodiment of the syringe pump assembly 501. On the left side of Fig. 54, a section of the plunger head assembly 522 is visible. As shown in Figure 54, the rear face 900 of the syringe pump assembly 501 may comprise a rear face guide rod hole 901. The rear face guide rod hole 901 may extend through the entire rear face 900 of the syringe assembly. syringe pump 501 at an angle perpendicular to rear face 900 of syringe pump assembly 501. As shown, guide rod bore 901 may be substantially cylindrical.

[000558] The rear face 900 of the syringe pump assembly 501 may comprise a gearbox depression 902. As shown, the gearbox depression 902 is retained within the rear face 900 of the syringe pump assembly 501. In the exemplary embodiment, gearbox depression 902 is a depression of approximately rectangular shape. In other embodiments, gearbox depression 902 may be alternately shaped.

[000559] As shown in Fig. 54, an anti-rotation pin 904 projects out of the gearbox depression 902. The anti-rotation pin 904 in the example embodiment shown in Fig. 54 is cylindrical. In alternative embodiments, the anti-rotation pin 904 can be of any other suitable shape. As shown in Figure 54, the gearcase depression 902 on the rear face 900 of the syringe pump assembly 501 may also comprise a lead screw void 906. The lead screw void 906 can be cut throughout. path through the rear face 900 of the syringe pump assembly 501 and allow at least a portion of the lead thread 850 to project beyond the rear face 900 of the syringe pump assembly 501. As shown in the embodiment example, the section of lead thread 850 that projects beyond the back face 900 of the syringe pump assembly 501 is not threaded.

[000560] In the example embodiment shown in Figure 54, the section of lead thread 850 that is visible is smaller in diameter than the void space of lead thread 906. This is desirable due to the fact that it can allow a back face lead thread bearing 908 is allocated in the lead thread void 906 to provide a bearing surface for the lead thread 850. In the embodiment example in figure 54 a lead thread bearing is disposed in the void. lead thread 906 to provide a bearing surface for lead thread 850.

[000561] As shown, the end of the lead thread section 850 projecting out of the back face 900 may comprise a threaded cavity 910. In the example embodiment shown in Figure 54, a gearbox attachment latch 912 is engaged. within the threaded cavity 910 at the end of the lead thread 850. In the exemplary embodiment, the gearbox attachment lock 912 is a thread with a hex head. In other embodiments, any other suitable closure, or closure head, may be used.

[000562] In Figure 55, another view of a portion of an embodiment of the syringe pump assembly 501 is shown. On the left side of Figure 55, part of the plunger head assembly 522 is also visible. Gear case 940 is shown in place in gear case depression 902 on back face 900 of syringe pump assembly 501. As shown, anti-rotation pin 904 can project through an anti-rotation pin hole 942 in gear case 940 Anti-rotation pin 904 ensures that gearbox 940 generates rotation of lead screw 850 and that gearbox 940 cannot rotate around the axis of lead screw 850. As shown, anti-rotation pin 942 does not help to hold gearbox 940 against back face 900 of syringe pump assembly 501. In alternative embodiments, anti-rotation pin 904 may have a threaded anti-rotation pin cavity 944 (not shown) similar to that at the end of lead thread 850 described above with respect to Figure 54. An anti-rotation pin gearbox lock 946 may be threaded into the anti-rotation tapped pin cavity 944 to aid air holding the gearbox 940 against the back face 900 of the syringe pump assembly 501. The gearbox 940 may be friction locked on the lead thread 850 to ensure that the rotation of the gears in the gearbox 940 is transmitted for lead thread 850 with zero or minimal retraction.

[000563] In embodiments where the syringe pump assembly 501 can be removed from the housing 502 (see Figure 28) and replaced with another assembly such as a peristaltic large volume pump assembly, in which the gearbox 940 may be compatible with a replacement kit.

[000564] Fig. 56 shows an embodiment of the interior of the syringe pump assembly 501. As shown, the front face 888 of the syringe pump assembly 501 is shown as transparent. As shown, the guide rod 852 projects perpendicularly from the inside of the back face 900 of the syringe pump assembly 501 and towards the front of the page. Lead thread 850 can similarly project into the syringe pump assembly 501 through the rear face lead thread bearing 908 at an angle perpendicular to the interior of the back face 900 of the syringe pump assembly 501. guide rod 852 and lead thread 850 may run parallel to each other. In the embodiment example in Fig. 56, lead thread 850 is offset toward the left of the page from guide rod 852.

[000565] As shown, one end of the guide rod 852 is seated in the rear face guide rod hole 901. The other end of the guide rod 852 is seated in the front face 888 of the syringe pump assembly 501. In the pictured example embodiment in Figure 56, the end of the guide rod 852 that is directed towards the front of the page is smaller in diameter than the rest of the guide rod 852. This section of the guide rod 852 can be allocated in a guide rod hole 1002 on the front face 888 of the syringe pump assembly 501 when the syringe pump assembly 501 is fully engaged. Guide rod hole 1002 may extend through the entire front face 888 of syringe pump assembly 501 at an angle substantially perpendicular to front face 888. The smaller diameter section of guide rod 852 may have a diameter slightly, though not substantially , smaller than the diameter of the guide rod hole 1002 so that the guide rod 852 can fit tightly into the guide rod hole 1002 when the syringe pump assembly 501 is coupled. The end of the guide rod 852 may be aligned with the plane of the front face 888 of the syringe pump assembly 501. Although both the guide rod hole 1002 and the guide rod section 852 seated in the guide rod hole 1002 are cylindrical in the example of the embodiment shown in Fig. 56 , the shape thereof may differ in alternative embodiments.

[000566] The lead screw 850 is seated in a lead screw depression 1000 on the front face 888 of the syringe pump assembly 501. In the exemplary embodiment shown in Fig. 56, the depth of the lead screw depression 1000 is substantially the thickness of the front face 888 of the syringe pump assembly 501. In embodiments where the depth of the lead screw depression 1000 is substantially the depth of the front face 888, a circular plateau 1004 may be raised from the front face 888 of the assembly pump 501 to accommodate the depth of the lead-in depression 1000. The center of the circular plateau 1004 may be concentric with the center of a cylindrical lead-thread depression 1000 as shown in Figure 56. In some embodiments, the edges of the circular plateau 1004 may extend perpendicularly from the front face 888 of the syringe pump assembly 501 to the elevated circular plateau. In the exemplary embodiment illustrated in Fig. 56, the edges of the circular plateau 1004 curve upward from the front face 888 of the syringe pump assembly 501 to the circular plateau 1004.

[000567] As shown, the lead thread depression 1000 can house a front face lead thread bearing 1006 that surrounds the end of the lead thread 850 and provides a bearing surface for the lead thread 850. In some embodiments 56, a Belleville washer 1008 can be seated against the bottom of the lead screw depression 1000. The Belleville washer 1008 can ensure that there is no "jitter" of the lead screw 850 when the lead screw 850 is seated in lead screw depression 1000.

[000568] In some embodiments, the Belleville washer 1008 may be replaced by a non-compliant plug that loads the front face lead thread bearing 1006 against the lead thread 850. In such embodiments, the plug may be threaded on the outside diameter the same. The lead thread depression 1000 can feature complementary threads into which the plug can thread. Again the plug can also ensure that there is no "jitter" of the lead thread 850 when the lead thread 850 is seated in the lead thread depression 1000.

[000569] Fig. 57 shows an inside view of the syringe pump assembly 501. The front face 888 which is shown as transparent in Fig. 56, is not present in Fig. 57A. As shown, the slide block assembly 800 described above is in place within the syringe pump assembly 501. Guide rod 852 extends through guide rod pad 810B in half nut housing 810. When half nut 830 is disengaged from lead thread 850, slide block assembly 800 can be made free to slide in the axial direction of guide rod 852.

[000570] Movement of the slide block assembly 800 is also guided by a syringe pump assembly guide rail 1010. In the exemplary embodiment shown in Fig. 57, the syringe pump assembly guide rail 1010 extends from from the inner face of syringe holder 506. Syringe pump assembly guide rail 1010 is shaped so that half-nut housing groove 810F and cover plate groove 840B in slide block assembly 800 can fit onto the 1010 Syringe Pump Assembly Guide Rail and slide along the 1010 Syringe Pump Assembly Guide Rail. The 1010 Syringe Pump Assembly Guide Rail also ensures that the 800 Slide Block Assembly cannot rotate within the syringe pump assembly 501. The syringe pump assembly guide rail 1010 may be formed as part of extrusion in embodiments where the syringe pump assembly housing 503 is formed by extrusion.

[000571] As shown in Figure 57, when half nut 830 of slide block assembly 800 is engaged with lead thread 850, lead thread 850 can generate linear motion of slide block assembly 800 along the axial direction lead screw 850. To generate linear motion of slide block assembly 800, lead screw 850 must be rotated. In the embodiment example in Fig. 57, the rotational movement of the lead thread 850 causes the half nut 830 and consequently the slide block assembly 800 to move along the lead thread 850 due to the gap between the threads of the lead thread. 850. The amount of linear movement per 360° rotation of the lead screw 850 may vary depending on the range of threads of the lead screw 850 which may differ in various embodiments.

[000572] As mentioned above, the half-nut housing 810 of the slide block assembly 800 may comprise one or more limit switches 810G. In the example embodiment in Fig. 57, an 810G limit switch is not shown, although it is indicated that an 810G limit switch may be located at the front of the half-nut housing 810. In other embodiments, there may be multiple limit switches. 810G which may be disposed over other portions of the slide block assembly 800. In embodiments where a limit switch may be disposed at the front of the half-nut housing 810, the limit switch 810G may prevent the slide block assembly 800 from is led into the front face 888 (shown in Figure 56) of the syringe pump assembly 501.

[000573] In embodiments comprising an 810G limit switch, the 810G limit switch may be a micro switch, although magnets and hall effect sensors, optical sensors, etc. could also be used. In embodiments where the limit switch 810G comprises a micro switch, the micro switch may be actuated when the slide block assembly 800 approaches a predefined location along the lead thread 850. In some embodiments, when the limit switch 810G is in the actuated position, the lead screw 850 may not be additionally rotated to advance the slide block assembly 800 in the direction of the preset location.

[000574] As shown in Figure 57, the syringe pump assembly 501 may additionally comprise a slide block linear position sensor 1050 to determine the location of the slide block assembly 800 on the lead thread 850. In some embodiments, the sensor The slide block linear position sensor 1050 can be used to determine the amount of contents remaining in a syringe 504 that can be in place in the syringe pump assembly 501. In such embodiments, the slide block linear position sensor 1050 can be used to determine a quantified 504 syringe volume content or can be used as a "gas gauge" that generates a more general 504 syringe content volume reading.

[000575] In some embodiments, the sliding block linear position sensor 1050 may comprise a linear potentiometer. In such embodiments, the slider block linear position sensor wiper 1050 may be arranged so that it slides across the resistive element of the potentiometer with movement of slider block assembly 800 along lead thread 850. Resistance measured by 1050 slide block linear position sensor can be used to determine the location of slide block assembly 800 along lead thread 850.

[000576] In some embodiments, including the example embodiment shown in Fig. 57, the slide block linear position sensor 1050 may comprise an array of slide block magnetic linear position sensors 1054. The slide block magnetic linear position sensors 1054 can be any suitable magnetic linear position sensor. An example of a suitable magnetic linear position sensor is the "AS5410 Absolute Linear 3D Hall Encoder" available from Austriamicrosystems in Austria. As shown, the slide block assembly 800 may include a slide block assembly magnet 1056 that is mounted a suitable distance away from the sliding block magnetic linear position sensors 1054 and can be used in conjunction with the array of slide sensors. 1054 slide block magnetic linear position to determine the location of slide block assembly 800 on lead thread 850. In some embodiments, the location of slide block magnetic linear position sensors 1054 may differ. As shown, the slide block 800 includes a second magnet 1057 arranged so that it can interact with the slide block magnetic linear position sensors 1054 when they are allocated in an alternate location.

[000577] Fig. 57B shows an example of a possible linear position sensor arrangement 1100 for estimating the position of a slide block assembly 800. In the example of a linear position sensor arrangement 1100, the linear position sensor 1100 comprises a array of 1102 magnetic linear position sensors such as the "AS5410 Absolute Linear 3D Hall Encoder" available from Austriamicrosystems from Austria mentioned above. A shift block 1104 (e.g., slide block assembly 800) is pictured in a position along a shift block feed thread 1106. A shift block arm 1108 projects outward. page as indicated by the dashed line defining the rightmost edge of the page. An object attached to shift block arm 1108 may be induced to move with shift block 1104 as shift block 1104 moves along lead thread 1106. shift block 1104 in the Fig. 57B can be considered the slide block assembly 800 in Fig. 57A.

[000578] In the example linear position sensor arrangement 1100 shown in Fig. 57B, the position change block 1104 comprises a position change block magnet 1110. As shown, the position change block magnet is located on the face of the shift block closest to the array of magnetic linear position sensors 1102. The shift block magnet 1110 is a dipole magnet. The north pole of the position shifting block magnet 1110 is oriented to face the right of the page while the south pole faces the left of the page. As the shift block 1104 moves along the shift block feed thread 1106, the shift block magnet 1110 also moves. Such motion may be measured by the array of magnetic linear position sensors 1102 and analyzed to determine an absolute location of the position change block 1104 along the position change block feed thread 1106. In some embodiments, the sensor array Magnetic linear position sensors 1102 can be used to determine differential motions of the position change block 1104.

[000579] As shown in figure 58 an embodiment of the slide block assembly 800 is shown coupled to the half nut cover plate 840 (see figure 48) removed. The half nut 830 is pictured in the engaged position and is shown to be transparent so that the half nut housing 810 and drum cam 820 can be seen behind it. The D-shaft segment 784 of the driven shaft 774 is shown in the D-shaped hole 820A of the drum cam 820. The driven shaft 774 extends through the plunger tube 524 which engages the slide block assembly 800 and the piston head assembly 522 with each other.

[000580] Referring again to Figure 42, the driven shaft 774 couples within a double universal joint 772. The double universal joint 772 translates any rotational movement from the dial 530 which rotates the dial axis 650 to rotational movement of the axis 774. Rotational movement of driven shaft 774, in turn, generates rotation of drum cam 820. Rotation of drum cam 820 engages or disengages half nut 830 as described above.

[000581] As also detailed above, rotation of display 530 generates linear displacement of upper plunger gripper 526 and lower plunger gripper 528. Display 530 is thus multifunctional. When rotated, dial 530 both engages or disengages half nut 830 and opens or closes upper plunger gripper 526 and lower plunger gripper 528. It should be noted that the arcuate section 835A of the half slit - nut 835 is shaped so that half nut 830 does not begin to disengage until the largest plunger flange 548 (not shown) can be accepted by upper plunger gripping jaw 526 and lower plunger gripping jaw 528 has been released by the upper plunger gripper 526 and the lower plunger gripper 528. When the plunger flange 548 (not shown) has been released and the half nut 830 has disengaged, the camshaft cam follower dial 658 on dial axis 650 may rest on dial axis cam detents 660 of dial axis cam 654 as described with respect to Figure 43. As advanced in the detailed description of Figure 43, this would allow a user to " station Move" the dial 530 to the fully rotated position where the half nut 830 is disengaged and the upper plunger gripper 526 and lower plunger gripper 528 are in the open position. In the exemplary embodiment depicted in Fig. 58, when the dial 530 is in the "parked" position, a user can remove his hand from the dial 530 and easily adjust the plunger head assembly 522 so that a syringe 504 (not shown) can be inserted into the Syringe Pump Assembly 501 (see Figures 30 to 34 for example illustrations and discussion of allocation of the Syringe 504 in the Syringe Pump Assembly 501).

[000582] Fig. 59A shows an embodiment of the syringe pump assembly 501. As shown, the syringe pump assembly 501 is fully coupled. A syringe 504 is seated in the syringe strut 506 of the syringe pump assembly housing 503. The gearbox 940 is shown in place on the syringe pump assembly 501. The motor 1200 that drives the gearbox 940 is also shown. coupled to gearbox 940. A main printed circuit board (PCB) 1150 is shown transparently on syringe pump assembly 501. Main PCB 1150 is coupled to the top of syringe pump assembly housing 503. In the example In one embodiment, the flexible connector 562 extending from the slide block assembly 800 is connected to the main PCB 1150. The electrical system comprising the main PCB will be described in Figs. 59A through 59J.

[000583] The 500 Syringe Pump Electrical System 4000 (see Figure 28) is described in a block diagram in Figures 59B through 59J. The 4000 electrical system controls the operation of the 500 syringe pump based on inputs from the 3700 user interface and 3501 sensors. within the AC media. The 4000 electrical system is architected to provide safe operation with redundant safety checks and to allow the 500 syringe pump to operate in failsafe for some errors and failsafe for the rest.

[000584] The high-level multi-processor architecture is shown in the last block diagram detailing the 4000 electrical system, figure 59J. In one example the electrical system 4000 is provided with two main processors, a real-time processor 3500 and a Security Processor/User Interface 3600. The electrical system 4000 may also comprise a watchdog circuit 3460, motor control elements 3431 , 3501 sensors and input/output elements. A main processor called the real-time processor (from this point forward in the document called the RTP) 3500 can control the speed and position of the motor 1200 that turns the lead screw 850 (see figure 48B). The RTP 3500 can control the 1200 motor based on input from the 3501 sensors and commands from the 3600 Security Processor & User Interface (hereinafter referred to as the UIP) 3600. The UIP 3600 can manage telecommunications, manage the 3701 user interface and provide security checks on the RTP 3500. The UIP 3600 can estimate the pumped volume based on the output of a 1202 encoder motor and can signal an alarm or alert when the estimated volume differs by more than a specified amount from from a desired volume or the volume reported by the RTP 3500. The 3460 surveillance circuit monitors the health of the RTP 3500. If the RTP 3500 fails to clear the 3460 surveillance circuit on schedule, the 3460 surveillance can disable the 3431 motor controller , sound an alarm and turn on one or a number of fault lights on the 3701 user interface. The RTP 3500 uses the sensor inputs to control the position and speed of the mot or 1200 in a closed loop controller (further described below). Telecommunications may include a WIFI driver and antenna for communicating with a host computer or accessories, a Bluetooth driver and antenna for communicating with accessories, tablet computers, cell phones, etc. and a Near Field Communication (NFC) driver and antenna for RFID tasks and a Bluetooth. In figure 59J these components are collectively referred to by part number 3721. The 3701 user interface can include a 514 monitor (see figure 28). In some embodiments, the 514 monitor may be a touch screen. In some embodiments the user interface 3701 may comprise one or more buttons or input means 516 (see Figure 28) through which a user may communicate with the syringe pump 500.

[000585] Detailed electrical connections and components of the 4000 electrical system are shown in Figures 59B through 59I. Figs. 59B to 59I also depict a number of line dashes 5000 to 5169 that go to and from various components. A number of syringe pump sensors 500 are shown in Figure 59B. As shown, 3950 plunger position sensors, 3951 barrel diameter sensor, 3952 plunger capture potentiometer sensor, 3953 plunger force sensor, and other 3954 sensors are shown. The 3950 plunger position sensors can be any of the plunger position sensors described herein. The barrel diameter sensor 3951 may be the syringe barrel retainer linear position sensors 1540 to be described herein. The 3952 plunger capture potentiometer sensor may not necessarily be a potentiometer sensor in all embodiments. In some embodiments, the plunger capture potentiometer sensor 3952 may be the plunger gripping jaw position sensor 588 described herein. The 3953 plunger force sensor may be the 532 plunger pressure sensor described herein. Plunger capture potentiometer 3952 may be a switch for detecting a syringe 504 loaded within syringe holder 506. The above sensors may communicate respective signals of and indicative of what they capture to the RTP 3500 or another component.

[000586] As shown in Figure 59C, a 3540 thermistor can provide a signal to the RTP 3500 indicative of the temperature of the infusate in an infusion line. Alternatively, thermistor 3540 may measure a temperature at syringe pump 500 or circuit temperature 4000. In different embodiments, suitable replacement components may be used in place of the specific parts listed in Figures 59B through 59I. In some embodiments, the electrical system 4000 may comprise additional components. In some embodiments the electrical system 4000 may comprise fewer components than the number of components shown in Figures 59B through 59J.

[000587] Two sensors that can be located downstream of the syringe pump 500 are shown in Figure 59C. One sensor is a 3545 in-line air sensor. The other is a 3535 occlusion sensor. Both are connected to the RTP 3500. These sensors are optional. The 3545 in-line air sensor can detect the presence of air in the section of an infusion line in the 3545 in-line air proximity sensor. In an example embodiment, the 3545 in-line air sensor can comprise a 3545B ultrasonic sensor, a 3545A logic unit and a 3545C signal conditioning unit. In some embodiments, the syringe pump 500 may not comprise an in-line air sensor 3545.

[000588] The 3535 occlusion sensor can measure the internal pressure of an infusate in an infusion line. In some embodiments, occlusion sensor 3535 may be downstream pressure sensor 513 described herein. In an example embodiment, occlusion sensor 3535 may comprise a force sensor 3535B, an amplifier 3535A, a signal amplifier 3535C, and a buffer 3535D. The 3535D temporary storage can protect the RTP 3500 from overloading stresses due to high forces generated from pressures applied to the 3535B force sensor. In alternative embodiments, the 3535 occlusion sensor may differ.

[000589] The 3460 surveillance circuit is shown in figure 59D. The 3460 surveillance circuit can be enabled by an I2C command from the RTP 3500. The 3460 surveillance circuit can signal an error and disable the 3430 motor controller (eg via the 3434 chip) if it does not receive a signal from RTP 3500 on a specified frequency. The 3460 surveillance circuit can signal the user with an audible alarm. The audible alarm can be output through a 3464 amplifier and/or 3468 backup speaker. The 3460 surveillance circuit can signal the user with 3750 visual alarm LEDs (shown in Figure 59F) if an abnormal condition is detected. In one embodiment, the RTP 3500 must "clean" the 3460 surveillance between 10 m and 200 m after the last cleaning of the 3460 surveillance circuit. In some embodiments, the 3460 surveillance circuit is provided with a 3460A window surveillance, a logic circuit 3460B (which may include one or more flip-flop switches) and a 3460C IO expander that communicates with the RTP 3500 over an I2C bus. A 3450 backup battery (see Figure 59C) can supply power to the 3460 surveillance circuit and backup speaker system (which may comprise a 3464 audio amplifier, and a 3468 backup speaker) in case the main battery fails. 3420 (see Figure 59E) fails. The 3450 backup battery can supply power to the RTP 3500 and UIP 3600 to maintain internal time stamp, which can be especially desirable when the 3420 main battery is changed. The RTP 3500 can also monitor the voltage of the 3450 backup battery with a switch such as the "FAIRCHILD FPF1005 LOAD SWITCH" 3452 shown in Figure 59C.

[000590] The RTP 3500 directly controls the speed and position of the 1200 motor. The 1200 motor can be any of a number of 1200 motor types that include a brushed DC motor, a stepper motor, or a brushless DC motor. In the embodiment illustrated in Figures 59B to 59J, the syringe pump 500 is driven by a brushless direct current (BLDC) servo motor 1200. In an example embodiment, the RTP 3500 receives signals from hall effect sensors 3436 of a brushless DC motor 1200 and performs calculations to switch power to the motor winding 1200 to achieve a desired speed or position. Switching signals can be sent to the 3430 motor controller which selectively connects the windings to the 3434 motor power supply. The 1200 motor can be monitored for hazardous or harmful operation via 3432 current sensors and a temperature sensor 1200A.

[000591] Signals from the 3436 hall effect sensors can be supplied to both the RTP 3500 and to a 1202 encoder. In one embodiment, three hall effect signals are generated. Any two of the three hall effect signals can be sent to the encoder 1202. The encoder 1202 can use these signals to provide a position signal to the UIP 3600. The UIP 3600 estimates the total volume of fluid dispensed by the syringe pump 500 at from the position signal of encoder 1202. In some specific embodiments, each syringe pump 500 can be calibrated during assembly to establish the nominal stroke/volume that can be stored in memory. The estimated volume of the UIP 3600 can then be compared at regular intervals with the volume that would be expected for a commanded therapy. In some embodiments, the interval between comparisons may be shorter for different infusates, for example short half-life infusates. The therapy can specify, among other parameters, a flow rate, duration and a total volume to be infused (VTBI). In any case, the predicted volume based on the programmed therapy in a given period of time during which the therapy can be calculated and compared to the volume estimated by the UIP 3600. The UIP 3600 can signal an alert or alarm if the difference between the estimated volume of the UIP 3600 and the predicted therapy volume is outside a predefined limit. The UIP 3600 can signal an alarm if the difference between the estimated volume of the UIP 3600 and the predicted volume for therapy is outside another predefined limit.

[000592] The UIP 3600 can also compare the estimated volume to the volume reported by the RTP 3500. The UIP 3600 can signal an alert if the difference between the estimated volume of the UIP 3600 and the reported volume of the RTP 3500 is outside a predefined threshold. The UIP 3600 can signal an alarm if the difference between the estimated volume of the UIP 3600 and the reported volume of the RTP 3500 is outside a second threshold.

[000593] In some modalities, the UIP 3600 can compare the reported volume of RTP 3500 with the predicted volume of therapy and signal an alert if the two values differ by more than a pre-defined threshold. The UIP 3600 can signal an alarm if the difference between the reported volume of the RTP 3500 and the predicted volume for therapy differs by more than another predefined threshold. Alert values and alarm thresholds may differ from comparisons between different sets of volumes. Boundaries can be stored memory. Limits may vary depending on a number of different parameters such as, but not limited to, medication, medication concentration, clinical use, patient, therapy type or location. Thresholds can be predefined in a DERS (Drug Error Reduction System) database and downloaded from the device's gateway server.

[000594] Optionally, in some embodiments, a rotary encoder 5430 can be used to estimate the rotation of the threaded thread of motor 1200. The motor sensor 5430 can be formed by a magnet on the motor shaft 1200 with an Effect sensor Nearby Hall to estimate the threaded shaft position.

[000595] A 3670 RFID tag (see Figure 59E) can be connected by an I2C bus to the 3600 UIP and to a 3955 near-field antenna. The 3670 RFID tag can be used by medical technologists or other users or employees to acquire or store information when the syringe pump 500 is in a de-energized state. The UIP 3600 can store service logs, error codes, etc. on the 3670 RFID tag. Service logs, error codes, etc. can be accessed by an RFID reader. A medical technologist, for example, could inspect de-energized syringe pumps 500 in storage or assess non-functioning syringe pumps 500 by using an RFID reader to interrogate the RFID tag 3670. In another example, a medical technologist or other personnel can service the syringe pump 500 and store any related service information on the 3670 RFID tag. The UIP 3600 can then select the most recent service information from the 3670 RFID tag and store it in memory 3605 ( see figure 59E).

[000596] The 3420 main battery can supply all power to the 500 syringe pump. The 3420 main battery can be connected through a 3424 system power port element to the 3434 motor power supply. All sensors and processors described in this document can be powered by one of several 3428 voltage regulators (see figure 59E). The 3420 main battery can be charged from AC power via a 3422 battery charger and a 3426 AC/DC converter. The 3600 UIP can be connected to one or more 3605 memory chips.

[000597] The UIP 3600 controls the main audio system comprising a 3615 main speaker and 3610 (audio codec), 3612 (audio amplifier) audio chips (see figure 59E). The main audio system may have the ability to produce a sound track that indicates, for example, alerts and alarms. The audio system may also provide confirmation sounds to facilitate and enhance user interaction with the 514 display and/or 516 input means (see Figure 28). The main audio system may include a 3617 microphone which can be used to confirm the operation of the 3615 main speaker as well as the 3468 backup speaker. The main audio system can produce one or more tones, sequences and/or patterns modulation module and the 3610 audio codec chip can compare the signal received from the 3617 microphone with the signal sent to the 3615 main speaker. The use of one or more tones and signal comparison can allow the system confirms the function of the 3615 main speaker regardless of any ambient noise. Alternatively the UIP 3600 or the audio codec 3610 can confirm that the microphone 3617 produces a signal in the same amount of time that a signal is sent to the speaker amplifier 3612.

[000598] UIP 3600 can provide a range of different wireless signals for different uses. The UIP 3600 can communicate with the hospital's wireless network over broadband WiFi using the 3621, 3620 and 3622 chips and 3720 and 3722 antennas. A spatially diverse dual antenna may be desirable due to the fact that the same may have the ability to overcome dead spots within a room due to multiple trajectories and cancellations. A hospital device communication port can communicate DERS, CQI (Continuous Quality Improvement), prescriptions, patient data, etc. for syringe pump 500 via WiFi system.

[000599] The Bluetooth system that uses the same 3621, 3620 and 3622 chips (see figure 59E) and antennas 3720 and 3722 (see figure 59F), can provide a convenient method to connect auxiliaries to the 500 syringe pump that can include pulse oximeters, blood pressure scanners, barcode scanners, tablet computers, phones, etc. Bluetooth may include version 4.0 to enable low-power aids that can communicate with the syringe pump 500 periodically such as, for example, a continuous glucose meter that sends an update once per minute.

[000600] The NFC system can be equipped with an NFC 3624 controller (see figure 59E) and a 3724 antenna (see figure 59F). The NFC 3624 controller can also be called an RFID reader. The NFC system can be used to read RFID chips that identify drugs or other inventory information. RFID chips can also be used to identify patients and healthcare workers. The NFC 3624 controller can also interact with a similar RFID reader on, for example, a phone or tablet computer to enter information that includes prescriptions, barcode information, patient, healthcare professional identities, etc. The NFC 3624 controller can also provide information to phone or tablet computers such as 500 syringe pump history or service conditions. The RFID antennas 3720 and 3722 and/or the NFC antenna 3724 may preferably be located around or near the display screen 514, so that all interaction with the syringe pump 500 takes place on or near the display 514 either through from reading an RFID chip such as through interaction with a touch screen display 514 or other data entry means 516 near the display.

[000601] The 3600 UIP can include a 3665 medical grade connector (see Figure 59I) so that other medical devices can plug into the 500 syringe pump and provide additional capabilities. The 3665 connector can implement a USB interface.

[000602] Display 514 may include RFID antennas 3720, 3722, NFC antenna 3724, display 514, touch screen 3735, a LCD backlight driver 3727, a light sensor 3740, a 16 channel LED 3745, LED indicator lights 3747 and 3749 and three buttons 3760, 3765, 3767. The buttons may collectively be referred to herein as input means 516. The display 514 may include a backlight 3727 and a sensor 3740 ambient light to allow the 514 monitor brightness to automatically respond and/or adjust to ambient light. The first 3760 button can be the "power" button, while another 3765 button can be a stop infusion button. These buttons 3760, 3765 may not provide direct control of the syringe pump 500, but instead provide a signal to the UIP 3600 to either start or stop the infusion. The third 3767 button can silence an alarm or alert on the 3615 main speaker and the 3468 backup speaker. Silencing the alarm or alert will not clear the fault, but may terminate the audible alarm or alert. The electrical system 4000 described above, or an alternative embodiment of the electrical system 4000 described above, may be used with the syringe pump 500 described herein.

[000603] Fig. 60 shows an exemplary embodiment of the syringe pump assembly 501. In Fig. 60 the syringe pump assembly housing 503 that is shown in Fig. 59A has been removed. As shown, a syringe 504 is in place on the syringe pump assembly 501 and is held by the syringe barrel retainer 518. The slide block assembly 800 is located approximately midway along the axial length of the lead screw 850. plunger tube 524 connects slide block assembly 800 to plunger head assembly 522, plunger head assembly 522 is in a location where it has caused syringe plunger 544 to dispense approximately half the contents of the syringe 504.

[000604] As shown, a motor 1200 is operatively coupled to the gearbox 940 in Figure 60. Rotation of the motor 1200 is transmitted through the gearbox 940 to guide the rotation of the lead screw 850. As described above, whereas the Upper plunger gripping jaw 526 and lower plunger gripping jaw 528 are enclosed in plunger flange 548, half nut 830 is engaged with lead thread 850. Accordingly, in the embodiment depicted in Figure 60, as the engine 1200 causes lead screw 850 to rotate, slide block assembly 800 will move along the axial length of lead screw 850. As motor 1200 turns lead screw 850 so that slide block assembly 800 moves toward the left of the page (relative to Fig. 60), movement of the slide block assembly 800 will additionally cause the plunger tube 524 and plunger head assembly 522 to move toward the left of the page. at. As the plunger head assembly 522 moves toward the left of the page, the syringe plunger 544 is advanced into the syringe barrel 540 of the syringe 504 and the contents of the syringe are dispensed.

[000605] Motor 1200 can be any suitable motor 1200. As shown in Figure 59A a small profile pancake motor 1200 can be used to guide the rotation of lead screw 850. The embodiment shown in Figure 60 does not use a motor pancake type 1200. Motor 1200 shown in Fig. 60 is a reciprocating motor that also has hall effect sensors 3436 to inform switching of motor 1200. As shown in Fig. 60, motor 1200 may comprise a magnet in the rotor that is sensed by a rotary encoder 1202. The rotary encoder 1202 may be any of a variety of suitable rotary encoders 1202 such as the AS5055 from Austrianmicrosystems of Austria. In some embodiments, rotary encoder 1202 may be a magnet. Rotary encoder 1202 can be used to monitor rotation of lead screw 850. Information from rotary encoder 1202 can be used to determine when a given amount of the contents of syringe 504 has been dispensed. Additionally, rotary encoder 1202 can be used to determine the location of slide block assembly 800 on lead thread 850.

[000606] To ensure that the rotary encoder 1202 functions properly, a self test can be performed. Motor 1200 can be energized to move slide block assembly 800 back and forth along a distance from lead thread 850. Measurements from rotary encoder 1202 can be confirmed against measurements from sensor assembly 1200. 1050 sliding block linear position. The same self test can also be used to confirm that the 3436 hall effect sensors of the 1200 brushless motor function properly.

[000607] As previously indicated, the syringe pump 500 includes a number of sensor redundancies. This allows the syringe pump 500 to operate in a failed operating mode if deemed appropriate. In the event that the rotary encoder 1202 fails, the hall effect sensors 3436 of the brushless motor 1200 can be used in a failed operating mode to measure the dispensing of contents from the syringe 504 through the rotation of the motor 1200 and provide a feedback signal. to the motor controller. Alternatively, locating the slide block assembly 800 along the lead screw 850 can be used in a faulty operating mode to measure the dispensing of syringe contents 504 by positioning the slide block assembly 800 and provide a feedback signal to the controller. Alternatively, the slide block linear position sensor assembly 1050 can be used to monitor the dispensing of syringe contents 504 by positioning the slide block assembly 800 on the lead screw and to provide a feedback signal to the controller. In some embodiments, the 3436 motor hall effect sensors or the 1050 sliding block linear position sensor assembly can be used to monitor the position of the sliding block assembly 800 on the lead thread 850 to avoid guiding the block assembly. slider 800 against the pump frame.

[000608] In the event of a failure of the rotary encoder 1202, the syringe pump 500 may terminate a therapy if a therapy is in progress and disable a user from starting another therapy until the syringe pump 500 has been serviced. In the event of a failure of the rotary encoder 1202 the syringe pump 500 may trigger the alarm. In some embodiments, if the rotary encoder 1202 fails and the motor 1200 is used to deliver at a low flow rate, the syringe pump 500 may not terminate therapy. If such a failure occurs, Syringe Pump 500 can trigger the alarm and Syringe Pump 500 can end a therapy if a therapy is in progress and disable a user from starting another therapy until Syringe Pump 500 has been served. The Syringe Pump Controller 500 may use as a basis for its decision to continue a therapy based on the risk level of the infusate that is applied to a patient. If the risk of non-application to a user is greater than the risk of application with reduced accuracy, the Syringe Pump 500 will apply in a failed operating mode.

[000609] Figure 61 shows a small volume syringe 504 in place in the syringe pump assembly 501. Only a small portion of the syringe pump assembly 501 is visible in Figure 61. As shown, the syringe 504 is held in place against the syringe strut 506 by the syringe barrel clamp 518. The syringe barrel flange 542 is clamped in place against the syringe pump assembly 501 by the barrel flange clamp 520. The barrel flange clamp 520 is slightly offset from the rest of the syringe pump assembly 501 so that there is a small gap between the syringe pump assembly 501 and the barrel flange clamp 520. When a user places the syringe 504 in the syringe holder 506, the The user can also place the syringe barrel flange 542 inside the small gap between the syringe pump assembly 501 and the barrel flange clamp 520.

[000610] As shown in Figure 61, the out edge of the drum flange clamp 520 curves out towards the left of the page. This assists in guiding the syringe barrel flange 542 within the gap between the barrel flange clamp 520 and the syringe pump assembly 501. The barrel flange clamp 520 may also include one or a number of cutouts 521. In the exemplary embodiment in Fig. 61, the cutouts 521 of the drum flange clamp comprise two grooves. The first groove is retained within the center range of the outward edge of drum flange clamp 520. The second groove, which is retained within the lower range of the first groove, is considerably smaller and shallower. In other embodiments, the cutouts 521 may differ in shape, size, etc. Plunger 544 of small syringe 504 in Figure 61 is located entirely within cutouts 521 in barrel flange clamp 520. Without cutouts 521 in barrel flange clamp 520, plunger 544 of syringe 504 would edge out contact. of the barrel flange clamp 520 and would obstruct the user's allocation of the syringe barrel flange 542 within the gap between the barrel flange clamp 520 and the syringe pump assembly 501.

[000611] Figure 62 shows a large volume syringe 504 in place in the syringe pump assembly 501. Only a small portion of the syringe pump assembly 501 is visible in Figure 62. As shown, the syringe 504 is held in place against the syringe strut 506 by the syringe barrel clamp 518. The syringe barrel flange 542 is clamped in place against the syringe pump assembly 501 by the barrel flange clamp 520. The barrel flange clamp 520 is slightly offset from the rest of the syringe pump assembly 501 so that there is a small gap between the syringe pump assembly 501 and the barrel flange clamp 520. When a user places the syringe 504 in the syringe holder 506, the The user can also place the syringe barrel flange 542 inside the small gap between the syringe pump assembly 501 and the barrel flange clamp 520.

[000612] As shown in Figure 62, the drum flange clamp 520 may also include an approximately semi-circular depression 519 that thins the drum flange clamp 520. The approximately semi-circular depression 519 may be included to accommodate the piston flange 548 ( not shown) of a syringe 504. In embodiments where barrel flange clamp 520 includes approximately semicircular depression 519, plunger 544 may be advanced a distance equal to the depth of semicircular depression 519 further into syringe barrel 540. This is desirable due to the fact that it allows more of the contents of syringe 504 to be administered to a patient.

[000613] As shown in Figure 62, the drum flange clamp 520 may include a drum flange sensor 700. The drum flange sensor 700 may be provided with any number of suitable sensors. In some embodiments, barrel flange sensor 700 may operate in a binary (yes/no) mode to indicate whether a syringe barrel flange 542 is clamped by barrel flange clamp 520. In some embodiments, the flange sensor barrel 700 may comprise a micro switch which is actuated as the syringe barrel flange 524 is allocated in the gap between the syringe pump assembly 501 and the barrel flange clamp 520. In other embodiments, the barrel flange sensor 700 may comprise a photosensor. Inserting the syringe barrel flange 542 into the gap between the syringe pump assembly and the barrel flange clamp 520 can block a light source to the barrel flange sensor 700 in embodiments where the barrel flange sensor 700 is drum 700 comprises a photosensor. In such embodiments, barrel flange sensor 700 can indicate whether a syringe barrel flange 542 is clamped in place when the light source is blocked. In other embodiments, drum flange sensor 700 may be provided with a sensor other than those described above. The barrel flange sensor 700 can be induced to generate an alarm in the event that other sensors, such as the plunger gripping jaw position sensor 588 (mentioned above) or the syringe barrel retainer linear position sensor 1540 (see Figure 66), detect a syringe 504 in place of the syringe pump assembly 501 when the barrel flange sensor 700 does not detect a syringe 504 in place and a therapy initiation is attempted.

[000614] Figure 63 shows an embodiment of part of the syringe barrel retainer 518. As shown in Figure 63, the syringe barrel retainer 518 comprises a syringe barrel retainer housing 1500. In the exemplary embodiment, the housing barrel retainer housing 1500 has a flattened base plate 1502. The flattened base plate 1502 comprises a syringe barrel retainer housing member 1504 at the left end thereof (referring to Fig. 63). The syringe barrel retainer housing member 1504 projects out of the bottom of the syringe barrel retainer housing 1500 at an angle substantially perpendicular to the plane of the flattened base plate 1502. The syringe barrel retainer housing member 1502 syringe 1504 may extend substantially perpendicularly from the entire length of the left end of the flattened base plate 1502. In some embodiments, the syringe barrel retainer housing member 1504 may take the form of a rectangular prism. In the exemplary embodiment shown in Fig. 63 , the syringe barrel retainer housing member 1504 has a shape close to a rectangular prism, but the bottom edges of the syringe barrel retainer housing member 1504 have been rounded.

[000615] As shown in Fig. 63, the flattened baseplate 1502 may have a baseplate slot 1506 cut into it. The base plate slot 1506 can be cut into the flat base plate 1502 from the left edge (referring to Fig. 63) of the flat base plate 1502. The base plate slot 1506 can extend inside the base plate. flat base plate 1502 at an angle substantially perpendicular to the left edge of the flat base plate 1502. The base plate slot does not extend all the way through the flat base plate 1502 and towards near the right edge.

[000616] On the flanks of the baseplate slot 1506, one or more syringe barrel retainer housing columns 1508 may be arranged. In the exemplary embodiment shown in Fig. 63, four syringe barrel retainer housing columns 1508 flank the base plate slot 1506. The four syringe barrel retainer housing columns 1508 are divided so that there are two syringe barrel retainer housing columns 1508. Syringe barrel retainer housing 1508 on each flank of baseplate slot 1506. Syringe barrel retainer housing columns 1508 extend substantially perpendicular from the top face of the flattened baseplate 1502 toward to the top of the page. The syringe barrel retainer housing columns 1508 in the exemplary embodiment shown in Fig. 63 are shaped like rectangular prisms. In an alternative embodiment, syringe barrel housing columns 1508 may be cylindrical or any other suitable shape.

[000617] The flattened base plate 1502 may also comprise one or more syringe barrel retainer housing bodies 1510. In the exemplary embodiment shown in Fig. 63, there are two syringe barrel retainer housing bodies 1510. The bodies syringe barrel retainer housing 1510 project perpendicularly from the top of the flattened base plate 1502 toward the top of the page. Syringe barrel retainer housing bodies 1510 are shaped like rectangular prisms. As shown, the syringe barrel retainer housing bodies 1510 may protrude the right edge of the flattened base plate 1502. The syringe barrel retainer housing bodies 1510 may comprise a side that is aligned with the leading edge or trailing edge (relative to Fig. 63) of the flattened base plate 1502.

[000618] In some embodiments, the syringe barrel retainer housing 1500 may comprise a "T" shaped member 1512. In the example embodiment shown in Fig. 63, the rod portion of the "T" shaped member extends toward the right of the page from the right edge of the flattened baseplate 1502. The T-shaped member 1512 may extend in a plane substantially parallel to the plane of the flattened baseplate 1502. In the exemplary embodiment, the T-shaped member 1512 projects from approximately the center of the right edge of the flattened base plate 1502. The transverse portion of the T-shaped member 1512 is approximately parallel with the right edge of the base plate 1512. flattened base 1502. The transverse portion of the "T" shaped member 1512 protrudes from the rod equally on both sides of the rod.

[000619] As shown in Figure 63, the syringe barrel retainer guide rails 1514 may extend substantially perpendicularly from the right face of the syringe barrel retainer housing member 1504 and into the left faces of the protruding transverse portions of the T-shaped member 1512. The syringe barrel retainer guide rails 1514 may extend substantially parallel to one another. In the exemplary embodiment shown in Fig. 63, a coil spring 1516 surrounds each syringe barrel retainer guide rail 1514. One end of each coil spring 1516 may contact the left face of the transverse portion of the member with T-shape 1512. In the exemplary embodiment, coil springs 1516 are compression springs. In alternative embodiments, other propensity members or propensity member arrangements may be used.

[000620] As shown in the embodiment in Figure 63, a syringe barrel retainer printed circuit board (PCB) 1518 may be held in place in the syringe barrel retainer housing columns 1508. The syringe barrel retainer PCB syringe may be coupled in place to syringe barrel retainer housing posts 1508 by any suitable means. In the exemplary embodiment shown in Fig. 63 , the syringe barrel retainer PCB is coupled to the syringe barrel retainer housing columns 1508 by threads.

[000621] Fig. 64 shows an embodiment of part of the syringe barrel retainer 518. In the embodiment shown in Fig. 64, the syringe barrel retainer PCB 1518 shown in Fig. 63 has been removed. As shown in Figure 64 the baseplate slot 1506 may extend downwardly into the syringe barrel retainer housing member 1504. The baseplate slot 1508 may comprise a baseplate notch gripper 1520. In embodiments where the baseplate slot 1508 comprises a baseplate notch gripper 1520 the baseplate notch gripper 1520 may be a void in the flattened baseplate 1502 of the syringe barrel retainer housing 1500. In an exemplary embodiment, the void of the baseplate slot gripper 1520 extends outward from the right end section of the baseplate slot 1508 at an angle substantially perpendicular to the side of the baseplate slot 1508.

[000622] Syringe barrel retainer 518 may also comprise a syringe barrel retainer arm rod 1522. In the exemplary embodiment shown in Fig. 64, syringe barrel retainer arm rod 1522 extends through a properly sized cavity in the approximate center of T-shaped member 1512 (only the rod of T-shaped member 1512 is visible in figure 64). The syringe barrel retainer arm rod 1522 may be movably coupled to the syringe barrel retainer 518. In embodiments where the syringe barrel retainer arm rod 1522 is movably coupled to the syringe barrel retainer 518, the syringe barrel retainer arm rod 1522 can move along a direction parallel to the edges of the rod of the "T" shaped member 1512. In the example embodiment in Fig. 64, the syringe retainer arm rod 1512 Syringe barrel 1522 has the ability to slide along the cavity in the "T" shaped member 1512 and uses the cavity in the "T" shaped member 1512 as a linear motion bearing. In the example embodiment, the syringe barrel retainer arm rod 1522 is longer than the rod length of the "T" shaped member 1512.

[000623] As shown in Fig. 64, one end of the syringe barrel retainer arm rod 1522 may comprise a collar which may be a "U" shaped member 1524. The "U" shaped member 1524 may be fixedly coupled to syringe barrel retainer arm rod 1522. In the exemplary embodiment, the bottom span of the "U" shaped member 1524 is thicker than the pilasters of the "U" shaped member 1524. The thick bottom span of the "U" shaped member 1524 comprises a hole that allows the "U" shaped member 1524 to be coupled to the syringe barrel retainer arm rod 1522 when the syringe barrel retainer 518 is coupled. In the exemplary embodiment, the pilasters of the "U" shaped member 1524 extend upwardly through the baseplate slot 1506 and are substantially aligned with the plane of the top face of the flattened baseplate 1502. The pilasters of the member U-shaped 1524 can constrain the syringe barrel retainer arm rod 1522 from rotation as any rotation is blocked by the pilasters of the U-shaped member 1524 which are in contact with the edges of the slot of base plate 1506.

[000624] In the example embodiment shown in Fig. 64, the syringe barrel retainer 518 comprises a bias bar 1526. The bias bar 1526 in the exemplary embodiment is approximately rectangular in shape. The bias bar 1526 may comprise two holes that allow the bias bar 1526 to be located on the syringe barrel retainer guide rails 1514. The bias bar 1526 may have the ability to perform guided movement along the axial direction of the skewers. syringe barrel retainer guide rails 1514. In the exemplary embodiment, the end of the coil springs 1516 on syringe barrel retainer guide rails 1514 that do not contact the transverse portion of the "T" shaped member " 1512 are in contact with the forward face of the bias bar 1526. In the example embodiment shown in Figure 64 the maximum distance between the bias bar face 1526 that one end of the coil springs 1516 is in contact and the face of T-shaped member 1512 that the other end of the coil springs 1516 is in contact with is shorter than the uncompressed length of the coil springs 1516. This ensures that the bias bar 1526 will always be oriented towards the position shown in figure 64.

[000625] As shown in Fig. 64, bias bar 1526 may comprise a cutout that allows bias bar 1526 to fit around at least part of syringe barrel retainer arm shank 1522. "U" 1524 may be in contact with the face of bias bar 1526 opposite the side that the coil springs 1516 are in contact with. In such embodiments, the action of coil springs 1516 orienting bias bar 1526 toward the position depicted in Fig. 64 further biases syringe barrel retainer arm rod 1522 to the position depicted in Fig. 64.

[000626] In the example embodiment in Fig. 65, the syringe barrel retainer 518 is shown in the fully open position. To move the syringe barrel retainer 518 to the fully open open position, a user may hold the syringe barrel retainer handle 1528. In the exemplary embodiment shown in Fig. 65, the syringe barrel retainer handle 1528 is a projection extending from the barrel in contact with the structure 1530 of the syringe barrel retainer 518 which is fixedly coupled to the syringe barrel retainer arm rod 1522. After holding the syringe barrel retainer handle 1528 , a user can extract the syringe barrel retainer arm stem 1522 away from the syringe barrel retainer housing 1500. This action causes the "U" shaped member 1524 to be fixedly attached to the stem. of syringe barrel retainer arm 1522 also move. Since the "U" shaped member 1524 may not pass through the bias bar 1526, the bias bar 1526 moves with the "U" shaped member 1524 and the syringe barrel retainer arm rod 1522 As the bias bar 1526 moves along the syringe barrel retainer guide rails 1514, the coil springs become compressed so that if a user releases the syringe barrel retainer handle 1528, the restoring force of the coil springs will automatically return the bias bar 1526, the U-shaped member 1524 and the syringe barrel retainer arm rod 1522 to the positions shown in Figure 64.

[000627] To hold the syringe barrel retainer 518 in the fully open position against biasing the coil springs 1516, the syringe barrel retainer 518 can be locked in the open position. As shown, the syringe barrel retainer 518 can be locked in the open position by rotating the syringe barrel retainer arm rod 1522 and all parts fixedly coupled to the syringe barrel retainer arm rod 1522. In Figure 65, syringe barrel retainer arm rod 1522 has been rotated substantially 90° so that the bottom span of U-shaped member 1524 is disposed within baseplate notch gripper 1520. the U-shaped member is rotated within the baseplate notch gripper 1520, the restoring force of the coil springs 1516 does not have the ability to return the syringe barrel retainer 518 to the position shown in the figure 64 due to the fact that the displacement of the U-shaped member 1524 is blocked by the baseplate notch gripper 1520.

[000628] After rotating the syringe barrel retainer arm rod 1522 so that the syringe barrel retainer 518 is locked in the open position, a user can release the syringe barrel retainer handle 1528 to hold a syringe 504 (not shown) and put it in place. As mentioned above, syringe barrel retainer 518 will remain in the fully open position. A user can then rotate the syringe barrel retainer arm rod 1522 90° back to the original unlatched position and allow the syringe barrel retainer 518 to hold the syringe 504 in place.

[000629] Referring again to Figure 31 the syringe barrel retainer 518 is shown fully open and rotated within the locked position. In the fully open position, the syringe barrel in contact with the frame 1530 and the syringe barrel retainer handle 1528 are at the furthest possible distance therefrom from the syringe holder 506 of the syringe pump assembly 501. In some embodiments, this distance may be substantially greater than the diameter of the largest syringe 504 that can be accepted by the syringe pump 500. In Figure 31, a syringe 504 has been placed in place against the syringe holder 506 while the barrel retainer syringe 518 has been locked in the open position. In Figure 32, the syringe barrel retainer has been rotated out of the locked position and allowed to automatically adjust to the size of the syringe barrel 540. As mentioned in the discussion of Figure 65, this automatic adjustment is a result of the restoring force. of coil springs 1516 that automatically urge bias bar 1526, U-shaped member 1524, and syringe barrel retainer arm rod 1522 toward the position depicted in Figure 64.

[000630] In Fig. 66, an example embodiment of syringe barrel retainer 518 is shown. In the embodiment depicted in Fig. 66, syringe barrel retainer PCB 1518 is shown as transparent. Syringe barrel retainer PCB 1518 may comprise one or a number of syringe barrel retainer linear position sensors 1540. In the exemplary embodiment, there are three syringe barrel retainer linear position sensors 1540. linear position of syringe barrel retainer 1518 can be used to determine the size of syringe 504 (not shown) that syringe barrel retainer 518 holds in place.

[000631] In some embodiments, there can only be a single syringe barrel retainer linear position sensor 1540. In such embodiments, the syringe barrel retainer linear position sensor 1540 may be a linear potentiometer. In embodiments where the syringe barrel retainer linear position sensor 1540 is a linear potentiometer, the syringe barrel retainer linear position sensor 1540 may comprise a barrel size wiper 1542 that can slide across the resistive element of the barrel. potentiometer with movement of the syringe barrel retainer arm rod 1522. When a syringe 504 (not shown) is held by the syringe barrel retainer 518, the size of the syringe 504 (not shown) will determine the position of the barrel size cleaner 1542 along the linear potentiometer type syringe barrel retainer linear position sensor 1540. Since the location of the wiper 1542 will vary from the resistance measured by the linear position sensor 1540, the measured resistance can be used to establish information ( size, volume, brand, etc.) on the 504 syringe (not shown) that is used. In some embodiments, the measured resistance may be used as a reference with a database or measurements of resistance that would be expected from different syringes 504 to determine information about the syringe 504. The measured resistance may additionally be used to determine whether a syringe 504 is properly held by the syringe barrel retainer 518. For example, if the measured resistance indicates that the syringe barrel retainer 518 is in the fully open position (as in Fig. 66), an alarm may be generated. and therapy may not be started.

[000632] In some embodiments, including the example embodiment shown in Fig. 66, the syringe barrel retainer linear position sensors 1540 may be magnetic linear position sensors. Any suitable magnetic linear position sensor can be used for the 1540 Syringe Barrel Retainer Linear Position Sensor. 1050 slide block assembly. An example of a suitable magnetic linear position sensor is the "AS5410 Absolute Linear 3D Hall Encoder" available from Austriamicrosystems of Austria. Syringe barrel retainer linear position sensors 1540 accumulate positional data thereof from a syringe barrel retainer magnet 1544 allocated at a suitable distance from the syringe barrel retainer linear position sensors 1540. example embodiment shown in Fig. 66, syringe barrel retainer magnet 1544 rests in the bottom span of "U" shaped member 1524 between the two pilasters of "U" shaped member 1524. Absolute location of retainer magnet of syringe barrel may be measured by the syringe barrel retainer linear position sensors 1540. Whereas the measured absolute location of the syringe barrel retainer magnet 1544 may vary depending on the syringe 504 (not shown) that is held by the syringe barrel retainer magnet 1544. syringe barrel 518, the absolute location of the syringe barrel retaining magnet 1544 can be used to determine specific information (e.g., size, volume, brand, etc.) inga 504 (not shown) that is maintained. In some embodiments, the absolute location of the syringe barrel retaining magnet 1544 can be used as a reference with a database to determine information about the syringe 504 that is used. In such embodiments, the database may be a database of absolute locations that would be expected with different syringes 504. The measured absolute position may also be used to determine whether a syringe 504 is correctly held in place by the syringe barrel retainer. 518. For example, if the measured absolute position indicates that the syringe barrel retainer 518 is in the fully open position (as in Fig. 66), an alarm may be generated and a therapy may not be initiated.

[000633] In some embodiments, data gathered by the syringe barrel retainer linear position sensor 1540 can be compared to data gathered by other sensors to make a more informed decision on the specific syringe 504 that is used. For example, in embodiments where a plunger gripper position sensor 588 can make a determination on the type of syringe 504 that is used (see discussion of Figure 37) the data from the plunger gripper position sensor plunger 588 and linear position sensor 1540 can be compared. If the data gathered by the 1540 syringe barrel retainer linear position sensor does not correlate with data gathered by other sensors, an alarm may be generated.

[000634] In some embodiments, data from the plunger gripper position sensor 588 may first be compared to a syringe database 504 to reduce acceptable syringe barrel measurements 540. In some embodiments, data from the syringe barrel retainer linear position sensor may be used as a reference against a syringe database 504 to adjust a range of acceptable plunger flange measurements 548.

[000635] Figure 67 shows a basic example of part of an alternative linear position sensor. The alternative linear position sensor portion in Fig. 67 is a line stretcher 1600. In the exemplary embodiment, the line stretcher 1600 comprises a stationary portion and a movable portion. The stationary portion comprises a FR-4 PCB substrate 1602. On the substrate 1602 there are two microlines 1604. As shown, microlines 1604 extend parallel to each other. The microlines 1604 act as transmission lines for a signal at a known frequency. Microlines 1604 do not allow the signal to propagate within the surrounding environment. The width of the microlines 1604 is chosen so that it is suitable for the desired impedance. In an example embodiment, the desired impedance is 50 Q.

[000636] The mobile portion in the exemplary embodiment comprises a mobile portion FR-4 1606 PCB substrate. As shown, the movable portion FR-4 PCB substrate comprises a movable portion microline 1608. The movable portion microline 1608 may be substantially "U" shaped. The U-shaped movable portion microline pilasters 1608 extend parallel to each other and are spaced apart so that when the line lengthener 1600 is coupled, they can make contact with the two microlines 1604 in the stationary portion. The movable portion microlines 1608 have a width chosen so that it is suitable for the desired amount of impedance (50 Q in the embodiment example). The bottom breadth of the "U" shaped movable portion microline 1608 connects the two pilasters of the "U" shaped movable portion microline 1608 and is substantially perpendicular to the two pilasters. When fully coupled, the background amplitude of the U-shaped moving portion microline 1604 forms a bridge between the two microlines 1604 in the stationary portion of the line extender 1600. Any signal sent through one of the microlines 1604 in the stationary portion may cross through the movable portion microline 1608 to the other microline 1604 in the stationary portion. By sliding the movable portion along the extension direction of the stationary portion microlines 1604 the signal must travel a greater or lesser distance before crossing from one stationary portion microline 1604 to the other. By manipulating the amount of signal shift, a user can predictably create a phase shift of the signal. To reduce wear on the metal microlines 1604 and 1608 a thin sheet of insulation 1609 can be placed between the microlines 1604 and 1608, which creates a capacitive coupling.

[000637] Fig. 68 shows an example of the line extender 1600 that is incorporated within a phase shift detector 1610. As shown, the phase shift detector 1610 comprises a signal source shown as "RF source". in the example shown in figure 68. The signal source in the example shown in figure 68 runs from the "RF source" to a "power divider". The "power divider" splits the signal, which keeps the two output signals in a constant phase relationship with each other. One of the signals travels directly to a "frequency mixer". The other signal is delayed before it is allowed to reach the "frequency mixer". In figure 68, the signal is delayed by line stretcher 1600 (see figure 67). Signal delay causes the delayed signal to be predictably out of phase with the undelayed signal that travels directly to the "frequency mixer". The delayed signal travels from line stretcher 1600 to the "frequency mixer". In the example embodiment shown in Fig. 68 the "frequency mixer" is a double balanced frequency mixer. As is well known in the art, two constant amplitude signals of identical frequencies sent to a mixer will result in a DC output that is proportional to the phase difference between the two signals.

[000638] Fig. 69 depicts a slightly different embodiment of the phase shift detector 1610. In Fig. 69 the delay means is not a line extender 1600 as described in Fig. 67. The delay means is an open variable or short. As the object from which the linear position is to be measured moves linearly, the location of the short or open in a transmission line can be induced to move proportionally. As shown, the signal travels through a "directional coupler" which can be any suitable directional coupler. As one of the two signals, the signal enters the "directional coupler" from the "power divider" and is sent from another port of the "directional coupler" to an open or short. The open or short causes the signal to reflect back to the port from which it moved to reach the open or short. The signal reflected back inside the port is then directed by the "directional coupler" to travel inside the "frequency mixer". The signal delay generated by the distance shifted to and from the reflection point generates a phase shift in the signal. The amount of phase shift of the signal depends on the distance from the gate the signal leaves the "directional coupler" to open or short. This distance can be induced to change as a result of the motion of the object from which the linear position is to be measured. The second signal output from the "power divider" goes directly to the "frequency mixer". As is well known in the art, two constant amplitude signals of identical frequencies sent to a mixer will result in a DC output that is proportional to the phase difference between the two signals.

[000639] As shown in Figure 70, the "directional coupler" can be replaced with another piece of equipment such as a circulator. The phase shift detector 1610 in Fig. 70 functions very similarly to the phase shift detector 1610 in Fig. 69. A signal from the power divider travels directly to the "frequency mixer". The other signal is delayed. The delay is generated in the same way as described above. Instead of using a "directional coupler", however, a "circulator" can be used to route the signal. As the signal enters the "circulator" at port 1 the signal is circulated to port 2. The signal travels from port 2 to the short or open and is reflected back inside port 2. The phase-shifted signal is reflected that enters port 2 of the "circulator" is circulated to port 3. The signal leaves port 3 and travels to the "frequency mixer". As is well known in the art, two constant amplitude signals of identical frequencies sent to a mixer will result in a DC output that is proportional to the phase difference between the two signals. Since the phase difference depends on the distance of the short or open from port 2 of the "circulator" and the distances vary in proportion to the location of the object from which the linear location is to be found, the DC output of the mixer can be used to determine the location of objects.

[000640] In some embodiments, the 1610 phase shift detector can be used to replace either the 1540 Syringe Barrel Retainer Linear Position Sensors (see Figure 66) or the 1054 Slide Block Magnetic Linear Position Sensors ( see figure 57A). In some embodiments, only one of the 1540 syringe barrel retainer linear position sensors or the 1054 slide block magnetic linear position sensors may be replaced with the 1610 phase shift detector. In some embodiments, a phase shift detector Phase 1610 can be used in conjunction with one or both of the 1540 Syringe Barrel Retainer Linear Position Sensors or the 1054 Slide Block Magnetic Linear Position Sensors and function as a crosscheck or backup.

[000641] In embodiments where the 1054 Sliding Block Linear Position Sensor Assembly (see Figure 57A) is replaced with a 1610 Phase Shift Detector, the 1610 Phase Shift Detector can be used to detect the position of the assembly. slide block 800 along lead thread 850 (see figure 57A). If the phase shift detector 1610 uses a thread stretcher 1600 (refer to Figure 67) the movable portion of the thread stretcher 1600 can be induced to move along the stationary portion of the thread stretcher 1600 with movement of the sliding block assembly. 800 along lead screw 850. In turn, this would cause the degree of phase change to reflect the position of slide block assembly 800 on lead screw 850. Consequently, the mixer's DC output voltage (see Fig. 68) can be used to determine the position of the slide block assembly 800. The positional data generated by the phase shift detector 1610 can be used in the same manner as described above in relation to the previous discussion of linear assembly position capture. of sliding block 800.

[000642] In embodiments where the phase change detector 1610 uses a variable short or open (see figure 69 and figure 70), movement of slide block assembly 800 along lead thread 850 may cause the short or open change its location along the transmission line. This, in turn, would cause the degree of phase shift to specify the position of the slide block assembly 800 along the lead screw 850. Consequently, the mixer's DC output voltage (see figure 69 and figure 70 ) can be used to determine the position of the slide block assembly 800.

[000643] In embodiments where the 1540 Syringe Barrel Retainer Linear Position Sensors (see Figure 66) are replaced by the 1610 Phase Change Detector, the 1610 Phase Change Detector can be used to determine the syringe size 504 (see figure 28). If the phase shift detector 1610 uses a thread stretcher 1600 (refer to Figure 67) the movable portion of the thread stretcher 1600 can be induced to move along the stationary portion of the thread stretcher 1600 with movement of the thread stretcher 1600. syringe barrel retainer arm 1522. In turn, this would cause the degree of phase change to reflect the position of the syringe barrel retainer arm rod 1522. Whereas the position of the barrel retainer arm rod 1522 1522 depends on various characteristics of the 504 syringe, the mixer's DC output voltage (see Figure 68) can be used to determine the position of the 1522 syringe barrel retainer arm rod and therefore an amount of characteristics of the 504 syringe.

[000644] In embodiments where the 1610 phase shift detector uses a variable short or open (see figure 69 and figure 70), movement of the 1522 syringe barrel retainer arm rod can cause the short or open change its location along a transmission line. This, in turn, would cause the degree of phase change to specify the position of the syringe barrel retainer arm rod 1522. Since the position of the syringe barrel retainer arm rod 1522 depends on various characteristics of the syringe 504, the mixer's DC output voltage (see figure 69 and figure 70) can be used to determine the position of the syringe barrel retainer arm rod 1522 and therefore a number of characteristics of the syringe 504. The positional data generated by the phase shift detector 1610 can be used in the same manner as described above in connection with the previous discussion of capturing syringe barrel retainer linear position.

[000645] An example graphical user interface modality (from this point forward in the document called the GUI) 3300 is shown in Figure 71. The 3300 GUI allows a user to modify the way an agent can be infused by the syringe pump 500 by customizing various programming options. While the following discussion mostly details the use of the 3300 GUI with the 500 Syringe Pump, it should be understood that the 3300 GUI can be used with other pumps, including the other pumps mentioned in this descriptive report. For example, the 3300 GUI can be used with the 201, 202, or 203 pump (as shown in Figure 71) detailed in the discussion of Figures 2 through 9. For example purposes, the 3300 GUI detailed as follows uses a screen 3204 which is a 514 touchscreen monitor (see figure 28) as a means of interacting with a user. In other embodiments, the means of interaction with a user may be different. For example, alternative modalities may comprise user-depressible buttons or rotational displays, audible commands, etc. In other embodiments, the screen 3204 may be any electronic visual display such as a liquid crystal type monitor, L.E.D. type monitor, plasma type monitor, etc.

[000646] As detailed in the previous paragraph, the GUI 3300 is displayed on the monitor 514 of the syringe pump 500. Each syringe pump 500 may have its own individual display 3204. In arrangements where there are multiple syringe pumps 500 or a syringe pump 500 and one or more other pumps, the GUI 3300 can be used to control multiple pumps. Only the master pump may require a 3204 display. As shown in figure 71, the pump 203 is seated in a 3207 Z-frame. As shown, the 3300 GUI can monitor a number of 3250 interface fields. The 3250 interface fields can monitor various information about the 203 pump, infusion status and/or medication, etc. In some embodiments, the 3250 interface fields on the 3300 GUI can be tapped, tapped, etc. to navigate to different menus, expand a 3250 interface field, enter data and the like. The 3250 interface fields displayed on the 3300 GUI can change from menu to menu.

[000647] The 3300 GUI can also have a number of virtual buttons. In the non-mode-limiting example in Figure 71 the monitor has a virtual power button 3260, a virtual start button 3262, and a virtual stop button 3264. The virtual power button 3260 can turn the syringe pump 500 on or off. The 3262 virtual start button can start an infusion. The 3264 virtual stop button can pause or stop an infusion. The virtual buttons can be activated by a user tap, tap, double tap or similar. Different 3300 GUI menus may comprise other soft buttons. Virtual buttons can be skeumorphs to make their functions more immediately understandable or recognizable. For example, the virtual stop button 3264 may resemble a "stop" sign as shown in Figure 71. In alternate embodiments, the names, formats, functions, quantity, etc. of the virtual buttons may differ.

[000648] As shown in the modality example in figure 72, the 3250 interface fields of the 3300 GUI (see figure 71) can monitor a number of different programming parameter input fields. For the 3300 GUI to monitor parameter input fields, a user may be required to navigate through one or a number of menus. Additionally, the user may be required to enter a password before the user can manipulate any of the parameter input fields.

[000649] In Fig. 72, a medication parameter input field 3302, drug amount in container parameter input field 3304, total volume parameter input field in container 3306, concentration parameter input field 3308 , dose parameter input field 3310, volume flow rate parameter input field (from this point forward in the document abbreviated as rate) 3312, volume parameter input field to be infused (from this point forward in the document named VTBI) 3314 and time parameter input field 3316 are displayed. The parameters, number of parameters, parameter names, etc. may differ in alternative modalities. In the modality example, the parameter input fields are graphically displayed boxes that are substantially rectangular with round corners. In other embodiments, the format and size of parameter input fields may differ.

[000650] In the modality example, the 3300 GUI is modeled to be intuitive and flexible. A user can choose to fill in a combination of parameter input fields that are simpler or more convenient for the user. In some embodiments, parameter input fields left empty by the user can be automatically calculated and displayed by the GUI 3300 as long as the empty fields do not operate independently of populated parameter input fields and sufficient information can be obtained from the populated fields to calculate the empty field or fields. Through figures 72 to 76, fields that depend on one another are linked by curved double-headed arrows.

[000651] Medication parameter input field 3302 can be the parameter input field where a user sets the type of infusate agent to be infused. In the modality example, medication parameter input field 3302 was populated and the infusate agent was set to "SALINE SOLUTION 0.9% NORMAL". As shown, after the specific infusate has been set, the GUI 3300 can populate the 3302 medication parameter input field by displaying the specific infusate name in the 3302 medication parameter input field.

[000652] To adjust the specific infusate agent to be infused, a user can tap the 3302 medication parameter input field on the 3300 GUI. In some embodiments, this can select a list of different possible infusates. The user can scroll through the list until the desired infusate is located. In other embodiments, touching the parameter input field on medication 3302 can select a virtual keyboard. The user can then type the correct infusato on the virtual keyboard. In some embodiments, the user may only need to type only a few infusate letters on the virtual keyboard before the 3300 GUI displays a number of suggestions. For example, after typing "NORE" the GUI 3300 may suggest "NOREPINEPHRINE". After locating the correct infusate, the user may be required to perform an action such as, but not limited to, tapping, tapping twice, or touching and dragging the infusate. After the required action is completed by the user, the infusate can be displayed by the 3300 GUI in the 3302 medication parameter input field. For another detailed description of another example means of infusate selection, see figure 82.

[000653] In the exemplary modality, in Figure 72, the parameter entry fields were arranged by a user to perform an infusion based on volume (eg ml, ml/h, etc.). As a result, the drug amount parameter input field in container 3304 and the parameter input field in total volume container 3306 were left unfilled. The concentration parameter input field 3308 and the dose parameter input field 3310 were also left unfilled. In some embodiments, the drug amount parameter input field in container 3304, the parameter input field in the total volume container 3306, the concentration parameter input field 3308, and the dose parameter input field 3310 may be locked, disabled, or not displayed on the 3300 GUI when such an infusion has been selected. The drug amount parameter input field in the container 3304, the parameter input field in the total volume container 3306, the concentration parameter input field 3308 and the dose parameter input field 3310 will be further elaborated in the subsequent paragraphs.

[000654] When the GUI 3300 is being used to program a volume base infusion, the rate parameter input field 3312, the VTBI parameter input field 3314 and the time parameter input field 3316 do not operate independent of each other. A user can only be required to set any two of the rate parameter input field 3312, the VTBI parameter input field 3314, and the time parameter input field 3316. The two parameters set by a user can be be the most convenient parameters for a user to set. The parameter left empty by the user can be calculated automatically and displayed by the GUI 3300. For example, if a user fills in the rate parameter input field 3312 with a value of 125 ml/h (as shown) and fills in the input field parameter input field of VTBI 3314 with a value of 1000 ml (as shown), the value of the time parameter input field 3316 can be calculated by dividing the value in the parameter input field of VTBI 3314 by the value in the input field of rate parameter 3312. In the exemplary mode shown in figure 72, the quotient of the above calculation, 8 h and 0 min, is correctly filled in by the GUI 3300 in the time parameter input field 3316.

[000655] For a user to fill in rate parameter input field 3312, VTBI parameter input field 3314 and time parameter input field 3316, user can tap or tap on the rate input field. desired parameter in the 3300 GUI. In some embodiments, it may select a numeric keypad with a range or number, such as 0 to 9, displayed as individual selectable virtual buttons. A user can be required to enter the parameter by tapping individually, tapping twice, tapping and dragging, etc. the desired numbers. Once the desired value has been entered by a user, a user can be required to tap, tap twice, etc. on a virtual "confirm" button, "enter", etc. To fill in the field. For another detailed description of another exemplary way of setting numerical values, see figure 82.

[000656] Figure 73 shows a scenario where the infusion parameters that are programmed are not those of a volume based infusion. In Figure 73, the infusion profile is that of a continuous time/volume dose rate. In the exemplary modality shown in figure 73, all of the parameter input fields were filled in. As shown, the 3302 medication parameter input field in the 3300 GUI has been filled with "HEPARIN" as per the defined infusate. As shown, the drug amount parameter input field in container 3304, the total volume container input field 3306, and the concentration parameter input field 3308 are filled in in Fig. 73. Additionally, since an infusion of time/volume is being programmed, the dose parameter input field 3310 shown in figure 72 has been replaced by a dose rate parameter input field 3318.

[000657] The drug amount parameter input field in container 3304 is a two-part field in the exemplary embodiment shown in Fig. 73. In the exemplary embodiment in Fig. 73 the left field of the drug amount parameter input field drug in container 3304 is a field that can be filled in with a numeric value. The numeric value can be set by the user in the same way that a user can set values in the rate parameter input field 3312, in the VTBI parameter input field 3314 and in the time parameter input field 3316. In the example mode shown in Fig. 73, the numerical value displayed by the GUI 3300 in the field to the left of the drug amount parameter input field in the container 3304 is "25,000".

[000658] The parameter defined by the field to the right of the drug amount parameter input field in container 3304 is the unit of measurement. To set the right of drug amount parameter input field in container 3304, a user can tap the drug amount parameter input field in container 3304 on GUI 3300. In some embodiments, the user can select a list of possible acceptable units of measurement. In such modalities, the desired unit of measurement can be defined by a user, in the same way that a user can define the correct infusate. In other embodiments, touching the drug amount parameter input field on container 3304 may select a virtual keyboard. The user can then enter the correct unit of measurement on the virtual keyboard. In some embodiments, the user may be required to tap, tap twice, etc. a virtual "confirm" button, "enter", etc. to fill in the left field of the drug amount parameter input field in container 3304.

[000659] The parameter input field in the total volume container 3306 can be filled with a numeric value that defines the total volume of a container. In some embodiments, the GUI 3300 may automatically populate the parameter entry field in the full volume container 3306 based on data generated by one or more sensors. In other embodiments, the parameter entry field in the full volume container 3306 can be manually entered by a user. The numeric value can be set by the user in the same way that a user can set values in the rate parameter input field 3312, in the VTBI parameter input field 3314 and in the time parameter input field 3316. In the example mode shown in figure 73, the parameter input field in the full volume container 3306 has been filled with the value "250" ml. The parameter entry field on the 3306 total volume container can be restricted to a unit of measure, such as ml, as shown.

[000660] The concentration parameter input field 3308 is a two-part field similar to the drug amount in container parameter input field 3304. In the exemplary embodiment in Fig. 73, the left field of the drug input field concentration parameter 3308 is a field that can be filled with a numeric value. The numeric value can be set by the user in the same way that a user can set values in the rate parameter input field 3312, in the VTBI parameter input field 3314 and in the time parameter input field 3316. In the example mode shown in figure 73, the numerical value displayed by the GUI 3300 in the field to the left of the concentration parameter input field 3308 is "100".

[000661] The parameter defined by the right field of the concentration parameter input field 3308 is a unit of measure/volume. To set the right field of the 3308 concentration parameter input field, a user can tap the 3308 concentration parameter input field on the 3300 GUI. In some embodiments, the user can select a list of possible acceptable measurement units. In such modalities, the desired unit of measurement can be defined by a user, in the same way that a user can define the correct infusate. In other embodiments, touching the concentration parameter input field 3308 can select a virtual keyboard. The user can then enter the correct unit of measurement on the virtual keyboard. In some embodiments, the user may be required to tap, tap twice, etc. a virtual "confirm" button, "enter", etc. to store the selection and move to a list of acceptable volume measurements. The desired volume measurement can be set by a user in the same way that a user can set the correct infusate. In the example mode shown in figure 73, the right field of the input field of concentration parameter 3308 is filled with the unit of measure/volume "UNITS/ml".

[000662] The drug amount parameter input field in container 3304, the total volume container input field 3306 and the concentration parameter input field 3308 are not independent of each other. As such, a user can only be required to set any one of two of the drug amount in container input field 3304, the total volume container input field 3306, and the drug amount parameter input field 3306. concentration 3308. For example, if a user is to fill in the parameter input field of concentration 3308 and the parameter input field in the total volume container 3306, the parameter input field of amount of drug in the container can be automatically calculated and populated in the 3300 GUI.

[000663] Since the GUI 3300 in Figure 73 is being programmed for a continuous time/volume dose, the dose rate parameter input field 3318 has been filled. The user can define the rate at which the infusate is infused by filling in the dose rate parameter input field 3318. In the example embodiment in figure 73, the dose rate parameter input field 3318 is a double field. similar parts to the drug amount parameter input field 3304 and the concentration parameter input field 3308 described above. A numeric value can be set in the left field of the dose rate parameter input field 3318, by the user, in the same way that a user can set values in the rate parameter input field 3312. In the exemplary embodiment in Fig. 73, the left field of the dose rate parameter input field 3318 has been filled with the value "1000".

[000664] The right field of the dose rate parameter input field 3318 can define a unit of measure/time. To set the right field of the 3318 dose rate parameter input field, a user can tap the 3318 dose rate parameter input field on the 3300 GUI. In some embodiments, the user can select a list of possible dose units. acceptable measure. In such modalities, the desired unit of measurement can be defined by a user in the same way that a user can define the correct infusate. In other embodiments, touching the dose rate parameter input field 3304 can select a soft keyboard. The user can then enter the correct unit of measurement on the virtual keyboard. In some embodiments, the user may be required to tap, tap twice, etc. a virtual button to "confirm", "enter", etc. to store the selection and move to a list of acceptable time measurements. The acceptable time measurement can be defined by a user in the same way that a user can define the correct infusate. In the exemplary embodiment shown in Fig. 73, the right field of the dose rate parameter input field 3318 is filled with the unit of measure/time "UNITS/hr".

[000665] In the example embodiment, the dose rate parameter input field 3318 and the rate parameter input field 3312 are not independent of each other. After a user fills in the dose rate parameter input field 3318 or the rate parameter input field 3312, the parameter input field left empty by the user can be automatically calculated and displayed by the GUI 3300, as long as the field input of concentration parameter 3308 has been set. In the exemplary embodiment shown in Fig. 73 , the rate parameter input field 3312 has been filled with an infusate flow rate of "10 ml/hr". Dose rate parameter input field 3318 has been pre-filled with "1000" "UNITS/hr".

[000666] In the exemplary mode shown in figure 73, the VTBI parameter input field 3314 and the time parameter input field 3316 have also been filled. The VTBI 3314 parameter input field and the 3316 time parameter input field can be completed by a user in the same manner as described with respect to Figure 72. When the GUI 3300 is being programmed for a rate infusion continuous time/volume dose, the VTBI parameter input field 3314 and the time parameter input field 3316 are dependent on each other. A user may only need to fill in one of the VTBI 3314 parameter input field or the 3316 time parameter input field. The field left empty by the user can be automatically calculated and displayed on the 3300 GUI.

[000667] Figure 74 shows a scenario where the infusion parameters that are programmed are those of an infusion based on the amount of drug referred to herein as an intermittent infusion. In the exemplary modality shown in figure 74, all parameter input fields have been filled. As shown, the 3302 medication parameter input field in the 3300 GUI has been filled with the antibiotic "VANCOMICIN" as per the defined infusate.

[000668] As shown, the drug amount parameter input field in container 3304, the total volume container input field 3306 and the concentration parameter input field 3308 are arranged in the same way as in Fig. 73. In the exemplary embodiment in Fig. 74 , the left field of the drug amount parameter input field in container 3304 has been filled with "1". The right field of the drug amount parameter input field in container 3304 has been filled with "g". Then, the total amount of Vancomycin in the container was defined as one gram. The parameter entry field in the 3306 total volume container has been filled with "250" ml. The left field of the 3308 concentration parameter input field has been filled with "4.0". The right field of the concentration parameter input field was filled with "mg/ml".

[000669] As mentioned, in relation to the other possible types of infusions that a user may be able to program through the 3300 GUI, the drug amount parameter input field in the 3304 container, the input field in total volume container 3306 and concentration parameter input field 3308 are dependent on each other. As above, the same is indicated by the double curved arrows connecting the parameter input field names. By filling in any of two of these parameters, the third parameter can be automatically calculated and displayed in the correct parameter input field in the 3300 GUI.

[000670] In the example mode in figure 74, the input field of dose parameter 3310 has been filled. As shown, the dose parameter input field 3310 comprises a left and a right field. A numeric value can be set in the right field of the 3310 dose parameter input field, by the user, in the same way that a user can set values for other parameter input fields that define numeric values. In the exemplary embodiment in figure 74, the left field of the dose parameter input field 3310 has been filled with the value "1000".

[000671] The right field of the dose parameter input field 3310 can define a unit of mass measurement. To set the right field of the 3310 dose parameter input field, a user can tap the 3310 dose parameter input field on the 3300 GUI. In some embodiments, the user can select a list of possible acceptable measurement units. In such modalities, the desired unit of measurement can be defined by a user, in the same way that a user can define the correct infusate. In other embodiments, touching the 3310 dose parameter input field can select a virtual keyboard. The user can then enter the correct unit of measurement on the virtual keyboard. In some embodiments, the user may be required to tap, double tap, slide, etc. a virtual "confirm" button, "enter", etc. to store the selection and move to a list of acceptable mass measurements. The desired mass measurement can be defined by a user, in the same way that a user can define the correct infusate. In the exemplary embodiment shown in Fig. 74, the right field of the dose parameter input field 3310 is filled with the unit of measurement "mg".

[000672] As shown, rate parameter input field 3312, VTBI parameter input field 3314, and time parameter input field 3316 have been populated. As shown, the rate parameter input field 3312 has been populated with "125" ml/h. The parameter input field of VTBI 3314 was set to "250" ml. Time parameter input field 3316 was set to "2" h "00" min.

[000673] User may not need to individually define each of the 3310 dose parameter input field, 3312 rate parameter input field, 3314 VTBI parameter input field, and 3314 dose parameter input field. time 3316. As indicated by the double curved arrows, the dose parameter input field 3310 and the VTBI parameter input field 3314 are dependent on each other. Entering one value can allow the other value to be automatically calculated and displayed by the GUI 3300. Rate parameter input field 3312 and time parameter input field 3316 are also dependent on each other. The user may only need to define a value and then allow the undefined value to be automatically calculated and displayed on the GUI 3300. In some embodiments, the rate parameter input field 3312, the VTBI parameter input field 3314 and the time parameter input field 3316 can be locked in the GUI 3300 until the drug amount parameter input field in the container 3304, the parameter input field in the total volume container 3306 and the input field of concentration parameter 3308 have been set. These fields can be locked due to the fact that the automatic calculation of rate parameter input field 3312, VTBI parameter input field 3314 and time parameter input field 3316 is dependent on values in the input field drug amount parameter in container 3304, in the parameter entry field in the total volume container 3306 and in the concentration parameter entry field 3308.

[000674] In scenarios where an infusate may require dosing based on body weight, a 3320 weight parameter input field may also be displayed in the 3300 GUI. The 3300 example GUI shown in Fig. 75 has been arranged so that a user can program a dosage based on body weight. Parameter input fields can be defined by a user, as detailed in the above discussion. In the exemplary embodiment, the infusate in medication parameter entry field 3302 was set to "DOPAMINE". The left field of the drug amount parameter input field in container 3304 has been set to "400". The right field of the drug amount parameter input field in container 3304 was set to "mg". The parameter entry field in the 3306 total volume container has been set to "250" ml. The left field of the 3308 concentration parameter input field was set to "1.6". The right field of the 3308 concentration parameter input field was set to "mg/ml". The 3320 weight parameter input field has been set to "90" kg. The left field of the 3318 dose rater parameter input field was set to "5.0". The right field of the 3318 dose rate parameter input field was set to "mcg/kg/min". Rate parameter input field 3312 was set to "16.9" ml/h. The parameter input field of VTBI 3314 was set to "250"ml. Time parameter input field 3316 was set to "14" h "48" min.

[000675] To set the 3320 weight parameter input field, a user can tap or tap the 3320 weight parameter input field on the 3300 GUI. In some embodiments, the user can select a numeric keypad with a range of numbers, such as 0 to 9, displayed as individual selectable virtual buttons. A user can be required to enter the parameter by tapping individually, tapping twice, tapping and dragging, etc. the desired numbers. Once the desired value has been entered by a user, a user can be required to tap, tap twice, etc. a virtual "confirm" button, "enter", etc. to fill in the field.

[000676] As indicated by the double curved arrows, some parameter input fields displayed on the 3300 GUI may be dependent on each other. As in previous examples, the drug amount parameter input field in container 3304, the parameter input field in the total volume container 3306, and the concentration parameter input field 3308 may be dependent on each other. In Fig. 75, the weight parameter input field 3320, the dose rater parameter input field 3318, the rate parameter input field 3312, the VTBI parameter input field 3314 and the input field of time parameter 3316 are all dependent on each other. When enough information has been defined by the user in these parameter input fields, the parameter input fields not filled in by the user can be automatically calculated and displayed in the 3300 GUI.

[000677] In some embodiments, a user may be required to define a specific parameter input field, even if enough information is defined to automatically calculate the field. This can improve usage security by presenting more opportunities for user input errors to be caught. If a value entered by a user does not match values already defined, the 3300 GUI can display an alert or alarm message, prompting the user to double-check the values the user has entered.

[000678] In some scenarios, infusate delivery may be informed by a patient's body surface area (BSA). In Figure 76, the GUI 3300 has been configured for an infusion based on body surface area. As shown, a BSA 3322 parameter input field can be displayed on the 3300 GUI. Parameter input fields can be defined by a user, as detailed in the above discussion. In the exemplary modality, the infusate in the medication parameter input field 3302 was set to "FLUOROURACILA". The left field of the drug amount parameter input field in container 3304 was set to "1700". The right field of the drug amount parameter input field in container 3304 was set to "mg". The parameter input field in the 3306 total volume container has been set to "500" ml. The left field of the 3308 concentration parameter input field was set to "3.4". The right field of the 3308 concentration parameter input field was set to "mg/ml". The parameter input field of BSA 3320 was set to "1.7" m2. The left field of the dose rate parameter input field 3318 has been set to "1000". The right field of the 3318 dose rate parameter input field was set to "mg/m2/day". Rate parameter input field 3312 was set to "20.8" ml/h. The parameter input field of VTBI 3314 was set to "500"ml. Time parameter input field 3316 has been set to "24" h "00" min. The dependent parameter input fields are the same as in figure 75, with the exception that the BSA parameter input field 3322 has taken the place of the weight parameter input field 3320.

[000679] To fill in the parameter input field of BSA 3322, the user can tap or tap the parameter input field of BSA 3322 on GUI 3300. In some embodiments, the user can select a numeric keypad with a range of numbers, such as 0 to 9, displayed as individual selectable virtual buttons. In some embodiments, the numeric keypad and any of the numeric keypads detailed above may also feature symbols, such as a decimal point. A user can be required to enter the parameter by tapping individually, tapping twice, tapping and dragging, etc. the desired numbers. Once the desired value has been entered by a user, a user can be required to tap, tap twice, etc. a virtual "confirm" button, "enter", etc. to fill in the field.

[000680] In some modalities, a patient's BSA can be automatically calculated and displayed on the GUI 3300. In such modalities, the GUI 3300 can query the user for patient information when a user taps, taps, etc. in the parameter input field of BSA 3322. For example, the user may be prompted to define a patient height and body weight. After the user defines these values, they can be executed through a suitable formula to find the patient's BSA. The calculated BSA can then be used to populate the BSA 3322 parameter input field in the 3300 GUI.

[000681] In operation, the values displayed in the parameter entry fields may change throughout the course of a programmed infusion to reflect the current state of the infusion. For example, as infusate is infused into a patient, the values displayed by the GUI 3300 in the drug amount parameter input field at container 3304 and in the parameter input field at total volume container 3306 may decline to reflect the volume of the remaining contents of the container. Additionally, the values in the VTBI parameter input field 3314 and the time parameter input field 3316 may also decline as the infusate is infused into the patient.

[000682] Fig. 77 is an exemplary time-over-rate graph detailing a behavioral configuration of a syringe pump 500 (see Fig. 28) over the course of an infusion. While the following discussion primarily details behavioral settings of a 500 syringe pump, it should be noted that the graphs shown in Figures 77 to 81 may also detail the behavioral settings of other pumps, including the other pumps mentioned in this descriptive report. The graph in Figure 77 details an exemplary behavioral configuration of syringe pump 500, wherein the infusion is a continuous infusion (a dose rate infusion). As shown, the graph in Figure 77 starts at the beginning of the infusion. As shown, the infusion is administered at a constant rate over a period of time. As the infusion progresses, the remaining amount of infusate is emptied.

[000683] When the amount of infusate remaining reaches a predetermined threshold, an "INFUSION NEAR END ALERT" may be triggered. The point at which the "INFUSION ALERT NEAR END" is issued is user configurable. The "INFUSION ALERT NEAR END" can also be set to trigger immediately for short half-life drugs. The "INFUSION NEAR END ALERT" may be in the form of a message on the 3300 GUI and may be accompanied by flashing lights and audible noises such as multiple beeps. The "INFUSION ALERT NEAR END" allows time for the healthcare and pharmacy professional to prepare materials to continue the infusion if necessary. As shown, the infusion rate cannot change over the "NEAR END INFUSION ALERT TIME".

[000684] When the Syringe Pump 500 (see Figure 28) has infused VTBI to a patient, a "ZERO VTBI ALERT" may be triggered. The "VTBI ZERO ALERT" may be in the form of a message on the 3300 GUI and may be accompanied by flashing lights and audible noises such as beeps. As shown, the "ZERO VTBI ALERT" causes the pump to switch to a keep the vein open rate (hereinafter KVO) until a new container of infusate can be put in place. The KVO rate is a low infusion rate (eg 5 to 25 ml/h). The rate is set to keep the infusion site patent until a new infusion can be started. The KVO rate is configurable by group (developed later) or medication and can be modified on the 500 syringe pump. The KVO rate is not allowed to exceed the continuous infusion rate. When the KVO rate can no longer be extended and the syringe has reached the end of its stroke, an "END OF LIMIT ALARM" may be triggered. When the "LIMITED LIMIT ALARM" is triggered, all infusion may stop. The "LIMITED LIMIT ALARM" may be in the form of a message on the 3300 GUI and may be accompanied by flashing lights and audible noises such as beeps.

[000685] Fig. 78 shows another exemplary time-over-rate graph detailing a behavioral configuration of a syringe pump 500 (see Fig. 28) over the course of an infusion. The graph in Figure 78 details an exemplary behavioral configuration of a 500 syringe pump where the infusion is a continuous infusion (an infusion with a dose rate). The alerts in the graph shown in Figure 78 are the same as the alerts shown in the graph in Figure 77. The conditions under which the alerts propagate are also the same. The rate, however, remains constant over the entire chart until the "END OF COURSE ALERT" is triggered and the infusion is stopped. Continuing the infusion at a constant rate ensures that the blood plasma concentration of the drug remains at therapeutically effective levels. Setting the pump to continue the infusion at a constant rate may be especially desirable in situations where the infusate is a drug with a short half-life. In some embodiments, the end of the syringe pump 500's infusion behavior may be restricted, depending on the defined infusate. For example, when the defined infusate is a short half-life drug, the end of the infusion behavior of the syringe pump 500 may be limited to only continuing to infuse at the rate of the finished infusion.

[000686] The Syringe Pump 500 (see Figure 28) can also be used to deliver an intermittent primary or secondary infusion. During an intermittent infusion, an amount of a drug (dose) is administered to a patient as opposed to a continuous infusion where the drug is given at a specified dose rate (amount/time). An intermittent infusion is also delivered over a defined period of time, however the time period and dose are independent of each other. The previously described figure 73 shows a configuration of the GUI 3300 for a continuous infusion. The previously described figure 74 shows a GUI 3300 configuration for an intermittent infusion.

[000687] Fig. 79 is an exemplary time-over-rate graph detailing a behavioral configuration of a syringe pump 500 (see Fig. 28) over the course of an intermittent infusion. As shown, intermittent infusion is given at a constant rate until all infusate programmed for intermittent infusion has been emptied. In the exemplary behavioral configuration, the syringe pump 500 has been programmed to issue a "ZERO VTBI ALERT" and to infuse when all of the infusate has been dispensed. In this configuration, the user may be required to manually clear the alert before another infusion can be started or renewed.

[000688] Depending on the group (further elaborated later) or medication, it may be desirable to configure the syringe pump 500 to behave differently after an intermittent infusion. Other configurations may cause a 500 syringe pump (see Figure 28) to behave differently. For example, in scenarios where the intermittent infusion is a secondary infusion, the pump 201, 202, 203 (see figure 2) can be configured to automatically switch back to the primary infusion after issuing a notification that the intermittent secondary infusion has been completed. In alternate configurations, a 500 syringe pump can be configured to issue a "ZERO VTBI ALERT" and lower the infusion rate at a rate of KVO, after completing the intermittent infusion. In such configurations, the user may be required to manually clear the alert before a primary infusion is renewed.

[000689] A bolus may also be delivered as an intermittent primary infusion when it may be necessary or desirable to achieve a higher concentration of drug from blood plasma or to manifest a more immediate therapeutic effect. In such cases, the bolus may be delivered by a pump 201, 202, 203 (see Figure 2) which performs the primary infusion. The bolus can be delivered from the same container from which the primary infusion is being delivered. A bolus can be given at any point during an infusion as long as there is enough infusate to deliver the bolus. Any volume delivered as a bolus to a patient is included in the value displayed by the primary infusion VTBI 3314 parameter entry field.

[000690] Depending on the infusate, a user may be prohibited from performing a bolus. The dosage of a bolus can be preset depending on the specific infusate or concentration of infusate that is used. Additionally, the time period over which the bolus occurs can be predefined depending on the infusate that is used. After performing a bolus, the bolus function can be locked for a predefined period of time. In some embodiments, a user may be able to adjust these presets by adjusting various settings in the GUI 3300. In some situations, such as those where the drug that is infused has a long half-life (vancomycin, teicoplanin, etc. .), a bolus can be given as a loading dose to more quickly achieve a therapeutically effective blood plasma drug concentration.

[000691] Figure 80 shows another time-over-rate graph at which the infusate flow rate was titrated to "increase" the patient's infusate. Titration is often used with drugs that have a rapid therapeutic effect but have a short half-life (such as norepinephrine). To the holder, the user can adjust the rate of delivery of the infusate, until the desired therapeutic effect is manifested. Each setting can be checked against various limits defined for the specific infusate that is administered to the patient. If an infusion changes by more than a pre-set percentage, an alert may be issued. In the example graph shown in Figure 80, the rate was titrated higher once. If necessary, the rate can be titrated higher more than once. Additionally, in cases where titration is being used to "step down" one of a patient, the rate can be titrated lower any suitable number of times.

[000692] Figure 81 is another graph of time over rate at which the infusion was set up as a multi-step infusion. A multi-step infusion can be programmed in a number of different steps. Each step can be defined by a VTBI, a time and a dose rate. Multistage infusions may be useful for certain types of infusates, such as those used for parenteral nutrition applications. In the graphical example shown in Figure 81, the infusion has been set up as a five-step infusion. The first step infuses a "VTBI 1" for a period of time, "Time 1", at a constant rate, "Rate 1". When the time interval for the first step has elapsed, the pump moves to the second step of the multi-step infusion. The second stage infuses a "VTBI 2" for a period of time, "Time 2", at a constant rate, "Rate 2". As shown, "Rate 2" is higher than "Rate 1". When the time interval for the second stage has elapsed, the pump moves to the third stage of the multistage infusion. The third stage infuses a "VTBI 3" for a period of time, "Time 3", at a constant rate, "Rate 3". As shown "Rate 3" is the highest rate of any of the steps in the multi-step infusion. "Time 3" is also the longest duration of any multi-step infusion step. When the time interval for the third step has elapsed, the pump moves to the fourth step of the multi-step infusion. The fourth step infuses a "VTBI 4" for a period of time, "Time 4", at a constant rate, "Rate 4". As shown, "Rate 4" was titrated lower from "Rate 3". "Rate 4" is approximately the same as "Rate 2". When the time interval for the fourth stage of the multistage infusion has elapsed, the pump moves to the fifth stage. The fifth stage infuses a "VTBI 5" for a period of time, "Time 5", at a constant rate, "Rate 5". As shown, "Rate 5" was titrated lower from "Rate 4" and is approximately the same as "Rate 1".

[000693] The "INFUSION ALERT NEAR END" is triggered during the fourth step of the example infusion, shown in Figure 81. At the end of the fifth and final stage of the multi-step infusion, the "ZERO VTBI ALERT" is triggered. In the exemplary configuration shown in the graph in Fig. 81, the rate is lowered at a rate of KVO, after the multi-step infusion has been completed and the "ZERO VTBI ALERT" has been issued. Other settings may differ.

[000694] Each rate change in a multi-step infusion can be handled in a variety of different ways. In some configurations, the Syringe Pump 500 (see Figure 2) may display a notification and automatically adjust the rate to move to the next step. In other configurations, the Syringe Pump 500 may issue an alert before changing the rate and wait for user confirmation before adjusting the rate and moving to the next step. In such configurations, the pump 500 may stop infusion or drop at a KVO rate until user confirmation has been received.

[000695] In some modes, the user may be able to pre-program infusions. The user can pre-program an infusion to be automatically after a fixed time interval has elapsed (eg 2 hours). The infusion can also be programmed to automatically run at a specific time of day (eg 12:30 pm). In some embodiments, the user may be able to program the Syringe Pump 500 (see Figure 28) to alert the user with a callback function when it is time for pre-infusion to be programmed. The user may need to confirm the start of the programmed pre-infusion. The return function may be multiple audible beeps, flashing lights, or the like.

[000696] In arrangements where there is more than one 201, 202, 203 pump (see figure 2), the user may be able to program a relay infusion. The relay infusion can be programmed so that after a first pump 201, 202, 203 has completed its infusion, a second pump 201, 202, 203 can automatically be a second infusion and so on. The user can also program a relay infusion so that the user is alerted via the feedback function before the relay occurs. In such a programmed arrangement, relay infusion cannot be until a user's confirmation has been received. A pump 201, 202, 203 may continue a KVO rate until user acknowledgment has been received.

[000697] Figure 82 shows an exemplary block diagram of a data structure of the "Drug Administration Library". The data structure can be stored in any file format or in any database (eg an SQL database). In the upper right corner is a box that is substantially rectangular, although its edges are rounded. The box is associated with the name "General Settings". "General Settings" may include settings that would be common to all devices in a facility, such as location name (eg Hospital XZY), language, common passwords, and the like.

[000698] In figure 82, the "Drug Administration Library" has two boxes that are associated with the names "Group Settings (UTI)" and "Group Settings". These boxes form the headers for their own columns. These boxes can be used to define a group within a facility (eg, pediatric intensive care unit, emergency room, subacute care, etc.) where the device is situated. Groups can also be areas outside of a parent facility, for example, a patient's home, or an inter-hospital transport, such as an ambulance. Each group can be used to configure specific settings for various groups within a facility (weight, titration limits, etc.). These groups can alternatively be defined in other ways. For example, groups can be defined by user training level. The group can be defined by a previously designated individual or any one of several previously designated individuals and changed if the patient or associated device is moved from a specific group within a facility to another.

[000699] In the example mode, the left column is the "Group Settings (ICU)" which indicates that the syringe pump 500 (see figure 28) is located in the intensive care unit of the facility. The right column is for "Group Settings" and has not been defined further. In some embodiments, this column can be used to designate a subgroup, eg operator training level. As indicated by the lines extending outside the box to the left of the block diagram of the "Group Settings (UTI)" and "Group Settings" columns, the settings for these groups can include a predefined number of configuration settings. pattern.

[000700] Group settings can include limits on patient weight, limits on patient BSA, air alarm sensitivity, obstruction sensitivity, KVO failure rates, VTBI limits, etc. Group settings can also include parameters such as whether or not a review of a scheduled infusion is required for high-risk infusions, whether the user needs to identify themselves before starting an infusion, whether the user needs to enter a text comment after a limit has been exceeded, etc. A user can also set defaults for various attributes, such as screen brightness or speaker volume. In some embodiments, a user may be able to program the screen to automatically adjust the screen brightness, in relation to one or more conditions, such as, but not limited to, the time of day.

[000701] As also shown on the left of the block diagram in Figure 82, each facility can have a "Major Medication List" that defines all of the infusates that can be used in the facility. The "Master Medication List" may comprise various medications that a qualified individual can update or maintain. In the exemplary modality, the "Main Medication List" has only three medications: Heparin, 0.9% Normal Saline and Alteplase. Each group within a facility can have its own list of medications used in the group. In the exemplary modality, the "Group Medication List (ICU)" includes only a single medication, Heparin.

[000702] As shown, each medication can be associated with one or several clinical uses. In Figure 82 the "Clinical Use Records" are defined for each medication in a Group Medication List and appear as an expanded subheader for each infusate. Clinical uses can be used to adapt thresholds and preset settings for each clinical use of infusate. For Heparin, weight-based dosing and non-weight-based dosing are shown in Figure 82 as possible clinical uses. In some embodiments, there may be a "Clinical Use Record" setting that requires the user to review or re-enter a patient weight (or BSA) before starting an infusion.

[000703] Clinical uses can also be defined for the different medical uses of each infusate (eg, stroke, heart attack, etc.) instead of or in addition to the infusate dose mode. Clinical usage can also be used to define whether the infusate is given as a continuous primary infusion, intermittent primary infusion, secondary infusion, etc. They can also be used to provide appropriate limits on dose, rate, VTBI, duration of time, etc. Clinical uses can also provide titration change limits, bolus availability, loading dose availability, and many other infusion-specific parameters. In some embodiments, it may be necessary to provide at least one clinical use for each infusate on the Group Medication List.

[000704] Each clinical use may additionally comprise another expanded subheader in which the concentration may also be defined. In some cases, there may be more than one possible concentration of an infusate. In the exemplary embodiment in Fig. 82, the weight based dosage clinical use has a concentration of 400 mg/250 ml and a concentration of 800 mg/250 ml. Clinical use of non-weight based dosing has only one concentration, 400 mg/ml. Concentrations can also be used to define an acceptable range for cases where the user can customize the infusate concentration. The concentration setting can include information on drug concentration (as shown), volume of diluents, or other related information.

[000705] In some modalities, the user can browse the "Drug Administration Library" to fill in some of the parameter input fields shown in figures 72 to 76. The user can also browse the "Drug Administration Library" to choose , from the clinical uses for each infusate, what type of infusion the Syringe Pump 500 (see Figure 28) will deliver. For example, if a user were to select the weight-based Heparin dosage in figure 82, the 3300 GUI could display the infusion programming screen shown in figure 75 with "Heparin" filled in in the 3302 medication parameter entry field. Selecting a clinical use of a drug can also prompt a user to select a drug concentration. This concentration can then be used to populate the 3308 concentration parameter input field (see figures 72 to 76). In some embodiments, the "Drug Administration Library" may be updated and maintained external to the syringe pump 500 and communicated with the syringe pump 500 by any suitable means. In such embodiments, the "Drug Administration Library" cannot be changeable on the Syringe Pump 500, but can only place limits and/or restrictions on programming options for a user who fills in the parameter entry fields shown in the figures 72 to 76.

[000706] As mentioned above, by choosing a medication and clinical use from the Group Medication List, a user may also be setting thresholds in other parameter input fields for infusion programming screens. For example, defining a medication in the "Drug Administration Library" a user may also be setting limits for the dose parameter input field 3310, the dose rate parameter input field 3318, the input field rate parameter input field 3312, VTBI parameter input field 3314, time parameter input field 3316, etc. These limits can be preset for each clinical use of an infusate, prior to programming an infusion by a user. In some disciplines, limits can have either a light limit or a heavy limit, with the heavy limit being the maximum point for the light limit. In some modalities, group settings may include limits for all of the medications available to the group. In such cases, clinical use limits can be defined for later adaptation of group limits for each clinical use of a particular medication.

[000707] The software architecture of the syringe pump 500 is shown schematically in Figure 83. The software architecture divides the software into cooperating subsystems that interact to perform the required pumping action. The software is equally applicable to all the modalities described in this document. It is also possible to apply the software to other pumps not described in this document. Each subsystem can be composed of one or more threads of execution controlled by the underlying operating system. Useful terms used in the art include operating system, subsystem, process, process subelement, and task.

[000708] Asynchronous 4130 messages are used to "push" information to the target task or process. The sender process or task does not get message delivery confirmation. Data delivered in this way is typically repetitive in nature. If messages are expected on a consistent schedule, the receiver process or task may detect a failure if a message does not arrive on time.

[000709] Synchronous 4120 messages can be used to send a command to a task or process or to request ("extract") information from a process or task. After sending the command (or request), the originating task or process suspends execution while waiting for a response. The response may contain the requested information or may confirm receipt of the message sent. If a response is not received on time, the sending process or task may time out. In such an event, the sending process or task may renew execution and/or may signal an error condition.

[000710] An operating system (OS) is a set of software that manages computer hardware resources and provides common services to computer programs. The operating system can act as an intermediary between programs and computer hardware. While some application code can be executed directly by the hardware, application code can often make a system call to or be interrupted by an OS function.

[000711] The RTP 3500 can run a Real Time Operating System (RTOS) that has been certified to a security level for medical devices. An RTOS is a multitasking operating system that targets real-time running applications. Real-time operating systems often use specialized programming algorithms so that they can achieve a deterministic nature of behavior. The UIP 3600 can run on a Linux operating system. The Linux operating system is a Unix-like computer operating system.

[000712] A subsystem is a set of software (and perhaps hardware) assigned to a specific set of (related) system functionality or functionality. A subsystem has clearly defined responsibilities and a clearly defined interface to other subsystems. A subsystem is an architectural division of software that uses one or more processes, discussion forums, or tasks.

[000713] A process is an executable run independently of a Linux operating system that runs in its own virtual address space. The memory management hardware in the CPU is used to enforce the integrity and isolation of that memory by writing-protecting the code space and disabling data access outside the process memory region. Processes can only pass data to other processes using interprocess communication facilities.

[000714] In Linux, a process sub-element is a concurrent path, programmed separately from program execution. In Linux, a process sub-element is always associated with a process (which must have at least one process sub-element and can have multiple discussion boards). Discussion forums share the same memory space as their "matrix" process. Data can be directly shared among all of the discussion forums that belong to a process, but care must be taken to properly synchronize access to shared items. Each process sub-element has a given execution priority.

[000715] A Task in an RTOS (Real Time Operating System) is a concurrent path, programmed separately from program execution, analogous to a "process sub-element" of Linux. All tasks share the same memory address space, which consists of the entire CPU memory map. When using an RTOS that provides memory protection, each effective task memory map is constrained, by the Memory Protection Unit (MPU) hardware, to the common code space and the task's private heap and data space.

[000716] Processes on the UIP 3600 communicate via IPC calls, as shown by the one-way arrows in Figure 83. Each solid line arrow represents a 4120 synchronous message call and response, and the dotted line arrows are messages 4130. Tasks in RTP 3500 communicate similarly with each other. The RTP 3500 and UIP 3600 can be traversed by a 3601 asynchronous serial line, with one of an InterCom 4110 Process or an InterCom 4210 Task on each side. The InterCom 4110 Process features the same communications API (Application Programming Interface) on both sides of the bridge, so all processes and tasks can use the same method calls to interact.

[000717] Executive Process 4320 can be invoked by Linux system boot scripts after all operating system services have started. The 4320 Executive Process then launches the various executable files that comprise the software on the UIP 3600. If any of the software components should unexpectedly quit or fail, the 4320 Executive Process can be notified and can generate the appropriate alarm.

[000718] While the system is running, the 4320 Executive Process can act as a software "watchdog" for various system components. After registering with Executive Process 4320, a process is required to "check" or send a signal periodically to Executive Process 4320. Failure to "check" within the required interval can be detected by Executive Process 4320. Upon detection of a failing subsystem, the 4320 Executive Process can take corrective action of: do nothing, declare an alarm, or restart the failed process. The corrective action taken is predetermined by a table entry compiled in Executive Process 4320. The "check in" interval may vary from process to process. The amount of variation between "check-in" times for different processes may be based, in part, on the importance of the process. The check interval can also be varied during syringe pump 500 operation to improve pump controller response by minimizing computer processes. In an exemplary embodiment, during syringe loading 504, the pump controller may check less frequently than during active pumping.

[000719] In response to the required check message, Executive Process 4320 may return various system status items for processes that have been checked. System status items can be status of one or more components on the 500 syringe pump and/or errors. System status items can include: battery status, WiFi connection status, device comm port connection status, device status (Idle, Infusion Run, Diagnostic Mode, Error, etc.), indications technical error and engineering log levels.

[000720] A process sub-element running on the Executive Process 4320 can be used to read the state of the 3420 battery from an internal monitor chip in the 3420 battery. This can be done at a relatively infrequent interval, such as every 10 seconds .

[000721] UI View 4330 implements the graphical user interface (GUI 3300, see Figure 71), which renders the display graphics on monitor 514 and responds to touchscreen input in modalities comprising a touchscreen to touch, or to inputs communicated through other input means 516. The Vista design of UI 4330 is stateless. The graph that is displayed can be commanded by the 4340 UI Model Process, along with any variable data to be displayed. The commanded graph can be restored periodically, regardless of data changes.

[000722] The style and appearance of user input dialogs (Soft keyboard, drop-down list, checkbox, etc.) can be specified by the screen design, and implemented entirely by the UI View 4330. user can be collected by UI View 4330, and sent to UI Model 4340 for interpretation. UI View 4330 can provide multilingual, multi-region support with facilities for the following list which includes, but is not limited to: virtual keyboards, single-code character strings, loadable fonts, right-to-left input, installation of translation (downloadable translation files) and configurable number and date formats.

[000723] UI Model 4340 deploys screen flows, and then controls the user experience. The US Model 4340 interacts with the UI View 4330, specifying the screen to display, and supplies any transient values to be displayed on the screen. Here, screen refers to the image displayed on physical monitor 514 and defined interactive areas or user dialogs, ie buttons, adjusters, numeric keypads, etc., on touchscreen 3735. UI Model 4340 interprets any user input sent from the UI 4330 View and can update the values on the current screen, command a new screen or pass the request to the appropriate system service (i.e. the "pumping start" is passed to the RTP 3500 ).

[000724] When selecting a medication to infuse from the Drug Administration Library, the 4340 UI Model interacts with the Drug Administration Library stored in the local database, which is part of the 4350 Database System. User selections configure runtime settings to schedule and administer the desired medication.

[000725] While the operator is entering an infusion program, the UI Model 4340 can relay user input values to the Infusion Manager 4360 for validation and interpretation. Therapeutic decisions cannot be made by the 4340 UI Model. Treatment values can be passed from the 4360 Infusion Manager to the 4340 UI Model so that the 4330 UI View is displayed to the user.

[000726] The 4340 UI Model can continuously monitor the 4360 Infusion Manager's accumulated device status (current infusion progress, alerts, etc.) for possible display by the 4330 UI View. Alerts/Alarms and other status changes system may cause a screen change by UI Model 4340.

[000727] The 4360 Infusion Manager (IM) Process can validate and control the infusion delivered by the 500 Syringe Pump. To start an infusion, the user can interact with the 4330/4340 UI/Model View to select a medication and specific clinical use. This descriptive report selects a specific Drug Administration Library (DAL) entry for use. The IM 4360 loads this DAL entry from the 4350 database for use in validating and executing the infusion.

[000728] Once a Drug Administration Library entry is selected, the IM 4340 can pass the dose mode, limits for all user parameters that can be entered and default values (if defined) for the 4340 UI Template. Using this data, the 4340 UI Template can guide the user through entering the infusion program.

[000729] As each parameter is entered by the user, the value can be sent from the UI View/Model 4330/4340 to the IM 4360 for checking. The IM 4360 echoes the parameters back to the UI/Model 4330/4340 View, along with an indication of parameter conformance to DAL limits. This allows the 4330/4340 UI/Model View to notify the user of any values that are out of bounds.

[000730] When a complete set of valid parameters has been entered, the IM 4360 can also return to a valid infusion indicator, which allows the UI/Model 4330/4340 View to present a "start" control to the user.

[000731] IM 4360 can simultaneously make infusion/pump situation available for UI View/Model 4330/4340 upon request. If the 4330/4340 UI/Model View is displaying a "status" screen, it may request this data to populate it. The data can be a composite of the infusion state and the pump state.

[000732] When prompted to perform the infusion (valid), the IM 4360 can pass the "Infusion Worksheet" which contains the user specified data and the "Infusion Template" which contains the read-only limits of the DAL as a block CRC'd binary for the 4220 Infusion Control Task running on the RTP 3500. The 4220 Infusion Control Task on the RTP 3500 takes the same user inputs, conversions and DERS entries and recalculates the Infusion Worksheet. The calculated results of the Infusion Control Task 4220 can be stored in a second binary block of CRC'd and compared to the first binary block of the UIP 3600. The infusion calculations performed on the UIP 3600 can be recalculated and double checked on the RTP 3500, before the infusion is performed.

[000733] Coefficients for converting input values (i.e., l, grams, %, etc.) to a standard unit, such as ml, can be stored in the 3600 UIP memory or 4350 database system. Coefficients can be stored in a lookup table or in specific memory locations. The lookup table can contain 10's of conversion values. In order to reduce the chance that inverting a single bit will result in the wrong conversion factor being used, the addresses for the conversion values can be distributed between the values from zero to 4294967296 or 232. The addresses can be selected from so that the binary form of an address is never a single bit different from a second address.

[000734] While an infusion is running, the IM 4360 can monitor its progress, sequences, pauses, restarts, secondary infusions, boluses and KVO (keep the vein open) scenarios as needed. Any user alerts requested during the infusion (Infusion near completion, KVO callback, secondary completion callback, etc.) can be tracked and triggered by the IM 4360.

[000735] Processes on the UIP 3600 can communicate with each other through a message-to-owner scheme, based on a message queue library that is available with Linux. The system provides both acknowledgment (synchronous message 4120) and non-acknowledged (asynchronous message 4130) message passing.

[000736] Messages destined for the Real Time Processor (RTP) 3500 can be passed to the InterCom Process 4310 which forwards the messages to the RTP 3500 over a serial link 3601. A similar InterCom Task 4210 on the RTP 3500 can relay the message to its intended destination, through the RTP 3500 message transmission system.

[000737] The message transmission scheme used on this 3601 serial link can provide error detection and retransmission of unsent messages on failure. This may be necessary to allow the system to be less susceptible to electrical interference that can occasionally "tamper" interprocessor communications.

[000738] To maintain a consistent interface across all tasks, message payloads used with the message passing system can be data classes derived from a common base class (Message-Base). This class adds both data identity (message type) and data integrity (CRC) to messages.

[000739] The 4370 Audio Server Process can be used to render sounds on the system. All user feedback sounds (key press beeps) and alarm or alert tones can be produced by playing pre-recorded sound files. The sound system can also be used to play music or speech if desired.

[000740] Sound requests can be symbolic (such as "Play High Priority Alarm Sound"), with actual sound file selection built into the 4370 Audio Server Process. The ability to switch to an alternate sound environment can be provided. This ability can be used to customize sounds for linguistic or regional differences.

[000741] 4380 Device Gateway Communication Manager Process (DGCM) can manage communications with Device Gateway Server over a 3620, 3622,3720 Wi-Fi network. The DGCM 4380 can be started and monitored by the Executive Process 4320. If the DGCM 4380 exits unexpectedly, it can be restarted by the Executive Process 4320, but if the faults are persistent, the system can continue to function without running a gateway. .

[000742] It may be the function of the DGCM 4380 to establish and maintain the Wi-Fi connection and then establish a connection to a Device Communication port. All interactions between the DGCM 4380 and a Device Communication port use a system, such as the system described in the non-provisional cross-referenced order for System, Method, and Apparatus for Electronic Patient Care (Lawyer Dossier No. J85).

[000743] If the connection to a communication port is unavailable or becomes unavailable, the DGCM 4380 may stop any transfers in progress, and attempt to reconnect the link. Transfers can be renewed when the link is re-established. Network and Comm Port operational states are periodically reported to the 4320 Executive Process. The 4320 Executive Process distributes this information for display to the user.

[000744] The DGCM 4380 can function as a standalone subsystem, polling the Device Gateway Server for updates and downloading newer items when available. In addition, the DGCM 4380 can monitor the log tables in the database, which load new log events as soon as they become available. Events that are successfully loaded can be marked as such in the database. After a reconnection to the Device Comm Port Server, the DGCM 4380 can "catch up" the log payloads, which sends all items that were entered during the communications interruption. Firmware and Drug Administration Library updates received from the Comm Port can be staged in the UIP 3600 file system for subsequent installation. Infusion schedules, clinical recommendations, patient identification and other data items intended for the device can be prepared in the database.

[000745] The DGCM 4380 can report connection status and date/time updates to the Executive Process 4320. There can be no other direct connections between the DGCM 4380 and any of the other operating software. Such a design decouples operational software from the potentially transient availability of the Device Gateway and Wi-Fi network.

[000746] The 4383 Motor Verification Software can read an encoder or hardware counter 1202 (figure 60) that reports the rotation of motor 1200. The software in this module can independently estimate the movements of motor 1200 and compare them to the expected movement, based on user inputs for the infusion rate. This can be an independent check for proper motor control. However, the 1200 prime mover control software can run on the RTP 3500.

[000747] Event information can be written to a register via the 4386 Registration Process during normal operation. These events can consist of internal machine status and measurements as well as therapy history events. Due to the volume and frequency of event log data, these log operations can be temporarily stored in a FIFO queue while waiting to be written to the database.

[000748] An SQL database (PostgreSQL) can be used to store the Drug Administration Library, Local Machine Settings, Infusion History and Machine Log data. Stored procedures executed by the database server can be used to isolate the application from internal database structures.

[000749] The 4350 database system can be used as a temporary storage for log data destined for the Device Comm Port Server, as well as a staging area for infusion settings and prompts sent to the Comm Port pump. Communication.

[000750] Upon request to start an infusion, the DAL input and all user selected parameters can be sent to the Infusion Control Task 4220. All of the DAL validations and a recalculation of the infusion rate and volume based on the requested dose can be performed. The result can be checked against the results calculated by the IM 4360 on the UIP 3600. These results may be required to combine to proceed.

[000751] When running an infusion, the 4220 Infusion Control Task can control the delivery of each infusion "segment"; that is, a part of an infusion consisting of a volume and a rate. Examples of segments are: a primary infusion, a KVO, a bolus, residue of primer after bolus, primer after titration, etc. Infusion segments are sequenced by the IM Process 4360 on the UIP 3600.

[000752] The 4250 Pump Control Task can incorporate controllers that drive the pumping mechanism. The desired pump rate and amount (VTBI) can be specified in commands sent from the 4220 Infusion Control Task.

[000753] The 4250 Pump Control can receive periodic sensor readings from the 4264 Sensor Task. The new sensor readings can be used to determine a motor position and speed and to calculate the desired command to send to the Motor Control Without Brush IRQ 4262. Receipt of the sensor message can trigger a recalculation of the controller output.

[000754] While pumping fluid, the 4250 Pump Control Task can perform at least one of the following tasks: control pumping speed, measure delivered volume, measure sensed air (via a spin time window), measure fluid pressure or other indications of clogs and detect upstream clogs.

[000755] Relevant measurements can be reported to the RTP 4230 Status Task periodically. The 4250 Pump Control can run one infusion segment at a time, stopping when the commanded delivered volume has been reached. The 4264 Sensor Task can read and aggregate sensor data used for dynamic control of the pumping system.

[000756] The 4264 sensor task can be programmed to run at a consistent rate of 1 kHz (every 1.0 ms) via a dedicated timer/counter. After all of the relevant sensors have been read, the data can be passed to the 4250 Pump Control Task via an asynchronous 4120 message. The periodic receipt of this message can be used as the main time base to synchronize the closed loops 500 syringe pump control.

[000757] The RTP 4230 Status Task can be the central repository for both the state and the status of the various tasks running on the RTP 3500. The RTP 4230 Status Task can distribute this information both to the IM 4360 running on the RTP 3500. UIP 3600, regarding the tasks in the RTP 3500 itself.

[000758] The RTP 4230 Status Task can also be loaded with fluid count for the infusion in progress. Pump starts and stops as well as pumping progress can be reported to the RTP 4230 Status by the 4256 Pump Control Task. The RTP 4230 Status Task can count at least one of the following: total volume infused, volume primary delivered, primary VTBI (counted down), volume delivered and VTBI of a bolus while the bolus is in progress, and the volume delivered and VTBI of a secondary infusion while the secondary infusion is in progress.

[000759] All alerts or alarms that originate on the RTP 3500 can be channeled through the RTP 4230 Situation Task, and subsequently passed on to the UIP 3600.

[000760] While the unit is operating, the program beacon and RAM memory can be continuously tested by the Memory Checker Task 4240. This test may be non-destructive. This test can be programmed so that the entire memory space on the RTP 3500 is tested every few hours. Additional periodic checks can be scheduled under this task if needed.

[000761] Tasks running on the RTP 3500 can be required to communicate with each other as well as tasks running on the UIP 3600.

[000762] The RTP 3500 message transmission system can use a unified global addressing scheme to allow messages to be passed to any task in the system. Local messages can be passed into memory using RTOS message passing facilities, with off-chip messages routed over the 3601 asynchronous serial link by the 4210 InterCom Task.

[000763] The InterCom 4210 Task can manage the RTP 3500 side of the 3601 serial link between the two processors. The InterCom 4210 Task is the RTP 3500 equivalent of the InterCom 4310 Process on the UIP 3600. Incoming messages from the UIP 3600 can be relayed to their destination on the RTP 3500. Outgoing messages can be forwarded to the InterCom 4310 Process on the UIP 3600.

[000764] All messages between the RTP 3500 and the UIP 3600 can be checked for data corruption using an error detection code (32-bit CRC). Messages sent over the 3601 serial link can be resent if corruption is detected. This provides a communications system that is reasonably tolerant of ESD. Corrupted messages within the processor, between processes, can be handled as a hard crash. All of the message payloads used with the message transmission system can be data classes derived from a common base class (Message-Base) to ensure consistency across all possible message destinations.

[000765] Brushless Motor Control IRQ 4262 cannot run as a task; the same can be implemented as a strict advance process (interruption context). Interrupts are generated from the switch or 3436 hall effect sensors, and the switching algorithm can be executed entirely in the interrupt service routine.

[000766] Fig. 84 shows a state diagram illustrating a method 50650 of providing a surveillance functionality, in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure. Method 50650 is shown as a state diagram and includes states 50670, 50690, 50990, 50720, 50750, 50770, and 50790, and transition conditions 50660, 50680, 50700, 50710, 50730, 50740, 50760, 507 and 50810.

[000767] The 50650 method can be deployed by software, hardware, running software, or some combination thereof (eg, as a hardware surveillance system). The 5065 method can be implemented by the 3460 watch of Figure 59J so that it provides a motor capability signal to the 3431 motor controller. Figures 85A through 85F show a specific embodiment of a system that implements the 50650 method of figure 84.

[000768] Refer now to Figures 84 and 85A to 85F. When power is supplied to the surveillance system (e.g. system 50030), 50660 transitions from method 50650 to the surveillance system out of state 50670 where the motor capability signal is off (e.g. line 50150), the alarm is off (eg, line 50160), and the timer is in an unknown state. The timer can be part of the surveillance IC 50120. The surveillance IC 50120 is a window surveillance. The 50030 system also includes 50130 I2C control lines that interface to a 50040 I/O expander (or other hardware latches). The 50130 I2C control lines can be part of the RTP 35000 connections for the 3460 surveillance of figure 59J. Additionally, a surveillance clean signal (line 50140 of figure 85D) can also be received from the RTP 35000 to the surveillance 34600. That is, the surveillance clean line 50140 "domesticates" the surveillance IC 50120.

[000769] In transition 50680, the RTP 3500 (see figure 59J) clears the surveillance timer IC 50120, through the clear surveillance line 50140, and the RTP 35000 allows the surveillance output IC 50120 through the control lines I2C 50130 by instructing the 50040 I/O expander to allow a 50180 watchdog capability line. This causes the 50650 method to enter state 50690. In state 50690, the timer is initialized (set to zero), the line engine capacity 50150 is set to off and alarm line 50160 is set to off.

[000770] The RTP 3500 allows motor power through the I2C 50130 control lines by setting the D flip-flop to true (using the default pin of a D 50050 flip-flop) and pauses for 1ms in transition 50700. Method 50650 switches to state 50990 where watchdog timer 5012 is running, engine capacity line 50150 is enabled, and timer is less than 200 milliseconds. If the RTP 3500 sets the surveillance clean line 50140 when the surveillance is greater than 10 milliseconds and less than 200 milliseconds, transition 50710 changes method 50650 to state 50720 where the timer is reset. Method 50650 will change back to state 50990.

[000771] If the timer reaches 200 milliseconds or the timer is less than or equal to 10 milliseconds and the RTP 3500 sets the surveillance clear line 50140, transition 50740 changes the method to state 50750. In state 50750, surveillance IC 50120 sends a fault signal that is temporarily stored by a temporary storage 50090 that clears the D flip-flop 50050, thus turning off the motor line 50150. In state 50750, the watchdog IC 50120 also sends the fault signal that is received by a NAND gate 50080 via an inverted input, which sends a signal to a logical temporary storage 50090 that clears a flip-flip of D 50070 and thus turns on the alarm line 50160. The flip-flop output of D 50070 is amplified by a load switch 50060.

[000772] When motor line capability signal 50150 is set to motor off, the off signal propagates through the non-inverting input of NAND gate 50080 after about 1 millisecond, which causes the transition 50760 changes to state 50770, thus allowing the alarm to be disabled. An I2C Command can cause transition 50800 to reset system 50030 back to state 50670.

[000773] Otherwise, alarm line 50160 will continue to sound the alarm until a silence button 50170 is pressed, which is associated with the flip-flop preset of D 50070 to set alarm line 50160 to off. That is, the button will cause transition 50780 to change method 50650 to state 50790. An I2C signal via the I2C control lines 50140 to the IO expander 50040 can cause method 50650 to change state 50670.

[000774] Fig. 86 shows another embodiment of syringe pump 50200 having a stop 50210, in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure. The 50200 pump can be attached to a pole via the 50280 clamp. The 50200 pump includes a 51000 syringe holder that accommodates a 50210 stop.

[000775] The 50200 pump also includes a 50240 touch screen attached to the 50200 pump, via a 50250 outer periphery. The 50250 outer periphery includes a 50260 indicator light. The 50260 indicator light can wrap fully around the 50240 touchscreen. The 50260 indicator light may include a diffuser wrapped around the 50240 touchscreen with a plurality of LED lights embedded therein (or optically coupled thereto). The 50260 indicator light may flash when the 50200 pump is running and/or it may be a specific color when the pump is running (eg red, blue, green, yellow, etc.). The 50260 indicator light can be continuously on when the 50200 pump is not running or is in a standby state. Additionally, alternatively or optionally the 50260 indicator light can be a specific color when the pump is not running or is in a waiting state (eg red, blue, green, yellow, etc.).

[000776] The 50200 bomb may also include a 50940 gesture recognition device, which may be a camera. A pump processor 50200 may be coupled to the gesture recognition apparatus 50940 to receive user input of a gesture by a user. That is, the processor may be configured to present a user with at least one option via the 50240 user interface and receive an option selected from at least one via the gesture recognition device 50940. The processor coupled to the interface User input 50240 may be configured to provide a plurality of pump parameter inputs, wherein each of the plurality of pump parameter inputs is configured to receive a user input parameter. The processor may be configured to determine whether all of the user input parameters of all of the plurality of pump parameters meet at least one predetermined safety criterion. Each of the plurality of pump parameter entries may be displayed without the other of the plurality of pump parameter entries.

[000777] The processor may be configured to provide a plurality of pump parameter inputs, wherein each of the plurality of pump parameter inputs is configured to receive a user input parameter. The processor may be configured to require all of the plurality of pump parameter inputs to be entered in a predetermined amount of time. The processor may be configured to receive a user input parameter corresponding to the plurality of pump parameter inputs in any order.

[000778] Fig. 87 shows an exploded view of the syringe pump 50200 of Fig. 86, in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure. The pump 50200 includes an upper housing portion 50290 and a lower housing portion 50300. Additionally or alternatively, the upper portion 50290 and lower portion 50300 of the housing 50290, 50300 may be unitarily formed in some specific embodiments. A 51030 modular syringe pump mechanism can be coupled to the 50290, 50300 housing. A 51010 motor drives the 51030 modular syringe pump mechanism. The 51010 motor can be controlled via a 51020 circuit board which is coupled to the 51010 motor and various sensors, actuators, the 50240 touch screen, etc. The 50200 pump also includes 50310 cabling and a 50270 battery behind the 50240 touchscreen (when mounted). Fig. 88 shows a close-up view of the upper housing 50290, the lower housing 50300 and the power supply 50320. It is seen how the power supply 50320 is thermally coupled to the lower portion of the lower housing 50600 via the conductive path 50330.

[000779] The 50200 pump includes a 50320 power supply. The 50320 power supply is coupled to a 50330 conductive path for housing 50300, 50290 (when mounted). Conductive path 50330 may be a piece of metal and may be unitarily formed with housing 50300 (or 50290). The 50320 power supply can use the 50290, 50300 housing as a heat sink. The power supply 50320 can use any surface of the housing 50290, 50300 so that it is thermally coupled thereto and/or can be thermally coupled to the housing 50290, 50300 via the thermally conductive path 50330.

[000780] Fig. 89A shows a front view of the pump monitor 50200, and Fig. 89B shows a rear view of the pump monitor 50200, in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure. On the back of the 50240 touchscreen (easily seen in figure 89B) a 50340 near field antenna is arranged. Figure 90 shows the sensor portion 51050 of the touch screen, with the near field antenna 50340 disposed adjacent the rear side of the sensor portion 51050 of the touch screen 50240 (see Figures 89A to 89B). A frame 50350 is shown which forms a closed loop of metal with a gap 51040 having a dielectric 50360 disposed within the gap 51040. The frame 50350 may be a frame for the sensor 51050 and/or the touch screen 50240. 50340 antenna can operate at 13.56 Megahertz and/or can be an NFC antenna. The metal frame 50350, together with the gap 51040 and the dielectric 50260 disposed within the gap, can form a split ring resonator. The metal frame 50350 forms an inductive element of the split ring resonator, and the span 50140 with the dielectric 50360 disposed therein forms a capacitive element of the split ring resonator.

[000781] Fig. 91 shows a diagram illustrating the use of the pump sensors of Fig. 86 when one or more of the sensors are unavailable, in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure. Figure 91 shows sensors 7001, 7002, and 7003. Rotary position sensor 7003 may be rotary sensor 1202 of Figures 59J and 60 (eg, an encoder). The 7001 motor hall effect sensors can be the 3436 Hall Effect Sensors on the 1200 motor of figure 59J and 60. The 7002 linear plunger position sensor can be, for example, the 3950 linear sensor of figure 59B or the linear position 1100, as shown in Figure 57B.

[000782] Fig. 91 can be implemented as a method of using feedback sensors from a 50206 syringe pump. The RTP 3500 of Fig. 59J can receive signals from sensors 7001, 7002, 7003.

[000783] The RTP 3500 can compare a position of the slide block assembly 800 using all three sensors 7001, 7002, and 7003 in relation to each other. The RTP 3500 can check the 7003 rotary position sensor against the 7001 motor hall effect sensors, and if they are out of agreement by a predetermined amount, the RTP 3500 will compare them to the 7002 linear plunger position sensor. to determine that one of the 7001 and 7003 sensors is operating properly. From then on, the RTP 3500 will use the sensor that operates properly between the 7001 and 7003 sensors. If the 7003 rotary position sensor is unavailable, the RTP 3500 will use the 7001 motor hall effect sensors. The RTP 3500 can also check Compare the 5042 rotary position sensor with the 5043 motor hall effect sensors.

[000784] If both the 7001 Motor Hall Effect Sensors and the 7003 Rotary Position Sensor are determined to be inoperative, the RTP 3500 can only use the 7002 Linear Plunger Position Sensor.

[000785] Figure 92 shows a side view of a syringe pump 7004 having a retaining finger 7005 for retaining a syringe, and Figure 93 shows a partial close view of the syringe pump 7004 of Figure 92, in accordance with with an embodiment of the present disclosure. Syringe end 7010 may be retained by pivotable jaw members 7006, and 7007. Pivot jaw members 7006 and 7007 may include bends as shown. Dial 7008 may be operatively coupled to pivotable jaw members 7006 and 7007 to pivot them. Dial 7008 can be oriented to rotate dial 7008 to cause pivotable jaw members 7006 and 7007 to pivot toward each other or away from each other.

[000786] Figure 94 shows a circuit 8000 for storing data within an RFID tag 8008 associated with a syringe pump (e.g., syringe pump 500 of figure 29, syringe pump 50200 of figure 86, or any other syringe pump), in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure. The RFID tag 8009 of Fig. 94 may be the RFID tag 3670 of Fig. 95E. Antenna 8001 of Fig. 94 may be antenna 3955 of Fig. 59E.

[000787] The 8001 antenna is coupled to an 8008 RFID tag, so that an RFID reader (ie, RFID interrogator) can communicate with the 8008 RFID tag. The 8000 circuit can be placed on a 1x1 inch board. PCB, with a solid metal ground plane on the back side.

[000788] An internal closed loop 8002 with a capacitor 8003 can form a split ring resonator to increase the read range capability of the 8000 circuit. The RFID tag 8008 can be coupled to the antenna 8001 through a combination network of impedance 8004, 8005, 8006, 8007. Circuit 8000 can be configured for use with a 900 Megahertz RFID reader.

[000789] An 8009 reader chip can interface to the 8008 RFID tag to write data (eg, log data) to it. The 8009 reader chip can communicate with the 8008 RFID tag using I2C, a CAN bus, or other communications link. Alternatively, 8009 may be an electrical connector in some embodiments.

[000790] Fig. 95 shows an equivalent circuit 8010 for impedance, as seen from RFID tag 8008 of Fig. 94, in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure. A closed loop 8011 shows antenna 8001 of Fig. 94. Inductor 8012 shows inductor 8004 of Fig. 94. Resistors 8013 and 8014 are schematic representations of resistors 8006 and 8005, respectively. Capacitor 8015 shows capacitor 8007 of figure 94. Circuit elements 8012 to 8015 are used to match impedance so that RFID tag 8008 is efficiently coupled to closed loop antenna 8001, as in circuit 8000 of figure 94 .

[000791] Figure 96 shows another circuit 8016 for storing data within an RFID tag 8022 associated with an infusion pump (e.g., syringe pump 500 of figure 29, syringe pump 50200 of figure 86, or any other pump syringe), in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure. The 8017 antenna is shown. The RFID tag 8022 of Fig. 96 may be the RFID tag 3670 of Fig. 95E. Antenna 8017 of Fig. 96 may be antenna 3955 of Fig. 59E.

[000792] The 8017 antenna may have capacitors coupled to the gaps in the 8017 antenna, in some embodiments. An 8018, 8020, 8021 impedance matching network can be used to efficiently couple the 8022 RFID tag to the 8017 antenna. An 8023 interface can be used to communicate with the 8022 RFID tag (e.g., an I2C interface, an of CAN, etc.).

[000793] Fig. 97 shows a split ring resonator 8026 used with the circuit 8016 of Fig. 96, in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure. The 8026 split ring resonator can be printed on a PCB board with an internal closed loop 8025 and an external closed loop 8024. The split ring resonator 8026 can be placed adjacent to the 8016 circuit of Fig. 96 to increase its reading range ( for example, the two planes defined by the two circuit PCB boards can be parallel to each other).

[000794] Figure 98 shows a flowchart illustrating a method 9000 for removing backlash effects in a syringe pump (e.g., the 500 syringe pump of figure 29, the 50200 syringe pump of figure 86, or any other pump syringe) having a syringe loaded into the syringe pump, in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure. Method 9000 includes acts 9001 to 9010 which include two decision acts 9006 and 9009.

[000795] The Act 9001 receives a target flow rate from a syringe loaded into a syringe pump. The syringe has a barrel and a plunger arranged within the barrel. The Ato 9002 determines a therapy actuation speed that corresponds to the target flow rate when there is no clearance in the syringe pump or syringe. The Ato 9003 actuates the syringe plunger out of the barrel at a first predetermined speed, until a force sensor coupled to the plunger measures a force that is less than a predetermined first force threshold or the plunger travels out of the barrel. for a first predetermined distance. The Ato 9004 actuates the syringe plunger into the barrel at a second predetermined speed, greater than the therapy actuation speed, until the force sensor attached to the plunger measures a force that exceeds a second predetermined threshold or the plunger travels. out on the drum for a second predetermined distance. The Ato 9005 issues an alarm if the plunger moves in the barrel the second predetermined distance without the force sensor measuring a force that exceeds the second predetermined limit. If an alarm is issued on Act 9005, Act 9006 branches method 9000 at the end of therapy 9010. Act 9007 actuates the syringe plunger into the barrel at the rate of therapy actuation. Act 9008 estimates the volume discharged starting from the plunger position when the second predetermined limit has been exceeded. Act 9009 will repeat Act 9008 until the target volume is discharged, after which case Act 9009 will terminate therapy 9010.

[000796] Figures 99A to 99B show an apparatus 9900 for side loading a syringe into an infusion pump, in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure. Figure 99A shows the apparatus 9900 with a clamping arm 9902 in a loading position, while Figure 99B shows the device 9900, with the clamping arm 9902 in a clamping position. Apparatus 9900, as shown in Figures 99A to 99B, in addition to attachment arm 9902, includes a platform (also referred to as a syringe holder) 9906 and a force mechanism 9904 for fixedly retaining a syringe. A plunger head assembly 9901 may be coupled to a syringe to discharge fluid into the syringe (syringe is not shown in Figures 99A through 99B) into a patient.

[000797] Force mechanism 9904 transmits a rotational force to clamp arm 9902, driving it toward platform 9906. When a syringe is placed on platform 9906, clamp arm 9902 engages the syringe with sufficient force to retain fixed it in place during pump operation. Syringe pumps using smaller syringes may need about 0.454 grams (one pound) of force applied to the syringe to secure the syringe, while larger syringes may need about 1.36 grams (three pounds) of force applied to them. . The 9904 force mechanism may be capable of locking into an upward position, as shown in Figure 99A, which allows a pump operator to easily position the syringe on the 9906 platform, prior to securing the syringe with the clamp arm 9902. One position Ascending may be referred to as a loading position, due to the fact that moving clamp arm 9902 away from platform 9906 facilitates loading of the syringe onto platform 9906.

[000798] Clamping arm 9902 may be designed to allow sufficient visualization of the syringe. In some embodiments of the present disclosure, the attachment arm 9902 may be configured to be substantially contiguous with the pump housing and only cover the syringe at the point of contact between the attachment arm 9902 and the syringe. A wire structure can also be added to the engaging portion of the clamp arm 9902 that holds the clamp arm 9902 bulk away from the syringe, leaving only a relatively thin wire that contacts the syringe. Other arrangements in which the clamp arm 9902 is shaped to minimally obscure a syringe may also be used.

[000799] Figures 100A to 100B show one embodiment of a force mechanism used with the apparatus described in Figures 99A to 99B or similar apparatus. The embodiment shown in Figures 100A to 100B includes a secondary arm (hereinafter also referred to as a second arm) 9908, a roller 9910, an engagement plate 9914 and a biasing or spring member 9912. The second arm 9908 is connected to the geometric axis. of rotation clamp arm 9902 and is removed laterally from clamp arm 9902 in order to position it across hook plate 9914. A roller 9910 is attached to secondary arm 9908 at the end opposite the axis of rotations and extends towards beyond the end of the secondary arm 9908, then only the roller 9910 engages the catch plate 9914. The catch plate 9914 is positioned to be engaged by the roller 9910. One end of the plate 9914 is secured by a pivot 9920 and the other end is connected to a spring 9912 which drives plate 9914 towards roller 9910 on secondary arm 9908. The engagement face of engagement plate 9914 is inclined with respect to secondary arm 9908 which creates a rotational force. on secondary arm 9908 when plate 9914 is urged toward secondary arm 9908. Rotational force from second arm 9908 is transferred to clamping arm 9902, which results in force clamping the syringe. The engagement face of the engagement plate 9914 may also define a peak that has a first side 9918 oriented to cause a rotational force on the engaged secondary arm 9908 and a second side 9916 which locks the secondary arm 9908 in a position where the engaged secondary arm 9908 is attachment 9902 is removed from platform 9906 and from a syringe that may be on platform 9906 (see Figures 99A to 99B) thereby maintaining attachment arm 9902 in a loading position for loading the syringe (shown in Figure 100B).

[000800] Figures 101A to 101B show another embodiment of a force mechanism used with the apparatus described in Figures 99A to 99B or similar apparatus. The 9932 hitch plate is not hinged at one end, it is on a track 9926. The hitch plate 9932 can be spring oriented towards a secondary arm 9922. The track 9926 guides the hitch plate 9932 towards the secondary arm 9922 and allows linear movement instead of rotational movement. Having hitch plate 9932 on track 9926 does not result in a moment arm drop. The decreasing moment arm means that a stiffer spring can be used to create the force output on the 9902 clamp arm.

[000801] A spring urges the hitch plate 9932 towards the roller 9924 on the secondary arm 9922. The catch face of the hitch plate 9932 is molded to transmit a rotational force to the secondary arm 9922, which transfers the rotational force to the Attached clamp arm 9902. A spike in the engagement surface of plate 9932 can define a stationary section 9930 and a section causing rotational force 9928. Clamping arm 9902 is shown in a clamped position in Figure 101A and in the clamping position. load in figure 101B.

[000802] Figures 102A to 102B show yet another embodiment of a force mechanism that can be used with the apparatus described in Figures 99A to B or similar apparatus. In the embodiment 9904c shown in Figures 102A to 102B, a hitch plate 9942 is attached and a secondary arm 9934 becomes shorter when rotated, because of the surface of the variable plate 9942. The secondary arm 9934 is made of two components, which include : a first component 9934a connected to the clamping arm 9902, on its axis of rotation; and a second component 9934b that becomes shorter in the first component 9934a. A spring positioned between components 9934a, 9934b forces the two out of each other. A roller 9944 is affixed to the end of the second member 9934b for engagement with the engagement plate 9942. The engagement plate 9942 is positioned to be engaged by the secondary arm 9934 and compresses the spring located between the two secondary arm members 9934a, 9934b to the as the secondary arm 9934 is rotated. A section 9940 of the plate 9942 locks the mechanism in a position where the clamp arm 9902 is removed from the syringe (i.e. a loading position) and rotation of the clamp arm moves the secondary arm 9934 to section 9938 of the plate which imparts a rotational force on the arm (i.e. to rotate the clamp arm 9902 to a clamp position). A loading position of clamp arm 9902 is illustrated in Figure 102A, and a clamping position of clamp arm 9902 is illustrated in Figure 102B.

[000803] In yet additional embodiments, the secondary arm can be located laterally anywhere while it is connected to the clamp arm. It can also be attached to the clamping arm at a point beyond the geometric axis of rotation. In the embodiments described herein, the location of the hitch plates and the angles of the clamp arm in the figures are examples only and may be oriented in any configuration to thus provide the same or substantially the same function, result, configuration. or appearance.

[000804] Figures 103A to 103B show yet another embodiment of a force mechanism 9904d for use with the apparatus described in Figures 99A to 99B or similar apparatus. Mechanism 9904d includes a shaft 9950, a first cam member 9946, a second cam member 9948, a spring 9954 and a strut 9952. The shaft 9950 is pivotally connected to the clamp arm 9902 and shares its axis of rotation. The first cam member 9946 is connected to the clamp arm 9902 and is arranged around the axis 9950, while having the ability to pivot with the clamp arm 9902. The side of the first cam member 9946 facing the second cam member 9948 has a larger flat portion, a portion defined again from the flat portion, and a portion connecting the two with a cone. The second cam component 9948 is positioned immediately next to the first cam component 9946, and reflects the shape of the first component 9946 which allows them to evenly interlock to create a cylinder shape, as shown in Fig. 103B. The second cam component 9948 is held in constant rotational alignment, but has the ability to translate back and forth on the 9950 axis. Spring 9954 configured to urge the second cam component 9948 toward the first 9946 is arranged around axis 9950, between second component 9948 and strut 9952. A parked position is shown in Fig. 103A and an engaged position is shown in Fig. 103B.

[000805] Figures 104A to 104C show the different positions of cam components 9946, 9948. Figure 104A is a depiction of the cam when clamp arm 9902 (see Figure 103B) is in a downward position. In this position, second cam member 9948 is at its farthest point from strut 9952 (see Figure 103B). Figure 104B shows cams 9946, 9948 when clamping arm 9902 is rotated. The tapered portions of both cams 9946, 9948 slide along each other, forcing the second cam component 9948 out of the first cam portion 9946 as cams 9946, 9948 are rotated along axis 9950 (see figure 103B). The spring 9954 urges the second cam member 9948 towards the first 9946 makes them want to slide back to the downward starting position. This feature creates the rotational force that causes the Clamping Arm 9902 to push down on the syringe. Fig. 104C shows the 9946, 9948 when the clamp arm 9902 is in the parked position. Once the clamp arm 9902 is rotated to the point where the tapered parts are no longer in contact, the flat surfaces will come into contact, which results in the absence of rotational force caused by the spring 9954, so the clamp arm 9902 will remain in place.

[000806] A sensor can be used to track a position or angle of the 9902 clamp arm. The sensor data can be used for multiple applications. A sensor position can be used to determine if the syringe is properly secured. This would be used in situations where the sensor already knows what type, or at least what size diameter the syringe is being used and at what angle the 9902 clamp arm or secondary arm should be when clamped. The sensor can also be used to determine one or more characteristics of a syringe, for example what size or even what specific syringe model is being used. By determining which syringe is being used, the pump can calculate the flow rate related to plunger displacement. Data from a sensor on the mechanism that drives the syringe plunger can be used in conjunction with sensor data from the clamp arm to determine which syringe model is used. The sensor for determining a position of the clamp arm 9902 can be a Hall effect sensor.

[000807] Fig. 105 shows a method 9960 for side loading a syringe into an infusion pump, in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure. Method 9960 includes an Acting Act 9962, a Loading Act 9964, a Fastening Act 9966, a Capturing Act 9968, and a Processing Act 9970. Acting Act 9962 involves actuating a holding arm in a loading position. Act 9962 can be performed by a pump operator. Once the clamp arm has been raised to the loading position, Method 9960 moves to Act 9964.

[000808] Act 9964 loads a syringe onto a syringe retention platform (also referred to herein as a syringe retention boss) located below an attachment arm. For example, the flange on the syringe is inserted into a slot, or the syringe barrel is inserted into a barrel slot. Once the syringe has been placed on the platform below the clamp arm, Method 9960 moves to Act 9966.

[000809] The Clamping Act 9966 secures the clamping arm away from the loading position to engage the syringe with force loaded onto the clamping arm, causing the clamping arm to engage the syringe with the force loaded thereon. Once the syringe has been secured, Method 9960 can continue to Act 9968. Capture Act 9968 captures a position of the attachment arm. This can be accomplished using a Hall Effect sensor or a rotational potentiometer. After Capture Act 9968, Method 9960 can deploy Processing Act 9970.

[000810] The Processing Act 9970 processes the data from the position of the arm. A processor can use this data to determine what size syringe is being used. Knowing the size of the syringe allows the pump to control the flow of fluid in relation to the position of the plunger. If the syringe type is preset, the sensor can alert the operator if the clamp arm is not in the correct position. If the clamping arm is not in the correct position, the syringe is not clamped properly.

[000811] Figure 106 shows an embodiment of a system for mitigating the lead thread eccentricity error, and figure 107 shows a flowchart of a method for mitigating the lead thread eccentricity error, according to an embodiment of the present revelation. Lead thread runout is a cyclic deviation from the assumed direction relationship between lead thread rotations and the change in distance of a device that is moved by the threads (for example, a half-nut assembly or a nut on the threads). ments, etc.). This can be caused by the half-nut that changes the orientation, in relation to the threads, through a rotation, due to the forces acting on the mechanism. Lead thread error can be minimized by milling drive shafts and half nuts with high precision.

[000812] The 9120 system of figure 106 can implement the 9100 method of figure 107. Lead thread eccentricity can be mitigated by estimating cyclic deviations caused by eccentricity and compensating for deviations by controlling the thread exit distance of advancement.

[000813] Figure 106 shows an embodiment of a 9120 system to mitigate the lead thread eccentricity error. This 9120 system includes a 9119 linear position sensor, a 9121 rotary position sensor, a 9123 processor, and a 9125 controller. The 9121 rotary position sensor tracks lead screw rotations. An equation for determining the exit distance in centimeters ("cm"), based on the rotation data, is shown, as follows:

[000814] This equation for determining actuated distance assumes that there is a direct relationship between lead thread revolutions and exit distance. The eccentricity error is a cyclic deviation from the assumed linear output distance.

[000815] The 9119 linear position sensor is used to detect eccentricity deviations by capturing the lead-out thread lead-out distance. In some embodiments of the present disclosure, an optical sensor, such as an optical mouse sensor, is coupled to the half-nut described herein, which is used to measure the displacement of the half-nut by examining movement, as detected, against a surface of the syringe pump housing. In some embodiments, the optical sensor outputs the change in position data in counts per inch (CPI). In some embodiments, the receiver is recalibrated by the 9123 processor to the current CPI, which is also referred to as normalization. Normalization is performed using the equation below:

[000816] This equation recalibrates the CPI every 10 degrees; however, other recalibration rates can be used as well.

[000817] The magnitude and derivation of the signal can shift the signal phase by 180o, which results in the normalization data that needs to be multiplied by -1. Magnitude can also be affected and the correction for this can be revealed empirically by comparing the deviations using a second, more accurate distance measuring device.

[000818] The 9123 processor uses the normalized distance data to estimate a phase and amplitude of eccentricity deviations. Eccentricity deviation oscillations can occur in sync with each lead screw rotation. A low pass filter can be applied to filter the sensor data and then store the data for a given lead thread angle in a value. An example of the algorithm used is:

[000819] A data matrix is created using this algorithm which can be used for cross correlation. Cross correlation with a data matrix consisting of one or more rotations can be used to produce phase and/or amplitude results. The array size can be the previous 4 rotations, in some embodiments, which can consist of 1440 elements (360 degrees/rotation * 4 rotations).

[000820] Once the 9123 processor has created a matrix, it will correlate the data against a sine wave and a cosine waveform to determine the phase and amplitude of the data. The equation for correlating the two distinct functions by comparison is defined as follows:

* sin = sinal correlacionado por comparação com a onda de seno * cos = sinal correlacionado por comparação com a onda de cosseno

[000821] The equation used for this application is as follows:

* sin = correlated signal compared to the sine wave * cos = correlated signal compared to the cosine wave

[000822] In some embodiments, the phase shift may be constant along the path, while the amplitude may rise and fall as the half-nut assembly moves away from or near the lead screw end . The phase and amplitude estimates can be filtered by the 9123 processor to integrate this amplitude deviation using the following algorithm:

[000823] Upon completion of filtering, the 9123 processor uses the amplitude and phase estimations to estimate the current error between the spin position estimation and a current position of the lead screw mechanism. This is done using the following equation:

[000824] Once the error between the rotational position estimation and the true output of the lead screw mechanism has been determined, this data is sent to the 9125 controller. The 9125 controller incorporates this data with the assumed direction ratio between the lead screw revolutions and the lead screw exit distance to thus increase the exit accuracy. This algorithm used to detect the error phase and amplitude can be used with any sensor input sufficient to detect, estimate and/or compensate for lead thread eccentricity.

[000825] Fig. 107 shows a flowchart of a method 9100 for mitigating lead screw runout error, in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure. Method 9100 includes a Rotation Tracking Act 9103, a Distance Tracking Act 9101, a Conversion Act 9105, a Normalization Act 9107, an Error Creation Act 9109, a Filtering Act 9111, a storage, a pet Act 9115 and a control Act 9117.

[000826] The Rotation Tracking Act 9103 involves tracking the rotations of the threaded drive shaft of a lead screw mechanism using a rotary position sensor. A Hall effect sensor can be used as the rotary position sensor as described in this document. The Distance Tracking Act 9101 tracks the exit distance of the lead screw mechanism using a linear position sensor. An optical mouse sensor can be used for the linear position sensor; however, in some embodiments, any sensor capable of tracking linear position may be used. In some embodiments, acts 9101 and 9103 can occur simultaneously, in the direction of the step, or in any order or variation.

[000827] Conversion Act 9105 converts rotation data into estimated lead-out distance data from the lead screw mechanism. Method 9100 may proceed to Act 9107 when or after the rotation data has been converted.

[000828] The Normalization Act 9107 normalizes the distance sensor data to create a dataset with reduced sensor deviation. The sensor can be recalibrated every ten degrees of lead screw rotation, by normalizing the data, in some specific modes. Method 9100 may move to Act 9109 when or after the data has been normalized, in some embodiments.

[000829] Error Creation Act 9109 creates error data that compares distance sensor data to rotation data output. The Filtering Act 9111 filters normalized data. Storage Act 9113 stores the data as a value for each degree of lead thread rotation. The Estimation Act 9115 uses the data stored as the value for each degree of lead screw rotation to determine the magnitude and an error phase. The phase and amplitude estimation can be performed by comparing a sine wave and a cosine waveform with the data. The Pet 9115 Act can also account for the position of the half nut on the lead thread and account for a decrease in amplitude as the half nut approaches one end of the lead thread. Once the error amplitude and phase have been determined, Method 9100 moves to Act 9117.

[000830] Control Act 9117 controls lead screw rotations with estimated amplitude and phase deviations incorporated into the assumed direction relationship between lead and output screw rotations.

[000831] Figures 108 to 111 show various views of an infusion pump with a modular power supply coupled thereto, according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. Figure 108 shows a side view of a pump with a modular power supply affixed to the rear of the pump. Figure 109 shows a side view of a pump with an external power supply. Figure 110 shows a side view of a pump with a power supply affixed to the bottom of the pump. Figure 111 shows a side view of a pump with a power supply affixed to the top of the pump.

[000832] As shown in figures 108 to 111, the various embodiments show an infusion pump 9202 with a power input module 9204, a power supply 9205 and an output adapter 9209. In some embodiments, the power inlet 9204 is affixed to housing 9203 of an infusion pump 9202 and has a port configured to receive DC current to supply pump 9202 with power. The 9205 power supply has the capability to be detachably affixed to the 9204 power input module. The 9204 power input module can be an electrical connector that has conductive contacts. The 9205 power supply can be attached to a 9209 AC plug configured to receive an AC signal. The 9205 power supply may include an AC to DC conversion module within the 9205 power supply to convert the AC signal received via a 9207 power cable to a DC current. A non-DC 9211 connection supplies DC current to the 9204 power input module.

[000833] Figure 108 shows an embodiment that has the 9205 power supply secured to the back of the 9202 pump by the 9204 power input module. The 9204 power input module can secure the 9205 power supply in place. . The 9205 power supply receives AC power through a 9207 power cord connected to the 9209 AC plug.

[000834] Figure 109 depicts an embodiment of the 9205 power supply in which a 9211 power cord connects the DC output jack of the 9205 power supply to the 9204 power input module. The 9202 pump can be configured to secure the 9205 power supply outside your 9203 housing.

[000835] Figure 110 shows an embodiment of pump 9202 showing power supply 9205 affixed to the bottom of pump 9202. Figure 111 shows an embodiment where power supply 9205 is affixed to the top side of pump 9202.

[000836] Fig. 112 shows an embodiment in which a power supply (hereinafter also referred to as a power supply) 9205 having a frame 9213 for winding the power cord 9207 of Figs. 108 to 111. In some embodiments, a mechanism which automatically wraps the 9207 cable can be used.

[000837] Fig. 113 shows an embodiment in which a power supply 9219 supplies power to multiple pumps 9215, in accordance with another embodiment of the present disclosure. That is, a single 9219 power supply can be configured to supply power (eg, DC power) to multiple 9215 pumps. In figure 113, the 9219 power supply is attached to a 9221 pole where the 9215 pumps are mounted. The 9219 power supply can have multiple 9217 power cords in electrical communication with the 9219 power supply power output jack that is connected to the 9218 power input modules of the 9215 pumps affixed to the 9221 pole.

[000838] The 9205 power supply may also include a battery that is charged by the power supply and that has the ability to power the pump when the power supply is not receiving AC power. In most cases this battery will supplement a battery inside the 9203 pump housing. This could be used to extend the operating time of the 9202 pump when no AC current is available, for example when the patient is being moved to a different location. . You can also allow the 9202 pump to have a smaller internal battery.

[000839] A 9202 pump can be attached to a bracket that powers the 9202 pump and allows the 9202 pump to communicate with other pumps on the bracket. When affixed to the bracket, the 9202 pump will not need the 9205 power supply. The 9204 power input module can be designed, so the bracket and the 9205 power supply connect in the same way, making the two interchangeable.

[000840] Figures 114A to 114J show various views of a syringe pump assembly 9502, in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure. Referring to Figure 114A, syringe pump assembly 9502 is shown and includes a body 9580, syringe holder 9514, and plunger head assembly 9516. Plunger head assembly 9516 includes plunger head 9581, a half nut assembly 9562 and a plunger tube 9561 (refer to Fig. 124). A syringe (e.g., see Figure 114E for syringe 9518) can be placed on syringe holder 9514, which is secured by retaining member 9504 and retaining clip 9506 (described below). A dial 9505 opens pivotable jaw members 9508, 9510 and allows plunger head assembly 9516 to move away from or toward syringe keeper 9514.

[000841] Referring now to Figure 114B, a top view of the syringe pump assembly 9502 is shown which provides a clear view of a sensor 9512. Sensor 9512 can detect the presence or absence of a syringe seated within syringe strut 9514. Sensor 9512 is coupled to one of the syringe pump processor to which syringe pump assembly 9502 is coupled, so that the processor can detect the presence or absence of a syringe loaded in the syringe. syringe holder 9514.

[000842] Figure 114C shows the syringe pump assembly 9502 in a configuration ready to receive a syringe within the syringe holder 9514. That is, the retaining member 9504 is in an upward position and the dial 9505 is rotated in an open position, which is 90 degrees clockwise from the closed position. Rotating the dial 9505 also rotates the pivoting jaw members 9508, 9510 away from each other. The 9505 dial can be held in the open position, as shown in Figure 114C, by an internal mechanism (described below) that allows the user to stop applying torque to the 9505 dial and remove the hand from the 9505 dial, all while the 9505 display remains in the open position. This allows a user to easily load a syringe, optionally using both hands, and slide the plunger head assembly 9516 so that the pivotable jaw members 9508, 9510 can operatively engage the syringe flange. Retaining member 9504 is spring oriented toward syringe keeper 9514; however, when the retaining member 9504 is in a fully open position, an internal mechanism can retain the retaining member 9514 in an open position without any required torque applied by a user.

[000843] Figure 114D shows the syringe pump assembly 9502 in a configuration where the retaining member 9504 is in a down position and the dial 9505 is rotated into a closed position. Rotation of dial 9505 also orients pivotable jaw members 9508, 9510 toward each other. The 9505 dial can be held in the closed position, as shown in Figure 114D, by an internal biasing mechanism (described below) that allows the user to stop applying a torque to the 9505 dial and remove their hand from the 9505 dial, all while the 9505 display remains in the closed position. When the dial 9505 is rotated away from the open position (refer to Figure 114C) by a predetermined amount, toward the closed position, the plunger head assembly 9516 is locked in position and cannot move freely in or out of the rest. of the 9502 Syringe Pump Assembly (described below).

[000844] Referring to Figures 114E to 115B, an overview of the operation of loading a syringe 9518 into the syringe pump assembly 9502 is illustrated. After retaining member 9504 is in the open position (as shown in Figure 114C), syringe 9518 can be placed on syringe holder 9514 and retaining member 9504 rotated on syringe 9518 as shown in Figure 114E. Syringe 9518 may be retained by retaining clip 9506 which secures flange 9525 of barrel 9523 of syringe 9518 between syringe holder 9514 and retaining clip 9506.

[000845] When syringe 9518 is sufficiently placed on syringe holder 9514, syringe 9519 can trigger sensor 9512 when syringe 9518 is loaded onto syringe holder 9514. Sensor 9512 is most easily seen in Fig. 114F. A processor can be attached to the 9512 sensor and is configured to receive this notification. Additionally, a radial angle sensor (described below) may be coupled to the processor to measure the radial angle of retaining member 9504 (refer again to Fig. 114E) to estimate the size of syringe 9518.

[000846] As shown in Figure 114G, after the syringe 9518 is placed inside the syringe holder 9514, the retaining member 9504 can be rotated towards the syringe and the plunger head assembly 9516 can be moved towards the syringe 9518 , until a force sensor 9520 contacts an end 9517 (which may be a flange) of a plunger 9519 of the syringe 9518. The dial 9505 can be rotated by causing the pivotable jaw members 9508, 9510 to pivot toward flange 9517 of plunger 9519 of syringe 9518 and grip flange 9517 of plunger 9519 of syringe 9518, as shown in Figure 114H. Figure 114I shows this configuration from an aerial view.

[000847] Figure 114J shows a close view of the operation of the retaining clip 9506 and sensor 9512 of the syringe pump assembly of Figures 114A to 114J. As is readily seen in Figure 114J, flange 9525 of barrel 9523 of syringe 9518 is disposed between syringe holder 9514 and retaining clip 9506. The resilience of retaining clip 9506 can, through friction, lock the barrel 9523 of the 9518 syringe in place. Also shown is sensor 9512, which may be a sensor-type button that is operable on syringe holder 9514 when syringe 9518 is placed within syringe holder 9514.

[000848] Figures 115A and 115B show two sides of the retaining clip 9506. The retaining clip 9506 includes three holes 9521 so that the retaining clip 9506 can be attached to the syringe holder 9514. The retaining clip 9506 includes an internal recess 9522 for receiving smaller syringes and an external recess 9524 for receiving larger syringes. It is seen in Figure 115B that retaining clip 9506 includes a support structure 9526 to provide additional resilience to apply greater forces to flange 9525 of barrel 9523 of syringe 9518 (see Figure 114J).

[000849] As shown in Figure 116A, sensor 9512 is easily visible due to the fact that syringe holder 9514 has been removed. Also shown in Fig. 116A is a bottom cover 9503 that is affixed to the bottom of syringe holder 9514 to cover sensor 9512 and optionally allow retaining clip 9506 a place to be secured. That is, retaining clip 9506 may optionally be attached to bottom cover 9503 by means of fasteners 9527 (e.g. screws) in some embodiments.

[000850] Figure 116B shows a side view of the syringe pump assembly 9502, with the syringe holder 9514 and bottom cover 9503 removed. As is readily seen in Fig. 116B, sensor 9512 includes a plunger head 9507, a plunger shaft 9509, a spring 9511, and a sensor board 9513. Sensor board 9513 includes a switch 9515 that has a blade 9526. spring 9511 is coupled to plunger shaft 9509 to orient plunger shaft 9509 and plunger head 9507 toward location on syringe holder 9514 where a syringe 9518 may be placed (refer again to Figure 114E).

[000851] When a syringe (e.g., syringe 9518 of Figure 114J) presses against plunger head 9507 of sensor 9512, plunger head 9507 retracts into syringe holder 9514 (refer to Figure 114E for a view of the syringe holder 9514). Referring again to Figure 116B, when a syringe presses against the plunger head 9507 of the sensor, the plunger head 9507 moves the plunger shaft 9509. The plunger shaft 9509 is coupled to a spring 9511 so that the plunger shaft 9509 can overcome the bias of the spring 9511 to engage the switch 9515 of the sensor board 9513. That is, when the plunger shaft 9509 is sufficiently actuated against the bias of the spring 9511, the plunger shaft 9509 presses against a paddle 9526 of a switch 9515 on sensor board 9513 (refer to Fig. 116C). Figure 116C shows a close view of the interaction of plunger shaft 9509 and paddle 9526 of switch 9515. When switch 9515 detects movement by a predetermined amount, sensor board 9513 provides a signal from sensor 9512 to the processor to notify the same as a syringe 9518 was loaded onto syringe holder 9514 (as shown in Figure 114E).

[000852] Referring again to Figure 116C, although switch 9515 may be a distinct switch (e.g., only two distinct states), in some embodiments, switch 9515 provides an analogous position from paddle 9526 to sensor board 9513, which is supplied to the processor as sensor signal 9512.

[000853] Figures 117A to 117C show various views of syringe support 9514 of syringe pump assembly 9502 shown in Figures 114A to 114J, in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure. As is readily seen in Fig. 117A, syringe holder 9514 includes a hole 9528 for sensor 9512 (eg, see Fig. 114A). Syringe holder 9514 also includes a surface 9532 that has a number of wedge-shaped surfaces that approach one end 9533 of surface 9532. Surface 9532 slopes downward as it approaches end 9533. Figure 117B shows the end positioned head with sloped surface 9532.

[000854] Referring to Fig. 117C, syringe holder 9514 also includes a surface 9530 having holes 9531, wherein screws 9527 of retaining clip 9506 can be used to secure retaining clip 9506 thereto. Also visible in Fig. 117C is a hole 9529, in which the retaining member 9504 (see Fig. 114A) can be partially positioned therein.

[000855] Figures 118A to 118B show various views of the syringe pump assembly 9502 shown in Figures 114A to 114J, with the syringe holder 9514 removed, in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure. Figures 118A to 118B will now be described in relation to syringe diameter estimation 9518.

[000856] As shown in Figure 118A, the retaining member 9504 is in a fully open position. Retaining member 9504 is coupled to a shaft 9535. An O-ring helps seal the internals of the syringe pump assembly 9502 that prevents contamination through bore 9529 (see Figure 117a). As shown in Figure 118A , a secured cam 9536 is positioned at the distal end of shaft 9534, while a movable cam 9537 is positioned at the proximal end of shaft 9534. A spring 9535 guides movable cam 9537 away from secured cam 9536.

[000857] Retaining member 9504 is coupled to shaft 9534, so that rotation of retaining member 9504 also rotates shaft 9534. A rotating cam 9545 is also coupled to shaft 9534. Rotating cam 9545 rotates as required. that the retaining member 9504 is actuated (eg, rotated between open and closed positions). When retaining member 9504 is in the fully open position, rotating cam 9545 and movable cam 9537 can engage each other so that retaining member 9504 remains in the fully open position even when a user's hand is removed from the holding member 9504 (that is, holding member 9504 is in a resident position). That is, rotating cam 9545 and movable cam 9537 can engage each other with opposing surfaces that are perpendicular to an axis defined by axis 9534.

[000858] As retaining member 9504 is rotated, rotating cam 9545 rotates so that movable cam 9537 and rotating cam 9545 engage each other via opposing surfaces that are not perpendicular to a geometric axis defined by axis 9534. This causes the force of spring 9535 to translate from movable cam 9537 to rotating cam 9545 so that rotating cam 9545 rotates, thereby rotating retaining member 9504 toward its closed position. That is, the spring 9535 ultimately can cause a rotational biasing force on the retaining member, while the retaining member 9504 is not in the resident position. Fig. 118B shows the retaining member 9504 in the retaining position, for example, when the retaining member is rotated toward any loaded syringe. Guide rods 9538 prevent movable cam 9537 from rotating with shaft 9534, or due to spring 9535, and guide movable cam 9537 away and toward fixed cam 9536. A loaded syringe 9518 in syringe holder 9514 can stop retaining member 9504 from rotating completely to the closed position (see Figure 114E). Figure 118B shows retaining member 9504 fully rotated to the closed position.

[000859] A gear 9539 is also coupled to shaft 9534 and rotates with it. The 9539 gear engages a 9543 gear assembly. The 9543 gear assembly can raise or lower gear to rotate a 9540 magnet. A 9542 sensor board includes a 9541 Hall Effect sensor (eg, a rotary encoder) that can determine the rotational angle of magnet 9540 and then determines the position of retaining member 9504. Sensor board 9542 may transmit a signal encoding the position of retaining member 9504 to the processor where the processor correlates the PO -position of position of retaining member 9504 with a diameter of syringe barrel 9523 (refer to Fig. 114E).

[000860] Figures 119A to 119B show various views of the syringe pump assembly shown in Figures 114A to 114J to illustrate the action of gripper member 9508, 9510 in gripping a flange 9517 of a plunger 9519 of a syringe (e.g. , syringe 9518, as shown in Figure 114E), in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure. Figure 119A shows pivoting jaw members 9508, 9510 in an open position, and Figure 119B shows pivoting jaw members 9508, 9510 that hold onto flange 9517 of plunger 9519. As is readily seen in Figure 119A, ramps 9546 are used so that as the pivoting jaw members 9508, 9510 grip flange 9517 of plunger 9519 (as in figure 119B), flange 9517 is retained against plunger head assembly 9516 (see figure 114A) more in a more fixed way.

[000861] Figure 120 shows the plunger head of plunger head assembly 9516 (of the syringe pump assembly shown in Figures 114A through 114J) with the cover removed to illustrate the mechanical rotation effects of the dial 9505, in accordance with a modality of the present revelation. As shown in Figure 120, the dial 9505 is coupled to a shaft 9547, a cam 9548, and a rod actuator 9554. A spring 9557 is operatively coupled to the axle 9547 to orient the dial 9505 and to the axle to rotate toward a closed position (as shown in figure 120).

[000862] A gear 9553 is operatively coupled to a potentiometer 9559. The potentiometer 9559 is coupled to a circuit board 9558 which is configured to provide the processor with the rotational position of gear 9553 (described below). Refer now to Figures 121A through 121C, where circuit board 9558 and potentiometer 9559 have been removed to aid in viewing the internals of Plunger Head Assembly 9516. That is, Figures 121A through 121C show various views of the plunger head with the cover and a circuit board removed to illustrate the effects of mechanical rotation of the dial, in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure;

[000863] As shown in Figure 121A, dial 9505 is coupled to cam 9548 so that rotating dial 9505 in an open position causes cam 9548 to rotate, so swingarm 9549 rotates as that a cam follower 9550 of swingarm 9549 engages with cam 9548. Swingarm 9549 is coupled to a gear 9552. A gear 9553 is coupled to gear 9552 which is coupled to swingarm 9549. Gear 9552 and swingarm 9549 are coupled to spring 9551 such that swingarm 9549 is oriented so that cam follower 9550 is oriented toward cam 9548. Figure 121B shows the configuration in which dial 9505 is at fully open position. It is observed that the swingarm 9549 has rotated from its position in Fig. 121A, and it is also observed that the gear 9553 has rotated by a corresponding amount. Referring now to Figures 114C and 121B, gear 9552 is coupled to pivotable jaw member 9510 and gear 9553 is coupled to pivotable jaw member 9508. Figure 121B and Figure 114C show the configuration in which the 9505 dial has been rotated to the open position.

[000864] When dial 9505 has rotated to a fully open position, cam 9548 engages a detent 9560 of cam 9548. Figure 121C shows a close-up view to illustrate detent 9560. As is readily seen in Figure 121C, the follower cam 9550 can fit into detent 9560, which holds dial 9505 in a "residence" position. That is, although a user can remove their hand from the display 9505, the display 9505 remains in the fully open position, as shown in Figure 121C. In some embodiments, the 9557 spring does not provide enough torque on the 9547 shaft to overcome the 9560 detent without user assistance.

[000865] When the dial 9505 is rotated from the open position, as in Figure 121B, back to the closed position, the pivotable jaw members 9508, 9510 will rotate toward a flange 9517 of a plunger 9519 of a syringe 9518 ( see figures 114G and 114H). However, pivotable jaw members 9508, 9510 will stop rotating toward each other when they contact flange 9517 of plunger 9519, as shown in Figure 114H. Referring again to figures 121A through 121B, this will cause cam follower 9550 to leave cam 9548, due to the fact that the surface of cam 9548 will continue to move away from cam follower 9550. 9549 is not able to rotate further, due to the fact that it is coupled to the jaw member 9510 (see Figure 114H), whose movement is limited by the flange 9517 of the plunger 9519 of the syringe 9518. The position of the members swivel jaws 9508, 9510 can be determined by one or more 9559 potentiometers and communicated to a processor. The processor can use this position to estimate a 9518 syringe size characteristic.

[000866] Figures 122A to 122B show two views of a cam 9548 (e.g., a dial shaft cam) that may, for example, be used within the plunger head assembly 9516 of the syringe pump assembly 9502 shown in Figures 114A to 114J, in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure. Detent 9560 is easily seen in Figures 121A to 121B.

[000867] Figures 123A to 123B show two close-up views of the internal cavity of the plunger head assembly of the syringe pump assembly shown in Figures 114A to 114J, in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure. As shaft 9547 is rotated, rod actuator 9554 rotates. When the 9505 dial (see figure 120) is near the fully open position, the 9554 stem actuator engages the 9555 linkage to extract the 9556 stem, as shown in figure 123B. Stem 9556 is spring oriented on plunger head assembly 9516.

[000868] Fig. 124 shows plunger head assembly 9516 of the syringe pump assembly shown in Figs. 114A to 114J, in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure. As seen in Figure 124, the plunger head assembly 9516 includes a half nut assembly 9562 which has a linear cam 9566 coupled to the stem 9556. A plunger tube 9561 connects the half nut assembly 9562 with the remainder of the plunger head assembly 9516. Plunger tube 9561 shown in figure 124 is removed in figures 125A through 125B showing a guide rod 9563. As is readily seen in figures 125A through 125B, guide rod 9563 guides rod 9556 It is observed that a spring 9564 is coupled to a collar 9565 to guide the rod 9556 towards the half nut assembly 9562.

[000869] Figures 126A to 126I show several additional views of the syringe pump assembly 9502 of Figures 114A to 114J, in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure. Referring to Figure 126A, the half-nut assembly 9562 is easily visible due to the fact that the syringe holder 9514 (see Figure 114A) is removed and a cover of the syringe pump assembly 9502 is also removed.

[000870] Half nut assembly 9562 can be coupled to lead thread 9572 so that rotation of lead thread 9572 linearly acts on half nut assembly 9562. Half nut assembly 9562 includes a linear bearing 9575 that can travel on a 9574 track. As the 9562 half-nut assembly travels, a 9578 sensor engages with a 9579 linear resistor to form a linear potentiometer, which is used to estimate the linear position of the half-nut assembly. nut 9562, which is communicated to the processor to estimate fluid discharge from a syringe (e.g., syringe 9518 of Fig. 114E).

[000871] The half nut assembly 9562 also includes a linear cam 9566 coupled to the rod 9556 (also see figure 124), the first and second half nut arms 9567, 9568 and a pivot pin 9569. the linear cam 9566 moves toward the first ends 9576 of the first and second half nut arms 9567, 9568, the first and second half nut arms 9567, 9568 pivot along pivot pin 9569 so that the second ends 9577 of the first and second half nut arms 9567, 9568 engage with the lead thread. Each of the second ends 9577 of the first and second half nut arms 9567, 9568 includes threads to engage with the lead thread 9572. A spacer 9571 ensures that the distance between the first and second ends 9577 of the first and second arms half nut assembly 9567, 9568 so that they are sufficiently spaced so that half nut assembly 9562 fully engages lead thread 9572.

[000872] Figure 126B shows a perspective side view of the syringe pump assembly 9502. It is noted that the first and second half-nut arms 9567, 9568 include internal threads to engage with the lead 9572. A bearing 9573 is coupled to lead thread 9572 to allow it to rotate. Fig. 126C shows the plunger head assembly 9516 with the half nut assembly cover 9562 off. A spring 9570 is seen to open the first ends 9577 of the first half-nut arms 9567, 9568 out of the lead screw 9572. Figure 126D shows an inclined perspective view to illustrate how the first ends 9576 of the first and second half nut arms 9567, 9568, engage with linear cam 9566. Figure 126E shows a side view of half nut assembly 9562. Linear cam 9566 is in a retracted position, which occurs when the 9505 dial is in a fully open position. Note that rod 9556 is retracted by spring 9564 (see Figure 125B). Figure 126F shows that linear cam 9566 is in an engaged position. As is visible in Figure 126G, the linear cam surface 9566 has actuated the first ends 9576 of the half nut arms 9567, 9568. When in this position, the linear cam surface 9566 engages with the first ends 9576 of the half nut arms. 9567, 9568, as if a force were applied to open the first ends 9576 of half-nut arms 9567, 9568 away from each other, no translation of force will be experienced by rod 9556. That is, the surface of linear cam 9566 engages with the first ends 9576 of half-nut arms 9567, 9568 such that the contacting surfaces are parallel to each other and parallel to an axis axis of the shank 9556. Figures 126H and 126I show two side views. that the half nut assembly 9562 is fully engaged with the lead screw 9572, whereby rotation of the lead screw 9572 linearly acts on the half nut assembly 9562 (and thus the entire head assembly of piston 9516, in relation to the co syringe pump assembly 9502).

[000873] Figure 127 shows a perspective side view of the syringe pump assembly 9601 coupled to a monitor 9690. It is noted that the syringe pump assembly 9601 is shown and includes a body 9680, a strut 9614 and plunger head assembly 9616. Plunger head assembly 9616 includes plunger head 9681, half-nut assembly 9562 (refer to Figure 114A) and plunger tube 9661. A syringe (e.g., see Figure 114E for syringe 9518) can be placed on syringe holder 9614, which is secured by retaining member 9604 and retaining clip 9606. A dial 9605 opens the hinged jaw members. 9508, 9510 (refer to Figure 114A) and allows the plunger head assembly 9616 to move out of or toward the syringe holder 9614. The 9690 monitor includes a 9691 display, a 9692 power button, a 9692 9693 alarm silence and a 9694 menu button. The 9601 pump set is configured to show a plurality of monitors on screen 9691 related to pump operation and patient data.

[000874] Fig. 128 shows a flowchart of a method 9302 for discharging fluid from a syringe and for providing mitigation for a clogged condition, in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure. Method 9302 may be implanted by a syringe pump, such as the syringe pump shown in Figure 127. Acts may be implanted by or using one or more processors in a syringe pump.

[000875] Method 9302 will be described as it is deployed by the syringe pump shown in Fig. 127; however, such a description should not be interpreted as limiting. Method 9302 can be implemented in any pump that discharges fluid, for example, any syringe pump described herein. Method 9302 includes acts 9304 through 9316. Act 9304 loads a syringe into a syringe pump. For example, a syringe may be loaded onto syringe holder 9614. Act 9306 determines the diameter of a syringe barrel. The barrel diameter of the syringe barrel can be determined by the position of the retaining finger 9604. The Act 9308 actuates the syringe using the syringe pump. Plunger head assembly 9616 can actuate a syringe plunger. Act 9310 estimates the fluid pressure inside the syringe barrel. Does Act 9312 make a decision based on whether the pressure inside the syringe barrel is below a predetermined threshold? If the decision is yes, then acts 9308 to 9312 can continue to achieve a target flow rate until a discharged dose of target fluid is reached.

[000876] If the decision is no in Act 9312, then in Act 9314: the syringe pump retracts the syringe plunger from the syringe barrel by a predetermined amount (which may be an actuation distance or a syringe actuation volume. Act 9316, the syringe pump actuates the plunger in the barrel until the fluid pressure within the syringe barrel exceeds another predetermined threshold. One or more processors may sound an alarm or alert that notifies a healthcare professional of the obstruction.

[000877] Various alternatives and modifications may be devised by persons skilled in the art, without departing from the disclosure. Accordingly, the present disclosure is intended to encompass all such alternatives, modifications and variations. Additionally, while various embodiments of the present disclosure have been shown in the drawings and/or discussed herein, the disclosure is not intended to be limited thereto, as the disclosure is intended to be as broad in scope as the art. will allow and the descriptive report to be read in the same way. Therefore, the above description should not be interpreted as limiting, but merely as examples of particular modalities. And, persons skilled in the art will foresee other modifications within the scope and spirit of the claims appended thereto. Other elements, steps, methods and techniques that are substantially different from those described above and/or in the appended claims are also intended to be within the scope of the disclosure.

[000878] The modalities shown in the drawings are presented only to demonstrate certain examples of the disclosure. And, the drawings described are illustrative only and not limiting. In the drawings, for illustrative purposes, the size of some of the elements may be exaggerated and not drawn to a particular scale. Additionally, elements shown within drawings that have the same numbers may be identical elements or may be similar elements, depending on the context.

[000879] Where the term "comprising" is used in the present description and claims, other elements or steps are not excluded. Where a definite or indefinite article is used, when referring to a singular noun, for example, "a," "an," or "the," they include a plural of such noun, unless something, otherwise be specifically stated. Therefore, the term "comprising" should not be interpreted as being restricted to the items listed hereafter; other elements or steps are not excluded, and so the scope of the expression "a device comprising items A and B" should not be limited to devices consisting only of components A and B. This expression means that, in With respect to the present disclosure, the only relevant components of the device are A and B.

[000880] Additionally, the terms "first," "second," "third" and the like, if used in the description or claims, are provided to distinguish between similar elements and not necessarily to describe a sequential or chronological order. It is to be understood that the terms so used are interchangeable under appropriate circumstances (unless clearly disclosed otherwise) and that the modalities of disclosure described herein are capable of operation in other sequences and/or arrangements which are described or illustrated in this document.

Claims (26)

1. Syringe pump comprising: a body (50290, 50300); a motor (51010); a lead screw (9572) operatively coupled to the motor (51010), wherein the motor (51010) is configured to actuate the lead screw (9572); a linear cam (9566) movable between an extended position and a retracted position; characterized in that it further comprises first and second half-nut arms (9567, 9568) oscillatingly coupled together, each having first and second ends, wherein the second ends of the first and second half-nut arms (9567, 9568) are configured to engage the linear cam (9566) so that the actuation of the linear cam (9566) towards the extended position causes the first ends of the first and second half-nut arms ( 9567, 9568) oscillately approach each other to cause the first ends to engage the lead thread (9572). 2. Syringe pump, according to claim 1, characterized in that it comprises a spacer (9571) coupled to one of the first and second half-nut arms (9567, 9568). 3. Syringe pump, according to claim 1, characterized in that it comprises a pivot pin configured to provide the oscillating coupling between the first and second half-nut arms (9567, 9568). 4. Syringe pump according to claim 1, characterized in that the linear cam (9566) comprises two ramp surfaces configured to engage with the second ends of the first and second stocking arms. -nut (9567, 9568). 5. Syringe pump, according to claim 1, characterized in that it further comprises biasing means configured to urge the second ends of the first and second half-nut arms (9567, 9568) away from each other. 6. Syringe pump according to claim 5, characterized in that the biasing means is a spring (9570). 7. Syringe pump according to claim 1, characterized in that it comprises a plunger head assembly (9616). 8. Syringe pump according to claim 7, characterized in that the plunger head assembly (9616) comprises a user actuator operably coupled to the linear cam (9566), to actuate the linear cam (9566). ) towards and away from a half-nut assembly. A syringe pump according to claim 1, characterized in that it comprises a plunger head assembly (9616), the plunger head assembly (9616) comprising: a dial (9505) having a first and a second position, where the dial (9505) is configured to operate between the first position and the second position, a plunger tube (9561) configured to slidably engage the body (50290, 50300); and a piston head (9681) operatively coupled to the piston tube (9561). 10. Syringe pump, according to claim 9, characterized in that it comprises an axis operatively coupled to the display (9505), the axis and display (9505) being configured such that the actuation of the display (9505) acts the axis. 11. Syringe pump, according to claim 10, characterized in that it comprises a cam (9548) coupled to the shaft. 12. Syringe pump according to claim 11, characterized in that it additionally comprises a rocker arm (9549) pivotally coupled to the plunger head assembly (9616), wherein the rocker arm (9549) has a cam follower (9550) configured to engage cam (9548). 13. Syringe pump according to claim 12, characterized in that it additionally comprises a pivotable jaw member (9508) operatively coupled to the swing arm (9549). 14. Syringe pump according to claim 12, characterized in that it additionally comprises: a first gear (9552) coupled to the swing arm (9549) and to the pivotable jaw member (9508); and a second gear (9553) coupled to another pivotable jaw member (9510), wherein the first and second gears are configured to engage each other, wherein the pivotable jaw members (9508, 9510) are configured to hold over a syringe plunger flange. 15. Syringe pump according to claim 14, characterized in that the cam (9548) and the swing arm (9549) are configured so that the additional actuation of the dial (9505) towards the second position when the pivotable jaw members (9508, 9510) holding onto the syringe plunger flange cause the cam follower (9550) to disengage from the cam (9548). 16. Syringe pump according to claim 14, characterized in that it additionally comprises a biasing member (9551) configured to urge the cam follower (9550) of the rocker arm (9549) towards the cam (9548) . 17. Syringe pump according to claim 14, characterized in that the cam (9548) includes a detent configured to interface with the rocker arm (9549) so that the cam (9548) is held in place. first position until a predetermined amount of torque is applied to the dial (9505) to urge the dial (9505) toward the second position. 18. Syringe pump according to claim 1, characterized in that the plunger head (9681) includes a shaft that has a rod actuator coupled thereto. A syringe pump according to claim 1, characterized in that a plunger tube (9561) includes a stem, wherein the stem is coupled through a link within the plunger head (9681). 20. Syringe pump according to claim 1, characterized in that a rod is operatively coupled to the linear cam (9566). A syringe pump according to claim 1, characterized in that the first ends of the first and second half-nut arms (9567, 9568) include grooves configured to engage with the lead screw (9572). ), when the second ends of the first and second half-nut arms (9567, 9568) are close together. 22. Syringe pump according to claim 1, characterized in that the plunger head assembly (9681) (9616) additionally comprises a pressure sensor for monitoring the pressure of the agent that is dispensed from the syringe. 23. Syringe pump according to claim 22, characterized in that a syringe plunger flange is held against the pressure sensor. A syringe pump according to claim 1, characterized in that it additionally comprises a barrel flange clamp, wherein said barrel flange clamp is configured to retain a barrel flange of the syringe. . 25. Syringe pump according to claim 24, characterized in that the drum flange clamp comprises an optical sensor and a light source configured to detect a presence of the drum flange, wherein said source of light is obscured in the presence of said drum flange. 26. Syringe pump characterized in that it comprises: a body (50290, 50300); a motor (51010); a lead screw (9572) operatively coupled to the motor (51010), wherein the motor (51010) is configured to actuate the lead screw (9572); a linear cam (9566) movable between an extended position and a retracted position; characterized in that it further comprises first and second half-nut arms (9567, 9568) oscillatingly coupled together, each having first and second ends, wherein the second ends of the first and second half-nut arms (9567, 9568) are configured to engage the linear cam (9566) so that the actuation of the linear cam (9566) towards the extended position causes the first ends of the first and second half-nut arms ( 9567, 9568) oscillately approach each other to cause the first ends to engage the lead screw (9572), at least one processor operatively coupled to the motor (51010) and configured to control the rotation of the motor (51010) to , thereby controlling actuation of a plunger head assembly (9681) (9616), the at least one processor also being operatively coupled to a force sensor to receive a force measured therefrom, wherein the at least a processed r is configured to: receive a target flow rate from the syringe loaded into the syringe pump; determining a therapy actuation rate that corresponds to the target flow rate; commanding the motor (51010) to drive the syringe plunger out of the barrel at a first predetermined speed until the force sensor coupled to the plunger measures a force that is less than a predetermined first force threshold, or until the plunger moves out. the drum a first predetermined distance; command the motor (51010) to actuate the plunger of the syringe inside the barrel at a second predetermined speed greater than the therapy actuation speed until the force sensor coupled to the plunger measures a force that exceeds a second predetermined limit, or until the plunger moves out of the barrel a second predetermined distance; and commanding the motor (51010) to actuate the syringe plunger within the barrel at the therapy actuation speed.

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