DE102013108496A1 - Level monitoring on a fluid bag - Google Patents

Abstract

A device (30) for filling level monitoring on a liquid bag (10) comprises enclosing means (40, 80) for at least partially enclosing a liquid bag (10), wherein the enclosing device (40, 80) is formed as a function of a filling level of the liquid bag ( 10) and a deformation sensor (71, 72, 73, 74, 75, 76, 86) for detecting the deformation of the enveloping means (40, 80) and generating a signal resulting from the deformation of the enveloping means (40, 40). 80).

Description

The present invention is related to a device for level monitoring on a fluid bag, in particular a bag containing a rinsing fluid for endoscopic or other medical intervention.

In medical procedures, especially in micro-invasive medical procedures, a rinsing fluid is often used to remove ablated tissue, blood or other fluids or solids, or to dilate a body cavity with the fluid. The rinsing liquid is provided in particular in a fluid pouch similar to an infusion bag. The flushing fluid passes through a hose to a pump. The rinsing liquid is tempered and conveyed with an adjustable volume flow through a further tube, for example to an endoscope, at the distal end of which it emerges.

An interruption of the flushing fluid usually has the consequence that the view is clouded quickly. This is annoying and leads to a delay in the procedure. Deterioration at an inconvenient moment, where medical personnel need a clear view, can also endanger the patient's life and limb. Therefore, the liquid bag is replaced with flushing liquid to a full one before it is completely emptied.

So that the level of irrigation fluid in a fluid bag does not need to be constantly monitored by medical personnel, some pumps detect and integrate the conveyed flow of irrigation fluid. If the pump receives a reset signal (manually) every time the liquid bag is replaced and the volume of rinsing fluid contained in the fresh fluid bag is known, the pump can calculate when the fluid bag will be empty and generate a warning signal in time. A disadvantage of this method is that a reset signal must be generated each time the liquid bag is changed, otherwise a malfunction will occur.

In DE 20 2010 015 266 U1 a device for monitoring the degree of filling of a catheter bag is described. The device is a spring balance on which the catheter bag is suspended. A spring balance with springs, low-friction guide, stop, etc. on a mechanical complex and correspondingly vulnerable structure. A pull on the connecting hose between the fluid bag and the pump falsifies the measurement result of the spring balance.

In DE 10 2010 010 336 A1 a control / supply unit for operating a medical handset is described, which has a sensor for monitoring the level in a reservoir. The sensors include weight sensors, capacitive or light-optical level sensors.

An object of the present invention is to provide an improved device for level monitoring on a fluid bag, which in particular has a more robust and simpler and correspondingly lower manufacturing costs generating structure.

This object is solved by the subject matters of the independent claims. Further developments are specified in the dependent claims. Embodiments of the present invention are based on the idea of placing a clamp or elastic band on a fluid bag for level monitoring and detecting the deformation of the clamp or elastic band as a measure or as an at least approximate indicator of the level.

An apparatus for level monitoring on a liquid bag comprises an enclosing device for at least partially enclosing a liquid bag, wherein the enclosing device is designed to be elastically deformed in dependence on a level of the liquid bag, and a deformation sensor for detecting the deformation of the enveloping device and for generating a signal, which depends on the deformation of the enclosing device.

The device is provided and designed for filling level monitoring at a provided for receiving a liquid bag made of an elastic material, in particular film. The shape of such a bag depends on the pressure exerted by the liquid contained on the bag, and thus on the amount of liquid contained.

The device is provided and designed in particular for level monitoring or for quantitative, semiquantitative or at least approximate level measurement on a fluid bag for rinsing fluid for medical intervention or on another fluid bag for medical use.

By embracing a liquid bag is meant a partial or complete enclosure of the liquid bag in the region in which the liquid bag may contain or contain a liquid. A hook for hanging a fluid bag and engaging an eyelet or another recess on the liquid bag, however, is not a surround device in the sense of the present invention.

In particular, the encircling device is deformed more strongly the greater the amount of liquid contained in the fluid bag. The enclosing device is particularly strongly spread or greatly stretched so attached to a full liquid bag that it at least partially covers this. During the emptying of the liquid bag, the deformation of the enclosing device, in particular the spreading or stretching, returns.

The deformability of the enclosing device may be a deformability of the entire enclosing device or large parts thereof. Alternatively, the deformability may be limited to one or more solid joints or other joints or localized therein. If the enclosing device comprises one or more joints, in particular one or more springs or other elastic elements are provided which counteract a deformation of the enclosing device elastically.

The strain sensor may generate an analog or digital signal with a resolution of one or more bits. In particular, the deformation sensor comprises a switch that changes between the open and the closed state when a certain degree of deformation of the enclosing device is exceeded or fallen short of.

An enclosing device may have a very simple and robust construction, which allows favorable production costs and / or a sufficient or long service life even under adverse conditions. The enclosing device may be provided and configured for liquid bags of a certain type or for a larger or larger variety of liquid bags. Conventionally inexpensive liquid bags may be usable.

The deformation sensor can also be designed as a simple electrical, magnetic, optical or other component and thus contribute on the one hand to low production costs and on the other hand to a high mechanical robustness and a multiple reusability of the device.

In a device as described herein, in particular, the enclosing means comprises arms, the first ends of which are mechanically connected to each other, for embracing the liquid bag, the enclosing means being adapted to elastically compress the second ends of the arms.

The enclosing device comprises in particular two arms. The enclosing device has, in particular, the shape of a clip which has elastic and / or one or more joints for partially or substantially embracing the liquid bag. The enclosing device can be easily attached to a fluid bag by spreading the arms apart or moving them away from each other. Thereafter, the fluid bag between the two arms are inserted and the arms released. Elastic forces compress the two arms together and against opposite portions of the surface of the fluid bag. Stiction between the arms of the Umfassungsseinrichtung and the liquid bag Umfassungsseinrichtung is held non-positively on the liquid bag. The stiction may be increased by the material of the arms or by a corresponding coating. The arms or the coating may, for example, have a roughened or else an adhesive surface.

In a device as described here, in particular, the arms of the enclosing device are formed integrally from an elastic material, wherein the enclosing device is designed to compress the second ends of the arms due to the elastic properties of the elastic material.

The enclosing device consists in particular of an injection molded part, which is elastically deformable due to the elastic properties of the material of the injection molded part and / or due to its geometric properties. Such an injection molded part can be produced particularly inexpensively.

In a device as described here, in particular the arms of the enclosing device are each rigidly formed, wherein the first ends of the arms of the enclosing device are connected by a hinge.

The hinge may be a solid-state joint that simultaneously has the action of a leaf spring or other resilient element compressing the second ends of the arms. Notwithstanding that each solid state material has some elasticity in the solid state, arms of the containment device are said to be rigid if a change in the distance of the second ends of the arms is possible mainly due to deformation of the joint and less due to deformation of the arms.

In a device as described here, the deformation sensor comprises in particular a switch or an angle sensor for detecting an angle between the arms of the enveloping device and for generating a signal which depends on the angle between the arms of the enveloping device.

The switch or the angle sensor is arranged in particular on or in the joint and can be partially or completely integrated with it. The angle sensor can generate an analog or digital signal. A switch is an example of an angle sensor with a resolution of one bit. An example of an angle sensor that generates an analog signal is a potentiometer, in particular a rotary potentiometer.

In a device as described here, the deformation sensor in particular comprises a distance sensor for detecting the distance of the arms of the enveloping device and for generating a signal which depends on the distance of the arms of the enveloping device.

The distance sensor is particularly provided and adapted to detect the distance of the second ends of the arms of the enveloping means and to generate a signal which depends on the distance of the second ends of the arms of the enveloping means.

The signal generated by the proximity sensor may be an analog or a digital signal having a resolution of one or more bits. Embodiments shown below show that a distance sensor can be formed with simple means, without moving parts and thus very robust and largely independent of the design of the enclosure.

In a device as described here, the distance sensor is designed in particular for the capacitive, inductive, magnetic or optical detection of the distance of the arms.

A capacitive, inductive, magnetic or optical detection of the distance can be realized with particularly simple electrical, electromagnetic, magnetic, electro-optical and opto-electronic components. These components can, for example, be embedded in the enclosing device in an injection molding process when the enclosing device is manufactured.

In a device as described herein, the enclosing means is particularly adapted to fully enclose a liquid bag and comprises a stretchable band, the deformation sensor being arranged to detect a stretch of the tape and to generate a signal which depends on the elongation of the tape is.

The enclosing device is in particular designed to enclose a liquid bag such as a rubber band or an O-ring made of rubber or another elastic material. With decreasing filling of the liquid bag, the stretchable band contracts. The enclosing means may consist of an annular stretchable band or comprise a stretchable band, the two ends of which are connected, for example, by a component to which a signal line for transmitting the signal of the deformation sensor is or may be attached.

The strain sensor detects, directly or indirectly, the decreasing strain of the belt and produces an analog or digital signal that depends on the stretch of the belt or the tension of the belt. Insofar as geometric strain and mechanical stress of the belt are clearly related - which is at least approximately true for most materials - it can be concluded from the mechanical stress on the elongation of the tape and vice versa.

In a device as described here, the deformation sensor in particular comprises a strain gauge.

The strain gauge is in particular arranged on or in the expansible band, so that an elongation of the band causes an expansion and / or a mechanical tension of the strain gauge.

A medical device includes a signal input for receiving a signal from a device as described herein, wherein the medical device is configured to at least either generate a warning signal or terminate an operation or an operation depending on a signal received at the signal input to start.

The medical device is or in particular comprises a rinsing pump for conveying and / or tempering a rinsing fluid in a micro-invasive or another medical intervention. For this purpose, the medical device in particular comprises a hose connection or another fluid line connection for connecting the medical device to a fluid bag in which rinsing fluid is provided. Furthermore, the medical device can have a further hose connection or fluid line connection for connecting the medical device with an endoscope, an ablator or other medical device.

The medical device is in particular designed to detect a capacitance between electrodes in or on the arms of a surround device of the device. Alternatively, the medical device for detecting the inductance of one or more coils or the inductive coupling between a plurality of coils, which are at least partially disposed on the arms of a surrounding device of the device to detect or to determine. Alternatively or additionally, the medical device can be designed to detect, by means of a Hall sensor or a Hall sensor or another magnetic field sensor on an arm of an enclosing device, the field strength of a magnetic field generated by a magnet on a further arm of the enclosing device of the device to determine. Alternatively or additionally, the medical device can be designed to use a photodiode, a phototransistor or another light-sensitive sensor on one arm of a surround device to determine the intensity of the light emanating from a light-emitting diode, a laser or another light source on a further arm of the surround device of the device to capture or determine. Alternatively or additionally, the medical device may be configured to use a photodiode, a phototransistor or other photosensitive sensor on an arm of a surround device to measure the intensity of a light generated by a light emitting diode, a laser or other light source on the arm and a reflective surface or a reflective device on another arm of reflected light to detect or determine. The measures mentioned make it possible to generate a signal as a function of the distance of the arms from one another.

Brief description of the figures

Embodiments will be explained in more detail with reference to the accompanying figures. Show it:

1 a schematic representation of a medical system with a fluid bag;

2 another schematic representation of the medical system 1 ;

3 a schematic representation of a device for level monitoring on a liquid bag;

4 a further schematic representation of the device 3 ;

5 a schematic representation of another device for level monitoring on a liquid bag;

6 a schematic representation of another device for level monitoring on a liquid bag;

7 a schematic representation of another device for level monitoring on a liquid bag;

8th a schematic representation of another device for level monitoring on a liquid bag;

9 a schematic representation of another device for level monitoring on a liquid bag;

10 a schematic representation of another device for level monitoring on a liquid bag.

Description of the embodiments

1 shows a schematic representation of a medical system with a fluid bag 10 , a rinsing pump 20 and an endoscope 22 , The liquid bag 10 has an eyelet at its upper end 12 for hanging the liquid bag 10 at an in 1 not shown holder or carrier. At the bottom of the fluid bag is a hose connection 14 provided by means of a hose 34 with a hose connection 24 the rinse pump 20 connected is. The flushing pump 20 is over another tube with the endoscope 22 connected.

Furthermore, the flushing pump 20 a signal input 26 on, by means of a signal line 36 with a device 30 for level monitoring on the liquid bag 10 is coupled. The signal input 26 can be a USB port, the signal line 36 be a USB cable. The device 30 has the shape of an elastic clip and is attached to the liquid bag 10 clamped. Furthermore, the flushing pump 20 a warning device 28 for generating an acoustic and / or an optical warning signal.

The liquid bag 10 contains a rinsing liquid, for example a sterile saline solution. During a micro-invasive medical procedure, irrigation fluid flows out of the fluid bag 10 through the hose 34 to the rinsing pump 20 and from this to the endoscope 22 promoted. At the distal end of the endoscope 22 The flushing fluid exits and allows removal of ablated tissue, blood and other fluids and solids, which by means of the endoscope 22 clouded image can cloud. Alternatively, the fluid can be used to dilate a body cavity.

The clamp-like device 30 depends on the level in the fluid bag 10 more or less widely spread or stretched or deformed. When the fluid bag 10 is full, the device becomes 30 furthest apart. If the amount of liquid in the bag 10 remaining rinsing liquid decreases, also decreases the spreading or deformation of the device 30 from.

The device 30 generates a signal resulting from the spreading of the device 30 and thus of the amount of liquid in the bag 10 Remaining rinsing liquid depends. The signal is, for example, electrical or optical, analog or digital. The signal generated by the device includes, for example, a voltage, a current, an electrostatic capacitance, an inductance, an amplitude or a frequency of an alternating voltage or an alternating current, or a property of its time dependency. The signal is transmitted via the signal line 36 from the device 30 to the rinsing pump 20 transferred or can from the purge pump 20 over the signal line 36 be recorded.

The flushing pump 20 is in particular designed to generate a warning signal, if that via the signal line 36 detected signal indicates that the fluid bag 10 almost empty. The warning signal is, for example, an audible or visual warning signal, which by means of the warning device 28 is generated, or an electrical signal via an in 1 not shown data network, a data bus or another signal line is transmitted to one or more other medical devices.

2 shows the medical system 1 after a period of time, in the rinse liquid from the liquid bag 10 through the flushing pump 20 to the endoscope 22 was promoted. The amount of liquid in the bag 10 remaining rinsing liquid is significantly lower than the original amount (see. 1 ). The liquid level in the liquid bag 10 has dropped significantly, the fluid bag 10 is less bulging, and the device 30 is correspondingly less deformed or less spread apart than in the 1 shown state. That of the flushing pump 20 over the signal line 36 detected signal from the device 30 shows this extensive emptying of the liquid bag 10 at. The flushing pump 20 generated by means of the warning device 28 an audible or visual warning signal to remind medical personnel of the fluid pouch 10 to replace it with a full one.

The flushing pump 20 may be configured to depend on the deformation of the device 30 and thus the level of the liquid bag 10 to generate several different warning signals, for example, first an early warning signal and after further decrease in the amount of liquid in the bag 10 remaining rinsing liquid and corresponding further decrease in the deformation of the device 30 a main warning signal.

The flushing pump 20 may be further configured to detect and integrate the conveyed flow of the rinsing agent and from the integrated flow, the amount of liquid in the bag 10 to estimate the remaining rinsing fluid. This information obtained from the integration of the flow and that via the signal line 36 from the device 30 Information obtained may be from the purge pump 20 be linked, for example in the form of a plausibility test.

3 shows a schematic representation of a device 30 for level monitoring on a fluid bag 10 , The device 30 is particularly in the basis of the 1 and 2 used medical system shown. The representation in 3 indicates a section along a plane that is horizontal in a hanging arrangement of the liquid bag through the device 30 and the bag 10 at.

The device 30 includes a stapling device 40 with a first arm 50 and a second arm 60 , The poor 50 . 60 are made of an elastic material. In particular, the entire stapling device 40 including the arms 50 . 60 made of an elastic material. First ends 52 . 62 the poor 50 . 60 are mechanically connected to each other. The clamp device 40 is in particular made of an elastic material in one piece, in particular cast from a thermoplastic material.

On the arms 50 . 60 , in particular on the mutually facing sides or surfaces are coatings 58 . 68 provided that a stiction between the arms 50 . 60 on the one hand and the surface of a liquid bag 10 on the other hand. In the arms 50 . 60 the stapling device 40 and especially near its second ends 54 . 64 are electrodes 75 . 76 arranged over signal lines 38 in the arms 50 . 60 with the signal line 36 (see also 1 . 2 ) are connected. The electrodes 75 . 76 and the signal lines 38 are in particular in the elastic material of the stapler 40 and their arms 50 . 60 embedded, for example cast.

The elasticity of the material of the stapling device 40 and the shape of the arms 50 . 60 . especially near their first ends 52 . 62 , allows elastic deformation of the arms 50 . 60 in which the second ends 54 . 64 the poor 50 . 60 can be moved towards and away from each other. This movement of the second ends 54 . 64 the poor 50 . 60 due to the elasticity of the arms 50 . 60 is in 3 by arrows near the distal ends 54 . 64 the poor 50 . 60 indicated.

In a relaxed or by minimal mechanical stress within the material of the clamping device 40 marked state have the distal ends 54 . 64 the poor 50 . 60 a much smaller distance than in the 3 illustrated situation. In particular, the distal ends 54 . 64 the poor 50 . 60 in the relaxed state of the stapler 40 Touch or almost touch each other.

Starting from her relaxed state, the stapler must 40 In particular, the arms need to be deformed 50 . 60 be spread to the clamp device 40 to a fluid bag 10 to pinch. This is the stapling device 40 the more deformed and become the arms 50 . 60 the more spread, the fuller the fluid bag 10 is. The distance of the second ends 54 . 64 the poor 50 . 60 is a measure of the level of the liquid bag 10 between the poor 50 . 60 the stapling device 40 ,

The electrodes 75 . 76 form a deformation sensor for detecting the deformation of the stapler 40 , in particular the distance of the second ends 54 . 64 the poor 50 . 60 , The device 30 is for a coupling over the signal line 36 with a rinsing pump 20 (see. 1 . 2 ) provided for measuring the electrostatic capacitance between the electrodes 75 . 76 is trained. The electrostatic capacity of the through the electrodes 75 . 76 formed capacitor is the distance of the electrodes 75 . 76 and thus the distance between the second ends 54 . 64 the poor 50 . 60 dependent. This is the electrostatic capacity of the electrodes 75 . 76 formed a measure of the level of a liquid bag 10 between the poor 50 . 60 , The through the flushing pump 20 over the signal line 36 detectable electrostatic capacity of the out of the electrodes 75 . 76 formed capacitor thus represents a signal that - although not linear, but strictly monotonous - from the level of one of the stapler 40 included fluid bag 10 depends.

4 shows a further schematic representation of the device 30 out 3 , The drawing plane of the 4 is orthogonal to the section plane of the 3 and in the in the 1 and 2 indicated hanging arrangement of the liquid bag 10 vertical.

In 4 is a middle region of the liquid bag 10 indicated in which the device 30 on the fluid bag 10 attached or clamped to this. In 4 is just the second arm 60 recognizable, the first arm 50 is through the second arm 60 and partly through the fluid bag 10 covered. The first arm 50 In particular, it has features and properties that correspond to the features and characteristics of the second arm described below 60 correspond.

The second arm 60 indicates at its second end 64 and, in particular, in the whole to rest on the liquid bag 10 provided area on a significantly increased width. In dashed line is the contour of the facing away from the viewer coating 68 hinted that the stiction between the second arm 60 the device 30 on the one hand and the surface of the liquid bag 10 on the other hand increased. The coating 68 occupies as large an area as possible, and in particular substantially all of them to rest on the fluid bag 10 provided area of the second arm 60 ,

The electrode 76 is at the in 4 illustrated example, especially near the second end 64 of the arm 60 arranged because there is an elastic deformation of the stapling device 40 through the fluid bag 10 has the greatest effect on the distance of the electrodes. Alternatively and deviating from the illustration in 4 For example, the electrode may occupy a larger area, for example, a surface similar to the coating 68 to increase the static friction to produce the largest possible electrostatic capacity.

5 shows a schematic representation of another device 30 for level monitoring on a fluid bag 10 , 5 shows similar to 3 a sectional view, the sectional plane of the 5 corresponds to the cutting plane of 3 , The device 30 is similar in some features and properties based on the 1 to 4 shown devices for level monitoring. The following describes characteristics and properties in which the in 5 illustrated device 30 from the basis of the 1 to 4 differs shown devices for level monitoring.

In the 5 illustrated device 30 is different from the ones based on the 1 to 4 shown devices for level monitoring in particular in that the arms 50 . 60 at their first ends 52 . 62 have reduced cross-sections. The areas with reduced cross sections act as solid joints 46 , The basis of the 1 to 4 described elastic deformation of the clamping device 40 , especially the arms 50 . 60 is therefore largely on the first ends 52 . 62 the poor 50 . 60 limited. Incidentally, the arms are 50 . 60 Due to the significantly larger cross sections substantially rigidly, so are deformed elastically to a much lesser extent.

A coating to increase the static friction between the arms 50 . 60 on the one hand and the fluid bag 10 on the other hand, electrodes and signal lines 36 . 38 are in 5 not shown, but in particular similar to the case of the 3 and 4 provided device configured for level monitoring and configured.

6 shows a schematic representation of another device 30 for level monitoring on a fluid bag 10 , which in some characteristics and properties according to the 1 to 5 is similar to devices shown for level monitoring. 6 shows similar to the 3 and 5 a representation of a section along a plane that the sectional planes of the 3 and 5 equivalent. Unlike the 3 and 5 are cut surfaces of the stapling device 40 not hatched in the sense of a clearer presentation of further features and properties. The following describes characteristics and characteristics in which the device 30 out 6 from the basis of the 1 to 5 differs shown devices for level monitoring.

At the in 6 illustrated device 30 are the arms 50 . 60 each formed substantially rigid. The first ends 52 . 62 the poor 50 . 60 are through a joint 42 hinged together. The joint 42 defines a pivot axis orthogonal to the cutting plane of 6 to the arms 50 . 60 can be pivoted relative to each other. A feather 44 in or on the joint 42 presses the arms 50 . 60 together. The feather 44 can be like in 6 be indicated as a torsion coil spring made of metal wire. Alternatively and deviating from the illustration in 6 can the spring 44 be designed as a leaf spring, as a tension or compression coil spring or as a plate spring made of metal or other material. Furthermore, the spring 44 made of the same material as the arms 50 . 60 and / or in one piece with one or both arms 50 . 60 be educated.

In the case of the 3 to 6 shown level monitoring devices can instead of electrodes 75 . 76 Be provided coils whose total inductance or their magnetic coupling from the distance of the arms 50 . 60 and in particular the distance of the distal ends 54 . 64 the poor 50 . 60 and thus the level of the liquid bag 10 depends. In this case, the flushing pump 20 (see. 1 . 2 ) is designed to increase the overall inductance or magnetic coupling between the coils at the distal ends 54 . 64 the poor 50 . 60 the device 30 to eat. The total inductance or the magnetic coupling of the coils thus represents a signal that depends on the deformation of the enclosing device.

7 shows a schematic representation of another device 30 for level monitoring on a fluid bag 10 , which in some characteristics and properties according to the 1 to 6 is similar to devices shown for level monitoring. The type of representation, in particular the cutting plane, the 7 corresponds to the type of representation in 6 , The following describes characteristics and properties in which the in 7 illustrated device 30 from the basis of the 1 to 6 illustrated devices, in particular of the basis of the 6 illustrated device for level monitoring differs.

At the in 7 illustrated device 30 for level monitoring are at the second ends 54 . 64 the poor 50 . 60 No electrodes or inductors or coils provided. Instead, they are at the second end 54 of the first arm 50 a magnet 73 and at the second end 64 of the second arm 60 a Hall sensor 74 or another magnetic field sensor provided. The from the Hall sensor 74 at the second end 64 of the second arm 60 detected or measured magnetic field strength H of the magnet 73 at the second end 54 of the first arm 50 generated magnetic field is the distance of the second ends 54 . 64 the poor 50 . 60 and thus the level of the liquid bag 10 between the poor 50 . 60 dependent. That of the Hall sensor 74 thus generated signal is from the deformation of the stapler 40 or the spread of the arms 50 . 60 through the fluid bag 10 and thus the level of the rinsing liquid in the liquid bag 10 dependent. The device 30 for level monitoring is provided to be coupled to a purge pump which is adapted to that of the Hall sensor 74 evaluate generated signal.

8th shows a schematic representation of another device 30 for level monitoring on a fluid bag 10 , which in some characteristics and properties which are based on the 1 to 7 is similar to devices shown for level monitoring. The type of representation, in particular the sectional plane corresponds to that of 6 and 7 , The following describes characteristics and properties in which the in 8th illustrated device 30 from the basis of the 1 to 7 illustrated devices and in particular of the basis of the 6 and 7 differs shown devices for level monitoring.

In the 8th illustrated device 30 is different from the ones based on the 6 and 7 shown devices for level monitoring in particular characterized in that instead of electrodes, inductors or coils or a magnet and a magnetic field sensor, a transmitter 71 and a receiver 72 for electromagnetic radiation at the second ends 54 . 64 the poor 50 . 60 are provided. The transmitter 71 at the second end 54 of the first arm 50 includes in particular a light-emitting diode or another light source for visible, infrared or ultraviolet light. The recipient 72 at the second end 64 of the second arm 60 In particular, it comprises a phototransistor, a photodiode or another light sensor suitable for the transmitter 71 generated light is sensitive. Similar to the electrodes, inductors or coils and the Hall sensor of the basis of the 3 to 7 shown devices are also in the in 8th illustrated device 30 the transmitter 71 and the receiver 72 connected to signal lines that are inside the arms 50 . 60 run, but in 8th are not shown.

The intensity of the transmitter 71 at the second end 54 of the first arm 50 generated and from the receiver 72 at the second end 64 of the second arm 60 received light signal or other electromagnetic signal is from the distance of the second ends 54 . 64 the poor 50 . 60 and thus the level of the device 30 included fluid bag 10 dependent. The device 30 is intended to be coupled to a scavenging pump which is adapted to be from the receiver 72 generated signal as a measure of the level of the liquid bag 10 evaluate.

To an impairment, in particular an influence on the level monitoring by absorption, reflection or scattering of the transmitter 71 generated electromagnetic radiation through the liquid bag 10 and to avoid its contents, the arms can 50 . 60 , as in 8th indicated to be so long that the fluid bag 10 at the intended arrangement between the arms 50 . 60 not between stations 71 and receiver 72 lies.

9 shows a schematic representation of another device 30 for level monitoring on a fluid bag 10 , which in some characteristics and properties according to the 1 to 8th is similar to devices shown for level monitoring. The nature of the presentation in 9 , in particular the sectional plane, corresponds to that of the 6 to 8th , The following describes characteristics and properties in which the in 9 illustrated device 30 from the basis of the 1 to 8th illustrated devices and in particular of the basis of the 6 to 8th differs shown devices for level monitoring.

In the 9 illustrated device 30 is different from the ones based on the 6 to 8th illustrated devices in particular in that no electrodes, inductors or coils, no magnets and no magnetic field sensor, no transmitter and no receiver at the distal ends 54 . 64 the poor 50 . 60 are provided. Instead, a rotary potentiometer 77 or another potentiometer or a switch 78 in or on the joint 42 intended. The rotary potentiometer 77 and the switch 78 are in 9 shown simultaneously, but on the device 30 especially alternatively provided. The rotary potentiometer 77 is provided and arranged to one of the deformation of the clamping device 40 or the spread of the arms 50 . 60 to have dependent resistance. Alternatively, the switch 78 provided to at a predetermined deformation of the clamping device 40 or at a proposed spread of the arms 50 . 60 to switch between a low resistance on state and a high resistance off state.

The device 30 for level monitoring is provided to with a purge pump 20 (see. 1 . 2 ), which is adapted to the resistance of the rotary potentiometer 77 or the switching state of the switch 78 as of the deformation of the stapler 40 receive dependent signal and as a measure of the level of one of the device 30 included fluid bag 10 evaluate.

Notwithstanding the representations in the figures can also in an embodiment of the stapling device 40 as they are based on the 3 to 5 is shown, a magnet and a Hall sensor (as in 7 shown) or a transmitter and a receiver (as in 8th shown) at the second ends 54 . 64 the poor 50 . 60 be provided. Furthermore, in an embodiment of the clamping device 40 as they are based on the 3 to 5 is shown, a rotary potentiometer or a switch may be provided to the deformation of the clamping device 40 capture. The rotary potentiometer or other potentiometer or switch is in particular at or near the first ends 52 . 62 the poor 50 . 60 arranged between these.

In the case of the 3 to 9 Devices shown are electrodes, coils or inductors, magnet and magnetic field sensor, sensor and receiver close to the second ends 54 . 64 the poor 50 . 60 arranged. Alternatively and deviating from these illustrations, the electrodes, coils or inductors, magnet and magnetic field sensor, sensor and receiver may be located at other locations in or on the arms 50 . 60 be arranged.

10 shows a schematic representation of another device 30 for level monitoring on a fluid bag 10 , The nature of the presentation in 10 , in particular the sectional plane, corresponds to that of the 6 to 9 ,

The device 30 instead of a clamping device, which in particular only partially or substantially, but not completely, comprises the liquid bag, an enclosing device 80 that the liquid bag 10 completely includes. The enclosing device 80 has in particular an elastic band 82 on, whose both ends with a connection device 84 are connected. The elastic band 82 is especially malleable and designed to be similar to a rubber O-ring around the fluid pouch 10 to be laid. In the elastic band 82 or, deviating from the illustration in FIG 10 , on the elastic band 82 is a strain gauge 86 intended. The strain gauge has, for example, an electrical resistance dependent on the elongation or the applied tensile force, or is designed to produce a different electrical signal that depends on the strain of the strain gauge and thus on the elongation of the elastic band 82 and thus the level in the fluid bag 10 depends.

Alternatively, the device 30 another sensor to monitor the stretch of the elastic band 82 or on the elastic band 82 acting tensile force in the connection device 84 can be provided. Alternatively and deviating from the illustration in 10 can the enclosing device 80 without connection device 84 be provided by, for example, the ends of the elastic band 82 are directly connected or the elastic band 82 from the beginning is endless.

In the 10 illustrated device 30 is intended to come with a rinse pump 20 (see. 1 . 2 ), which is adapted to that of the strain gauge 86 or from another strain or force sensor on the elastic band 82 to detect generated signal and as a measure of the deformation of the enclosure 80 or the elongation of the elastic band 82 and thus as a measure of the level of one of the enclosure 80 included fluid bag 10 evaluate.

LIST OF REFERENCE NUMBERS

10

fluid bag

12

Eyelet for hanging the liquid bag

14

Hose connection of the liquid bag 10

16

Wrinkle in the fluid pouch 10

20

Rinse pump for endoscope 22

22

endoscope

24

Hose connection of the medical device 20

26

Signal input for receiving a signal from a device 30 for level monitoring

28

Warning device on the medical device 20

30

Device for level monitoring on the liquid bag 10

34

Hose for connecting the hose connection 14 of the liquid bag 10 with the medical device 20

36

Signal line for transmitting a signal from the deformation sensor to the signal input 26 of the medical device 20

38

Signal line in the clamp device 40

40

Clamping device (enclosing device)

42

Joint between the first ends 52 . 62 the poor 41 . 42 the stapling device 40

44

Spring on the joint 42 between the poor 50 . 60 the stapling device 40

46

Solid-state joint between the arms 50 . 60

50

first arm of the stapler 40

52

first end of the first arm 50 the stapling device 40

54

second end of the first arm 50 the stapling device 40

58

the stiction-enhancing coating on the first arm 50

60

second arm of the stapler 40

62

first end of the second arm 60 the stapling device 40

64

second end of the second arm 60 the stapling device 40

68

the stiction-enhancing coating on the second arm 60

71

Transmitter at the second end 54 of the first arm 50 the stapling device 40

72

Receiver at the second end 64 of the second arm 60 the stapling device 40

73

Magnet on the second end 54 of the first arm 50 the stapling device 40

74

Hall sensor at the second end 64 of the second arm 60 the stapling device 40

75

Electrode at the second end 54 of the first arm 50 the stapling device 40

76

Electrode at the second end 64 of the second arm 60 the stapling device 40

77

Rotary potentiometer switch on the hinge 42 between the poor 50 . 60 the stapling device 40

78

Switch on the joint 42 between the poor 50 . 60 the stapling device 40

80

Umfassungseinrichtung

82

elastic band of the enclosing device 80

84

Connecting device of the enclosing device 80

86

Strain gauges on the elastic band 82

QUOTES INCLUDE IN THE DESCRIPTION

This list of the documents listed by the applicant has been generated automatically and is included solely for the better information of the reader. The list is not part of the German patent or utility model application. The DPMA assumes no liability for any errors or omissions.

Cited patent literature

• DE 202010015266 U1 [0005]
• DE 102010010336 A1 [0006]

Claims (10)

Contraption ( 30 ) for level monitoring on a liquid bag ( 10 ), comprising: an enclosing device ( 40 . 80 ) for at least partially enclosing a liquid bag ( 10 ), the enclosing device ( 40 . 80 ) is formed, depending on a level of the liquid bag ( 10 ) to be deformed elastically; a deformation sensor ( 71 . 72 ; 73 . 74 ; 75 . 76 ; 86 ) for detecting the deformation of the enclosing device ( 40 . 80 ) and for generating a signal resulting from the deformation of the enveloping device ( 40 . 80 ) depends. Contraption ( 30 ) according to the preceding claim, in which the enclosing device ( 40 ) Arms ( 50 . 60 ) whose first ends ( 52 . 62 ) are mechanically connected to each other, for embracing the liquid bag ( 10 ), the enclosing device ( 40 ), the second ends ( 54 . 64 ) the poor ( 50 . 60 ) elastically to press together. Contraption ( 30 ) according to the preceding claim, in which the arms ( 50 . 60 ) of the enclosing device ( 40 ) are integrally formed of an elastic material, the Umfassungsseinrichtung ( 40 ), the second ends ( 54 . 64 ) the poor ( 50 . 60 ) due to the elastic properties of the elastic material together. Contraption ( 30 ) according to claim 2, wherein the arms ( 50 . 60 ) of the enclosing device ( 40 ) are each rigid, the first ends ( 52 . 62 ) the poor ( 50 . 60 ) of the enclosing device ( 40 ) by a joint ( 42 ) are connected. Contraption ( 30 ) according to the preceding claim, wherein the deformation sensor comprises a switch ( 78 ) or an angle sensor ( 77 ) for detecting an angle between the arms ( 50 . 60 ) of the enclosing device ( 40 ) and for generating a signal that is from the angle between the arms ( 50 . 60 ) of the enclosing device ( 40 ). Contraption ( 30 ) according to one of claims 2 to 4, in which the deformation sensor comprises a distance sensor ( 71 . 72 ; 73 . 74 ; 75 . 76 ) for detecting the distance of the arms ( 50 . 60 ) of the enclosing device ( 40 ) and for generating a signal which depends on the distance of the arms ( 50 . 60 ) of the enclosing device ( 40 ). Contraption ( 30 ) according to the preceding claim, in which the distance sensor ( 71 . 72 ; 73 . 74 ; 75 . 76 ) for the capacitive, inductive, magnetic or optical detection of the distance of the arms ( 50 . 60 ) is trained. Contraption ( 30 ) according to claim 1, in which the enclosing device ( 80 ) for completely enclosing a liquid bag ( 10 ) is formed and a stretchable band ( 82 ), the deformation sensor ( 86 ) for detecting an elongation of the tape ( 82 ) and for generating a signal that depends on the elongation of the tape ( 82 ), is formed. Contraption ( 30 ) according to the preceding claim, wherein the strain sensor comprises a strain gauge ( 86 ). Medical device ( 20 ) with: a signal input ( 26 ) for receiving a signal from a device according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the medical device ( 20 ) is designed to be dependent on one at the signal input ( 26 ) signal to generate at least either a warning signal or to terminate an operation or to start an operation.

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