EP4619057A1

EP4619057A1 - Syringe driver infusion pump having a combined non-contact position sensor and engagement sensor for the plunger

Info

Publication number: EP4619057A1
Application number: EP22830014.1A
Authority: EP
Inventors: Kevin O' Brien; Conor Murphy
Original assignee: CareFusion 303 Inc
Current assignee: CareFusion 303 Inc
Priority date: 2022-11-15
Filing date: 2022-11-15
Publication date: 2025-09-24
Also published as: AU2022486210A1; CN222033247U; CN120500360A; WO2024107181A1; CA3273664A1

Abstract

A syringe driver infusion pump system includes a receptacle configured to receive a syringe comprising a barrel and a plunger. The infusion pump system further includes a drive head configured to apply a force to the plunger to advance the plunger into the barrel, a magnetic emitter pivotally coupled to the drive head and configured to emit a magnetic field, and a magnetic sensor array positioned parallel to the receptacle and configured to measure an orientation of the magnetic emitter based on a detected peak amplitude of the magnetic field at one or more sensors included in the magnetic sensor array, the orientation of the magnetic emitter corresponding to a level of engagement of the plunger with the drive head.

Description

SYRINGE DRIVER INFUSION PUMP HAVING A COMBINED NON-CONTACT POSITION SENSOR AND ENGAGEMENT SENSOR FOR THE PLUNGER

BACKGROUND

[0001] Syringe pump infusion devices operatively engage with fluid administration sets to deliver medication or drugs to patients according to infusion programs. A screw drive mechanism of the syringe pump infusion device causes a drive head to push a plunger of the syringe into a barrel of the syringe. As the drive head pushes the plunger into the barrel, the contents of the syringe are administered to the patient per the infusion program.

[0002] In some instances, the drive head may become disengaged from the screw drive mechanism. In these scenarios, some syringe pump infusion devices may detect that the screw drive mechanism is properly functioning and therefore determine, incorrectly, that the drive head is moving. As a result, these syringe pump infusion devices may continue to operate as if the contents of the syringe are being administered to the patient per the infusion program, while in reality, the syringe is not administering any of its contents due to the disengaged drive head not moving the plunger.

[0003] Further, in some instances, the plunger may be improperly mounted to (or only partially engaged with) the drive head. In these scenarios, some syringe pump infusion devices may detect that the drive head is moving as expected and therefore determine, incorrectly, that the contents of the syringe are being administered to the patient per the infusion program. In reality, however, the syringe is not administering its contents as expected due to the improperly mounted plunger not moving, or moving less than it would be moving if it were properly mounted to the drive head.

[0004] In each of the aforementioned scenarios, the syringe pump infusion device may continue to operate without outputting any alerts indicating that the medication or drugs are not being properly administered to the patient. This outcome may be harmful to the patient, especially for scenarios in which adherence to the timing aspects of the infusion program is critical for effective treatment. SUMMARY

[0005] Based on the above discussion, there is a need for syringe pump infusion devices that can better detect scenarios in which pumping of the syringe is not proceeding as expected. To meet the aforementioned need, this disclosure describes implementations of a syringe pump infusion device including an electromechanical switch in the drive head that detects both (i) the position of the plunger, and (ii) whether the plunger is properly engaged with the drive head.

[0006] In one aspect, some implementations of the syringe pump infusion device include: a receptacle configured to receive a syringe, the syringe comprising a barrel and a plunger having a plunger flange; a drive head configured to apply a force to the plunger flange to advance the plunger into the barrel; a magnetic emitter coupled to the drive head and configured to emit a predetermined magnetic field when the force is distributed to a syringe that is properly received in the receptacle; a magnetic position sensor positioned parallel to the receptacle and configured to measure a magnetic field generated by the magnetic emitter; and a non-transitory computer readable medium comprising instructions that, when executed by a processor, cause the syringe pump infusion device to: determine that the magnetic field measured by the magnetic position sensor deviates from the predetermined magnetic field by a misalignment threshold amount; and cause at least one adjustment to the syringe pump infusion device.

[0007] In another aspect, some implementations of the syringe pump infusion device include: a receptacle configured to receive a syringe, the syringe comprising a barrel and a plunger having a plunger flange; a drive head configured to apply a force to the plunger flange to advance the plunger into the barrel; a magnetic emitter pivotally coupled to the drive head and configured to emit a magnetic field; a magnetic sensor array positioned parallel to the receptacle and configured to measure: a position of the magnetic emitter based on detected presence of the magnetic field at one or more sensors included in the magnetic sensor array, the position of the magnetic emitter corresponding to a position of the plunger flange; and an orientation of the magnetic emitter based on a detected peak amplitude of the magnetic field at the one or more sensors included in the magnetic sensor array, the orientation of the magnetic emitter corresponding to a level of engagement of the plunger with the drive head.

[0008] By detecting the position and engagement level of the plunger with the drive head, the implementations of the syringe pump infusion device described herein can prevent scenarios in which improper engagement of the plunger with the drive head causes ineffective pumping of medication or drugs to the patient, thereby enabling safer infusion practices involving syringe pump infusion devices.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0009] For a better understanding of the various described implementations, reference should be made to the Detailed Description below, in conjunction with the following drawings. Like reference numerals refer to corresponding parts throughout the drawings.

[0010] Figures 1A-1B depict an example syringe pump infusion device in accordance with some implementations.

[0011] Figures 2A-2C depict views of different portions of the example syringe pump infusion device of Figures 1A-1B, including a magnetic emitter and a magnetic position sensor, in accordance with some implementations.

[0012] Figure 3 depicts an example magnetic position sensor in accordance with some implementations.

[0013] Figure 4 depicts example magnetic emitters in accordance with some implementations.

[0014] Figures 5A-5B depict operation of the magnetic emitter and magnetic position sensor when a syringe plunger is improperly and properly engaged, in accordance with some implementations.

[0015] Figures 6A-6B depict output signals of the magnetic position sensor when a syringe plunger is improperly and properly engaged, in accordance with some implementations.

[0016] Figure 7 depicts a process for operating a syringe pump infusion device in accordance with some implementations.

[0017] Figure 8 is a conceptual diagram illustrating an example electronic system in accordance with some implementations.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0018] Reference will now be made to implementations, examples of which are illustrated in the accompanying drawings. In the following description, numerous specific details are set forth in order to provide an understanding of the various described implementations. However, it will be apparent to one of ordinary skill in the art that the various described implementations may be practiced without these specific details. In some instances, well-known methods, procedures, components, circuits, and networks have not been described in detail so as not to unnecessarily obscure aspects of the implementations.

[0019] Figures 1A-1B depict an example syringe pump infusion device 100 (also referred to as a syringe pump, a syringe driver infusion pump system, or an infusion system) in accordance with some implementations. While the example syringe pump infusion device 100 is shown as a standalone device, the syringe pump infusion device 100 may be configured as a functional module for operable connection to and/or coupling with a control unit of another infusion device.

[0020] The syringe pump infusion device 100 is configured to load a disposable syringe 120 in a receptacle 102 for administration of a fluid to a patient. Figure 1A depicts the syringe pump infusion device 100 without the syringe 120 mounted, and Figure IB depicts the syringe pump infusion device 100 with the syringe 120 mounted in the receptacle 102.

[0021] The syringe 120 includes a barrel 122 and a plunger 124. The barrel 122 has a tip 128 at one end and a collar 129 (also referred to as a finger flange or a barrel flange) at the other end and contains the fluid to be pumped. One end of the plunger 124 includes a piston (not shown) that fits into the barrel 122 at collar 129, and the other end of the plunger 124 includes a plunger flange 126 (also referred to as a push button) that, when pushed toward the barrel 122, causes the plunger 124 to advance (move further) into the barrel 122, which causes the contents of the barrel 122 to be expelled through the tip 128.

[0022] When the syringe 120 is properly mounted (engaged) in the receptacle 102 of the syringe pump infusion device 100, the plunger flange 126 at the end of the plunger 124 is held in a plunger drive head 110 (also referred to as a driver, a carriage, a carriage assembly, or an actuator) with a pair of pivotally mounted plunger retaining arms 112. The drive head 110 is slidably coupled to the receptacle and configured to advance the plunger flange 126 from a starting position located a first distance from the syringe barrel 122 to an end position located a second distance from the syringe barrel 122 less than the first distance from the syringe barrel 122. The plunger 124 is “properly” mounted or engaged if it is fully held in place by the drive head 110 in a manner that allows for expected operation of the infusing program (e.g., there is no slipping of the plunger in the drive head, and the plunger is placed where it is expected to be placed by the infusion program).

[0023] The barrel 122 of the syringe 120 is secured by a syringe clamp 106 (also referred to as an arm clamp or a barrel clamp), so that when the drive head 110 moves forward (in the -y direction) toward the plunger barrel 122, a pushing surface 114 pushes the plunger flange 126 of the plunger toward the stationary plunger barrel 122. In other words, the movement of the drive head 110 toward the plunger barrel 122 applies a force to the plunger flange 126, which pushes the plunger 124 into the barrel 122 of the syringe. This movement of the plunger 124 into the barrel 122 causes the syringe contents (the fluid) to be expelled out of the tip 128 through an administration set 130 (also referred to as tubing) to the patient.

[0024] The drive head 110 may be connected to a screw drive mechanism, including a motor, configured to connect the linear motion of the screw drive mechanism to the plunger 124 in order to empty the syringe 120 according to a pump rate. A pump rate is controlled by the syringe pump infusion device 100 based on one or more programmed parameters (e.g., a desired pump rate) and type of syringe 120.

[0025] In some implementations, the syringe 120 holds a medical fluid to be infused by the syringe pump infusion device 100. As described herein, the syringe 120 may be of a make and mode configured to be compatible with a blood product. For the purpose of this disclosure, a blood product, or fluid, may include whole blood, blood components, and/or plasma derivatives. Blood components may include red blood cell concentrates or suspensions, platelets, plasma, and/or cryoprecipitate. Plasma derivatives may include plasma proteins prepared under pharmaceutical manufacturing conditions, such as albumin, coagulation factor concentrates, and/or immunoglobulins.

[0026] As well as operating buttons or switches, which the operator may use to activate and program the syringe pump infusion device 100, there is a display screen 104. The display screen 104 may be a simple LCD (liquid crystal display) having a small number of segments, for example seven segments in a figure-of-eight configuration per character, adapted to display a small number of alphanumeric characters. The display may be monochromatic, for example, using red, green, or grey/black characters. Alternatively, the display screen 104 may be a more complicated LCD capable of displaying more characters or more complicated characters. The LCD may be backlit, for example, using light emitting diodes (LEDs). In some implementations, the infusion pump may include a thin-film transistor (TFT) LCD. In some implementations, the display screen 104 is also a touchscreen such as a capacitive touchscreen.

[0027] The syringe pump infusion device 100 may include a scrolling system comprising an “up” scroll key and a “down” scroll key, which are operable to increase or decrease pumping parameters, such as the mass flow rate setting shown on the display 104, or the VTBI (volume to be infused) setting shown on the display 104. In some cases, each scroll key may be physically present on the device (as depicted) or may be graphically displayed on the display 104.

[0028] When programming an infusion device, the user may input the type of syringe 120 being fitted to the pump. The pump stores in an internal memory a database of known syringe types containing information such as syringe diameter and stroke. Software (or firmware) of the syringe pump infusion device 100 calculates the position of the syringe plunger 124 based on movement of the drive head 110 and the type and size of the syringe 120. This allows the syringe pump infusion device 100 to display the calculation of volume infused, time elapsed, volume remaining, and time remaining on the display 104. As infusion continues and the drive head 110 moves, these calculations can be updated, and the displayed information can be changed.

[0029] In some implementations, the syringe pump infusion device 100 determines the position of the drive head 110 based on the position of a magnetic emitter 150 (also referred to as a magnet, an electromagnet, or an electromagnetic switch) in relation to a magnetic position sensor 160. The magnetic emitter 150 is coupled to the drive head 110 (in some implementations, it is sealed within the drive head), and the magnetic position sensor 160 is coupled to the non-moving portion of the syringe pump infusion device 100 in a location of the receptacle 102 that is proximate to where the plunger is mounted, extending from the plunger flange to the collar of the syringe, as shown in Figure 1A. As a result of this positioning, movement of the drive head 110 causes corresponding movement of the magnetic emitter 150, which is detected by the stationary magnetic position sensor 160.

[0030] In some instances, the drive head 110 may become disengaged from the screw drive mechanism that is configured to control movement of the drive head. In these scenarios, some syringe pump infusion devices may detect that the screw drive mechanism is properly functioning and therefore determine, incorrectly, that the drive head is moving. As a result, these syringe pump infusion devices may continue to operate as if the contents of the syringe are being administered to the patient per the infusion program, while in reality, the syringe is not administering any of its contents due to the disengaged drive head not moving the plunger.

[0031] Further, in some instances, the plunger 124 may be improperly mounted to (or only partially engaged with) the drive head 110. In these scenarios, some syringe pump infusion devices may detect that the drive head is moving as expected and therefore determine, incorrectly, that the contents of the syringe are being administered to the patient per the infusion program. In reality, however, the syringe is not administering its contents as expected due to the improperly mounted plunger not moving, or moving less than it would be moving if it were properly mounted to the drive head.

[0032] To address the aforementioned scenarios, the magnetic emitter 150 in the syringe pump infusion device 100 is coupled to the drive head 110 in such a manner as to enable noncontact plunger engagement detection in addition to position sensing. Specifically, when the plunger 124 is properly mounted to the drive head 110 (e.g., inserted into the retaining arms 112 of the carriage assembly), the plunger 124 causes the magnetic emitter 150 to rotate by an angle that still allows the position of the drive head 110 to be accurately detected, and also provides a sufficient difference in detected magnetic field peak amplitude at the magnetic position sensor 160 to allow for plunger engagement detection. The discussion below with reference to Figures 2A-7 expands on this concept.

[0033] Figures 2A-2C depict views of different portions of the example syringe pump infusion device of Figures 1A-1B, including a magnetic emitter 150 and a magnetic position sensor 160, in accordance with some implementations. Figure 2A depicts an exposed, overhead view of the components of the syringe pump infusion device 100 that directly interact with the syringe 120 when it is mounted in the receptacle 102 (as shown in Figure IB), Figure 2B depicts the same view but with the addition of the magnetic emitter 150 and the magnetic position sensor 160, and Figure 2C depicts a lateral view of the magnetic emitter 150 and the magnetic position sensor 160.

[0034] As described above, a screw drive mechanism causes the drive head 110 to apply a force on the plunger flange of the plunger during infusing operations. The screw drive mechanism includes a leadscrew 202 and two guide rails 204. A motor of the syringe pump infusion device 100 turns the leadscrew 202, which causes the drive head 110 to move along the receptacle 102 in a linear trajectory in the -y direction (for pushing the plunger toward the barrel) and in the +y direction (for moving the plunger out of the barrel).

[0035] The magnetic emitter 150 is coupled to the drive head 110 in such a manner as to allow it to rotate in place. For example, one end of the magnetic emitter 150 may be coupled to the drive head 110 while the other end of the magnetic emitter 150 may be free to rotate or pivot as a result of the plunger or the plunger flange of the plunger applying a force on it. As such, the magnetic emitter 150 may be described as being rotatably coupled, or pivotably coupled, or partially coupled to the drive head 110 (additional details are described below with reference to Figures 5A-5B).

[0036] The magnetic position sensor 160 is positioned parallel to the receptacle 102 and includes a linear array of magnetic sensors 260. The magnetic sensors 260 are disposed along a portion of the receptacle spanning the plunger 124. As the magnetic emitter 150 moves over the magnetic sensors 260, the magnetic sensors 260 each detect a magnitude of the magnetic field emitted by (emanating from) the magnetic emitter 150. The magnetic sensor 260 that has detected the highest peak magnitude can be inferred to be the magnetic sensor 260 closest to the position of the drive head 110 (and thus, the position of the plunger flange of the plunger).

[0037] In the aforementioned arrangement, the magnetic emitter 150 and the magnetic position sensor 160 function together as a combined position and engagement sensor (also referred to as a magnetic encoder), which simultaneously (i) detects the position of the drive head 110, and (ii) detects engagement of the plunger within the drive head.

[0038] The syringe pump infusion device 100 detects the position of the drive head 110 by using a magnetic sensor array to determine the position of the magnetic emitter 150 in proximity to the linear array of sensors 260 disposed on the magnetic position sensor 160. The syringe pump infusion device 100 determines the position of the drive head 110 by using the detected levels (e.g., peak amplitude of the magnetic field) detected at each of the individual sensors 260 in the array to determine the position of the magnetic emitter 110 that is coupled to the drive head 110.

[0039] The syringe pump infusion device 100 detects engagement of the plunger 124 within the drive head 110 (sometimes referred to as plunger engagement detection, or determining whether the plunger is correctly or properly held within the drive head), by using the array of magnetic sensors 260 in the magnetic position sensor 160 to determine the orientation of the magnetic emitter 150 with respect to the magnetic position sensor 160, and thus, the alignment of these components with respect to each other. As discussed above, the magnetic sensors 260 are sensitive to the alignment of the magnetic field emitted by the magnetic emitter 150 relative to the magnetic sensors 260 (described in more detail below with reference to Figures 5A-5B).

[0040] Thus, using a mechanism in the drive head 110 that changes the angle of the magnetic emitter 150 relative to the magnetic position sensor 160 when a plunger is properly engaged, the magnetic emitter 150 may be aligned or misaligned with the magnetic sensor array based on the extent of engagement of the plunger with the drive head 110. Regardless of the extent of plunger engagement, however, the magnetic position sensor 160 can still detect the position of the magnetic emitter 150, and thus functions as a position sensor for the drive head 110 even when the plunger is improperly engaged with the drive head 110.

[0041] Figure 3 depicts an example magnetic position sensor 160 in accordance with some implementations. The magnetic position sensor 160 (also referred to as a linear magnetic encoder) detects a magnetic field source (magnetic emitter 150) using an array of magnetic sensors 260. The magnetic field source (magnetic emitter 150) may be a permanent magnet that does not require power (e.g., a rare earth magnet), or an electromagnet that receives power from the syringe pump infusion device 100 (e.g., via the guide rails 204 depicted in Figures 2A-2B).

[0042] The magnetic sensors 260 may be magneto-resistive (MR) sensors, Hall effect sensors, or any other type of sensor that can detect a magnetic field. The magnetic position sensor 160 includes or is communicatively coupled to a signal processing element (e.g., a processor) configured to interpolate the sensor signals to determine position, angle, speed, and/or direction of movement of the magnetic emitter 150 (and thus, the drive head 110).

[0043] Specifically, each of the magnetic sensors 260 detects the magnetic field emitted from the magnetic emitter 150 as the magnetic emitter 150 passes over the respective magnetic sensors 260. As the magnetic emitter 150 passes over a magnetic sensor 260, the output resistance of the magnetic sensor 260 changes. As the magnetic emitter 150 moves along the sensor array, each magnetic sensor 260 outputs a value proportional to the sensed magnetic field. The signal processing element interpolates the multiple sensor outputs to determine the position of the magnet. The magnetic sensors 260 in the array make up a sequence. The measured resistance from the magnetic sensors 260 and the unique sequence of the two magnetic sensors 260 that are closest to the magnetic emitter 150 are used to determine the magnet's position along the linear scale (the +y and -y directions).

[0044] Figure 4 depicts example magnetic emitters 150 in accordance with some implementations. The magnetic sensors 260 may be magneto-resistive sensors, Hall effect sensors, or any other type of sensor configured to detect presence or characteristics of a magnetic field.

[0045] Magneto-resistive sensors 260 detect the angle of a parallel magnetic field 402 in a detectable area 412. Changes occur in the electrical resistance of a magneto-resistive sensor element when a magnetic field is applied across the sensor element. As the magnetic field gets closer to the sensor, the resistance decreases. In some implementations, a magneto-resistive sensor consists of a conductor (e.g., iron alloy), a magnetic field (provided by the magnetic emitter 150), and short pulses of current applied to the conductor, which generates a magnetic field. The magnetic field generated by the conductor in the sensor interacts with the magnetic field from the magnetic emitter 150. Due to both magnetic fields interacting with each other, the conductor experiences torsional strain or twist. This twist creates a mechanical pulse that travels down the conductor and is detected by a signal converter, which outputs a voltage pulse when the twist is detected. In this arrangement, the time between the initial current pulse and the detection of the twist pulse indicates the position of the magnetic emitter 150, or proximity of the magnetic emitter 150 to the conductor.

[0046] Hall effect sensors 260 detect the strength of a magnetic field 404 perpendicular to the sensor in a detectable area 414. The Hall effect is the occurrence of voltage when a magnetic field is applied across a Hall element. A Hall effect sensor detects the strength of a magnetic field perpendicular to it by measuring the change of the voltage in the magnetic field. As the magnetic field 404 moves closer to the magnetic sensor 260, the voltage increases. As the magnetic field 404 moves farther from the magnetic sensor 260, the voltage decreases. Likewise, the less perpendicular the magnetic field 404 is to the magnetic sensor 260, the less voltage may be measured. Thus, in this arrangement, a Hall effect magnetic sensor 260 can be used to find the position of the magnetic field (emitted by the magnetic emitter 150) relative to the magnetic sensor 260. [0047] Figures 5A-5B depict operation of the magnetic emitter 150 and magnetic position sensor 160 when a syringe plunger 124 is improperly and properly engaged, respectively, in accordance with some implementations.

[0048] Figure 5 A depicts a receptacle 102 (and corresponding components as described above) of a syringe pump infusion device 100 with no syringe mounted therein, and thus, no plunger is engaged in the drive head 110. As a result, the magnetic emitter 150 is oriented in a first position, which is misaligned (offset) with respect to the magnetic position sensor 160. This position (the first position) may be referred to as a default position, as it is the position of the magnetic emitter 150 before a syringe 120 is mounted into the syringe pump infusion device 100 and after the syringe 120 is removed from the syringe pump infusion device 100.

[0049] Figure 5B depicts a receptacle 102 (and corresponding components as described above) of a syringe pump infusion device 100 with a syringe 102 mounted therein, with the plunger 124 properly engaged in the drive head 110. As a result, a portion of the plunger 124 pushes against the magnetic emitter 150, causing the magnetic emitter to rotate (or pivot) into a second position, which is aligned (e.g., parallel) with the magnetic position sensor 160. This position (the second position) may be referred to as an engaged position, as it is the position of the magnetic emitter 150 while the syringe 120 is mounted into the syringe pump infusion device 100 and the plunger 124 of the syringe 120 is properly engaged with the drive head 110.

[0050] The magnetic sensors 260 in Figure 5 A detect a magnetic field having a first peak amplitude (e.g., 604, Figure 6A), while the magnetic sensors 260 in Figure 5B detect a magnetic field having a second peak amplitude (e.g., 614, Figure 6B) higher than the first peak amplitude. Thus, the proper alignment of the magnetic emitter 150 with respect to the array of sensors 260 on the magnetic position sensor 160 causes the detected peak amplitude of the magnetic field to be higher, compared to the peak amplitude detected when the magnetic emitter 150 is misaligned with respect to the array of sensors 260 on the magnetic position sensor 160.

[0051] While Figures 5A and 5B show the extremes of no plunger and a properly engaged plunger, respectively, other scenarios could involve a partially engaged plunger. In these scenarios, the magnetic emitter 150 is oriented somewhere between the orientations in Figures 5A and 5B. Thus, even if the syringe is mounted and the plunger is at least partially engaged with the drive head 110, the magnetic position sensor 160 can still detect that the plunger is not fully engaged with the drive head 110 by comparing the peak amplitude of the detected magnetic field 402 to a predetermined peak amplitude (e.g., threshold TH in Figures 6A-6B, also referred to as an alignment threshold or a misalignment threshold) associated with the magnetic field of a fully aligned magnetic emitter 150.

[0052] Figures 6A-6B depict output signals of the magnetic position sensor 160 when a syringe plunger 124 is improperly and properly engaged, respectively, in accordance with some implementations.

[0053] Figure 6A depicts an output signal 602 corresponding to the position of the magnetic emitter 150 between position A (e.g., in a fully extended position as shown in Figure 5B) and position B (e.g., in a fully depressed position). One or more processors (e.g., 262) within or communicatively coupled to the magnetic position sensor 160 convert the detected magnetic field data from the plurality of sensors 260 into an output signal 602 expressed as analog voltages or digital counts, and transmits the output signal 602 (e.g., from a first input/output (VO) port of processor 262) to a main processor of the syringe pump infusion device 100, where the output signal 602 can be converted to user friendly output and displayed on the display 104 (Figure IB).

[0054] While the example in Figure 6A depicts an increasing output signal as the magnetic emitter 150 moves towards position B, other implementations can use any other function, as long as there is a one-to-one mapping of output values for each plunger position.

[0055] Figure 6A further depicts an output signal 604 corresponding to the level of plunger engagement (as indicated by detected peak amplitude values of the magnetic field emitted by the magnetic emitter 150) between position A and position B. One or more processors (e.g., 262) within or communicatively coupled to the magnetic position sensor 160 convert the detected magnetic field peak amplitude data from the plurality of sensors 260 into an output signal 604 expressed as analog voltages or digital counts, and transmits the output signal 604 (e.g., from a second I/O port of processor 262) to a main processor of the syringe pump infusion device 100, where the output signal can be converted to user friendly output and displayed on the display 104 (Figure IB).

[0056] The example in Figure 6A depicts an unchanging output signal 604, indicating a consistent level of plunger engagement (corresponding to the level of alignment offset between magnetic emitter 150 and magnetic position sensor 160) between positions A and B. It is notable, however, that since the magnetic emitter 150 is misaligned, the output signal 604 corresponds to a low peak amplitude value, indicating an improperly engaged (or even missing) plunger. In this instance (e.g., if the output signal 604 is below a plunger engagement threshold TH), the main processor of the syringe pump infusion device 100 may output a notification. The syringe pump infusion device 100 may additionally or alternatively pause the infusion program and/or restore the plunger position to the starting point (e.g., fully extended as depicted in Figure 5B).

[0057] Figure 6B depicts an output signal 612 corresponding to the position of the magnetic emitter 150 between position A and position B. Even though the alignment of the magnetic emitter 150 has a different alignment than that in Figure 6A, the movement of the magnetic emitter 150 between position A and position B is the same as in Figure 6A. Thus, the output signal 612 in Figure 6B is the same as the output signal 602 in Figure 6A.

[0058] Figure 6B further depicts an output signal 614 corresponding to the level of plunger engagement (as indicated by detected peak amplitude values of the magnetic field emitted by the magnetic emitter 150) between position A and position B. Now that the magnetic emitter 150 is fully aligned with respect to the magnetic position sensor 160, the magnetic field detected by the magnetic sensors 260 is stronger, and thus results in higher detected peak amplitudes. As a result, output signal 614 in Figure 6B is higher than output signal 604 in Figure 6A, indicating (e.g., having met a plunger engagement threshold TH) that the plunger is properly engaged with the drive head 110. As such, the infusion program may proceed.

[0059] Figure 7 depicts a process 700 in accordance with some implementations. One or more blocks of process 700 may be implemented, for example, by one or more computing devices, such as syringe pump infusion device 100. In some implementations, one or more of the blocks may be implemented based on one or more machine learning algorithms. In some implementations, one or more of the blocks may be implemented apart from other blocks, and by one or more different processors or devices. Further, for explanatory purposes, the blocks of example process 700 are described as occurring in serial, or linearly. However, multiple blocks of example process 700 may occur in parallel. Additionally, the blocks of example process 700 need not be performed in the order shown and one or more of the blocks of example process 700 need not be performed. [0060] Process 700 begins when a syringe (e.g., 120) is mounted to a syringe pump infusion device (e.g., 100). A magnetic position sensor of the syringe pump infusion device (e.g., 160) detects (702) the position of a magnetic field corresponding to a magnetic emitter (e.g., 150) of the syringe pump infusion device, and conveys this position data to a main processor of the syringe pump infusion device, indicating a position of a drive head (e.g., 110) of the syringe pump infusion device, which corresponds to a position of the plunger of the syringe.

[0061] During, before, or after step 702, the magnetic position sensor detects (704) the peak amplitude (e.g., 604 or 614) of the magnetic field corresponding to the magnetic emitter, and conveys this peak amplitude data to the main processor of the syringe pump infusion device, indicating a level of engagement of the plunger of the syringe with the drive head.

[0062] The main processor determines (706) whether the detected peak amplitude meets an alignment threshold (e.g., plunger engagement threshold TH in Figures 6A-6B). Stated another way, the processor determines whether (i) the measured magnetic field deviates from (ii) a predetermined magnetic field by a misalignment threshold amount. The misalignment threshold amount may be a static value stored in a data store associated with the infusion device. In some implementations, the misalignment threshold amount may be dynamically assessed or determined based on information available to the infusion device. For example, different misalignment threshold amounts may be associated with corresponding, different syringe types or infusates. This allows the system to adjust sensitivity for certain syringes or fluids to be administered thereby providing varying levels of safety. If the alignment threshold is not met (or the misalignment threshold is met) (or if the deviation meets the misalignment threshold), the main processor causes (708) an adjustment to the syringe pump infusion device. The adjustment may include one or more of: outputting a notification or alert indicating improper engagement of the plunger (indicating a requirement to stop or reverse the drive motor of the syringe pump infusion device), stopping or reversing movement of the plunger (e.g., by stopping or reversing the drive motor of the syringe pump infusion device during an infusion program), and returning the plunger to a starting point (e.g., fully extended, as depicted in Figure 5B).

[0063] If the alignment threshold is met, the main processor operates (710), or continues to operate, the syringe pump infusion device according to an infusion program. This may include causing the drive head to push the plunger into the barrel of the syringe according to an infusion rate specified by the infusion program. [0064] The implementations described above with reference to Figures 5A-7 use peak amplitude as the basis for determining alignment of the magnetic emitter 150 with the magnetic position sensor 160, and as an extension, the orientation of the drive head 110 with respect to the receptacle 102. Alternatively, other magnetic field characteristics can be used as the basis for such determinations. Examples include average amplitude, magnitude, frequency, phase, wave vector, and so forth. In general, any aspect of the magnetic field detected by the magnetic position sensor 160 (corresponding to detected alignment) can be compared with a predetermined value of that aspect (corresponding to expected alignment associated with proper plunger engagement) to determine whether the magnetic emitter 150 is aligned (or to what level the magnetic emitter 150 is aligned) with the magnetic position sensor 160. In other words, a measured magnetic field (or any aspect thereof) may be compared to a predetermined magnetic field (or corresponding aspect thereof) to determine an amount of alignment (or misalignment) of the magnetic emitter 150 with the magnetic position sensor 160. For example, if the magnetic field measured by the magnetic position sensor 160 deviates from the predetermined magnetic field by a misalignment threshold amount, this indicates that the plunger 124 is not properly received in the receptacle 102. As a result, at least one adjustment to the syringe pump infusion device (e.g., a notification or stopping/reversing movement of the plunger) may be made.

[0065] The implementations of the syringe pump infusion device described herein provide benefits over existing syringe pump infusion devices in that they enable a non-contact solution for both plunger position detection and plunger engagement detection. The implementations described herein allow for reduced complexity of the syringe pump infusion device by combining drive head position detection and plunger engagement detection into a single sensor. This reduces system complexity, allows for simpler assembly, and allows for higher operating temperature than implementations with separate optical encoders, allows for fewer electrical connections (which can be susceptible to electromagnetic interference or electrostatic discharge), and allows for greater shock and vibration resistance.

[0066] The implementations described herein enable the magnetic position and engagement sensor 150/160 to be completely sealed within the syringe pump infusion device, which allows for more robust protection against ingress of fluids or debris (dust, dirt, light, or liquids). In addition, making plunger engagement detection non-contact eliminates the need for additional electrical connections, simplifying the process of sealing the syringe pump infusion device.

[0067] The implementations described herein enable improved position detection. Having continuous detection of the plunger position over the full range of travel of the drive head, along with detection of the rotation of the leadscrew, allows for earlier detection of issues like the drive head becoming disengaged from the leadscrew, or thread damage leading to the drive head skipping.

[0068] The implementations described herein enable position and engagement detection without requiring a homing sequence upon power-on. Thus, even if the plunger position is changed while the syringe pump infusion device is off, the syringe pump infusion device can still display correct information that depends on plunger position, such as remaining volume to be infused. Further, plunger position changes while the syringe pump infusion device is powered off can be detected on the next power-on, and operations can be notified.

[0069] Figure 8 is a conceptual diagram illustrating an example electronic system 800 in accordance with some implementations. The electronic system 800 may be implemented by a computing device for execution of software associated with portions or steps of process 700, or components and methods provided by Figures 1-7. In this regard, the electronic system 800 may include syringe pump infusion device 100. The electronic system 800 may also include a specifically configured personal computer or a mobile device for infusion such as a smartphone, tablet computer, laptop, PDA, an augmented reality device, a wearable such as a watch or band or glasses, or combination thereof, or other touch screen or television with one or more processors embedded therein or coupled thereto, or any other sort of computer-related electronic device having network connectivity.

[0070] The electronic system 800 may also include various types of computer readable media and interfaces for various other types of computer readable media. In the depicted example, the electronic system 800 includes a bus 808, processing unit(s) 812, a system memory 804, a read-only memory (ROM) 810, a permanent storage device 802, input device interface(s) 814, output device interface(s) 806, and network interface(s) 816. In some implementations, the electronic system 800 may include or be integrated with other computing devices or circuitry for operation of the various components and methods previously described. [0071] The bus 808 collectively represents all system, peripheral, and chipset buses that communicatively connect the numerous internal devices of the electronic system 800. For instance, the bus 808 communicatively connects the processing unit(s) 812 with the ROM 810, the system memory 804, and the permanent storage device 802.

[0072] From these various memory units, processing unit(s) 812 retrieves instructions to execute and data to process in order to execute the processes of the subject disclosure. The processing unit(s) 812 can be a single processor or a multi-core processor in different implementations.

[0073] The ROM 810 stores static data and instructions that are needed by the processing unit(s) 812 and other modules of the electronic system. The permanent storage device 802, on the other hand, is a read- and- write memory device. This device is a non-volatile memory unit that stores instructions and data even when the electronic system 800 is powered off. Some implementations of the subject disclosure use a mass-storage device (such as a magnetic or optical disk and its corresponding disk drive) as the permanent storage device 802. Other implementations use a removable storage device (such as a floppy disk, flash drive, and its corresponding disk drive) as the permanent storage device 802.

[0074] Like the permanent storage device 802, the system memory 804 is a read-and-write memory device. However, unlike the storage device 802, the system memory 804 is a volatile read-and-write memory, such as random-access memory (RAM). The system memory 804 stores some of the instructions and data that the processor needs at runtime. In some implementations, the processes of the subject disclosure are stored in the system memory 804, the permanent storage device 802, and/or the ROM 810. From these various memory units, the processing unit(s) 812 retrieves instructions to execute and data to process, in order to execute the processes of some implementations.

[0075] The bus 808 also connects to the input device interface(s) 814 and the output device interface(s) 806. The input device interface(s) 814 enables the user to communicate information and select commands to the electronic system. Input devices used with the input device interface(s) 814 include, for example, alphanumeric keyboards and pointing devices (also called “cursor control devices”). The output device interface(s) 806 enables, for example, the display of images generated by the electronic system 800. Output devices used with the output device interface(s) 806 include, for example, printers and display devices, such as cathode ray tubes (CRT) or liquid crystal displays (LCD). Some implementations include devices (e.g., touchscreens) that function as both input and output devices.

[0076] Furthermore, the bus 808 also couples the electronic system 800 to a network (not shown) through the network interface(s) 816. The network interface(s) 816 may include, for example, a wireless access point (e.g., Bluetooth or Wi-Fi) or radio circuitry for connecting to a wireless access point. The network interface(s) 816 may also include hardware (e.g., ethemet hardware) for connecting the computer to a part of a network of computers such as a local area network (LAN), a wide area network (WAN), wireless LAN, an intranet, or a network of networks, such as the Internet. Any or all components of electronic system 800 can be used in conjunction with the subject disclosure when specifically configured with one of more of the features described.

[0077] These functions described above can be implemented in computer software, software, or hardware. The techniques can be implemented using one or more computer program products. Programmable processors and computers can be included in or packaged as mobile devices. The processes and logic flows can be performed by one or more programmable processors and by programmable logic circuitry. General and special purpose computing devices and storage devices can be interconnected through communication networks.

[0078] Some implementations include electronic components, such as microprocessors, storage and memory that store computer program instructions in a machine -readable or computer-readable medium (also referred to as computer-readable storage media, machine- readable media, or machine-readable storage media). Some examples of such computer- readable media include RAM, ROM, read-only compact discs (CD-ROM), recordable compact discs (CD-R), rewritable compact discs (CD-RW), read-only digital versatile discs (e.g., DVD- ROM, dual-layer DVD-ROM), a variety of recordable/rewritable DVDs (e.g., DVD-RAM, DVD-RW, DVD+RW, etc.), flash memory (e.g., SD cards, mini-SD cards, micro-SD cards, etc.), magnetic and/or solid state hard drives, read-only and recordable Blu-Ray® discs, ultra density optical discs, other optical or magnetic media, and floppy disks. The computer-readable media can store a computer program that is executable by at least one processing unit and includes sets of instructions for performing various operations. Examples of computer programs or computer code include machine code, such as is produced by a compiler, and files including higher-level code that are executed by a computer, an electronic component, or a microprocessor using an interpreter. [0079] While the above discussion primarily refers to microprocessor or multi-core processors that execute software, some implementations are performed by one or more integrated circuits, such as application specific integrated circuits (ASICs) or field- programmable gate arrays (FPGAs). In some implementations, such integrated circuits execute instructions that are stored on the circuit itself.

[0080] As used in this specification and any claims of this application, the terms “computer,” “server,” “processor,” and “memory” all refer to electronic or other technological devices specifically configured with one or more of the features described above. These terms exclude people or groups of people. For the purposes of the specification, the terms display or displaying means displaying on an electronic device. As used in this specification and any claims of this application, the terms “computer readable medium” and “computer readable media” are entirely restricted to tangible, physical objects that store information in a form that is readable by a computer. These terms exclude any wireless signals, wired download signals, and any other ephemeral signals.

[0081] To provide for interaction with a user, implementations of the subject matter described in this specification can be implemented on a computer having a display device, e.g., a CRT (cathode ray tube) or LCD (liquid crystal display) monitor, for displaying information to the user and a keyboard and a pointing device, e.g., a mouse or a trackball, by which the user can provide input to the computer. Other kinds of devices can be used to provide for interaction with a user as well. For example, feedback provided to the user can be any form of sensory feedback (e.g., visual feedback, auditory feedback, tactile feedback), and input from the user can be received in forms such as acoustic, speech, gesture, or tactile input. In addition, a computer can interact with a user by sending documents to and receiving documents from a device that is used by the user (e.g., by sending web pages to a web browser on a user’s client device in response to requests received from the web browser).

[0082] Implementations of the subject matter described in this specification can be implemented in a specifically configured computing system that includes a back end component (e.g., a data server), or that includes a specifically configured middleware component (e.g., an application server), or that includes a specifically configured front end component (e.g., a client computer having a graphical user interface or a Web browser through which a user can interact with an implementation of the subject matter described in this specification), or any combination of one or more such back end, middleware, or front end components. The components of the system can be interconnected by one or more forms or mediums of digital data communication, such as a communication network. Examples of communication networks include a LAN and a WAN, an inter-network (e.g., the Internet), and peer-to-peer networks (e.g., ad hoc peer-to-peer networks).

[0083] The computing system can include specifically configured clients and servers. A client and server are generally remote from each other and may interact through a communication network. The relationship of client and server arises by virtue of computer programs running on the respective computers and having a client-server relationship to each other. In some implementations, a server transmits data (e.g., an HTML page) to a client device (e.g., for purposes of displaying data to and receiving user input from a user interacting with the client device). Data generated at the client device (e.g., a result of the user interaction) can be received from the client device at the server.

[0084] Those of skill in the art will appreciate that the various illustrative blocks, modules, elements, components, methods, and algorithms described herein may be implemented as electronic hardware, computer software, or a combination thereof. To illustrate this interchangeability of hardware and software, various illustrative blocks, modules, elements, components, methods, and algorithms have been described above generally in terms of their functionality. Whether such functionality is implemented as hardware or software depends upon the particular application and design constraints imposed on the overall system. The described functionality may be implemented in varying ways for each particular application. Various components and blocks may be arranged differently (e.g., arranged in a different order, or partitioned in a different way) all without departing from the scope of the subject technology.

[0085] It is understood that the specific order or hierarchy of steps in the processes disclosed is an illustration of example approaches. Based upon design preferences, it is understood that the specific order or hierarchy of steps in the processes may be rearranged. Some of the steps may be performed simultaneously. The accompanying method claims present elements of the various steps in a sample order and are not meant to be limited to the specific order or hierarchy presented.

[0086] Illustration of Subject Technology as Clauses:

[0087] Various examples of aspects of the disclosure are described as numbered clauses (1, 2, 3, etc.) for convenience. These are provided as examples, and do not limit the subject technology. Identifications of the figures and reference numbers are provided below merely as examples and for illustrative purposes, and the clauses are not limited by those identifications.

[0088] Clause 1. A syringe pump infusion device, comprising: a receptacle configured to receive a syringe, the syringe comprising a barrel and a plunger; a drive head configured to apply a force to the plunger to advance the plunger into the barrel; a magnetic emitter coupled to the drive head and configured to emit a predetermined magnetic field (or a magnetic field having a predetermined magnitude or peak amplitude) (e.g., when the force is applied to the plunger) (e.g., when the plunger is properly engaged or received in the receptacle); a magnetic position sensor fixed at a position parallel to the receptacle and configured to measure the magnetic field (or a magnitude or peak amplitude of the magnetic field) emitted by the magnetic emitter; a processor; and a non-transitory computer readable medium comprising instructions that, when executed by the processor, cause the syringe pump infusion device to: determine that the measured magnetic field (or the measured magnitude or peak amplitude of the magnetic field) measured by the magnetic position sensor deviates from the predetermined magnetic field (or the predetermined magnitude or peak amplitude) by a misalignment threshold amount; and cause at least one adjustment to the syringe pump infusion device responsive to determining that the measured magnetic field deviates form the predetermined magnetic field by the misalignment threshold amount.

[0089] Clause 2: The syringe pump infusion device of clause 1, wherein the magnetic position sensor is coupled to a portion of the receptacle extending from a plunger flange of the plunger to a collar of the syringe.

[0090] Clause 3 : The syringe pump infusion device of clause 1 or clause 2, wherein the magnetic position sensor includes a linear array of magnetic sensors disposed along a portion of the receptacle spanning the plunger.

[0091] Clause 4: The syringe pump infusion device of any of clauses 1-3, wherein the drive head is slidably coupled to the receptacle and configured to advance the plunger from a starting position located a first distance from the syringe to an end position located a second distance from the syringe less than the first distance from the syringe.

[0092] Clause 5: The syringe pump infusion device of any of clauses 1-4, wherein: the magnetic emitter is pivotally coupled to the drive head; and the magnetic field measured by the magnetic position sensor deviates from the predetermined magnetic field by the misalignment threshold when the magnetic emitter is rotated out of alignment with the magnetic position sensor, indicating that the plunger is improperly engaged with the drive head.

[0093] Clause 6: The syringe pump infusion device of any of clauses 1-5, wherein causing the at least one adjustment includes stopping a drive motor of the syringe pump infusion device, reversing the drive motor of the syringe pump infusion device, or outputting an alert indicating a requirement to stop or reverse the drive motor of the syringe pump infusion device.

[0094] Clause 7: The syringe pump infusion device of any of clauses 1-6, wherein determining that the magnetic field measured by the magnetic position sensor deviates from the predetermined magnetic field by the misalignment threshold amount includes determining that a peak amplitude of the magnetic field measured by the magnetic position sensor is less than a predetermined peak amplitude.

[0095] Clause 8: The syringe pump infusion device of any of clauses 1-7, wherein the magnetic emitter is a rare earth magnet or an electromagnet.

[0096] Clause 9: The syringe pump infusion device of any of clauses 1-8, wherein the magnetic position sensor is a magneto-resistive sensor or a hall effect sensor.

[0097] Clause 10: The syringe pump infusion device of any of clauses 1-9, wherein the magnetic emitter is sealed within the drive head.

[0098] Clause 11 : A syringe pump infusion device, comprising: a receptacle configured to receive a syringe, the syringe comprising a barrel and a plunger; a drive head configured to apply a force to the plunger to advance the plunger into the barrel; a magnetic emitter coupled (pivotally coupled, rotatably coupled, or partially coupled) to the drive head and configured to emit a magnetic field; a magnetic sensor array positioned parallel to the receptacle and configured to measure: a position of the magnetic emitter based on detected presence of the magnetic field at one or more sensors included in the magnetic sensor array, the position of the magnetic emitter corresponding to a position of the plunger; and an orientation of the magnetic emitter based on a detected peak amplitude of the magnetic field at the one or more sensors included in the magnetic sensor array, the orientation of the magnetic emitter corresponding to a level of engagement of the plunger with the drive head. [0099] Clause 12: The syringe pump infusion device of clause 11, wherein the detected peak amplitude is a predetermined peak amplitude when the magnetic emitter is aligned with the receptacle, indicating that the plunger is properly engaged with the drive head.

[00100] Clause 13: The syringe pump infusion device of clause 11 or clause 12, wherein the detected peak amplitude is a peak amplitude less than the predetermined peak amplitude when the magnetic emitter is rotated out of alignment with the receptacle, indicating that the plunger is improperly engaged with the drive head.

[00101] Clause 14: The syringe pump infusion device of any of clauses 11-13, wherein the magnetic sensor array is coupled to a portion of the receptacle extending from a plunger flange of the plunger to a collar of the syringe.

[00102] Clause 15: The syringe pump infusion device of any of clauses 11-14, wherein the magnetic sensor array includes a linear array of magnetic sensors disposed along a portion of the receptacle spanning the plunger.

[00103] Clause 16: The syringe pump infusion device of any of clauses 11-15, wherein the drive head is slidably coupled to the receptacle and configured to advance the plunger from a starting position located a first distance from the syringe to an end position located a second distance from the syringe less than the first distance from the syringe.

[00104] Clause 17 : The syringe pump infusion device of any of clauses 11-16, wherein: the magnetic emitter is pivotally coupled to the drive head; and the detected peak amplitude is based on an amount of rotation of the magnetic emitter with respect to the drive head.

[00105] Clause 18: The syringe pump infusion device of any of clauses 11-17, wherein: the orientation of the magnetic emitter corresponds to an improperly engaged plunger; and in response to the orientation of the magnetic emitter corresponding to the improperly engaged plunger, a drive motor of the syringe driver infusion pump system is configured to stop or reverse movement of the drive head.

[00106] Clause 19: The syringe pump infusion device of any of clauses 11-18, wherein: the magnetic emitter is a rare earth magnet or an electromagnet; and the magnetic position sensor is a magneto-resistive sensor or a hall effect sensor; [00107] Clause 20: The syringe pump infusion device of any of clauses 11-19, wherein the magnetic emitter is sealed within the drive head.

[00108] Further Consideration:

[00109] It is understood that the specific order or hierarchy of steps in the processes disclosed is an illustration of example approaches. Based upon design preferences, it is understood that the specific order or hierarchy of steps in the processes may be rearranged. Some of the steps may be performed simultaneously. The accompanying method claims present elements of the various steps in a sample order, and are not meant to be limited to the specific order or hierarchy presented.

[00110] The previous description is provided to enable any person skilled in the art to practice the various aspects described herein. The previous description provides various examples of the subj ect technology, and the subject technology is not limited to these examples. Various modifications to these aspects will be readily apparent to those skilled in the art, and the generic principles defined herein may be applied to other aspects.

[00111] Thus, the claims are not intended to be limited to the aspects shown herein but are to be accorded the full scope consistent with the language of the claims. For example, reference to an element in the singular is not intended to mean “one and only one” unless specifically so stated, but rather “one or more.” Moreover, unless specifically stated otherwise, the term “some” refers to one or more. Pronouns in the masculine (e.g., his) include the feminine and neuter gender (e.g., her and its) and vice versa. Headings and subheadings, if any, are used for convenience only and do not limit the invention described herein.

[00112] The predicate words “configured to,” “operable to,” and “programmed to” do not imply any particular tangible or intangible modification of a subject, but, rather, are intended to be used interchangeably. For example, a processor configured to monitor and control an operation or a component, may also mean the processor being programmed to monitor and control the operation or the processor being operable to monitor and control the operation. Likewise, a processor configured to execute code can be construed as a processor programmed to execute code or operable to execute code.

[00113] The term “automatic,” as used herein, may include performance by a computer or machine without user intervention, for example, by instructions responsive to a predicate action by the computer or machine or other initiation mechanism. The word “example” is used herein to mean “serving as an example or illustration.” Any aspect or design described herein as “example” is not necessarily to be construed as preferred or advantageous over other aspects or designs.

[00114] A phrase such as an “aspect” does not imply that such aspect is essential to the subject technology or that such aspect applies to all configurations of the subject technology. A disclosure relating to an aspect may apply to all configurations, or one or more configurations. An aspect may provide one or more examples. A phrase such as an aspect may refer to one or more aspects and vice versa. A phrase such as an “implementation” does not imply that such implementation is essential to the subject technology or that such implementation applies to all configurations of the subject technology. A disclosure relating to an implementation may apply to all implementations, or one or more implementations. An implementation may provide one or more examples. A phrase such as an “implementation” may refer to one or more implementations and vice versa. A phrase such as a “configuration” does not imply that such configuration is essential to the subject technology or that such configuration applies to all configurations of the subject technology. A disclosure relating to a configuration may apply to all configurations, or one or more configurations. A configuration may provide one or more examples. A phrase such as a “configuration” may refer to one or more configurations and vice versa.

[00115] As used herein a “user interface” (also referred to as an interactive user interface, a graphical user interface, or a UI) may refer to a network-based interface including data fields or other control elements for receiving input signals or providing electronic information or for providing information to the user in response to any received input signals. Control elements may include dials, buttons, icons, selectable areas, or other perceivable indicia presented via the UI that, when interacted with (e.g., clicked, touched, selected, etc.), initiates an exchange of data for the device presenting the UI. A UI may be implemented in whole or in part using technologies such as hyper-text mark-up language (HTML), FLASH™, JAVA™, .NET™, C, C++, web services, or rich site summary (RSS). In some implementations, a UI may be included in a stand-alone client (for example, thick client, fat client) configured to communicate (e.g., send or receive data) in accordance with one or more of the aspects described. The communication may be to or from a medical device or server in communication therewith. [00116] As used herein, the terms “determine” or “determining” encompass a wide variety of actions. For example, “determining” may include calculating, computing, processing, deriving, generating, obtaining, looking up (e.g., looking up in a table, a database, or another data structure), ascertaining and the like via a hardware element without user intervention. Also, “determining” may include receiving (e.g., receiving information), accessing (e.g., accessing data in a memory) and the like via a hardware element without user intervention. “Determining” may include resolving, selecting, choosing, establishing, and the like via a hardware element without user intervention.

[00117] As used herein, the terms “provide” or “providing” encompass a wide variety of actions. For example, “providing” may include storing a value in a location of a storage device for subsequent retrieval, transmitting a value directly to the recipient via at least one wired or wireless communication medium, transmitting or storing a reference to a value, and the like. “Providing” may also include encoding, decoding, encrypting, decrypting, validating, verifying, and the like via a hardware element.

[00118] As used herein, the term “message” encompasses a wide variety of formats for communicating (e.g., transmitting or receiving) information. A message may include a machine -readable aggregation of information such as an XML document, fixed field message, comma separated message, JSON, a custom mode, or the like. A message may, in some implementations, include a signal utilized to transmit one or more representations of the information. While recited in the singular, it will be understood that a message may be composed, transmitted, stored, received, etc. in multiple parts.

[00119] As used herein, the term “selectively” or “selective” may encompass a wide variety of actions. For example, a “selective” process may include determining one option from multiple options. A “selective” process may include one or more of: dynamically determined inputs, preconfigured inputs, or user-initiated inputs for making the determination. In some implementations, an n-input switch may be included to provide selective functionality where n is the number of inputs used to make the selection.

[00120] As used herein, the terms “correspond” or “corresponding” encompasses a structural, functional, quantitative and/or qualitative correlation or relationship between two or more objects, data sets, information and/or the like, preferably where the correspondence or relationship may be used to translate one or more of the two or more objects, data sets, information and/or the like so to appear to be the same or equal. Correspondence may be assessed using one or more of a threshold, a value range, fuzzy logic, pattern matching, a machine learning assessment model, or combinations thereof.

[00121] In some implementations, data generated or detected can be forwarded to a “remote” device or location, where “remote,” means a location or device other than the location or device at which the program is executed. For example, a remote location could be another location (e.g., office, lab, etc.) in the same city, another location in a different city, another location in a different state, another location in a different country, etc. As such, when one item is indicated as being “remote” from another, what is meant is that the two items can be in the same room but separated, or at least in different rooms or different buildings, and can be at least one mile, ten miles, or at least one hundred miles apart. “Communicating” information references transmitting the data representing that information as electrical signals over a suitable communication channel (e.g., a private or public network). “Forwarding” an item refers to any means of getting that item from one location to the next, whether by physically transporting that item or otherwise (where that is possible) and includes, at least in the case of data, physically transporting a medium carrying the data or communicating the data. Examples of communicating media include radio or infra-red transmission channels as well as a network connection to another computer or networked device, and the internet or including email transmissions and information recorded on websites and the like.

Claims

1. A syringe pump infusion device, comprising: a receptacle configured to receive a syringe, the syringe comprising a barrel and a plunger; a drive head configured to apply a force to the plunger to advance the plunger into the barrel; a magnetic emitter coupled to the drive head and configured to emit a predetermined magnetic field; a magnetic position sensor fixed at a position parallel to the receptacle and configured to measure the magnetic field emitted by the magnetic emitter; a processor; and a non-transitory computer readable medium comprising instructions that, when executed by the processor, cause the syringe pump infusion device to: determine that the measured magnetic field measured by the magnetic position sensor deviates from the predetermined magnetic field by a misalignment threshold amount; and cause at least one adjustment to the syringe pump infusion device responsive to determining that the measured magnetic field deviates form the predetermined magnetic field by the misalignment threshold amount.

2. The syringe pump infusion device of claim 1, wherein the magnetic position sensor is coupled to a portion of the receptacle extending from a plunger flange of the plunger to a collar of the syringe.

3. The syringe pump infusion device of claim 1 or claim 2, wherein the magnetic position sensor includes a linear array of magnetic sensors disposed along a portion of the receptacle spanning the plunger.

4. The syringe pump infusion device of any one of claims 1-3, wherein the drive head is slidably coupled to the receptacle and configured to advance the plunger from a starting position located a first distance from the syringe to an end position located a second distance from the syringe less than the first distance from the syringe.

5. The syringe pump infusion device of any one of claims 1-4, wherein: the magnetic emitter is pivotally coupled to the drive head; and the magnetic field measured by the magnetic position sensor deviates from the predetermined magnetic field by the misalignment threshold when the magnetic emitter is rotated out of alignment with the magnetic position sensor, indicating that the plunger is improperly engaged with the drive head.

6. The syringe pump infusion device of any one of claims 1-5, wherein causing the at least one adjustment includes stopping a drive motor of the syringe pump infusion device, reversing the drive motor of the syringe pump infusion device, or outputting an alert indicating a requirement to stop or reverse the drive motor of the syringe pump infusion device.

7. The syringe pump infusion device of any one of claims 1-6, wherein determining that the magnetic field measured by the magnetic position sensor deviates from the predetermined magnetic field by the misalignment threshold amount includes determining that a peak amplitude of the magnetic field measured by the magnetic position sensor is less than a predetermined peak amplitude.

8. The syringe pump infusion device of any one of claims 1-7, wherein the magnetic emitter is a rare earth magnet or an electromagnet.

9. The syringe pump infusion device of any one of claims 1-8, wherein the magnetic position sensor is a magneto-resistive sensor or a hall effect sensor.

10. The syringe pump infusion device of any one of claims 1-9, wherein the magnetic emitter is sealed within the drive head.

11. A syringe pump infusion device, comprising: a receptacle configured to receive a syringe, the syringe comprising a barrel and a plunger; a drive head configured to apply a force to the plunger to advance the plunger into the barrel; a magnetic emitter coupled to the drive head and configured to emit a magnetic field; and a magnetic sensor array positioned parallel to the receptacle and configured to measure: a position of the magnetic emitter based on detected presence of the magnetic field at one or more sensors included in the magnetic sensor array, the position of the magnetic emitter corresponding to a position of the plunger; and an orientation of the magnetic emitter based on a detected peak amplitude of the magnetic field at the one or more sensors included in the magnetic sensor array, the orientation of the magnetic emitter corresponding to a level of engagement of the plunger with the drive head.

12. The syringe pump infusion device of claim 11, wherein the detected peak amplitude is a predetermined peak amplitude when the magnetic emitter is aligned with the receptacle, indicating that the plunger is properly engaged with the drive head.

13. The syringe pump infusion device of claim 11 or claim 12, wherein the detected peak amplitude is a peak amplitude less than the predetermined peak amplitude when the magnetic emitter is rotated out of alignment with the receptacle, indicating that the plunger is improperly engaged with the drive head.

14. The syringe pump infusion device of any one of claims 11-13, wherein the magnetic sensor array is coupled to a portion of the receptacle extending from a plunger flange of the plunger to a collar of the syringe.

15. The syringe pump infusion device of any one of claims 11-14, wherein the magnetic sensor array includes a linear array of magnetic sensors disposed along a portion of the receptacle spanning the plunger.

16. The syringe pump infusion device of any one of claims 11-15, wherein the drive head is slidably coupled to the receptacle and configured to advance the plunger from a starting position located a first distance from the syringe to an end position located a second distance from the syringe less than the first distance from the syringe.

17. The syringe pump infusion device of any one of claims 11-16, wherein: the magnetic emitter is pivotally coupled to the drive head; and the detected peak amplitude is based on an amount of rotation of the magnetic emitter with respect to the drive head.

18. The syringe pump infusion device of any one of claims 11-17, wherein: the orientation of the magnetic emitter corresponds to an improperly engaged plunger; and in response to the orientation of the magnetic emitter corresponding to the improperly engaged plunger, a drive motor of the syringe driver infusion pump system is configured to stop or reverse movement of the drive head.

19. The syringe pump infusion device of any one of claims 11-18, wherein: the magnetic emitter is a rare earth magnet or an electromagnet; and the magnetic position sensor is a magneto-resistive sensor or a hall effect sensor.

20. The syringe pump infusion device of any one of claims 11-19, wherein the magnetic emitter is sealed within the drive head.