JP2002336350A - Automatic transfusion device - Google Patents

Abstract

PROBLEM TO BE SOLVED: To provide an automatic transfusion device, with which the quantity of transfusion can be controlled by automatically starting an intravenous drip so that a flow rate can be provided within a prescribed range with a set flow rate as a center. SOLUTION: In this automatic transfusion device, when starting the intravenous drip, a control means 41 drives an actuator 42 so that a tube 5 is temporarily closed and partially opened later by a presser. At such a time, a prescribed number of liquid drops are detected by a drop sensor 12A and when it is judged that a flow rate is greater than a critical flow rate, the tube 5 is pressed by driving the actuator 42 so that the flow rate can be reduced. Thus, the quantity of transfusion is controlled into flow rate within the prescribed range with the set flow rate as a center.

Description

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0001]

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION 1. Field of the Invention The present invention relates to an automatic infusion apparatus capable of automatically starting an infusion and controlling an infusion amount, and in particular, a flow rate can be set in a plurality of formats. To convert to the remaining format and display this,
The present invention relates to an automatic infusion device that can automatically start infusion and control the amount of infusion and leave infusion in the infusion tube even after the infusion is completed.

[0002]

2. Description of the Related Art Conventionally, when a drip is generally performed at a medical site, a flexible plastic infusion container containing a drug solution (hereinafter referred to as an infusion) is hung on an infusion stand.
The container introduction needle of the infusion set is inserted into this infusion container, the other end is attached to the infusion needle pierced by the patient, and the infusion amount is adjusted by operating the manual clamp provided in the middle of the tube. The infusion set is provided with a drip tube, and by operating this manual clamp, it is possible to adjust the infusion amount by increasing or decreasing the dropping speed of the droplets drip in the drip tube.

[0003] However, performing the conventional infusion is an everyday task for nurses and the like, but puts an unexpected burden. In other words, a doctor or the like instructs a nurse or the like on the infusion rate of infusion when performing infusion, and there are generally two methods for this instruction. The first is a temporal instruction for instructing the time required for infusion for a predetermined infusion amount, and the second is how much infusion is infused per unit time (hereinafter referred to as an infusion needle). This is an infusion quantity instruction to indicate whether or not to inject an infusion through "infusion". The nurse or the like calculates an appropriate number of drops to be a unit amount to be infused to the patient from the instructed time and the infused amount, for example, an appropriate drop rate such as 1 ml for 60 drops, and the number of drops within a certain time while watching the second hand of the clock. Is counted and the manual clean is adjusted and set by experience. Here, the infusion amount refers to the amount of infusion that is injected through the infusion needle, and the infusion amount refers to the total amount of infusion that passes through the infusion set. There is no substantial difference between the two.

[0004] However, such a conventional drip has the following problems. First, it is necessary for a nurse or the like to convert an appropriate infusion rate in a target infusion set with respect to any of the above-mentioned time instruction and infusion amount instruction performed by a doctor. At this time, if an error occurs in the calculated value due to a calculation time error, a serious medical error may occur. Also, the amount of infusion changes because the head difference between the infusion container and the infusion needle changes just because the patient's posture changes, and the tube clamped by the manual clamp loses elasticity over time. In addition, since the cross-sectional area of the pinching portion is reduced and the amount of infusion is reduced, it is necessary for nurses and the like to adjust the manual clamp many times.

In order to adjust the infusion set to an appropriate dropping speed, the number of drops of the infusion to be dropped within a predetermined time is counted, and the manual cleaner is delicately operated so as to obtain an appropriate dropping speed. There must be. This needs to be repeated many times. Therefore, in emergency medical sites such as emergency medical care, it has been very difficult to properly adjust such a dropping speed. If a nurse or the like performing a busy job tries to respond to this, it must be done instantly with experience, but this is difficult and difficult for young nurses and the like.

Further, since the head difference between the infusion container and the infusion needle is a dominant factor in determining the flow rate, a large mistake such as infusion cannot be made unless the head difference is sufficiently ensured. All of these burdened nurses and others.

Therefore, in order to reduce such a burden on nurses and the like, and to solve these problems, prior to the present invention, the present inventor proposed an automatic infusion device of a natural fall type (Japanese Patent Application No. 2000-131,197).
000-380249). This automatic infusion device is provided with an infusion drop detecting means for detecting a drop of the infusion in the infusion tube, and a part of the infusion set is clamped by a tube clamp by the electric signal to automatically adjust the infusion amount. . This automatic infusion device is provided with a mode setting key,
A scheduled volume setting means for setting a scheduled volume of the infusion to be infused;
Input means is provided for setting the time to complete the infusion of the predetermined amount of infusion. That is, by pressing the mode setting key, the setting of the planned infusion amount and the planned infusion time or the setting of the infusion amount per unit time is performed from the planned amount setting means and the input means according to the mode. When the mode is selected and the set value is input, the calculating means calculates the infusion volume per unit time from the scheduled volume and the scheduled infusion time, and calculates the estimated infusion time on the liquid crystal panel from the set volume and the set value of the infusion volume per unit time. Can be displayed. When you put on the drip tube and operate the manual clamp to gradually open it,
The infusion drops. The integrating means calculates the flow rate of the infusion per unit time from the number of drops of the infusion measured by the infusion drop detecting means.

If the flow rate per unit time, which is the result of the calculation, does not exceed the predetermined limit flow rate, it is difficult to ensure that a head (water head) for infusion is sufficiently secured in a natural fall type automatic infusion device. Therefore, the infusion cannot be performed properly. Therefore, in this automatic infusion device, a value equal to or more than 150% of the flow rate per unit time, which is the calculation result, is calculated as the limit flow rate, the limit flow rate is displayed on the liquid crystal panel, the manual clamp is squeezed manually, and the head difference is reduced. They are secured and transfused. Since the flow rate per unit time decreases with the passage of time, ± 10% of 100%
That is, the infusion set is clamped by the tube clamp so as to maintain the flow rate within the range of 90% and 110%, and the flow rate is repeatedly increased and decreased, and the infusion is performed within the range of ± 10% using the head difference.

As described above, the automatic infusion device proposed by the present inventor can adjust the flow rate with the tube clamp regardless of the input of the planned infusion amount and the planned infusion time, or the flow rate per unit time. In this case, the infusion can be performed as instructed by simply setting the numerical value as instructed, without manual calculation, for both the temporal instruction and the infusion amount instruction per unit time.

The automatic infusion device operates the tube clamp intermittently within the range of 90% and 110% of the calculated infusion amount, so that the driving power can be saved, and the automatic infusion device can be used for a long time. Could be used. In addition, the setting can be easily performed for the two types of instructions, and the appropriate infusion can be performed without manual adjustment during the infusion.

[0011]

As described above,
Conventional infusion is operated by operating a manual clamp.
The flow rate is adjusted by increasing or decreasing the dropping speed of the droplets dropped in the drip tube. However, in the case of infusion, there are instructions on the infusion rate in terms of time and infusion volume, and for these instructions, nurses etc. calculate the appropriate infusion rate and become the unit volume for infusing the patient. It is necessary to calculate an appropriate number of drops, for example, 1 ml for 60 drops, count the number of drops within a certain time while looking at the second hand of the clock, and adjust the manual cleaning by experience. When calculating two types of instructions by doctors etc. by hand, there is absolutely no problem if there is a mistake, and when performing intravenous drip, the flow rate fluctuates and the manual clamp must be adjusted many times, which is safe. There has been a longing for automation that can perform accurate calculations.

With respect to such a conventional infusion, the automatic infusion device proposed by the present inventor simply sets and inputs a numerical value as instructed without a nurse or the like having to bother to calculate an appropriate drip speed. It was an epoch-making thing that could be calculated by means of calculation and infused.

However, the automatic infusion device proposed by the present inventor can also partially automate the infusion amount control using the head difference by performing a calculation. It is necessary to visually confirm that the flow rate has exceeded the limit flow rate, and it is necessary to manually measure the flow rate at the start of infusion or to visually judge the liquid crystal panel, and complete automation has not been possible Was.

The reason for this is that the infusion is peculiar in that the infusion needle is stuck in the blood vessel of the patient, the viscosity of the blood, the posture of receiving the infusion of the patient, and many existing infusion sets must be used as they are. Due to many circumstances, and infusion control often involves delicate operations, it was difficult to automate completely. In particular, control at the start of infusion was difficult, so the present invention provides an automatic infusion device that can automatically start infusion to control the infusion amount to a flow rate within a predetermined range centered on a set flow rate. The purpose is to provide.

[0015]

In order to achieve the above object, in the automatic infusion device of the present invention, at the start of infusion, the control means drives the actuator to temporarily close the tube with the pressing body and then partially open the tube. At this time, if a predetermined number of droplets are detected by the drop sensor and the flow rate is determined to be equal to or greater than the limit flow rate, the actuator is driven to pinch the tube to reduce the flow rate, and a predetermined range centered on the set flow rate It is characterized by controlling the infusion amount to the flow rate in the inside.

Thus, infusion can be controlled by automatically starting infusion so that the flow rate falls within a predetermined range around the set flow rate.

[0017]

DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS In order to achieve the above object, an invention according to claim 1 of the present invention is directed to a drip tube for detachably mounting a drip tube provided in an infusion set connected to an infusion container. A holding unit, a flow control unit provided below the holding unit, the flow control unit being capable of adjusting the flow rate by pressing the tube on the outflow side of the drip tube with a pressing body, and a drop detecting unit for detecting a droplet dripping in the drip tube. A drop sensor, a calculating means capable of calculating an actually measured flow rate from the number of drops measured by the drop sensor and the measurement time, an actuator provided in the flow rate adjusting unit, for moving the pressing body back and forth, and input from the input means. Control means for controlling the actuator based on the set value,
At the start of instillation, the control means drives the actuator to temporarily close the tube with the pressing body and then partially open it.At this time, a predetermined number of droplets are detected by the drop sensor and the flow rate is judged to be equal to or greater than the limit flow rate. In the case of an automatic infusion device, the actuator is driven to squeeze the tube to reduce the flow rate and control the infusion amount to a flow rate within a predetermined range centered on the set flow rate. The tube is closed and then partially opened, and the flow rate at this time is detected by measuring the droplet and compared with the limit flow rate. Immediately, the flow rate is controlled so as to be within a predetermined range centered on the set flow rate, and then the infusion can be automatically continued. Therefore, infusion can be automatically started, and the infusion amount can be controlled so that the flow rate is within a range in which the infusion can be safely performed around the set flow rate.

According to a second aspect of the present invention, at the start of instillation, the control means closes the tube once with the pressing body by driving the actuator and then partially opens the tube. Is detected and the flow rate is determined to be equal to or higher than the limit flow rate, the actuator is further driven to pinch the tube to reduce the flow rate, to a flow rate within a predetermined range centered on the set value, and then to flow within the range. 2. The automatic infusion device according to claim 1, wherein the control means intermittently drives the actuator to adjust the flow path resistance, and controls the infusion amount using the head difference of the infusion. From the start, the tube is closed once at the start of infusion and then partially opened, and the flow rate at this time is detected by measuring the droplet and compared with the limit flow rate, so it is determined whether infusion can be done in a short time If the flow rate is equal to or greater than the limit flow rate, control is performed so that the flow rate falls within a predetermined range centered on the set flow rate. After that, when the flow rate decreases, the actuator is intermittently driven to within a predetermined safe drip range. Infusion can be continued while controlling start and stop so that the flow rate becomes.
Therefore, since the actuator is controlled intermittently by driving the actuator intermittently, it is possible to make the automatic infusion device which is safe, consumes less power, and needs to be movable and cordless by battery driving. . Even a nurse or the like who is not accustomed to the operation of infusion can perform infusion in a short time and exactly as instructed by a doctor or the like.

According to a third aspect of the present invention, when the measured flow rate calculated by the calculation means does not exceed the limit flow rate, the control means displays the shortage of the limit flow rate by the display means, and presses the tube with the pressing body. 3. The automatic infusion device according to claim 1 or 2, wherein the flow rate is detected by measuring the liquid drop and compared with the limit flow rate, so that a display means that the limit flow rate is insufficient in a short time. The drip can be stopped by quickly pressing the tube with the pressing body for safety.

According to a fourth aspect of the present invention, the input means capable of setting the set value of the flow rate to be infused in a plurality of flow rate setting formats, and the arithmetic means are provided by any one of the flow rate setting formats by the input means. When a set value is input in a format, it is converted into a set value in the remaining format.
No. 3, the nurse or the like instructs the input means through the input means regardless of the flow setting format that the doctor or the like instructs the nurse or the like at the time of infusion. It is sufficient to input the setting value of the format as it is,
The remaining set values in the flow rate setting format can be automatically converted by the calculating means. Each infusion set has its own flow rate setting method.However, there is no need for a nurse or the like to manually convert the setting format to match this setting method. The set value has been entered.

According to a fifth aspect of the present invention, there is provided the automatic control system according to the fourth aspect, further comprising display means for displaying the set value inputted from the input means and / or the set value converted by the arithmetic means. Since it is an infusion device, all necessary setting values are displayed on the display means. You can check.

According to a sixth aspect of the present invention, a liquid level sensor for detecting a liquid level accumulated in the drip tube is provided below the drop sensor. The infusion can be stopped while the infusion remains in the drip tube. This eliminates the need for priming for eliminating residual air, and enables continuous infusion when replacing the infusion container. Also, if there is no infusion in the drip tube, there is no possibility that air may be sucked into the blood vessel due to negative pressure from the blood vessel side if nothing is done. In addition to ensuring safety in the pinched state, the invention according to claim 6 can secure safety in a double sense since the infusion solution remains in the drip tube.

According to a seventh aspect of the present invention, in the automatic infusion device according to the sixth aspect, the drop sensor and the liquid level sensor are provided integrally with the sensor holder. It is possible to make the positional relationship of the surface sensor accurate,
The liquid level can be easily and easily evaluated. In addition, since the drop sensor and the liquid level sensor are attached integrally to the sensor holder,
It is easy to mass-produce and easy to attach to an automatic infusion device main body.

According to an eighth aspect of the present invention, a plurality of liquid level sensors are provided.
The automatic infusion device described in (1) above, even if the infusion set varies from manufacturer to manufacturer, and even if there are many shapes of drip cylinders, the liquid level is accurately detected by the most appropriate liquid level sensor among a plurality of liquid level sensors. be able to.

According to a ninth aspect of the present invention, the control means operates the liquid level sensor when the drop sensor detects that the infusion has stopped dropping. Since the automatic infusion device described in (1), the liquid level sensor is operated only after dropping has been eliminated, thereby saving power. Also, while there is a drop, the liquid level may fluctuate and noise may be mixed into the liquid level sensor. However, since the detection is performed after the drop has ceased, the liquid level does not fluctuate and accurate measurement can be performed. Since it is possible to accurately determine whether or not the infusion remains in the infusion tube, safety is improved. The infusion volume decreases over time due to a decrease in head difference that cannot be avoided with a natural drop type drip, so that the drip takes time and the scheduled end time becomes uncertain, but Can be drip. Embodiment 1 Hereinafter, an automatic infusion device according to Embodiment 1 of the present invention will be described with reference to FIGS.
1 is an overall view when the automatic infusion device according to Embodiment 1 of the present invention is used, FIG. 2 is a perspective view of a main body of the automatic infusion device according to Embodiment 1 of the present invention, and FIG. FIG. 3 is a bottom view of the automatic infusion device according to the first embodiment,
(B) is a bottom view of the automatic infusion device according to the first embodiment of the present invention at the time of operation of the flow rate adjusting unit, FIG. 3 (c) is a rear view of the automatic infusion device according to the first embodiment of the present invention, and FIG. FIG. 5 is a front view of the automatic infusion device according to Embodiment 1 of the present invention when an infusion set is mounted. FIG. 5 is a control circuit diagram of the automatic infusion device according to Embodiment 1 of the present invention.

In FIG. 1, reference numeral 1 denotes an infusion container, which is a flexible plastic bag filled with an infusion solution for performing infusion, and reference numeral 2 denotes a lower portion of the infusion container 1 which is provided under the infusion container 1 while adjusting the flow rate. This is an infusion set that guides the infusion to blood vessels and the like. Reference numeral 3 denotes an infusion needle for guiding the infusion by inserting the infusion set 2 into the outlet of the infusion container 1 and 4 is a drip tube provided in the infusion set 2 for dropping the infusion and measuring the flow rate. A tube, 6 is a manual clamp provided below the drip tube 4, and 7 is an infusion needle for puncturing a blood vessel or the like to inject an infusion.

Reference numeral 8 denotes an infusion stand for suspending the infusion container 1 and the infusion set 2, reference numeral 9 denotes a mounting arm, and reference numeral 10 denotes a main body of the automatic infusion apparatus according to the first embodiment, which is a small casing that can be put in a palm. The position of the automatic infusion device main body 10 is determined by moving the mounting arm 9 up and down. This automatic infusion device body 1
Since the drip tube 4 is mounted at 0, the drip tube 4 can be arranged at a free height below the infusion container 1. And
As shown in FIG. 1, a head difference H is formed between the liquid level of the infusion in the infusion container 1 and the position of the infusion needle 7, and this serves as a pressure source for introducing the infusion into a blood vessel or the like.

A nurse or the like hangs the infusion container 1 on the infusion stand 8, stabs the introduction needle 3 into the outlet of the infusion container 1, mounts the infusion tube 4 on the automatic infusion device main body 10, and attaches the infusion needle 7 to a blood vessel or the like. It pierces and infuses via the infusion set 2. Infusion tube 4
Since there is air inside, the infusion flowing down from the infusion container 1 reaches the drip tube 4 and becomes a droplet due to surface tension and drops into the drip tube 4. By squeezing the tube 5 or squeezing the manual clamp 6, the flow area of the infusion set 2 changes, the fluid resistance of the infusion set 2 is adjusted, and the flow rate flowing down the inside changes. Details of this flow rate adjustment will be described later.

Next, the automatic infusion device main body 10 will be described with reference to FIGS. 2, 3A, 3B, 3C, 4 and 5. FIG. In FIGS. 2, 3 (a), (b), (c), FIGS. 4 and 5, reference numeral 11 denotes a drip tube holding unit for mounting the drip tube 4;
2A is a drop sensor for detecting a drop dropped in the drip tube 4, 12A ₁ is a light-emitting section composed of a light-emitting element constituting the drop sensor 12A, and 12A ₂ is a light-receiving section composed of a light-receiving element constituting the drop sensor 12A. Department. Further, 12B is a liquid level sensor for detecting the liquid level of the infusion in the drip tube 4, 12B ₁ is a light emitting unit composed of light emitting elements constituting the liquid level sensor 12B, 1
Reference numeral 2B ₂ denotes a light receiving unit including a light receiving element constituting the liquid level sensor 12B.

Reference numeral 13 denotes an infusion tube mounting portion which is a space for accommodating the infusion tube 4, and 14 is provided below the infusion tube holding portion 11, and adjusts the flow rate by clamping the tube 5 on the outflow side of the infusion tube 4. The portion 14A is a tube clamp (the pressing body of the present invention) that constitutes the flow rate adjusting portion 14. The tube clamp 14A is driven by an actuator 42 to be described later, and presses the tube 5 on the outflow side of the drip tube 4 to adjust the flow rate. The drip tube mounting portion 13 is integrally provided with a drip tube holding portion 11, a drop sensor 12A, and a liquid level sensor 12B, and these are incorporated into the main body 10 of the automatic infusion apparatus as a sensor holder having an integral structure. It is desirable that the position of the drop sensor 12A be a position 2 to 3 cm above the flow rate adjusting unit 14. With such an integral structure, the positional relationship between the drop sensor 12A and the liquid level sensor 12B can be made accurate, the position of the liquid level can be evaluated easily and easily, mass production is easy, and The attachment to the infusion device body 10 is also easy.

Reference numeral 15 denotes an LED display section which blinks upon every drop and displays the state of the drop, and 16 an LCD display section which displays the amount of infusion, the remaining time, the flow rate, the type of infusion set, the power supply status, the volume and the like. . It is operated by a control circuit described later. 17
Is an up key for increasing the set value input to the automatic infusion device body 10, 18 is a down key for similarly decreasing the set value, 19 is a time for switching the setting mode when setting the time and the flow rate. A / flow key, 20 is a liquid volume key for setting an infusion amount, and 21 is a start key for starting operation for controlling the infusion amount of the automatic infusion device main body 10. Reference numeral 22 denotes a stop / alarm stop key for stopping the infusion amount control when the measured flow rate does not exceed the limit flow rate and, at the same time, when an alarm is sounded, and 23 for removing the infusion set 2. An opening key for driving an actuator to open the tube clamp 14A, an infusion set key 24 for selecting and inputting any one of a number of different infusion sets for different manufacturers and purposes, and a volume key 25 for adjusting the volume. And 26, a power key for supplying power to the automatic infusion device main body 10.

Reference numeral 27 denotes an operation panel provided with the above-described keys, the LED display unit 15, and the LCD display unit 16.
The front is covered with a protective sheet. 28 is a front cabinet that constitutes the automatic infusion device body 10, 29 is a rear cabinet that also constitutes the automatic infusion device body 10, 30 is a battery cover that covers a battery accommodating chamber that opens and closes when batteries are replaced.
Reference numeral 1 denotes a fixing hook that is hooked on a pipe portion of the mounting arm 9 and fixed to the infusion stand 8. Reference numeral 32 denotes a tube door which is a locking portion for preventing the tube 5 from being easily detached in the flow rate adjusting unit 14.

When a nurse or the like mounts the infusion set 2 on this automatic infusion device, as shown in FIG.
First, the drip tube 4 is accommodated in the drip tube mounting portion 13, and the upper end of the drip tube 4 is inserted into the opening of the drip tube mounting portion 13 and fixed by the drip tube holding portion 11. Then, the tube 5 is inserted into
(A) Push in beyond the tube door 32 as shown in (b). Finally, the end of the tube 5 is attached to the infusion needle 7 pierced into a blood vessel or the like, and the preparation of the infusion set 2 for infusion is completed. The attachment of the end of the last tube 5 may be partially before or after the setting input described below.

Next, the power key 26 is turned on to input a set value. Then, the set value set last time is displayed on the LCD display unit 1.
When the old setting value is used as it is, the setting value may be used again without re-entering the setting value. When a doctor or the like instructs the infusion speed with a time instruction for infusion, the time / flow rate key 19 is used to set the time setting mode, and the up key 17 and the down key 18 are operated to set the completion time. At the same time, press the fluid volume key 20 and press the up key 17,
The user operates the down key 18 to set the scheduled infusion amount, that is, the infusion amount. Thus, the infusion amount per unit time (hereinafter, also referred to as a flow rate) is calculated from the infusion amount and the time by the calculating means 46 described later. At this time, the type of the infusion set 2 is also input with the infusion set key 24.

If the doctor or the like instructs the infusion rate with the infusion rate per unit time for infusion, the time / flow rate key 19 is used to set the flow rate setting mode, and the up key 17 and the down key 18 are operated. Set the flow rate.
At the same time, the fluid volume key 20 is pressed, and the up key 17 and the down key 18 are operated to set the fluid volume of the infusion. This also enables calculation of the remaining time and the like. Further, the type of the infusion set 2 is also input using the infusion set key 24. In the first embodiment, it is possible to input in two flow rate setting formats as described above.
On the one hand, when input, it can be converted into the setting value of the other format by the arithmetic means 46, so that whatever the flow setting format the doctor or the like instructs the nurse or the like at the time of infusion, If the nurse or the like inputs the set value in the indicated format as it is, the calculation means 46 can automatically convert the remaining set value in the flow rate setting format. Each infusion set 2 has a specific flow rate setting method. However, there is no need for a nurse or the like to manually convert the setting format to match this setting method. The setting value has been entered in the setting format. In the first embodiment, two flow rate setting formats are used, but it is also appropriate to allow input in a plurality of flow rate setting formats including another flow rate setting format.

Next, a control circuit of the automatic infusion device according to the first embodiment will be described. In FIG. 5, reference numeral 41 denotes a processing device such as a microprocessor and a memory 49 described later.
Control means for loading various programs and data from and controlling each part of the automatic infusion device; 42, an actuator such as a linear motor for moving the tube clamp 14A back and forth;
Reference numeral 43 denotes a driver for driving the actuator 42 for adjusting the flow rate by pressing the tube 5 on the outflow side of the drip tube 4. The actuator 42 is not limited to a linear motor or the like, and may be a type that converts a rotary motor into linear motion. When the actuator 42 is adjusted to a predetermined position, it is held at that position until the next operation command is issued. The control means 41 may be constituted by a logic circuit or the like instead of being constituted by an integrated circuit such as a microprocessor as described above.

Reference numeral 44 denotes input means for transmitting the input from each of the above-described keys to the control means 41, and reference numeral 45 denotes a command from the control means 41 to the LCD display section 16 for infusion amount, completion time required for infusion, and flow rate per unit time. This is a display means for displaying such as. Note that it is also desirable that the input means 44 be capable of GUI input from the LCD display unit 16 instead of key input. Although not shown, an LED driver for operating the LED display unit 15 is also provided in the control unit 41, similarly to the display unit 45.

Reference numeral 46 denotes a setting value of one flow rate setting format input by a nurse or the like, which is converted into a setting value of the remaining flow rate setting format, an actually measured flow rate is calculated by integrating droplets, and a remaining time is calculated. It is an arithmetic means for calculating. And the calculating means 46
Is set or input, for example, 150% of the infused volume per unit time (hereinafter, also referred to as a set value).
The above flow rate, that is, the limit flow rate is calculated and the control means 41
Is displayed on the LCD display unit 16. Based on the limit flow rate and the actually measured flow rate calculated by the calculating means 46, the control means 41 compares the two, and if the measured flow rate is equal to or more than the limit flow rate, the drip operation is continued as a controllable one. The display of the insufficient flow rate is performed on the LCD display unit 16 and a warning sound is issued to notify a nurse or the like. These will be described in detail later.

Although the arithmetic means 46 may be provided separately from the control means 41, it is preferable that the arithmetic means 46 is constituted by using a microprocessor or the like constituting the control means 41. The display means 45 displays the set values input from the input means 44 and / or the set values converted by the arithmetic means 46, and displays all necessary set values. Can be.

Next, 47 is a clock means for counting the time, measures the time measured during the flow measurement or, in the light emitting portion 12A ₁ and the liquid level sensor 12B of落滴sensor 12A of the light-emitting portion 12B ₁ An external clock for generating a drive pulse to be supplied to the light emitting element driver is generated. Reference numeral 48 denotes sound source means including a buzzer circuit and an electronic sound synthesizing circuit for generating a notification sound from a speaker, and 49 a memory for storing various programs, data and set values loaded by the control means 41. The memory 49 is provided with a non-volatile memory in addition to the RAM serving as a work area, and stores therein data of all commercially available infusion sets and data of various set values. When the type of the infusion set 2 to be infused is set and input from the infusion set key 24, this is read out by the control means 41 and provided for control.
50 is a power supply unit such as a dry battery, and 50A is 3 V for operation.
It is a boost converter that boosts to V. The volume key 2
When there is a volume operation from the control unit 5, the control unit 41 controls the sound source unit 4.
8 can be controlled to increase or decrease the volume.

Now, the above limit flow rate will be described in more detail with reference to FIGS. 1, 7, 8, and 9. FIG. 7 is a time-dependent change diagram of the measured flow rate when the automatic infusion device according to the first embodiment of the present invention is used, and FIG. 8 is a flow rate change due to disturbance when the automatic infusion device according to the first embodiment of the present invention is used. FIG. 9 is a control state diagram when the automatic infusion device according to Embodiment 1 of the present invention is used.

As shown in FIG. 1, the infusion container 1 and the infusion needle 7
When the infusion is infused with the head difference H from the above, the flow rate flowing through the infusion set 2 at this time is determined by the height of the infusion tube 4 and the pressure of the air inside the infusion tube 4. That is, the droplets dropped into the drip tube 4 are formed by surface tension due to the relationship between the head difference Hu from the infusion surface in the infusion container 1 to the drip tube 4 and the air pressure, and the total amount of the dropped droplets is infused. Flow rate. If the fluid resistance of the infusion set 2 is adjusted by squeezing the manual clamp 6 or the flow rate adjusting unit 14,
The flow path area changes, and the air pressure in the drip tube 4 changes slightly as the volume of the infused fluid flows out.
As a result, the dropping state changes, and the total amount of droplets, that is, the flow rate flowing down from the infusion container 1 changes. Therefore, for example, when the tube 5 is completely pinched and closed, the flow stops, the air pressure in the drip tube 4 remains high and stable, no drops are formed, and the infusion stops.

As described above, although the flow of the drip is through the air pressure, it is a flow involving the head difference, and in order to maintain the flow rate near the set value, when the flow rate decreases, the flow rate adjusting unit 14 is operated. By adjusting the area (opening), the drip tube 4
The infusion solution that has accumulated under the head is first drained by the head, thereby lowering the air pressure in the drip tube 4 to slightly increase the pressure difference with the head of the infusion solution, thereby promoting droplet formation,
Since the flow rate is recovered (increased) to the upper limit of the permissible range of the set value (± 10%, which will be described later) + 10% or more, the head difference Hu enough to perform this and the liquid accumulated below the drip tube 4. A sufficient head for infusing the infusion from the infusion needle 7 is required. That is, the limit flow rate is a flow rate that is selected as a so-called threshold when viewed from the flow rate side, for performing such infusion control. Normally, a flow rate of 150% or more is sufficient, but in the first embodiment, the limit flow rate is set to 160% or more of the set value of the flow rate. This limit flow rate has different values depending on the infusion and the infusion container 1 because the number of droplets and the diameter of the droplet depend on the specifications of the infusion set 2, particularly the inner diameter of the tube 5, the viscosity and the density of the infusion. .

By the way, the allowable range described above is ± 10.
The reason why the fluctuation is allowed in% will be described. FIG. 7 shows the characteristics of the flow rate (hereinafter also referred to as the actually measured flow rate) detected by the drop sensor 12A and calculated by the calculating means 46.
After the start of infusion, it theoretically decreases with time. This is because the liquid level of the infusion in the infusion container 1 drops with the drip and the head difference H decreases. At the same time, there is an external factor such that the tube 5 gradually loses elasticity with the passage of time and the infusion volume decreases. However, in actual medical practice, Fig. 7
In many cases, characteristics similar to the basic form are not obtained. This is typically shown in FIG. That is, in the characteristic of FIG.
The characteristic as shown in FIG. 8 is formed by adding a fluctuation in flow rate such as a magnitude fluctuation or a temporary stop based on other external factors.

That is, a small flow rate fluctuation A as shown in FIG. 8 is generated temporarily due to bending of the tube 5 or contact of the infusion needle 7 with the inner wall of the blood vessel punctured. It is caused by changing the posture and returns to the normal state naturally when appropriate actions such as adaptation of the flow itself, movement of the patient, nurses, etc. are aware of the fluctuation and secure the infusion line etc. .

However, the second flow fluctuation B and the third flow reduction C occurring after this fluctuation are considerably large as compared with the first flow fluctuation. This is caused by the tube 5 being largely bent, the infusion needle 7 strongly contacting the inner wall of the punctured blood vessel, or puncturing, and the infusion may be completely stopped. In particular, the third flow decrease C indicates a case where the patient stands up and the head difference disappears. If this state continues for a long time, an accident may occur depending on the condition of the patient, and the infusion needle 7 may puncture the inner wall of the blood vessel. Continued contact with the skin may damage the blood vessels or cause an infusion to leak out of the blood vessels.

If the infusion amount fluctuates greatly with respect to the set value of the flow rate as in the third flow rate decrease C shown in FIG. 8, this may lead to an accident. In the case of the first flow rate fluctuation A or the second flow rate fluctuation B, which can be naturally recovered, there is usually no problem. Since it has been empirically confirmed that this natural recovery is possible if the change is ± 10% with respect to the set flow rate, the first embodiment sets this range as the allowable flow rate range. This range of ± 10% is also a legally permissible fluctuation range for infusion.

Now, how to obtain the actual measured flow rate for comparison with the above-mentioned limit flow rate will be described.
The measured flow rate is measured by a drop sensor 12A that detects a drop.落滴sensor 12A is a light emitting element constituting the light emitting portion 12A ₁ and pulsed, by detecting in the light receiving section 12A ₂ this. Photodetection pulse measured by the light receiving portion 12A ₂ is converted A / D, is input to the control unit 41. In the first embodiment, when two received light pulses are continuously dropped, the control unit 41 determines that a droplet has dropped, and counts the number of droplets while measuring the time by the clock unit 47. If only one pulse is missing, there is a risk of malfunction due to noise, so if two pulses are missing, it is determined that a drop has occurred. Therefore, the pulse width needs to be set in relation to the droplet. The number of pulses is not limited to two, but may be three or more. Since detection is performed by such pulse oscillation, a detection error can be almost eliminated. When the droplets are counted, the control means 41
The ED display unit 15 is operated to blink.

The computing means 46 calculates the actually measured flow rate based on the number of droplets and the time, and the control means 41 compares the actually measured flow rate with the limit flow rate. Generates a sound and sounds an alarm when the measured flow rate reaches the limit flow rate. When the limit flow rate is not reached, the infusion does not flow beyond the limit flow rate even if the manual clamp 6 is opened to the maximum. Therefore, the height of the infusion container 1 is increased to increase the head difference H, or the flow rate value is set lower. Take measures such as re-doing. When the flow rate reaches the limit, an alarm sound is emitted and the infusion is performed as it is.

The automatic infusion device according to the first embodiment is provided with a liquid level sensor 12 B for controlling the liquid level in the drip tube 4. Liquid level sensor 12B of the first embodiment is provided at a lower position of落滴sensor 12A of the drip chamber 4, as with落滴sensor 12A, the light-emitting portion 12B ₁ of a light emitting element and pulse oscillation, comprising a light receiving element detecting the pulsed light-receiving portion 12B _2. The light receiving pulse measured by the light receiving unit 12B2 is A / D converted, and
Is input to The liquid level sensor 12 </ b> B detects the liquid level of the drip tube 4, so that the drip can be completed in a state where the infusion remains in the drip tube 4.

When the infusion container 1 is replaced, the drip tube 4
If the infusion does not remain, priming of the infusion set 2 is required after replacement, but in the first embodiment, the drip is completed in a state where the infusion remains, so priming is not necessary and continuous infusion is possible. Become. Further, if there is no infusion in the drip tube 4, there is a possibility that the air inside may be sucked into the blood vessel due to the negative pressure from the blood vessel side.
In addition to closing the tube 5, this can be prevented twice, and the safety is extremely enhanced. In the first embodiment, the same configuration as that of the drop sensor 12A is applied to perform pulse oscillation in order to provide the function described below. However, simple oscillation may be performed. Further, a plurality of liquid level sensors 12B may be provided on the lower end side of the drip tube 4. This makes it possible to accurately detect the liquid level with the most appropriate liquid level sensor among the plurality of liquid level sensors 12B, although the infusion set 2 varies from manufacturer to manufacturer and the shape of the drip tube 4 varies. Become.

The liquid level sensor 1 according to the first embodiment
2B has yet another function. That is,
By detecting the output of the drop sensor 12A and the output of the liquid level sensor 12B at the start of the infusion, the control means 41 causes the output value after the A / D conversion of the light intensity detected by the liquid level sensor 12B and the output value of the drop sensor 12A. Is compared with the output value of the detected light intensity after A / D conversion, and it is determined whether or not the infusion set 2 is properly mounted on the automatic infusion device main body 10.

That is, when the infusion set 2 is properly mounted, the output value indicating the light intensity of the liquid level sensor 12B is lower than the output value indicating the light intensity of the drop sensor 12A. However, when the infusion set 2 is improperly mounted, the output values of the drop sensor 12A and the liquid level sensor 12B are in the following three states. The first inappropriate state is when the liquid level is at the position of the drop sensor 12A or above it. At this time, drop sensor 1
Is the output value of 2A unstable due to shading?
This indicates a low value similar to the output value of the liquid level sensor 12B. The second inappropriate state is that the liquid level is
This is the case where it is below the position B. At this time, the output value of the liquid level sensor 12B becomes high similarly to the drop sensor 12A. The third inappropriate state is that the liquid level is
In this case, the output value of the liquid level sensor 12B becomes unstable. As described above, the control means 41 automatically determines the state of attachment of the infusion set 2 to the automatic infusion device main body 10 by measuring and comparing the output values of the drop sensor 12A and the liquid level sensor 12B, In the case of proper mounting, an alarm can be sounded.

Then, after the drip is started, the operation of the liquid level sensor 12B is stopped by the control means 41 for power saving. If the state in which the drop sensor 12A does not detect a drop continues for a predetermined time, the control unit 41 determines that the infusion is completed, and restarts the liquid level sensor 12B. Since the liquid level sensor 12B is temporarily stopped, power can be saved, the battery can be driven, cordless operation can be performed, and the patient can move while performing infusion. Also, while there is a drop, the liquid level may fluctuate and noise may enter the liquid level sensor. However, since the measurement is performed after the drop has ceased, the liquid level does not fluctuate and accurate measurement can be performed.

The output value of the liquid level sensor 12B is detected,
If this value is low, it can be easily confirmed that the infusion has ended with the infusion remaining in the drip tube 4. When the operation is stopped in this state, the infusion is surely left in the drip tube 4, safety can be ensured, and the possibility of air being sucked into the blood vessel by the negative pressure from the blood vessel side can be reliably prevented. Further, the operation may be stopped when the liquid level sensor 12B is in an unstable state or outputs a high output value. In this case, the liquid level is the level sensor 12
The infusion set 2 can be placed in the drip tube 4 without leaving more infusion than necessary because it is in the position B or below.
It is not necessary to perform priming again even when exchanging.

The components of the automatic infusion device according to the first embodiment have been described above. The control means 41 of the automatic infusion device will be further described. Although the conventional automatic infusion device proposed by the inventor was a revolutionary one, it was not possible to automatically confirm that the actually measured flow rate was equal to or higher than the limit flow rate, and it was not completely automated. However, the automatic infusion device of the first embodiment automatically controls the infusion amount. That is, at the start of the infusion, the control means 41 drives the actuator 42 to temporarily close and then partially open the tube 5 with the tube clamp 14A. The closing is performed once to determine the control base point. Then, when partially opened, the drop sensor 12A detects a predetermined number of droplets, and the calculating means 46 integrates them to calculate an actually measured flow rate. The control means 41 compares this with the limit flow rate and confirms whether or not it exceeds this. If it is determined that the flow rate is equal to or greater than the limit flow rate, the control means 41 further drives the actuator 42 to squeeze the tube 5 to reduce the flow rate to a flow rate of ± 10% within a predetermined range centered on the set value. Control. Thereafter, in order to maintain the flow rate within this range, the control means 41 intermittently drives the actuator 42 to adjust the flow path resistance, and performs infusion control using the head difference of the infusion.

As described above, the control means 41 of the automatic infusion device according to the first embodiment automatically detects the actually measured flow rate by measuring the droplet at the start of infusion and compares it with the limit flow rate. It is possible to judge whether the infusion is possible or not. If it is more than the limit flow rate, immediately within a predetermined range around the set flow rate ± 10
%, And after that, when the flow rate decreases, the actuator 42 is intermittently driven and the drip can be continued while the start and stop control is performed so that the flow rate becomes ± 10% within a range in which the drip can be safely performed. . Therefore, since the actuator is intermittently driven and controlled within a range in which the infusion can be safely performed, it is possible to make the automatic infusion device which is safe and power-saving, and requires mobility, battery-driven and cordless.

Next, a procedure for performing infusion by the automatic infusion device of the first embodiment will be described with reference to the flowchart of FIG. FIG. 6 shows Embodiment 1 of the present invention.
FIG. 4 is a procedure diagram when the automatic infusion device is used.

As shown in FIG. 6, first, when a nurse or the like turns on the power key 26 in response to a doctor's instruction, the previously set values are displayed on the LCD display section 16. When reusing the set values as they are, there is no need to re-enter the set values. In step 1, the nurse or the like
Enter the planned infusion volume (infusion volume) using. The type of the infusion set 2 is also input by the infusion set key 24. Next, proceed to step 2 to use the time / flow rate key 19,
Set the operation mode of time instruction or infusion volume instruction per unit time. When the operation mode is set, the process proceeds to step 3, and in the case of a temporal instruction, the up key 17 and the down key 18 are operated to input the completion time required for the infusion. Similarly, in the case of an infusion quantity instruction, the up key 17 and the down key 18 are operated to inject volume per unit time (set value).
Enter

Thereafter, in step 4, in the case of a temporal instruction, the calculating means 46 calculates an infusion amount (set value) per unit time from the input infusion amount and completion time. Similarly, in the case of the infusion amount instruction, the calculating means 46 calculates the completion time from the set values of the infusion amount and the flow rate. At this time, the control means 41 reads out various data of the infusion set 2 from the memory 49 from the input type of the infusion set 2 and performs an operation.

When the calculation means 46 finishes the conversion of the flow rate setting format, the control means 41 sends a signal to the display means 45 to display all the data on the LCD display unit 16 in step 5. That is, the set value input by operating the up key 17 and the down key 18 and
All the set values converted by the calculating means 46 are displayed. At the same time, the calculating means 46 also calculates and displays the upper limit and the lower limit of the allowable range of the set value ± 10% from the input set value of the flow rate or the set value of the converted flow rate.

Next, proceeding to step 6, the nurse or the like mounts the drip tube 4 of the infusion set 2 on the main body 10 of the automatic infusion device.
The automatic infusion device according to the first embodiment includes a drop sensor 12A and a liquid level sensor 12B.
1 is the output value of the light intensity detected by the liquid level sensor 12B after A / D conversion, and the A value of the light intensity detected by the drop sensor 12A.
By comparing the output value after the / D conversion, it is determined whether or not the infusion set 2 is properly attached to the automatic infusion device main body 10. The output value of the liquid level sensor 12B is the drop sensor 12A
If it is lower than the output value, it is determined that the infusion set 2 is properly mounted. In other cases, it is determined that the infusion set 2 is improperly mounted, and the control unit 41 sounds an alarm (not shown) to call attention. If the stop / alarm stop key 22 is pressed, the operation can be stopped and the alarm can be stopped.

When it is determined that the infusion set 2 is properly mounted, the control means 41 drives the actuator 42 in step 8 to temporarily close the tube 5 with the tube clamp 14A. After the control means 41 once closes the tube 5 with the tube clamp 14A,
Pause. In response to this, in step 9, the nurse or the like slowly releases the manual clamp 6 of the infusion set 2, presses the start key 21 to release the pause, and resumes the infusion control. Then, the droplet starts to be dropped in the drip tube 4 and is detected by the drop sensor 12A.

Thereafter, the control means 41 proceeds to step 10, and partially opens the tube clamp 14A that has closed the tube 5. At this time, the droplet of the infusion is detected by the drop sensor 12A (step 11), and the calculating means 46 calculates the actually measured flow rate from the number of droplets (predetermined number) and the measurement time, and calculates the limit flow rate in step 12. Next, the control means 41 compares the measured flow rate with the limit flow rate, and when it is determined that the measured flow rate is not less than the limit flow rate, instructs the display means 45 to display the limit flow rate and causes the LCD display section 16 to display the limit flow rate (step 13).

Subsequently, proceeding to step 14, the control means 41 compares the measured flow rate with the upper limit of + 10% of the set value of the flow rate. At the start of infusion, the actually measured flow rate is equal to or higher than the limit flow rate and therefore equal to or higher than the upper limit of + 10%. The control means 41 drives the actuator 42 to clamp the tube 5 with the tube clamp 14A, and reduce the flow rate (step 1).
5) Go to step 16. In step 14, even when the measured flow rate is lower than the upper limit of + 10%, the process proceeds to step 16.

Next, the control means 41 compares the measured flow rate with the lower limit of -10% of the set value of the flow rate (step 16).
If the measured flow rate is lower than the lower limit of -10%, the control means 4
1 drives the actuator 42 to open the tube 5 to increase the flow rate (step 17), and proceeds to step 18.
If the measured flow rate is greater than the lower limit of -10% in step 16, the process also proceeds to step 18.

In step 18, the calculating means 46 integrates the number of droplets detected by the drop sensor 12A, and calculates the amount of infused up to this time. Further, the calculating means 46 calculates the completion time from the infusion amount and displays it on the LCD display section 16 (step 19). It also displays the remaining time.

It is determined whether or not the intended infusion volume has been infused.
In step 20, it is determined by comparing with the infusion amount accumulated by the calculating means 46. In step 20, when it is determined that the planned infusion volume has been infused, the infusion ends, and when the planned infusion volume has not been infused,
This state is maintained for a specific time, such as a few seconds (step
p21) Then, returning to step 14, this is repeated until the planned infusion volume is infused. This gives s
In step 14 and step 20, tolerance of set value ± 10
%, It is returned to the allowable range ± 10%. And
Since the position of the tube clamp 14A is held after the operation of the actuator 42, once the tube 5 is once opened at the lower limit of -10%, the tube 5 is squeezed until it exceeds the upper limit of + 10%, and + 10% When the upper limit value is reached, the state is maintained as it is, and the water flows naturally as shown in FIG. The infusion ends when the planned infusion volume is infused.

As described above, the automatic infusion device according to the first embodiment requires the tube clamp again when the actual infusion amount is reduced to -10% of the flow rate set value per unit time as shown in FIG. Release 14A and control the infusion volume so that it becomes + 10% of the flow rate set value per unit time,
This state is fixed until -10% is reached again, and the same control can be repeated thereafter. Accordingly, it is not necessary to frequently operate the actuator 42 that drives the tube clamp 14A, and it is possible to greatly save the driving power. Then, even if a primary battery such as a dry battery is used, the battery can be used for a long time, and the automatic infusion device can be made cordless. It is no longer possible to cut off the power by catching a foot on the power cord during infusion, so that control is not lost and a medical accident can be prevented. It is possible to reduce the size of the automatic infusion device main body 10, to reduce cords around the patient's bed by providing a cordless power supply, and to provide a space where nurses and the like can easily work.

Under the condition that the flow rate does not fluctuate due to an external factor or the like after the start of the infusion, the number of times the infusion amount is controlled by the operation of the tube clamp 14A is, for example, 15 drops per unit amount. Using an infusion set, an infusion with an infusion volume of 500 ml was performed at a flow rate of 100 ml / unit time.
If the infusion is started at h, approximately 2-3 repetitions are sufficient. In other words, the actuator 42 is about two to three times.
By simply driving, the infusion amount of 500 ml or more can be infused.

[0071]

As is apparent from the above description, in the automatic infusion device according to the first aspect of the present invention, at the start of the infusion, the control means drives the actuator to temporarily close the tube with the pressing body. After opening partly,
If it is determined that the flow rate is above the limit, the tube is clamped to reduce the flow rate and the infusion rate is controlled to a flow rate within a predetermined range centered on the set flow rate. However, since the flow rate at this time is detected by measuring the droplet and compared with the limit flow rate, it can be determined whether or not the infusion is possible in a short time. The flow rate can be controlled to be within the range, and then the infusion can be automatically continued.
Therefore, infusion can be automatically started, and the infusion amount can be controlled so that the flow rate is within a range in which the infusion can be safely performed around the set flow rate.

In the automatic infusion device according to the second aspect, at the start of infusion, the control means closes the tube once with the pressing body by driving the actuator, and then partially opens the tube.
When it is determined that the flow rate is equal to or greater than the limit flow rate, the flow rate is reduced by driving the actuator to squeeze the tube to reduce the flow rate, to a flow rate within a predetermined range centering on the set flow rate, and then driving the actuator intermittently. Adjust the resistance of
Since the flow rate is controlled within the range using the head difference of the infusion, the tube is closed once at the start of infusion and then partially opened, and the flow rate at this time is detected by measuring the droplet and compared with the limit flow rate Therefore, it is possible to judge whether infusion can be performed in a short time, and if the flow rate is equal to or more than the limit flow rate, control is performed so that the flow rate falls within a predetermined range centered on the set flow rate. , And the drip can be continued while controlling the start and stop so that the flow rate is within a predetermined safe drip range. Therefore, since the actuator is controlled intermittently by driving the actuator intermittently, it is possible to make the automatic infusion device which is safe, consumes less power, and needs to be movable and cordless by battery driving. . Even a nurse or the like who is not accustomed to the operation of infusion can perform infusion in a short time and exactly as instructed by a doctor or the like.

In the automatic infusion device according to the third aspect, when the flow rate does not exceed the limit flow rate, the control means displays the shortage of the limit flow rate by the display means and clamps the tube with the pressing body. In the short time, it is possible to display on the display means that the critical flow rate is insufficient, and for safety, the tube is squeezed with the pressing body for drip infusion. Can be stopped.

The automatic infusion device according to the fourth aspect of the present invention has an input means capable of setting the flow rate to be infused from the infusion set in a plurality of flow rate setting formats, and a setting of the remaining format when the calculating means inputs a set value. Since the value is converted into a value, no matter what type of flow setting format the doctor or the like instructs the nurse or the like at the time of infusion, the nurse or the like uses the setting value in the format specified by the input means as it is. It suffices to input them, and the calculation means can automatically convert the remaining set values in the flow rate setting format. Each infusion set has its own flow rate setting method, but there is no need for a nurse or the like to manually convert the setting format to match this setting method.
This means that the set value is automatically entered in the specific flow rate setting format.

The automatic infusion device according to the fifth aspect includes display means for displaying the set value input from the input means and / or the set value converted by the arithmetic means, so that all necessary set values are displayed. In this case, not only the automatic infusion amount control is performed with the set value converted or input by the calculating means, but also the nurse or the like can confirm the set value.

In the automatic infusion device according to the sixth aspect, the liquid level sensor for detecting the liquid level accumulated in the drip tube is provided below the drop sensor, so that the infusion solution remains in the drip tube. While in the state, the flow rate can be stopped. Thereby, infusion can be continuously performed when exchanging the infusion container. Also, if there is no infusion in the drip tube,
Although the possibility that air is sucked into the blood vessel due to the negative pressure from the blood vessel side cannot be denied, safety can be ensured because the infusion remains in the drip tube.

In the automatic infusion device according to the seventh aspect, since the drop sensor and the liquid level sensor are provided integrally with the sensor holder, the positional relationship between the drop sensor and the liquid level sensor can be made accurate. The ranking can be easily and easily evaluated. Also,
Since the drop sensor and the liquid level sensor are integrally mounted on the sensor holder, mass production is easy and mounting on the automatic infusion device main body is also easy.

In the automatic infusion device according to the eighth aspect, since a plurality of liquid level sensors are provided, even if the infusion set differs depending on the manufacturer and the shape of the drip tube is large, the plurality of liquid level sensors can be used. The most appropriate liquid level sensor among them can accurately detect the liquid level.

In the automatic infusion device according to the ninth aspect, when the drop sensor detects that the infusion is no longer dropped, the control means operates the liquid level sensor. It is power saving because it operates only from Also, while there is a drop, the liquid level may fluctuate and noise may be mixed into the liquid level sensor. However, since the detection is performed after the drop has ceased, the liquid level does not fluctuate and accurate measurement can be performed. Since it is possible to accurately determine whether or not the infusion remains in the infusion tube, safety is improved. The amount of infusion decreases over time due to the decrease in head difference that cannot be avoided with natural drop type infusion,
Although the infusion takes time and the scheduled end time becomes uncertain, the infusion can be reliably performed within a predetermined time.

[Brief description of the drawings]

FIG. 1 is an overall view when an automatic infusion device according to Embodiment 1 of the present invention is used.

FIG. 2 is a perspective view of a main body of the automatic infusion device according to the first embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 3A is a bottom view of the automatic infusion device according to the first embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 3B is a bottom view of the automatic infusion device according to the first embodiment of the present invention when the flow rate adjusting unit is operated. Rear view of automatic infusion device according to Embodiment 1.

FIG. 4 is a front view of the automatic infusion device according to Embodiment 1 of the present invention when an infusion set is mounted.

FIG. 5 is a control circuit diagram of the automatic infusion device according to the first embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 6 is a flowchart when the automatic infusion device according to the first embodiment of the present invention is used.

FIG. 7 is a time-dependent change diagram of the measured flow rate when the automatic infusion device according to the first embodiment of the present invention is used.

FIG. 8 is a state diagram in which the flow rate changes due to disturbance when the automatic infusion device according to Embodiment 1 of the present invention is used.

FIG. 9 is a control state diagram when the automatic infusion device according to Embodiment 1 of the present invention is used.

[Explanation of symbols]

DESCRIPTION OF SYMBOLS 1 Infusion container 2 Infusion set 3 Infusion needle 4 Infusion tube 5 Tube 6 Manual creme 7 Infusion needle 8 Infusion stand 9 Mounting arm 10 Automatic infusion device main body 11 Drip cylinder holding unit 12A Drop sensor 12A ₁ , 12B ₁ Light emitting unit 12A ₂ , 12B ₂ light receiving section 12B liquid level sensor 13 drip tube mounting section 14 flow rate adjusting section 14A tube clamp (pressing body of the present invention) 15 LED display section 16 LCD display section 17 up key 18 down key 19 time / flow rate key 20 liquid volume key 21 Start Key 22 Stop / Alarm Stop Key 23 Release Key 24 Infusion Set Key 25 Volume Key 26 Power Key 27 Operation Panel 28 Front Cabinet 29 Rear Cabinet 30 Battery Cover 31 Fixed Hook 32 Tube Door 41 Control Means 42 Actuator 43 Driver 44 Power means 45 display means 46 calculation means 47 clock means 48 tone generator 49 memory 50 power supply unit 50A boost converter

Continued on the front page (51) Int.Cl. ⁷ Identification code FI Theme coat II (Reference) G01F 23/28 HF term (Reference) 2F014 AB01 FA03 2F030 CA02 CC01 CE04 CE27 4C066 AA07 BB01 CC01 DD01 QQ22 QQ23 QQ24 QQ25 QQ26 QQ31 QQ42 QQ43 QQ45 QQ52 QQ72 QQ76 QQ78 QQ82

Claims (9)

[Claims] 1. A drip tube holding portion for detachably mounting a drip tube provided in an infusion set connected to an infusion container, and a tube provided below the holding portion and provided on an outflow side of the drip tube. A flow rate adjusting unit that can adjust the flow rate by clamping the pressure with a pressing body, a drop sensor that detects a drop dropped in the drip cylinder, and a drop count and a measurement time measured by the drop sensor. Calculating means for calculating an actually measured flow rate; an actuator provided in the flow rate adjusting section for moving the pressing body back and forth; and a control means for controlling the actuator based on a set value input from the input means. When the drip is started, the control means drives the actuator to close the tube once with the pressing body and then partially open the tube. When a predetermined number of droplets are detected by the sensor and the flow rate is determined to be equal to or greater than the limit flow rate, the actuator is driven to squeeze the tube to reduce the flow rate, and the flow rate within a predetermined range around the set flow rate An automatic infusion device characterized by controlling the amount of infusion to a patient. 2. At the start of drip, the control means drives the actuator to close the tube once with the pressing body and then partially open the tube. At this time, a predetermined number of droplets are detected by the drop sensor. If the flow rate is determined to be equal to or greater than the limit flow rate, the actuator is further driven to squeeze the tube to reduce the flow rate to a flow rate within a predetermined range centered on the set value, and then to flow within the range. 2. The automatic infusion device according to claim 1, wherein the control means drives the actuator intermittently to adjust the flow path resistance, and controls the infusion amount using the head difference of the infusion to maintain the infusion amount. . 3. The method according to claim 1, wherein when the measured flow rate calculated by the calculation means does not exceed the limit flow rate, the control means displays a shortage of the limit flow rate by a display means, and clamps the tube with the pressing body. Item 3. The automatic infusion device according to item 1 or 2. 4. An input means capable of setting a set value of a flow rate to be infused in a plurality of flow rate setting forms, and said calculating means sets the set value in one of the flow rate setting forms by the input means. Is input, the value is converted into a setting value in the remaining format.
3. The automatic infusion device according to any one of 3. 5. The automatic infusion device according to claim 4, further comprising display means for displaying a set value input from said input means and / or a set value converted by said calculation means. 6. The liquid level sensor according to claim 1, further comprising a liquid level sensor for detecting a liquid level accumulated in the drip tube below the drop sensor. Automatic infusion device. 7. The sensor according to claim 6, wherein the drop sensor and the liquid level sensor are provided integrally with a sensor holder.
The automatic infusion device as described. 8. The automatic infusion device according to claim 6, wherein a plurality of the liquid level sensors are provided. 9. The automatic control system according to claim 6, wherein said control means activates said liquid level sensor when said drop sensor detects that the infusion is no longer dropped. Infusion device.