Importance

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Abstract

The fluid infusion device includes a primary and an auxiliary fluid pump capable of providing a substantially continuous flow of a fluid, such as air. A pressure regulator driven by a reversible electric motor regulates the air pressure and the flow of pressurized air through an disposable air delivery unit, consisting of a millipore, bacterial static filter and a tube removably connected to an air outlet is controlled by a normally closed, solenoid-operated infusion valve. Separate pressure transducers detect the pump output pressure, the regulator outlet or preset pressure, and the infusion pressure downstream of the infusion valve when it is open. An electrical control system includes indicating circuits for providing visual readouts of the preset and infusion pressures, a motor control circuit for selectively changing the level of electrical power supplied to the regulator motor so that the presure setting of the regulator can be changed at a 'slow' speed or a 'rapid' speed, and underpressure detections circuit for initiating operation of the auxiliary pump in the event the pump outlet pressure decreases below a predetermined level and an overpressure detection circuit for closing the infusion valve and triggering an alarm circuit in the event the infusion pressure increases above a predetermined level. Operation of the regulator and the infusion valve can be controlled by push button switches on a front panel or remotely by a foot switch assembly connected to the electrical circuit.

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First Claim