U.S. patent application number 10/855436 was filed with the patent office on 2005-12-15 for fluid delivery device.
Invention is credited to Kriesel, Marshall S..
Application Number | 20050277883 10/855436 |
Document ID | / |
Family ID | 35461444 |
Filed Date | 2005-12-15 |
United States Patent
Application |
20050277883 |
Kind Code |
A1 |
Kriesel, Marshall S. |
December 15, 2005 |
Fluid delivery device
Abstract
A compact fluid dispenser for use in controllably dispensing
fluid medicaments, such as antibiotics, oncolytics, hormones,
steroids, blood clotting agents, analgesics, and like medicinal
agents from prefilled containers at a uniform rate. The dispenser
uniquely includes a stored energy source that is provided in the
form of a compressible-expandable elastomeric member of novel
construction that provides the force necessary to continuously and
uniformly expel fluid from the device reservoir. The device further
includes a fluid flow control assembly that precisely controls the
flow of the medicament solution to the patient.
Inventors: |
Kriesel, Marshall S.; (St.
Paul, MN) |
Correspondence
Address: |
JAMES E. BRUNTON, ESQ.
P. O. BOX 29000
GLENDALE
CA
91209
US
|
Family ID: |
35461444 |
Appl. No.: |
10/855436 |
Filed: |
May 26, 2004 |
Current U.S.
Class: |
604/131 |
Current CPC
Class: |
A61M 5/141 20130101;
A61M 5/148 20130101; A61M 5/14244 20130101; A61M 5/2448 20130101;
A61M 2205/7545 20130101; A61M 2209/045 20130101; A61M 5/16877
20130101; A61M 2005/14506 20130101 |
Class at
Publication: |
604/131 |
International
Class: |
A61M 037/00 |
Claims
I claim:
1. A dispensing apparatus for dispensing fluids to a patient
comprising: (a) an outer housing; (b) an inner, expandable housing
disposed within said outer housing, said inner expandable housing
having a fluid reservoir provided with an inlet for permitting
fluid flow into said fluid reservoir and an outlet for permitting
fluid flow from said fluid reservoir; (c) stored energy means
disposed within said outer housing for acting upon said inner
expandable housing to cause the fluid contained within said fluid
reservoir to controllably flow through said outlet, said stored
energy means comprising a compressively deformable, cellular member
carried within said outer housing, said cellular member being
expandable to cause fluid flow from said fluid reservoir; (d) fill
means carried by said outer housing for filling said reservoir with
the fluid to be dispensed; (e) flow control means connected to said
outer housing for controlling fluid flow from said reservoir; and
(f) dispensing means operably associated with said flow control
means for dispensing fluid to the patient.
2. The apparatus as defined in claim 1 in which said cellular
member comprises a flexible polymeric foam member.
3. The apparatus as defined in claim 1 in which said cellular
member comprises a metalized foam.
4. The apparatus as defined in claim 1 in which said inner
expandable housing comprises a bellows structure having an
accordion-like side wall movable from a substantially collapsed
configuration to a substantially expanded configuration by fluid
flowing into said fluid reservoir.
5. The apparatus as defined in claim 1 further including flow
control means connected to said first portion of said outer housing
for controlling fluid flow between said reservoir and said
dispensing means, said flow control means comprising a flow control
member rotatable within said reservoir and having a plurality of
elongated flow control channels.
6. The apparatus as defined in claim 1 in which said fill means
comprises a first fill vial receivable within said outer
housing.
7. The apparatus as defined in claim 6 in which said outer housing
includes: (a) a fluid passageway; (b) a first chamber for
telescopically receiving said first fill vial; and (c) an elongated
support mounted within said first chamber, said elongated support
having an elongated hollow needle, said hollow needle defining a
flow passageway in communication with said fluid passageway.
8. The apparatus as defined in claim 7 in which said first fill
vial has a first open end, a closed second end and includes (a) a
fluid reservoir disposed between said first and second ends; and
(b) a pierceable plunger disposed within said fluid reservoir for
movement between first and second positions.
9. The apparatus as defined in claim 8 in which said fill means
comprises a second fill vial receivable within said outer housing
and in which said outer housing includes: (a) a second chamber for
telescopically receiving said second fill vial; and (b) an
elongated support mounted within said second chamber, said
elongated support having an elongated hollow needle, said hollow
needle defining a flow passageway in communication with said fluid
passageway.
10. The apparatus as defined in claim 9 in which said second fill
vial has a first open end, a closed second end and includes; (a) a
fluid reservoir disposed between said first and second ends of said
second fill vial; and (b) a pierceable plunger disposed within said
fluid reservoir of said second fill vial for movement between first
and second positions.
11. A dispensing apparatus for dispensing fluids to a patient
comprising: (a) an outer housing having a first, second and third
portions; (b) an inner, expandable housing disposed within said
outer housing, said inner expandable housing having a fluid
reservoir provided with an inlet for permitting fluid flow into
said fluid reservoir; (c) stored energy means disposed within said
second portion of said outer housing for acting upon said inner
expandable housing to cause the fluid contained within said fluid
reservoir to controllably flow outwardly toward the patient, said
stored energy means comprising a compressively deformable,
substantially continuous, semisolid member carried within said
second portion of said outer housing, said elastomeric member being
expandable to cause fluid flow from said fluid reservoir; (d) fill
means carried by said outer housing for filling said reservoir with
the fluid to be dispensed; (e) flow control means connected to said
first portion of said outer housing for controlling fluid flow from
said reservoir, said flow control means comprising a flow control
assembly including: (i) an ullage defining member having a first
portion disposed within said inner, expandable housing and a second
portion having a fluid passageway in communication with said outlet
of said fluid reservoir; (ii) a fluid flow control member rotatably
mounted within said first portion of said ullage defining member,
said flow control member having a plurality of elongated fluid flow
control channels, each of said plurality of elongated fluid flow
control channels having an inlet and all outlet; and (iii) selector
means rotatably connected to said second portion of said ullage
defining member for rotating said fluid flow control member to
selectively align an outlet of one of said elongated fluid flow
control channels with said with fluid passageway in said second
portion of said ullage defining member; and (iv) dispensing means
for dispensing fluid to the patient, said dispensing means being
connected to said second portion of said ullage defining member,
and being in communication with said fluid passageway of said
second portion of said ullage defining member.
12. The apparatus as defined in claim 11 in which said flow control
assembly further comprises: (a) an outer casing circumscribing said
flow control member; and (b) distribution means formed in said flow
control member for distributing fluid from said fluid reservoir to
each of said plurality of elongated flow control channels.
13. The apparatus as defined in claim 12, in which said flow
control member is provided with an inlet passageway in
communication with said fluid reservoir and in which said fluid
flow control assembly further includes filter means carried by said
fluid flow control member for filtering fluid flowing toward said
distribution means.
14. The apparatus as defined in claim 13 in which said distribution
means comprises a plurality of radially extending flow passageways
formed in said fluid flow control member.
15. The apparatus as defined in claim 13 in which said selector
means comprises a selector knob connected to said fluid flow
control member, said selector knob having finger gripping means for
imparting rotation to said selector knob to align said outlet of a
selected one of said elongated fluid flow control channels with
said outlet of said fluid passageway in said second portion of said
ullage defining member.
16. The apparatus as defined in claim 13, further including volume
indicator means carried by said outer housing for indicating the
volume of fluid remaining in said fluid reservoir.
17. The apparatus as defined in claim 13 further including
disabling means carried by said outer housing for preventing fluid
flow toward said dispensing means.
18. The apparatus as defined in claim 13 in which said housing
includes a cavity in communication with said inlet of said fluid
reservoir and in which said fill means comprises a pierceable
septum disposed within said cavity.
19. The apparatus as defined in claim 18 in which said fill means
comprises a first fill vial receivable within said third portion of
said outer housing.
20. The apparatus as defined in claim 19 in which said fill means
comprises a second fill vial receivable within said third portion
of said outer housing.
21. The apparatus as defined in claim 20 in which said third
portion of said outer housing includes: (a) a fluid passageway in
communication with said inlet of said fluid reservoir; (b) a first
chamber for telescopically receiving said first fill vial; (c) an
elongated support mounted within said first chamber, said elongated
support having an elongated hollow needle, said hollow needle
defining a flow passageway in communication with said fluid
passageway; (d) a second chamber for telescopically receiving said
second fill vial; and (e) an elongated support mounted within said
second chamber, said elongated support having an elongated hollow
needle, said hollow needle defining a flow passageway in
communication with said fluid passageway.
22. The apparatus as defined in claim 21 in which each of said
first and second fill vials has a first open end, a closed second
end and each includes; (a) a fluid reservoir disposed between said
first and second ends; and (b) a pierceable plunger disposed within
said fluid reservoir for movement between first and second
positions.
23. A dispensing apparatus for dispensing fluids to a patient
comprising: (a) an outer housing having a first, second and third
portions; (b) an inner, expandable housing disposed within said
outer housing, said inner expandable housing having a fluid
reservoir provided with an inlet for permitting fluid flow into
said fluid reservoir; (c) stored energy means disposed within said
second portion of said outer housing for acting upon said inner
expandable housing to cause the fluid contained within said fluid
reservoir to controllably flow outwardly toward the patient, said
stored energy means comprising a compressively deformable,
elastomeric member carried within said second portion of said outer
housing said, said elastomeric member being expandable to cause
fluid flow from said fluid reservoir; (d) fill means carried by
said outer housing for filling said reservoir with the fluid to be
dispensed; (e) flow control means connected to said first portion
of said outer housing for controlling fluid flow from said
reservoir, said flow control means comprising a flow control
assembly including: (i) an ullage defining member having a first
portion disposed within said inner, expandable housing and a second
portion having a fluid passageway in communication with said outlet
of said fluid reservoir; (ii) a flow control member rotatably
mounted within said first portion of said ullage defining member,
said flow control member having a plurality of elongated micro
fluidic flow control channels, each of said plurality of elongated
micro fluidic flow control channels having an inlet and an outlet;
(iii) an outer casing circumscribing said flow control member; (iv)
distribution means formed in said flow control member for
distributing fluid from said fluid reservoir to each of said
plurality of elongated micro fluidic flow control channels, said
distribution means comprising a plurality of radially extending
flow passageways formed in said flow control member; (v) selector
means rotatably connected to said second portion of said ullage
defining member for rotating said flow control member to selective
align an outlet of one of said elongated flow control channels with
said fluid passageway of said second portion of said ullage
defining member, said selector means comprising a selector knob
connected to said flow control member, said selector knob having
finger gripping means for imparting rotation to said selector knob
to align said outlet of a selected one of said elongated micro
fluidic flow control channels with said outlet of said fluid
passageway in said second portion of said ullage defining member;
(vi) dispensing means for dispensing fluid to the patient, said
dispensing means being connected to said second portion of said
ullage defining member, and being in communication with said fluid
passageway of said second portion of said ullage defining member;
and (f) volume indicator means for indicating the volume of fluid
remaining in said fluid reservoir.
24. The apparatus as defined in claim 23 further including
disabling means carried by said outer housing for preventing fluid
flow toward said dispensing means.
25. The apparatus as defined in claim 23 in which said outer
housing includes a cavity in communication with said inlet of said
fluid reservoir and in which said fill means comprises a pierceable
septum disposed within said cavity.
26. The apparatus as defined in claim 23 further including locking
means carried by said outer housing for blocking rotation of said
selector knob.
27. The apparatus as defined in claim 23 in which said fill means
comprises a cartridge fill vial receivable within said third
portion of said outer housing.
28. The apparatus as defined in claim 26 in which said third
portion of said outer housing includes; (a) a removable vial cover;
(b) a fluid passageway in communication with said inlet of said
fluid reservoir; (c) a chamber for telescopically receiving said
cartridge fill vial; and (d) an elongated support mounted within
said removable vial cover.
29. The apparatus as defined in claim 28 in which said cartridge
fill vial has first and second ends and includes: (a) a pierceable
septum closing one of said first and second ends; (b) a fluid
reservoir disposed between said first and second ends; and (c) a
plunger disposed within said fluid reservoir for movement between
first and second positions.
30. A dispensing apparatus for dispensing fluids to a patient
comprising: (a) an outer housing having a first, second and third
portions; (b) an inner, expandable housing disposed within said
outer housing, said inner expandable housing having a fluid
reservoir provided with an inlet for permitting fluid flow into
said fluid reservoir and an outlet for permitting fluid flow from
said fluid reservoir, said inner expandable housing comprising a
flexible bellows structure having an accordion-like side wall
movable from a substantially collapsed configuration to an expanded
configuration by fluid flowing into said fluid reservoir; (c)
stored energy means disposed within said second portion of said
outer housing for acting upon said inner expandable housing to
cause the fluid contained within said fluid reservoir to
controllably flow through said outlet, said stored energy means
comprising a compressively deformable, spring member carried within
said second portion of said outer housing, said spring member being
expandable to cause fluid flow from said fluid reservoir; (d) fill
means carried by said third portion of said outer housing for
filling said reservoir with the fluid to be dispensed; (e) flow
control means carried by said outer housing for controlling fluid
flow from said reservoir; and (f) dispensing means operably
associated with said flow control means for dispensing fluid to the
patient.
31. The apparatus as defined in claim 30 in which said spring
member comprises a metal spring.
32. The apparatus as defined in claim 30 in which said spring
member comprises a plastic spring.
33. The apparatus as defined in claim 30 in which said spring
member comprises a wave spring.
34. The apparatus as defined in claim 30 in which said side wall of
said bellows structure is coated with a drug compatible
coating.
35. The apparatus as defined in claim 30 in which said coating on
said side wall of said bellows structure comprises a plasma
containing fluorine molecules.
36. The apparatus as defined in claim 30 in which said flow control
means comprises a flow control assembly, including at least one
component having a plurality of embedded capillaries.
37. The apparatus as defined in claim 30 in which said flow control
assembly includes a plurality of components having embedded
capillaries.
38. The apparatus as defined in claim 37 in which said embedded
capillaries comprise a micro fluidic flow channels.
39. The apparatus as defined in claim 38 in which said microfluidic
flow channels are coated.
Description
BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION
[0001] 1. Field of the Invention
[0002] The present invention relates generally to fluid delivery
devices. More particularly, the invention concerns an improved
apparatus for infusing medicinal agents into an ambulatory patient
at specific rates over extended periods of time, which apparatus
includes a novel energy source, a novel fill means for filling the
reservoir of the apparatus and a unique, adjustable, multichannel
flow rate control means for precisely adjustably controlling the
rate of fluid flow from the reservoir of the device.
[0003] 2. Discussion of the Prior Art
[0004] A number of different types of medicament dispensers for
dispensing medicaments to ambulatory patients have been suggested.
Many of the devices seek either to improve or to replace the
traditional gravity flow and hypodermic syringe methods which have
been the standard for delivery of liquid medicaments for many
years.
[0005] The prior art gravity flow methods typically involve the use
of intravenous administration sets and the familiar flexible
solution bag suspended above the patient. Such gravametric methods
are cumbersome, imprecise and require bed confinement of the
patient. Periodic monitoring of the apparatus by the nurse or
doctor is required to detect malfunctions of the infusion
apparatus.
[0006] Many medicinal agents require an intravenous route for
administration thus bypassing the digestive system and precluding
degradation by the catalytic enzymes in the digestive tract and the
liver. The use of more potent medications at elevated
concentrations has also increased the need for accuracy in
controlling the delivery of such drugs. The delivery device, while
not an active pharmacologic agent, may enhance the activity of the
drug by mediating its therapeutic effectiveness. Certain classes of
new pharmacologic agents possess a very narrow range of therapeutic
effectiveness, for instance, too small a dose results in no effect,
while too great a dose can result in a toxic reaction.
[0007] For those patients that require frequent injections of the
same or different amounts of medicament, the use of the hypodermic
syringe method of delivery is common. However for each injection,
it is necessary to first draw the injection dose into the syringe,
then check the dose and, after making certain that all air has been
expelled from the syringe, finally, inject the dose either under
bolus or slow push protocol. This cumbersome and tedious procedure
creates an unacceptable probability of debilitating complications,
particularly for the elderly and the infirm.
[0008] As will be appreciated from the discussion which follows,
the apparatus of the present invention is uniquely suited to
provide precise fluid delivery management at a low cost in those
cases where a variety of precise dosage schemes are of utmost
importance. An important aspect of the apparatus of the present
invention is the provision of novel fill means for filling the
reservoir of the device using a conventional medicament vials or
cartridge containers of various types having a pierceable septum.
Another unique feature of the apparatus of the present invention is
an embedded microcapillary multichannel flow rate control means
which enables precise control of the rate of fluid flow of the
medicament to the patient. More particularly, the apparatus of the
present invention, includes a unique, adjustable fluid flow rate
mechanism which enables the fluid contained within the reservoir of
the device to be precisely dispensed at various selected rates.
[0009] The apparatus of the present invention can be used with
minimal professional assistance in an alternate health care
environment, such as the home. By way of example, devices of the
invention can be comfortably and conveniently removably affixed to
the patient's body or clothing and can be used for the continuous
infusion of injectable anti-infectives, hormones, steroids, blood
clotting agents, analgesics, and like medicinal agents. Similarly,
the devices of the invention can be used for most I-V chemotherapy
and can accurately deliver fluids to the patient in precisely the
correct quantities and at extended microfusion rates over time.
[0010] By way of summary, the apparatus of the present invention
uniquely overcomes the drawbacks of the prior art by providing a
novel, disposable dispenser of simple but highly reliable
construction. A particularly important aspect of the apparatus of
the present invention resides in the provision of a novel,
self-contained energy source in the form of a substantially
constant-force compressible-expandable elastomeric member that
provides the force necessary to uniformly and precisely dispense
various solutions from standard prefilled vial containers that can
be conveniently loaded into the apparatus. Because of the
simplicity of construction of the apparatus of the invention, and
the straightforward nature of the energy source, the apparatus can
be manufactured at low cost without in any way sacrificing accuracy
and reliability.
[0011] With regard to the prior art, one of the most versatile and
unique fluid delivery apparatus developed in recent years is that
developed by the present inventor and described in U.S. Pat. No.
5,205,820. The components of this novel fluid delivery apparatus
generally include: a base assembly, an elastomeric membrane serving
as a stored energy means, fluid flow channels for filling and
delivery, flow control means, a cover, and an ullage which
comprises a part of the base assembly.
[0012] Another prior art patent issued to the present applicant,
namely U.S. Pat. No. 5,743,879, discloses an injectable medicament
dispenser for use in controllably dispensing fluid medicaments from
a prefilled container at a uniform rate. The dispenser, which is
quite dissimilar in construction and operation from that of the
present invention, includes a stored energy source in the form of a
compressively deformable, polymeric elastomeric member that
provides the force necessary to controllably discharge the
medicament from a prefilled container which is housed within the
body of the device. After having been deformed, the polymeric,
elastomeric member will return to its starting configuration in a
highly predictable manner.
[0013] Another important prior art fluid delivery device is
described in the U.S. Pat. No. 6,063,059 also issued to the present
inventor. This device, while being of a completely different
construction embodies a compressible-expandable stored energy
source somewhat similar to that used in the apparatus of the
present invention.
[0014] Still another prior art fluid delivery device, in which the
present inventor is also named as an inventor, is described in U.S.
Pat. No. 6,086,561. This latter patent incorporates a fill system
that makes use of conventional vials and cartridge medicament
containers.
SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION
[0015] It is an object of the present invention to provide a
compact fluid dispenser for use in controllably dispensing fluid
medicaments, such as, antibiotics, oncolytics, hormones, steroids,
blood clotting agents, analgesics, and like medicinal agents from
prefilled containers at a uniform rate.
[0016] Another object of the invention is to provide a small,
compact fluid dispenser that includes a housing to which fill vials
can be connected for filling the dispenser reservoir with the
injectable fluid.
[0017] Another object of the invention is to provide a dispenser of
in which a stored energy source is provided in the form of a
substantially constant-force, compressible-expandable elastomeric
member of novel construction that provides the force necessary to
continuously and uniformly expel fluid from the device
reservoir.
[0018] Another object of the invention is to provide a dispenser of
the class described which includes a fluid flow control assembly
that precisely controls the flow of the medicament solution to the
patient.
[0019] Another object of the invention is to provide a dispenser
that includes precise variable flow rate selection.
[0020] Another object of the invention is to provide a fluid
dispenser which is adapted to be used with conventional prefilled
drug containers to deliver beneficial agents therefrom in a precise
and sterile manner.
[0021] Another object of the invention is to provide a fluid
dispenser of the class described which is compact, lightweight, is
easy for ambulatory patients to use, is fully disposable, and is
extremely accurate so as to enable the infusion of precise doses of
medicament over prescribed periods of time.
[0022] Another object of the invention is to provide a device of
the character described which embodies a novel fluid volume
indicator that provides a readily discernible visual indication of
the volume of fluid remaining in the device reservoir.
[0023] Another object of the invention is to provide a point of
care, self-contained medicament dispenser which is of very simple
construction and can be filled at will at time of use.
[0024] Another object of the invention is to provide a fluid
dispenser as described in the preceding paragraphs which is easy
and inexpensive to manufacture in large quantities.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
[0025] FIG. 1 is a generally perspective view of one embodiment of
the fluid delivery apparatus of the present invention for
dispensing fluids at a uniform rate.
[0026] FIG. 2 is an enlarged, longitudinal cross-sectional view of
the apparatus shown in FIG. 1.
[0027] FIG. 3 is a cross-sectional view similar to FIG. 2, but
showing the apparatus in a fluid fill mode.
[0028] FIG. 3A is a cross-sectional view taken along lines 3A-3A of
FIG. 3.
[0029] FIG. 4 is a cross-sectional view of one of the prefilled
medicament shell vials that can be used to fill the fluid reservoir
of the apparatus.
[0030] FIG. 5 is a view taken along lines 5-5 of FIG. 4.
[0031] FIG. 6 is a view taken along lines 6-6 of FIG. 2.
[0032] FIG. 6A is a view taken along lines 6A-6A of FIG. 6.
[0033] FIG. 7 is a cross-sectional view taken along lines 7-7 of
FIG. 2.
[0034] FIGS. 8A and 8B, when considered together comprise a
generally perspective, exploded view of the various internal
operating components of the apparatus of the invention.
[0035] FIG. 8C is a generally perspective, exploded view of one
form of the indexing means of the invention.
[0036] FIG. 8D is a fragmentary, front view similar to the front
view shown in FIG. 6, but better showing the configuration of the
indexing means of the invention.
[0037] FIG. 8E is a cross-sectional view taken along lines 8E-8E of
FIG. 8D.
[0038] FIG. 8F is an enlarged, fragmentary, bottom view of the
forward portion of the apparatus shown in FIG. 3.
[0039] FIG. 8G is a cross-sectional view taken along lines 8G-8G of
FIG. 8F.
[0040] FIG. 8H is a fragmentary, cross-sectional view similar to
FIG. 8G but showing the indexing means in a locked position.
[0041] FIG. 9 is a generally perspective, front view of one form of
the fluid flow control assembly of the apparatus of the
invention.
[0042] FIG. 10 is a generally perspective, exploded front view of
the fluid flow control assembly shown in FIG. 9.
[0043] FIG. 11 is a fragmentary cross-sectional view of one of the
flow control channels formed in the flow control member shown in
the central portion of FIG. 10.
[0044] FIG. 12 is a generally perspective, rear view of the fluid
flow control assembly of the apparatus of the invention shown in
FIG. 9.
[0045] FIG. 13 is a generally perspective, exploded rear view of
the fluid flow control assembly shown in FIG. 10.
[0046] FIG. 13A is a generally perspective view of an alternate
form of the flow control member of the invention.
[0047] FIG. 13B if a generally perspective view of yet another form
of the flow control member of the invention.
[0048] FIG. 14 is a front view of the assembly shown in FIG. 9.
[0049] FIG. 15 is a cross-sectional view taken along lines 15-15 of
FIG. 14.
[0050] FIG. 16 is a cross-sectional view taken along lines 16-16 of
FIG. 15.
[0051] FIG. 17 is a cross-sectional view taken along lines 17-17 of
FIG. 15.
[0052] FIG. 18 is a view taken along lines 18-18 of FIG. 15.
[0053] FIG. 19 is a generally perspective view of an alternate
embodiment of the fluid delivery apparatus of the present invention
for dispensing fluids at a uniform rate.
[0054] FIG. 20 is a generally perspective, exploded rear view of
the alternate form of the invention shown in FIG. 19.
[0055] FIG. 21 is a generally perspective front view of the
alternate form of the invention shown in FIG. 19.
[0056] FIG. 22 is an enlarged, longitudinal cross-sectional view of
the manifold and control apparatus shown in FIG. 19.
[0057] FIG. 22A is a generally perspective, exploded view of the
apparatus shown in FIG. 22.
[0058] FIG. 23 is an end view of one of the prefilled medicament
shell vials that can be used to fill the fluid reservoir of the
apparatus.
[0059] FIG. 24 is a view taken along lines 24-24 of FIG. 23.
[0060] FIG. 25 is cross-sectional view taken along lines 25-25 of
FIG. 22.
[0061] FIG. 26 is a view taken along lines 26-26 of FIG. 22.
[0062] FIG. 27 is a view taken along lines 27-27 of FIG. 22.
[0063] FIG. 28 is a cross-sectional view taken along lines 28-28 of
FIG. 22.
[0064] FIG. 29 is a bottom view of the apparatus shown in FIG.
19.
[0065] FIG. 30 is a cross-sectional view taken along lines 30-30 of
FIG. 22.
[0066] FIG. 31 is a fragmentary, side elevational view of the
forward portion of the alternate form of the apparatus shown in
FIG. 19.
[0067] FIG. 32 is a generally perspective view of still another
embodiment of the fluid delivery apparatus of the present invention
for dispensing fluids at a uniform rate.
[0068] FIG. 32A is a cross-sectional view of the fill vial assembly
of the form of the invention shown in FIG. 32.
[0069] FIG. 33 is a top plan view of the alternate form of the
invention shown in FIG. 32.
[0070] FIG. 34 is a side elevational view of the fill vial cover
assembly of the alternate form of the invention shown in FIG.
32.
[0071] FIG. 35 is a view taken along lines 35-35 of FIG. 34.
[0072] FIG. 36 is a right-end view of the apparatus shown in FIG.
32.
[0073] FIG. 37 is cross-sectional view taken along lines 37-37 of
FIG. 36.
[0074] FIG. 38 is a bottom plan view of the alternate form of the
apparatus shown in FIG. 32.
[0075] FIG. 39 is a cross-sectional view taken along lines 39-39 of
FIG. 37.
[0076] FIG. 40 is a view taken along lines 40-40 of FIG. 37.
[0077] FIG. 41 is a cross-sectional view taken along lines 41-41 of
FIG. 37.
[0078] FIG. 42 is a cross-sectional view taken along lines 42-42 of
FIG. 37.
[0079] FIG. 43 is a generally perspective view of yet another
embodiment of the fluid delivery apparatus of the present invention
for dispensing fluids at a uniform rate.
[0080] FIG. 44 is an enlarged, longitudinal cross-sectional view of
the embodiment of the invention shown in FIG. 43.
[0081] FIG. 45 is a cross-sectional view taken along lines 45-45 of
FIG. 44.
[0082] FIG. 46 is a left-end view of the apparatus shown in FIG.
44.
[0083] FIG. 47 is view taken along lines 47-47 of FIG. 44.
[0084] FIG. 48 is a cross-sectional view taken along lines 48-48 of
FIG. 44.
[0085] FIG. 49 is an enlarged view of one of the fill vial
assemblies shown in FIG. 44.
[0086] FIG. 49A is a view taken along lines 49A-49A of FIG. 49.
[0087] FIG. 50 is a generally perspective, exploded view of the
alternate form of the invention shown in FIG. 43.
[0088] FIG. 51 is a generally perspective view of still another
embodiment of the fluid delivery apparatus of the present invention
for dispensing fluids at a uniform rate.
[0089] FIG. 52 is an enlarged, longitudinal cross-sectional view of
the embodiment of the invention shown in FIG. 51.
[0090] FIG. 53 is a cross-sectional view taken along lines 53-53 of
FIG. 52.
[0091] FIG. 54 is a left-end view of the apparatus shown in FIG.
52.
[0092] FIG. 55 is a side view of the vial cover assembly of the
apparatus of the invention.
[0093] FIG. 56 is a view taken along lines 56-56 of FIG. 55.
[0094] FIG. 57 is an enlarged, longitudinal, cross-sectional view
of one of the fill vial assemblies shown in FIG. 52.
[0095] FIG. 58 is a cross-sectional view taken along lines 58-58 of
FIG. 57.
[0096] FIG. 59 is an enlarged, longitudinal, cross-sectional view
of the other fill vial assembly of the apparatus of the
invention.
[0097] FIG. 60 is a cross-sectional view taken along lines 60-60 of
FIG. 59.
[0098] FIG. 61 is a cross-sectional view of an alternate form of
fill vial assembly of the invention.
[0099] FIG. 62 is a cross-sectional view taken along lines 62-62 of
FIG. 61.
[0100] FIG. 63 is a generally perspective, exploded view of the
embodiment shown in FIG. 51.
[0101] FIG. 64 is a generally perspective view of still another
embodiment of the fluid delivery apparatus of the present invention
for dispensing fluids at a uniform rate.
[0102] FIG. 65 is a top plan view of the embodiment of the
invention shown in FIG. 64.
[0103] FIG. 66 is a longitudinal, cross-sectional view of the
embodiment of the invention shown in FIG. 64.
[0104] FIG. 67 is a right-end view of the apparatus shown in FIG.
66.
[0105] FIG. 68 is a bottom plan view of the apparatus of the
invention.
[0106] FIG. 69 is a cross-sectional view taken along lines 69-69 of
FIG. 66.
[0107] FIG. 70 is a generally perspective, exploded view of the
apparatus of this latest form of the invention.
[0108] FIG. 71 is a generally perspective front view of yet another
embodiment of the fluid delivery apparatus of the present invention
for dispensing fluids at a uniform rate.
[0109] FIG. 72 is a generally perspective rear view of the
embodiment shown in FIG. 71.
[0110] FIG. 73 is an enlarged, longitudinal cross-sectional view of
the apparatus shown in FIG. 71.
[0111] FIG. 74 is an enlarged, cross-sectional view of the area
designated as "74" in FIG. 73.
[0112] FIG. 75 is a right end view of the apparatus shown in FIG.
73.
[0113] FIG. 76 is an exploded view of the forward section of the
apparatus shown in FIG. 73.
[0114] FIG. 77 is a cross-sectional view taken along lines 77-77 of
FIG. 76.
[0115] FIG. 78 is a view taken along lines 78-78 of FIG. 76.
[0116] FIG. 79 is a cross-sectional view taken along lines 79-79 of
FIG. 78.
[0117] FIG. 80 is a view taken along lines 80-80 of FIG. 76.
[0118] FIG. 81 is a greatly enlarged cross-sectional view of one
form of the rate control assembly of the invention.
[0119] FIG. 82 is an exploded, cross-sectional view of the rate
control assembly shown in FIG. 81.
[0120] FIG. 83 is a generally perspective, exploded front view of
the rate control assembly shown in FIG. 81.
[0121] FIG. 84 is a generally perspective, exploded rear view of
the rate control assembly shown in FIG. 81.
[0122] FIG. 85 is a cross-sectional view taken along lines 85-85 of
FIG. 81.
[0123] FIG. 86 is a view similar to FIG. 85, but showing an
alternate form of the fluid flow control member of the rate control
assembly of the invention.
[0124] FIG. 86A is an enlarged, cross-sectional view taken along
lines 86A-86A of FIG. 86.
[0125] FIG. 87 is an exploded view of still another form of the
rate control assembly of the invention.
[0126] FIG. 88 is an exploded view of yet another form of the rate
control assembly of the invention.
DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION
[0127] Referring to the drawings and particularly to FIGS. 1
through 8, one embodiment of the dispensing apparatus of the
present invention is there illustrated and generally designated by
the numeral 34. As best seen in FIGS. 1 and 2, the apparatus here
comprises a snap-together plastic outer housing 34 having a first,
second and third portions 36, 38 and 40 respectively. Disposed
within outer housing 34 is an inner, expandable housing 42 having a
fluid reservoir 44 provided with an inlet 46 (FIG. 2) for
permitting fluid flow into the fluid reservoir and an outlet 48 for
permitting fluid flow from the fluid reservoir. Expandable housing
42, which can be constructed from a metal or plastic material,
comprises a bellows structure having an expandable and
compressible, accordion-like, annular-shaped sidewall 42a, the
configuration of which is best seen in FIGS. 2 and 3. If the
internal materials interface of the bellows structure and other
fluid channels or surfaces are not sufficiently compatible with the
planned beneficial agent to be delivered, either in terms of its
biocompatibility or drug up-take characteristics, application of a
surface modification process is appropriate. This surface
modification methodology, which may involve one or more layers, may
take one of several forms. One process that is extremely clean,
fast and efficient is plasma processing. In particular this
technique allows for any of the following: plasma activation,
plasma induced grafting and plasma polymerization of molecular
entities on the internal drug surface of the bellows. For cases
where an inert hydrophobic interface is desired, plasmas using
fluorine-containing molecules may be employed. That is, the bellows
surface as well as other surfaces that may be contacted by the
beneficial agent may be cleaned with an inert gas plasma, and
subsequently, a fluorine-containing plasma may be used to graft
these molecules to the surface. Alternatively, if a hydrophilic
surface is desired (e.g. for drug solutions that are highly
corrosive or in oil-based solvents) an initial plasma cleaning may
be done, followed by a plasma polymerization using hydrophilic
monomers.
[0128] Disposed within second portion 38 of outer housing 34 is the
novel stored energy means of the invention for acting upon
expandable housing 42 in a manner to controllably collapse the
expandable housing so as to cause the fluid contained within fluid
reservoir 44 to controllably flow outwardly of the housing. In the
present form of the invention, this important stored energy means
here comprises a compressively deformable, generally homogeneous
member 50 that is carried within the second portion 38 of the outer
housing. As used herein, the term "homogeneous" means a member of
the same general composition or structure throughout, that is, of
the same kind and nature as opposed to a member consisting of
different elements. In a manner presently to be described member
50, which is depicted in FIG. 2, as an elastomeric polymeric
member, is first compressed by fluid flowing into reservoir 44 and
then is controllably expanded to cause fluid flow from the outer
housing through the dispensing means of the invention. It is to be
understood that the stored energy means can be constructed from a
wide variety of solid, semisolid, and cellular materials including
open cell, closed cell, syntactic forms with micro spheres,
rubbers, foams, sponges, metalized foams, plastics and other
thermoplastic elastomers (TPE). Other suitable materials include
latex rubber, rubber polyolefins, polyisoprene (natural rubber),
butyl rubber, nitrile rubber, polystyrene, polyethylene, polyvinyl
chloride polyurethane, vinyls, vinyl-end-blocked
polydimethylsiloxanes, other homopolymer, copolymers (random
alternating, block, graft, cross-link and star block), silicones
and other flouropolymers, mechanical poly-blends, polymer alloys
and interpenetrating polymer networks. Suppliers of elastomeric
materials suitable for construction of member 50 include "2 and 5
Plastics" of Newark, N.J.; Ludlow Composite Corp. of Fremont, Ohio
and Polymer Technologies, Inc. of Newark, Del. Member 50 can also
comprise a ductile metalized foam of the character available from
various sources, including "Chemetall" of Frankfurt, Germany.
[0129] Forming an important aspect of the apparatus of the present
invention is fill means carried by the third portion 40 of outer
housing 34 for filling the reservoir 44 with the fluid to be
dispensed. As best seen in FIG. 2, third portion 40 includes a
fluid passageway 52 in communication with inlet 46 of fluid
reservoir 44. Proximate its lower end 52a, fluid passageway 52
communicates with a cavity 54 formed within the third portion of
the housing 34. Disposed within cavity 54 is a pierceable septum 56
that comprises a part of one form of the fill means of the
invention. Septum 56 is held in position by a retainer 56a and is
pierceable by the needle of the syringe which contains the
medicinal fluid to be dispensed and which can be used in a
conventional manner to fill or partially fill reservoir 44 via
passageway 52 or to retrieve fluid from reservoir 44. Septum 56 can
be a slit or a solid septum constructed from an elastomeric
material such as silicone rubber. Additionally, a mechanical check
valve can function as a septal interface, for drug filling and for
residual drug recovery such as valves available from C. R. Bard of
Murray Hill, N.J.
[0130] Third portion 40 of housing 34 also includes a first chamber
60 for telescopically receiving a first medicament containing fill
vial 62 such as a closed-end glass or plastic shell vial, and a
second chamber 64 for telescopically receiving a similarly
constructed second medicament containing vial 66. An elongated
support 68 is mounted within said first chamber 60 and a second
elongated support 70 is mounted within second chamber 64. Each of
the elongated supports 68 and 70 has an integrally threaded end
portion 71 and carries a longitudinally extending, elongated hollow
needle or cannula 72. Each of the hollow needles 72 has a flow
passageway 72a that communicates with fluid passageway 52. First
chamber 60, second chamber 64, elongated support 68, elongated
support 70 and hollow needles 72 together comprise an alternate
form of the fill means of the apparatus of the invention. The
method of operation of this alternate form of fill means will
presently be described.
[0131] Forming another very important aspect of the apparatus of
the present invention is a novel flow control means that is
connected to first portion 36 of outer housing 34. This flow
control means functions to precisely control the outwardly rate of
fluid flow from reservoir 44 and toward the patient. In the form of
the invention shown in FIGS. 1 through 18 the flow control means
comprises a flow control assembly generally designated in the
drawings by the numeral 76. This novel flow control assembly here
comprises an ullage defining member 78 having a first portion 78a
disposed within inner, expandable housing 42 and a second portion
78b to which the bellows is bonded. Portion 78b extends outwardly
from housing 42 in the manner shown in FIG. 2. Bellows 44
cooperates with and is slidably movable relative to ullage portion
78a in the manner shown in FIGS. 2 and 3. For a purpose presently
to be described, member 78b has a fluid passageway 79 that is in
communication with an outlet of the flow control subassembly 80,
the character of which will next be described. Portion 78a of the
ullage member functions to ensure that substantially all of the
medicinal fluid contained within the bellows reservoir will be
dispensed from the device.
[0132] Referring to FIGS. 10 through 13, it can be seen that flow
control subassembly 80, which comprises a part of flow control
assembly 76, includes an outer casing 82 having a plurality of
circumferentially spaced apart fluid outlets 84, a flow control
member 86 telescopically receivable within casing 82 and a selector
knob 88 that is interconnected with control member 86 in the manner
shown in FIGS. 9 and 12. O-rings generally designated in the
drawings as "0" sealably interconnect the various components (see
FIG. 15). As best seen in FIGS. 10 and 13, flow control member 86
is uniquely provided with a plurality of elongated flow control
channels 90, each having an inlet 90a and an outlet 90b. The flow
channels 90 may be of different sizes, lengths, width and depth and
configurations as shown by FIGS. 13A and 13B which depict alternate
patterned forms of the flow control member, here identified as 86a
and 86b. The flow control channels identified in FIG. 13B by the
numeral 90b are formed in individual, spaced-apart capillary
segments 91 and define the circuitous flow path depicted in FIG.
13B. Further, the flow control channels may be rectangular in
cross-section as illustrated in FIG. 11, or alternatively, they can
be semicircular in cross-section, U-shaped in cross-section, or
they may have any other cross-sectional configuration that may be
appropriate to achieve the desired fluid flow characteristics. As
indicated by the designation "C", when necessary for drug
compatibility reasons, the flow channels can be appropriately
coated in the manner indicated in FIG. 11. Coating "C" can be of
various types and the coating can be applied by several techniques
including the earlier-described cold plasma processing technique.
When the flow control member is properly positioned within outer
casing 82, the inner surface of the outer casing wall sealably
cooperates with channels 90 to form a plurality of individual
shaped fluid flow passageways of different overall lengths and flow
capacities. When the flow control member is positioned within the
outer casing in the manner shown in FIG. 12, a notch 86b formed in
member 86 receives a tongue 82a provided on casing 82 so as to
precisely align the outlets 90b of the flow channels 90 with fluid
outlets 84 formed in casing 82.
[0133] The flow control channels 90 can be made by several
techniques including (micro) injection molding,
injection-compression molding, hot-embossing and casting. The
techniques used to make these imbedded fluid channels are now
common-place in the field of microfluidics, which gave rise to the
lab-on-a-chip, bio-MEMS and micro-total analysis systems (m-TAS)
industries. Additionally, depending on the size of the fluid
channels required for a given flow rate, more conventional
injection molding techniques can be used.
[0134] The first step in making the channels using an injection
molding or embossing process is a lithographic step, which allows a
precise pattern of channels to be printed on a "master" with
lateral structure sizes down to 0.5 mm. or less. Subsequently,
electroforming is performed to produce the negative metal form, or
mold insert. Alternatively for larger channel systems, precision
milling can be used to make the mold insert directly. Typical
materials for the mold insert or embossing tool are nickel, nickel
alloys, steel and brass. Once the mold insert of the embossing tool
is fabricated, the polymer of choice may be injection molded or
embossed to yield the desired part with imprinted channels.
[0135] Alternatively, channels can also be made by one of a variety
of casting processes. In general, a liquid plastic resin (e.g. a
photopolymer) can be applied to the surface of a metal master (made
by the techniques described above) and then cured via thermal or UV
means. After hardening, the material is then "released" from the
mold to yield the desired part. Additionally, there are similar
techniques available that utilize CAD data (of the desired channel
configuration) and direct laser curing of a liquid monomer to yield
a polymerized and solidified part with imbedded channels. This
process is available from multiple sources including MicroTEC MbH
of Duisburg, Germany.
[0136] A number of materials can be used to fabricate flow control
member 86. While medical grade polymers are the most appropriate
materials, other materials can be used including: Thermoplastics
(embossing & injection molding); Duroplastics (injection
molding); Elastomers (injection compression molding and soft
lithography); Polyurethanes (castings); and Acrylics and
Epoxies.
[0137] Selector knob 88, which comprises a part of the selector
means of the invention, is rotatably connected to second portion
78b of ullage defining member 78 and, in a manner presently to be
described, functions to rotate the assembly made up of outer casing
82 and flow control member 86. In this way, a selected outlet 84 in
casing 82 can be selectively aligned with flow passageway 79
provided in the ullage defining member (see FIG. 2).
[0138] Turning once again to FIG. 1, also forming a part of the
fluid dispensing apparatus of the present invention is dispensing
means for dispensing fluid to the patient. In the present form of
the invention this dispensing means comprises an administration set
94 that is connected to the first portion 36 of housing 34 in the
manner shown in the drawings. The proximal end 95a of
administration line 95 of the administration set or channel 94 is
in communication with fluid passageway 79 in the manner best seen
in FIG. 2. Disposed between the proximal end 95a and the distal end
95b of the administration line is a conventional gas vent and
particulate filter 96 and clamp 97. Provided at the distal end 95b
is a luer connector 98 of conventional construction.
[0139] Turning now to FIGS. 4 and 5, the details of construction of
a glass or plastic shell vial 62, which vial is identical in
construction to fill vial 66, is there shown. As indicated in these
figures, each of the fill vials includes a body portion 100, having
a fluid chamber 102 for containing an injectable fluid. Chamber 102
is provided with a first open end 100a and second closed end 100b.
First open end 100a is sealably closed by closure means here
provided in the form of an externally threaded elastomeric plunger
104 which is telescopically movable within the vial from a first
location shown in FIG. 4, where the plunger is disposed proximate
first open end 100a, to a second device-fill location shown in FIG.
2 where the plunger is disposed proximate second closed end
100b.
[0140] After opening of closure 103, which forms a part of the
third portion 40 of housing 34 (FIG. 3), vials 62 and 66 can be
inserted into chambers 60 and 64 respectively. As the fill vials
are so introduced and the plungers 104 are threadably
interconnected with ends 71 of supports 68 and 70, the sharp ends
of the elongated needles will pierce the central walls 104a of the
elastomeric plungers. Continuous longitudinal movement of the vials
into chambers 60 and 64 will cause the structural supports 68 and
70 to move the elastomeric plungers inwardly of the vial chambers
in a direction toward the second closed end 100b of the vials. As
the plunger is move inwardly of the vial in the manner shown in the
lower portion of FIG. 3, wherein only vial 66 is shown being used,
the fluid contained within the vial chamber will be expelled
therefrom into the passageway 72a of hollow elongated needles 72.
As best seen in FIG. 2, the fluid will then flow past umbrella type
check valves 108 and into passageways 110 formed in third portion
40 of the apparatus housing. Elastomeric umbrella type check valves
108 will function to substantially block reverse fluid flow from
fluid passageways 110. From passageways 110 the fluid will flow
into passageway 52, into stub passageway 52b and then into the
reservoir portion 44 of the bellows component 42 via inlet 46 which
comprises microchannels formed in ullage 78a. It is to be
understood that the vials 62 and 66 can contain the same or
different medicinal fluids or diluents and can be installed into
their respective chambers in the manner shown in FIGS. 2 and 3.
[0141] As the fluid flows into the reservoir portion of the
bellows, the bellows will be expanded from the collapsed
configuration shown in FIG. 2 into an expanded configuration such
as shown in FIG. 3. As the bellows member expands it will
simultaneously urge a telescopically movable volume indicator
member 112 that is carried within second portion of the housing
into engagement with the stored energy source, or
compressible-expandable member 50 causing it to compress. It is
also to be understood that, if desired, the reservoir portion of
the bellows component can also be filled by alternate filling means
of the character previously described which comprises a syringe
having a needle adapted to pierce the pierceable septum 56 which is
mounted within third portion 40 of the apparatus housing. Fluid can
also be retrieved from the reservoir using a syringe in conjunction
with a mechanical septum or, alternatively, septum 56.
[0142] As the reservoir 44 fills with fluid either from the fill
vials or from the filling syringe, any gases trapped within the
reservoir will be vented to atmosphere via vent means "V" mounted
in portion 78b of the ullage member. This vent means here comprises
a gas vent 113 that is bonded to the housing and can be constructed
of a suitable hydrophobic porous material such as a porous plastic.
Bonded gas vent 113 is held in position within the housing by a
retainer ring 113a (FIG. 8B). This alternate fill means can be used
to initially fill the reservoir or alternatively can be used to add
an injectible fluid such as an adjuvant fluid.
[0143] Upon opening the fluid delivery path to the administration
set 94 in a manner presently be described, the stored energy means,
or member 50, will tend to return to its starting configuration
thereby controllably urging fluid flow outwardly of reservoir 44
via passageway 114 and the flow control means of the invention.
[0144] As previously discussed, a number of beneficial agents can
be contained within liquid vial containers 62 and 66 and can be
controllably dispensed to the patient including, by way of example,
medicaments of various types, injectable drugs, pharmaceuticals,
hormones, antibodies, biologically active materials, elements,
chemical compounds, or any other suitable material useful in
diagnostic cure, medication, treatment or preventing of diseases or
the maintenance of the good health of the patient.
[0145] Considering next the important operation of the fluid flow
rate control means of the invention, as the fluid contained within
the bellows reservoir 44 is urged outwardly thereof by the stored
energy means, the fluid will flow into a fluid passageway 114
formed in the first portion 78a of ullage member 78. The fluid will
then flow under pressure through a filter means shown here as a
filter 116 that is carried in a cavity provided in the flow control
member 86 of the flow control subassembly 80. Filter 116, which
functions to filter particulate matter, undissolved drugs or
precipitates from the fluid flowing outwardly from reservoir 44 is
of a character well known to those skilled in the art and can be
constructed from various readily available materials such as
polysolfone and polypropylene wafers having a desired porosity.
After flowing through filter 116, the fluid will flow, via a stub
passageway 118 (FIG. 15) into the distribution means of the
invention for distributing fluid from the fluid reservoir to each
of the plurality of spiral passageways 90. This distribution means
here comprises several radially outwardly extending flow
passageways 120 formed in flow control member 86. The filtered
fluid will fill passageways 120 and then will flow into the
plurality of spiral passageways 90 formed in member 86 via outlets
90b, which communicate with passageways 120 (see FIG. 10). The
fluid contained within spiral passageways 90 can flow outwardly of
the device housing only when one of the fluid outlets 84 formed in
casing 82 is aligned with reservoir outlet 79.
[0146] Selection of the passageway 90 from which the fluid is to be
dispensed is accomplished by rotation of the selector knob 88
which, as best seen in FIG. 13 includes a reduced diameter portion
88a having a slot 88b formed therein. As illustrated in FIG. 13,
slot 88b is adapted to receive a spline 86a (FIG. 10) formed
anteriorly of member 86. With this construction, rotation of
selector member 88 by gripping a transversally extending finger
gripping member 89 will impart part rotation to member 86. As seen
in FIG. 13, casing 82 is also provided with an inwardly extending
spline segment 82a that is received within a slot 86b formed in the
rearward periphery of member 86. Accordingly, rotation of member 86
will also impart concomitant rotation to casing member 82.
[0147] As illustrated in FIGS. 12 and 13, selector knob 88 is
provided with a plurality of circumferentially spaced apart
indexing cavities 88c that closely receive an indexing finger 124
which forms a part of the indexing means of the invention, which
means comprises a locking shaft cover 126 that is connected to
third portion 40 of the apparatus housing (see FIGS. 1 and 2).
Indexing finger 124 is continuously urged into engagement with a
selected one of the indexing cavities 88c by a coil spring 128 that
also forms a part of the indexing means of the invention. Coil
spring 128 (FIG. 2) can be compressed by an inward force exerted on
an indexing shaft 130 that is mounted in locking shaft cover 126
and is movable from the extended position shown in FIG. 2 to an
inward, finger release position wherein spring 128 is compressed
and finger 124 is retracted from a selected indexing cavity 88c.
With finger 124 in its retracted position it is apparent that
control knob 88 can be freely rotated to a position wherein flow
rate indicia 134 formed on the periphery of knob 88 (FIG. 9) can be
viewed through a viewing window 36a formed in the first portion 36
of the apparatus housing. Locking means, here provided in the form
of a locking tab 140 (see FIG. 8C), is also carried by the locking
shaft cover and, when moved from the release position shown in FIG.
8G into the locking position shown in FIG. 8H, prevents inward
movements of the indexing shaft 130 against the urging of spring
128 (FIGS. 6A, 8B, 8D, 8E and 8F). A spring biased retainer pin 141
(FIG. 8E) functions to retain the selector knob in position within
housing 34.
[0148] When the selector knob is in the desired position and
pressure is released on indexing shaft 130, spring 128 will urge
finger 124 of the indexing means of the invention into locking
engagement with one of the indexing cavities 88c thereby placing a
selected one of the spiral shaped flow control channels 90 in
communication with the fluid reservoir 44 via passageways 120, 118
and 114. As the fluid flows outwardly of the apparatus due to the
urging of the stored energy means 50, the bellows structure 42 will
be collapsed and at the same time member 112 will travel inwardly
of housing portion 38. Member 112, which forms a part of the volume
indicator means of the invention, includes a radially outwardly
extending indicating finger 112a that is visible through a volume
indicator window 143 that is provided in second portion 38 of the
apparatus housing and also comprises a part of the volume indicator
means of the invention (FIG. 1). Indicia 145, which are provided on
indicator window 143, function to readily indicate to the caregiver
the amount of fluid remaining within fluid reservoir 44.
[0149] A safety disabling means, shown here as a disabling shaft
151 that is telescopically movable within a passageway 151a formed
within the housing functions to disable the device and render it
unusable. More particularly, shaft 151 has a distal end 151b which,
upon insertion of the shaft, will block fluid flow through
passageway 79. A retainer 151c normally holds shaft 151 in the
retracted position (see FIG. 3A).
[0150] Turning next to FIGS. 19 through 31, an alternate embodiment
of the dispensing apparatus of the present invention is there
illustrated and generally designated by the numeral 153. This
alternate form of the apparatus of the invention is similar in many
respects to that shown in FIGS. 1 through 18 and like numerals are
used in FIGS. 19 through 31 to identify like components. As best
seen in FIGS. 19, 20 and 21, the apparatus of this alternate form
of the invention comprises an outer housing 154 having first,
second and third portions 156, 158 and 160 respectively. Disposed
within outer housing 154 is an inner, expandable housing 162 that
is quite similar in construction and operation to expandable
housing 42. Housing 162 includes a fluid reservoir 164 that is
provided with an inlet 166 (FIG. 22) for permitting fluid flow into
the fluid reservoir. Expandable housing 162, like expandable
housing 42, comprises a bellows structure having an expandable and
compressible, accordion-like, annular sidewall 162a of the
character best seen in FIG. 22.
[0151] Disposed within second portion 158 of outer housing 154 is
the stored energy means of the invention for acting upon inner
expandable housing 162 in a manner to cause the fluid contained
within fluid reservoir 164 to controllably flow through outlet 185.
In this alternate form of the invention, the important stored
energy means is also similar in construction and operation to the
earlier described stored energy means and here comprises a
compressively deformable, elastomeric member 170 that is carried
within the second portion 158 of the outer housing. As before, in
operation member 170 is first compressed by fluid flowing into
reservoir 164 and then is controllably expanded to cause fluid flow
from the fluid reservoir. Stored energy member 170 can be
constructed from a wide variety of materials including those
materials earlier described herein.
[0152] As in the earlier described embodiment of the invention, the
apparatus of this alternate form of the invention comprises fill
means carried by the third portion 160 of outer housing 154 for
filling the reservoir 164 with the fluid to be dispensed. This fill
means is also similar to the earlier described fill means, save for
the fact that the fill means of this latest embodiment comprises
only one fill vial 172 which is identical in construction and
operation to the earlier described fill vial 62. As before, the
fill means also includes an alternate fill means that comprises a
pierceable septum 56 that is disposed within a cavity 54 formed in
the third portion 160 of outer housing 154. Septum 56 is pierceable
by the needle of the syringe which contains the medicinal fluid to
be dispensed and which can be used to fill or partially fill
reservoir 164 or to recover medicinal fluid therefrom via a
passageway 171 formed in third portion 160.
[0153] Third portion 160 of housing 154 includes a chamber 174 for
telescopically receiving the medicament containing fill vial 172.
An elongated support 178, which is mounted within chamber 174, is
provided with an internally threaded end portion 175 and a
longitudinally extending, elongated hollow needle 180 which has a
flow passageway 180a that communicates with a fluid passageway 171
via an umbrella type check valve 182 and a stub passageway
171a.
[0154] The apparatus of this latest form of the invention also
includes flow control means that is quite similar in construction
and operation to the flow control means described in connection
with the embodiment of the invention shown in FIGS. 1 through 18.
This flow control means is connected to first portion 156 of outer
housing 154 and comprises an ullage defining member 184 having a
first portion 184a disposed within inner, expandable housing 162
and a second portion 184b having a fluid passageway 185 that is in
communication with fluid reservoir 164.
[0155] As before, the flow control means includes a flow control
subassembly that is substantially identical in construction and
operation to the earlier described flow control subassembly 80 and
is of the configuration shown in FIGS. 9, 10, 12 and 13 of the
drawings. Accordingly, the details of the construction and
operation of the control means of this latest embodiment of the
invention will not be here repeated and reference should be made to
the earlier description of the flow control subassembly 80.
[0156] Turning once again to FIG. 19, also forming a part of the
fluid dispensing apparatus of this latest form of the invention is
dispensing means for dispensing fluid to the patient. This
dispensing means is identical in construction and operation to the
previously identified administration set 94 and is connected to the
first portion 156 of housing 154.
[0157] Turning now to FIGS. 23 and 24, it is to be noted that glass
or plastic shell vial 172 is identical in construction to fill vial
66 and includes a fluid chamber 102 for containing an injectable
fluid. Chamber 102 is provided with a first open end 100a and
second closed end 100b. First open end 100a is sealably closed by
closure means here provided in the form of an externally threaded
elastomeric plunger 104 which is telescopically movable within the
vial from a first location shown in FIG. 24, where the plunger is
disposed proximate first open end 100a, to a second location where
the plunger is disposed proximate second, closed end 100b.
[0158] After opening of cover 160a (FIG. 22), vial 172 can be
inserted into chamber 174. As the fill vial is so introduced and
the plunger 104 is threadably interconnected with end 175 of the
elongated support, the sharp end of elongated needle 180 will
pierce the central wall 104a of the elastomeric plunger. Continuous
movement of the vial into chamber 174 will cause the structural
support 178 to move the elastomeric plunger inwardly of the vial
chamber in a direction toward the second closed end 100b of the
vial. As the plunger is moved inwardly of the vial, the fluid
contained within the vial chamber will be expelled therefrom into
the hollow elongated needle 180. As best seen in FIG. 22, the fluid
will then flow past umbrella type check valve 182 and into
passageway 171 formed in third portion 160 of the apparatus
housing.
[0159] As the fluid flows into the bellows reservoir, the bellows
will be expanded from the collapsed configuration shown in FIG. 22
into an expanded configuration. As the bellows member expands it
will urge a telescopically movable volume indicator member 112 that
is carried within second portion of the housing and in engagement
with the stored energy source, or compressible-expandable member
170 causing it to compress. It is also to be understood that, if
desired, the reservoir of the bellows component can also be filled
by alternate filling means of the character previously described
which comprises a syringe having a needle adapted to pierce the
pierceable septum 56 which is mounted within third portion 160 of
the apparatus housing. As the reservoir 164 fills with fluid either
from the fill vial 172 or from the filling syringe, any gases
trapped within the reservoir will be vented to atmosphere via vent
means "V" which comprises the earlier described gas vent 113.
[0160] Upon opening the fluid delivery path to the administration
set 94 in a manner presently be described, the stored energy means,
or member 170, will tend to return to its less compressed starting
configuration thereby controllably urging fluid flow outwardly of
reservoir 164 via passageway 185 and the flow control means of the
invention. As the fluid contained within the bellows reservoir 164
is urged outwardly thereof by the stored energy means, the fluid
will flow into a fluid passageway 185 formed in the first portion
184a of ullage member 184. The fluid will then flow under pressure
through a filter means shown here as a filter 116 that is identical
to that previously described. After flowing through filter 116, the
fluid will flow, via a stub passageway 185a (FIG. 22) into the
several radially outwardly extending flow passageways 120 formed in
flow control member 86. The filtered fluid will fill passageways
120 and then will flow into the plurality of spiral passageways 90
formed in member 86 via outlets 90b, which communicate with
passageways 120 (see FIG. 10). The fluid contained within spiral
passageways 90 can flow outwardly of the device only when one of
the fluid outlets 84 formed in casing 82 is aligned with a
passageway 186 formed in the ullage member.
[0161] Selection of the passageway 90 from which the fluid is to be
dispensed is accomplished by rotation of the selector knob 88 in
the manner previously described in connection with the embodiment
shown in FIGS. 1 through 18. The construction and operation of the
selector knob is identical to that previously described and will
not be redescribed at this time.
[0162] As illustrated in FIGS. 22 and 28, as before, the distal
portion of selector knob 88 is provided with a plurality of
circumferentially spaced apart indexing cavities 88c that closely
receive an indexing finger 190 which forms a part of the indexing
means of this latest form of the invention which is carried within
third portion 160 of the apparatus housing. Indexing finger 190 is
continuously urged into engagement with a selected one of the
indexing cavities 88c by a coil spring 192 that also forms a part
of the indexing means of the invention. Coil spring 192 can be
compressed by an inward force exerted on an indexing shaft 194 that
is received within front retaining plate 196 and is movable from
the extended position shown in FIG. 22 to an inward, finger release
position wherein spring 192 is compressed and finger 190 is
retracted from a selected indexing cavity 88c. With finger 190 in
its retracted position it is apparent that control knob 88 can be
freely rotated to a position wherein flow rate indicia 134 formed
on the periphery of knob 88 can be viewed through a viewing window
136a formed in the housing. Button 197 disables (stops flow) to
dispenser line.
[0163] When the selector knob 88 is in the desired position and
pressure is released on indexing shaft 194, finger 190 of the
indexing means of the invention will move into locking engagement
with one of the indexing cavities 88c thereby placing a selected
one of the spiral shaped flow control channels 90 in communication
with outlet 186 of the fluid reservoir 164. As the fluid flows
outwardly of the apparatus due to the urging of the stored energy
means or elastomeric member 170, the bellows structure 162 will be
collapsed and at the same time member 112 will travel inwardly of
housing portion 158 and will provide an indication of the volume of
fluid remaining in the fluid reservoir in the same manner as
earlier described.
[0164] The apparatus of this latest form of the invention also
includes novel safety disabling means for disabling the apparatus.
As best seen in FIGS. 19 and 30, the disabling means here comprises
a disable shaft 197 that is telescopically movable within a
passageway 198a formed in a housing 198 that forms a part of
portion 156 of the outer housing of the apparatus. Shaft 197
includes a distal end 197a, which, upon insertion of shaft 197
inwardly of passageway 198a, will block fluid flow through
passageway 186 and outwardly into the fluid dispensing means. A
retainer 199 normally holds shaft 197 is the retracted position and
an elastomeric O-ring 200 carried by shaft 197 prevents fluid
leakage past the shaft.
[0165] Referring now to FIGS. 32 through 42, still another
embodiment of the dispensing apparatus of the present invention is
there illustrated and generally designated by the numeral 202. This
alternate form of the apparatus of the invention is similar in many
respects to that shown in FIGS. 19 through 31 and like numerals are
used in FIGS. 32 through 42 to identify like components. The
primary difference between this latest form of the invention and
the invention shown in FIGS. 19 through 31 resides in the fact that
the fill vial used to fill the fluid reservoir is of different
construction. As best seen in FIGS. 32 through 36, the apparatus of
this alternate form of the invention comprises an outer housing 202
having mechanically engaged or suitably bonded together first,
second and third portions 206, 208 and 210 respectively. Disposed
within outer housing 206 is an inner, expandable housing 162 that
is of identical construction and operation to the expandable
housing of the last described embodiment of the invention. Housing
162 includes a fluid reservoir 164 that is provided with an inlet
166 (FIG. 37) for permitting fluid flow into the fluid reservoir.
As before, expandable housing 162 comprises a bellows structure
having an expandable and compressible, accordion like sidewall 162a
of the character best seen in FIG. 37.
[0166] Disposed within second portion 208 of outer housing 202 is
the stored energy means of the invention for acting upon inner
expandable housing 162 in a manner to cause the fluid contained
within fluid reservoir 164 to controllably flow through outlet 185.
In this alternate form of the invention, the important stored
energy means is identical in construction and operation to that
earlier described in stored energy means and here comprises a
compressively deformable, elastomeric member 170 that is carried
within the second portion 208 of the outer housing. As before, in
operation member 170 is first compressed by fluid flowing into
reservoir 164 and then is controllably expanded to cause fluid flow
from the fluid reservoir.
[0167] As in the last described embodiment of the invention, the
apparatus of this alternate form of the invention comprises fill
means carried by the third portion 210 of outer housing 202 for
filling the reservoir 164 with the fluid to be dispensed. This fill
means is also similar to the earlier described fill means, save for
the fact that the fill means of this latest embodiment comprises a
single cartridge fill vial 212 which is of a slightly different
construction and operation from closed-end shell fill vial 172. As
before, the fill means also includes an alternate fill and drug
recovery means that comprises a pierceable septum 56 that is
disposed within a cavity 54 formed in the third portion 210 of
outer housing 202. Septum 56 is pierceable by the needle of the
syringe which contains the medicinal fluid to be dispensed and
which can be used to fill or partially fill reservoir 164 via a
passageway 171 formed in third portion 210.
[0168] As best seen in FIG. 37, third portion 210 of housing 202
includes a chamber 214 for telescopically receiving the medicament
containing fill cartridge vial 212. As shown in FIG. 34, an
elongated support 218 is mounted within a hollow vial cover 220
that removably covers the fill vial in the manner shown in FIG. 37.
The purpose of elongated support 218 will presently be described.
Fill vial cartridge 212, which is of the generally conventional
construction shown in FIG. 32A, comprises a hollow glass or plastic
body portion 219 having an inner surface 216 that defines a fluid
chamber 219a. The fill cartridge vial has an open first end 214a
and a second end 214b that is closed by a pierceable, elastomeric
septum 221 secured in place by a conventional crimp closure means.
Mounted proximate the inboard end of chamber 214 of housing 202 is
a hollow needle 215 (FIG. 37) which is adapted to pierce septum 221
when the fill vial is inserted into chamber 214 in a manner next to
be described.
[0169] Disposed within fluid reservoir 219a is a plunger 224 that
is moved by support 218 of vial cover 220 from a first position
proximate end 214a of vial 212 to a second position shown in FIG.
37. More particularly, as the vial cover 220 is mated with the
apparatus housing, the inboard 218a of elongated support 218
engages plunger 224 urging the plunger inwardly of fluid chamber
219a. As the plunger moves inwardly of the fluid reservoir, the
fluid contained in the reservoir will be forced through hollow
needle 215, passed an umbrella check valve 226 mounted within third
portion 210, into a stub passageway 228, into passageway 171 and
finally into fluid reservoir 164. As the fluid flows into reservoir
164 it will compress the stored energy means in the manner
previously described.
[0170] The apparatus of this latest form of the invention also
includes flow control means that is identical in construction and
operation to the flow control means described in connection with
the embodiment of the invention shown in FIGS. 18 through 31. This
flow control means is connected to first portion 206 of outer
housing 202 and comprises an ullage defining member 184 having a
first portion 184a disposed within inner, expandable housing 162
and a second portion 184b having a fluid passageway 186 that is in
communication with the outlet of the fluid reservoir 164.
[0171] As before, the flow control means includes a flow control
subassembly that is substantially identical in construction and
operation to the earlier described flow control subassembly 80 and
is of the configuration shown in FIGS. 9, 10, 12 and 13 of the
drawings. For this reason, the details of the construction and
operation of the control means of this latest embodiment of the
invention will not be here repeated and reference should be made to
the earlier description of the flow control subassembly 80.
[0172] Turning once again to FIG. 32, also forming a part of the
fluid dispensing apparatus of this latest form of the invention is
dispensing means for dispensing fluid to the patient. This
dispensing means is identical in construction and operation to the
previously identified administration set 94 and is connected to the
first portion 206 of housing 202.
[0173] Upon opening the fluid delivery path to the administration
set 94 in a manner presently be described, the stored energy means,
or member 170, will tend to return to its less compressed starting
configuration thereby controllably urging fluid flow outwardly of
reservoir 164 via the flow control means of the invention. As the
fluid contained within the bellows reservoir 164 is urged outwardly
thereof by the stored energy means, the fluid will flow into a
fluid passageway 185 formed in the first portion 184a of ullage
member 184. The fluid will then flow under pressure through a
filter means shown here as a filter 116 that is identical to that
previously described. After flowing through filter 116, the fluid
will flow, via a stub passageway 185a (FIG. 37) into the several
radially outwardly extending flow passageways 120 formed in flow
control member 86. The filtered fluid will fill passageways 120 and
then will flow into the plurality of spiral passageways 90 formed
in member 86 via outlets 90b, which communicate with passageways
120 (see FIG. 10). The fluid contained within spiral passageways 90
can flow outwardly of the device only when one of the fluid outlets
84 formed in casing 82 is aligned with passageway 186 (FIG.
37).
[0174] Selection of the passageway 90 from which the fluid is to be
dispensed is accomplished by rotation of the selector knob 88 in
the manner previously described in connection with the embodiment
shown in FIGS. 19 through 31. The construction and operation of the
selector knob, the indexing means and the locking means is
identical to that previously described and will not be redescribed
at this time.
[0175] As in the earlier described embodiments of the invention, as
the fluid flows outwardly of the apparatus due to the urging of the
stored energy means or elastomeric member 170, the bellows
structure 162 will be collapsed and at the same time member 112
will travel inwardly of housing portion 208 and will provide an
indication of the volume of fluid remaining in the fluid reservoir
in the same manner as earlier described.
[0176] This latest embodiment also includes disabling means, which,
as shown in FIG. 42, is substantially identical in construction and
operation to that previously described.
[0177] Referring now to FIGS. 43 through 50, yet another embodiment
of the dispensing apparatus of the present invention is there
illustrated and generally designated by the numeral 230. This
alternate form of the apparatus of the invention is similar in many
respects to that shown in FIGS. 32 through 34 and like numerals are
used in FIGS. 43 through 50 to identify like components. The
primary difference between this latest form of the invention and
the invention shown in FIGS. 32 through 42 resides in the fact that
two fill vials are used to fill the fluid reservoir of the
apparatus. As before, the apparatus of this alternate form of the
invention comprises an outer housing 232 having a first, second and
third portions 234, 236, and 238 respectively. Disposed within
outer housing 232 is an inner, expandable housing 162 that is of
identical construction and operation to the expandable housing of
the embodiment of the invention shown in FIGS. 32 through 42. As in
the earlier described embodiment, housing 162 includes a fluid
reservoir 164 that is provided with an inlet 166 (FIG. 44) for
permitting fluid flow into the fluid reservoir. As shown in FIG.
44, expandable housing 162 comprises a bellows structure having an
expandable and compressible, accordion-like side wall 162a.
[0178] Disposed within second portion 236 of outer housing 232 is
the stored energy means of the invention for acting upon inner
expandable housing 162 in a manner to cause the fluid contained
within fluid reservoir 164 to controllably flow through outlet 186.
In this alternate form of the invention, the important stored
energy means is identical in construction and operation to the
earlier described stored energy means and here comprises a
compressively deformable, elastomeric member 170 that is carried
within the second portion 236 of the outer housing. As before, in
operation member 170 is first compressed by fluid flowing into
reservoir 164 and then is controllably expanded to cause fluid flow
from the fluid reservoir.
[0179] As in the last described embodiment of the invention, the
apparatus of this alternate form of the invention comprises fill
means carried by the third portion 238 of outer housing 232 for
filling the reservoir 164 with the fluid to be dispensed. This fill
means is also similar to the earlier described fill means, save for
the fact that the fill means of this latest embodiment comprises a
pair of identical fill vials or cartridges 212 which are of the
same construction and operation as the earlier described fill vial
212. As in the previously described embodiments, the fill means
also includes an alternate fill means that comprises a pierceable
septum 56 that is disposed within a cavity 54 formed in the third
portion 238 of outer housing 232. Septum 56 is pierceable by the
needle of the syringe which contains the medicinal fluid to be
dispensed and which can be used to fill or partially fill reservoir
164 via a passageway 241 formed in third portion 238.
[0180] As best seen in FIGS. 44 and 50, third portion 238 of
housing 232 includes a pair of spaced-apart chambers 242 for
telescopically receiving the medicament containing fill vials 212.
As shown in FIGS. 34, 44, and 50, a pair of elongated supports 244
are mounted within a hollow vial cover 246 that forms a part of the
third portion 238 of the housing and removably covers the fill
vials in the manner shown in FIG. 44. Each of the fill vial
cartridges 212, has a generally conventional construction shown in
FIGS. 49 and 49A, and each comprises a hollow glass or plastic body
portion 219 that defines a fluid chamber 220. Each fill vial has an
open first end 214a and a second end that is closed by a
pierceable, elastomeric septum 221. Mounted proximate the inboard
end of each chamber of the housing is a hollow needle 215 which is
adapted to pierce septum 221 when the fill vials are inserted into
chambers 242 in a manner next to be described.
[0181] Disposed within each fluid reservoir 220 is a plunger 224
that is moved by a support 244 of vial cover 246 from a first
position proximate end 214a of the vial to a second position. More
particularly, as the vial cover 246 is slidably mated with the
apparatus housing, the inboard of each of the elongated supports
engages a plunger 224 urging the plunger inwardly of fluid chamber
220. As each of the plungers move inwardly of their respective
fluid reservoirs, the fluid contained in the reservoir will be
forced through hollow needle 215, passed an umbrella check valve
226 mounted within third housing portion 238, into a stub
passageway 248, into passageway 241 and finally into fluid
reservoir 164 via 166. As the fluid flows into reservoir 164, it
will compress the stored energy means in the manner previously
described.
[0182] The apparatus of this latest form of the invention also
includes flow control means that is identical in construction and
operation to the flow control means described in connection with
the embodiment of the invention shown in FIGS. 32 through 42. This
flow control means is connected to first portion 234 of outer
housing 232 and comprises an ullage defining member 184 having a
first portion 184a disposed within inner, expandable housing 162
and a second portion 184b having a fluid passageway 186 that is in
communication with the outlet of the fluid reservoir 164.
[0183] As before, the flow control means includes a flow control
subassembly that is substantially identical in construction and
operation to the earlier described flow control subassembly 80 and
is of the configuration shown in FIGS. 9, 10, 12 and 13 of the
drawings. For this reason, the details of the construction and
operation of the control means of this latest embodiment of the
invention will not be here repeated and reference should be made to
the earlier description of the flow control subassembly 80.
[0184] Turning once again to FIG. 43, also forming a part of the
fluid dispensing apparatus of this latest form of the invention is
dispensing means for dispensing fluid to the patient. This
dispensing means is identical in construction and operation to the
previously identified administration set 94 and is connected to the
first portion 234 of housing 232.
[0185] Upon opening the fluid delivery path to the administration
set 94, the stored energy means, or member 170, will tend to return
to its less compressed starting configuration thereby controllably
urging fluid flow outwardly of reservoir 164 via the flow control
means of the invention. As the fluid contained within the bellows
reservoir 164 is urged outwardly thereof by the stored energy
means, the fluid will flow into a fluid passageway 185 formed in
the first portion 184a of ullage member 184. The fluid will then
flow under pressure through a filter means shown here as a filter
116 that is identical to that previously described. After flowing
through filter 116, the fluid will flow, via a stub passageway 185a
(FIG. 44) in the several radially outwardly extending flow
passageways 120 formed in flow control member 86. The filtered
fluid will fill passageways 120 and then will flow into the
plurality of spiral passageways 90 formed in member 86 via outlets
90b, which communicate with passageways 120 (see FIG. 10). The
fluid contained within spiral passageways 90 can flow outwardly of
the device only when one of the fluid outlets 84 formed in casing
82 is aligned with passageway 186 (FIG. 44).
[0186] Selection of the passageway 90 from which the fluid is to be
dispensed is accomplished by rotation of the selector knob 88 in
the manner previously described in connection with the embodiment
shown in FIGS. 19 through 31. The construction and operation of the
selector knob, the indexing means and the locking means is
identical to that previously described and will not be redescribed
at this time.
[0187] As in the earlier described embodiment of the invention, as
the fluid flows outwardly of the apparatus due to the urging of the
stored energy means or elastomeric member 170, the bellows
structure 162 will be collapsed and at the same time member 112
will travel inwardly of housing portion 236 and will provide an
indication of the volume of fluid remaining in the fluid reservoir
in the same manner as earlier described.
[0188] This latest embodiment also includes a safety defeat
disabling means, which is substantially identical in construction
and operation to that previously described.
[0189] Turning now to FIGS. 51 through 63, another form of the
dispensing apparatus of the present invention is there illustrated
and generally designated by the numeral 250. This alternate form of
the apparatus of the invention is similar in many respects to that
shown in FIGS. 43 through 63 and like numerals are used in FIGS. 51
through 63 to identify like components. The primary difference
between this latest form of the invention and the invention shown
in FIGS. 43 through 63 resides in the fact that one of the two
cartridge fill vials used to fill the fluid reservoir of the
apparatus is of a different construction. More particularly, one of
the fill vials is specially designed to enable the reconstitution
and intermixing of a lypholized drug with a suitable diluent prior
to the delivery of the mixture to the fluid reservoir of the
device.
[0190] As in the earlier described embodiments, the apparatus of
this latest form of the invention comprises an outer housing 252
having first, second and third portions 254, 256 and 258
respectively. Disposed within outer housing 252 is an inner,
expandable housing 162 that is of identical construction and
operation to the expandable housing of the embodiment of the
invention shown in FIGS. 32 through 42. As in the earlier described
embodiment, housing 162 includes a fluid reservoir 164 that is
provided with an inlet 166 (FIG. 52) for permitting fluid flow into
the fluid reservoir. As shown in FIG. 52, expandable housing 162
comprises a bellows structure having an expandable and
compressible, accordion like sidewall 162a.
[0191] Disposed within second portion 256 of outer housing 252 is
the stored energy means of the invention for acting upon inner
expandable housing 162 in a manner to cause the fluid contained
within fluid reservoir 164 to controllably flow through outlet 186.
In this latest form of the invention, the important stored energy
means is identical in construction and operation to the earlier
described stored energy means and here comprises a compressively
deformable, elastomeric member 170 that is carried within the
second portion 256 of the outer housing. As before, in operation,
member 170 is further compressed by fluid flowing into reservoir
164 and then is controllably expanded to cause fluid flow from the
fluid reservoir.
[0192] As previously mentioned, the apparatus of this latest form
of the invention comprises fill means of a somewhat different
construction that is carried by the third portion 258 of outer
housing 252 for filling the reservoir 164 with the fluid to be
dispensed. This fill means, like the last described fill means,
comprises a pair of fill vials or cartridges one of which, namely
fill vial 212, is of identical construction and operation to the
earlier described fill vial 212. The second fill vial or cartridge
designated by the numeral 262 comprises a container of special
design that uniquely contains a lyophilized drug 264 that is
separated from a reconstituting fluid 266 by a barrier stopper 268
(FIG. 57). Lyophilized drug 264 can, by way of example, comprise
anti-infectives, oncolytics, cardiac drugs or various other types
of beneficial agents. Cartridge 262 is telescopically receivable
within a vial housing 270 that is of the configuration shown in
FIGS. 52, 55 and 56. As before, vial housing 270 includes a pair of
spaced apart pusher members 272 and 274 which, upon mating of the
vial housing within the apparatus housing, engage plungers 224
(FIG. 59) and 276 (FIG. 57) respectively to push them forwardly of
their respective container reservoirs.
[0193] Considering in more detail the reconstitution cartridge
assembly 262, as best seen in FIG. 57, this cartridge assembly
includes a vial 280 that is sealed at one end by a plunger 276 and
at the other end by a pierceable septum 282 (FIGS. 54 57, and 61).
Formed intermediate the ends of vial 280 is a raised outer wall
portion 280a which permits fluid 266 to bypass barrier stopper 268
as the elastomeric barrier stopper is urged inwardly of the
container by pressure exerted thereon by the fluid 266. Fluid 266
exerts pressure on barrier member 268 as a result of pusher member
274 exerting inward pressure on plunger 276, which pressure is, in
turn, caused by the inward movement of plunger 276 as vial housing
262 is mated with the apparatus housing 270 (FIG. 52).
[0194] A continued inward pressure exerted on elastomeric plunger
276 will cause the reconstitution agent 266 to flow past barrier
stopper member 268 via wall portion 280a or the bypass chamber, so
as to reconstitute lyophilized drug 264. Further pressure exerted
on plunger 276 will cause the reconstituted drug formed by the
fluid 266 which has been intermixed with drug 264 to flow through a
hollow cannula 215, past check valve 284, into a stub passageway
286 then into a passageway 290 then into microgrooves 166a formed
in ullage 184a and finally into reservoir 164 (FIG. 52).
[0195] As previously mentioned, plunger 224 is disposed within vial
212 and is moved by a support 272 of vial cover 270 as the vial
cover is slidably mated with the apparatus housing. As plunger 224
is moved inwardly of fluid reservoir 219, the diluent contained in
the reservoir will be forced through hollow needle 215, passed an
umbrella check valve 226 mounted within third housing portion 258,
into a stub passageway 248, into passageway 290, into microchannels
166a and finally into fluid reservoir 164. As the fluid flows into
reservoir 164, it will compress the stored energy means in the
manner previously described.
[0196] As in the earlier described embodiments, the fill means also
includes an alternate fill and recovery means that comprises a
pierceable septum 56 that is disposed within a cavity 54 formed in
the third portion 258 of outer housing 252. Septum 56 is pierceable
by the needle of the syringe which contains the medicinal fluid to
be dispensed and which can be used to fill or partially fill
reservoir 164 via a passageway 290 formed in third portion 258.
[0197] The apparatus of this latest form of the invention also
includes flow control means that is identical in construction and
operation to the flow control means described in connection with
the embodiment of the invention shown in FIGS. 32 through 42. This
flow control means is connected to first portion 254 of outer
housing 252 and comprises an ullage defining member 184 having a
first portion 184a disposed within inner, expandable housing 162
and a second portion 184b having a fluid passageway 186 that is in
communication with outlet 168 of the fluid reservoir 164.
[0198] As before, the flow control means includes a flow control
subassembly that is substantially identical in construction and
operation to the earlier described flow control subassembly 80 and
is of the configuration shown in FIGS. 9, 10, 12 and 13 of the
drawings. For this reason, the details of the construction and
operation of the control means of this latest embodiment of the
invention will not be here repeated and reference should be made to
the earlier description of the flow control subassembly 80.
[0199] Turning once again to FIG. 51, also forming a part of the
fluid dispensing apparatus of this latest form of the invention is
dispensing means for dispensing fluid to the patient. This
dispensing means is identical in construction and operation to the
previously identified administration set 94 and is connected to the
first portion 254 of housing 252.
[0200] Upon opening the fluid delivery path to the administration
set 94 in a manner presently be described, the stored energy means,
or member 170, will tend to return to its less compressed starting
configuration thereby controllably urging fluid flow outwardly of
reservoir 164 via the flow control means of the invention. As the
fluid contained within the bellows reservoir 164 is urged outwardly
thereof by the stored energy means, the fluid will flow into a
fluid passageway 185 formed in the first portion 184a of ullage
member 184. The fluid will then flow under pressure through a
filter means shown here as a filter 116 that is identical to that
previously described. After flowing through filter 116, the fluid
will flow, via a stub passageway 185a (FIG. 52) into the several
radially outwardly extending flow passageways 120 formed in flow
control member 86. The filtered fluid will fill passageways 120 and
then will flow into the plurality of spiral passageways 90 formed
in member 86 via outlets 90b, which communicate with passageways
120 (see FIG. 10). The fluid contained within spiral passageways 90
can flow outwardly of the device only when one of the fluid outlets
84 formed in casing 82 is aligned with passageway 186 (FIG.
52).
[0201] Selection of the passageway 90 from which the fluid is to be
dispensed is accomplished by rotation of the selector knob 88 in
the manner previously described in connection with the embodiment
shown in FIGS. 19 through 31. The construction and operation of the
selector knob, the indexing means and the locking means is
identical to that previously described and will not be redescribed
at this time.
[0202] As in the earlier described embodiments of the invention, as
the fluid flows outwardly of the apparatus due to the urging of the
stored energy means or elastomeric member 170, the bellows
structure 162 will be collapsed and at the same time member 112
will travel inwardly of housing portion 256 and will provide an
indication of the volume of fluid remaining in the fluid reservoir
in the same manner as earlier described.
[0203] This latest embodiment also includes safety defeat disabling
means, which, as shown in FIG. 43, is substantially identical in
construction and operation to that previously described.
[0204] Considering next the alternate form of fill cartridge
assembly 292, shown in FIGS. 61 and 62, this fill cartridge is
similar in some respects to fill cartridge 262 and includes a vial
294 that is sealed at one end by a plunger 295 and at the other end
by a pierceable septum 282. Formed intermediate the ends of vial
294 is a plurality of spaced-apart, angularly inclined fluid flow
passageways 296 which permit fluid 266 to bypass a member or
barrier stopper 297 as the barrier stopper is urged inwardly of the
container by pressure exerted thereon by fluid 266. Fluid 266
exerts pressure on barrier member 297 as a result of pusher member
274 of the vial housing 270 exerting inward pressure on plunger
295, which pressure is, in turn, caused by the inward movement of
plunger 295 as vial housing 270 is mated with the housing 252.
[0205] A continued inward pressure exerted on elastomeric plunger
295 will cause fluid 266 to flow past elastomeric barrier member
297 via flow passageway 296 so as to reconstitute lyophilized drug
264 (FIG. 61). Further pressure exerted on plunger 295 will cause
the reconstituted drug formed by the fluid 266 which has been
intermixed with drug 264 to flow through a hollow cannula 283, past
check valve 284, into a stub passageway 286, then into a passageway
290 into the micro-channels 166a and finally into reservoir 164
(FIG. 52).
[0206] Referring now to FIGS. 64 through 70, yet another embodiment
of the dispensing apparatus of the present invention is there
illustrated and generally designated by the numeral 302. This
alternate form of the apparatus of the invention is somewhat
similar to that shown in the previous figure drawings and like
numerals are used in FIG. 64 through 70 to identify like
components. The primary difference between this latest form of the
invention and the invention shown in earlier figure drawings
resides in the fact that the only fill means comprises a septum 304
that is disposed within a cavity 306 in the device housing 308.
Septum 304 is pierceable by the needle of a syringe which contains
the medicinal fluid to be dispensed and used to fill the fluid
reservoir of the device (FIG. 66).
[0207] As best seen in FIGS. 64 and 68, the outer housing 308
comprises first and second portions 310 and 312 respectively.
Disposed within outer housing 308 is an inner, expandable housing
162 that is of identical construction and operation to the
expandable housing of the earlier described embodiments of the
invention. Housing 162 includes a fluid reservoir 164 that is
provided with an inlet 314 (FIG. 66) for permitting fluid flow into
the fluid reservoir. As before, expandable housing 162 comprises a
bellows structure having an expandable and compressible, accordion
like sidewall 162a of the character best seen in FIG. 66.
[0208] Disposed within second portion 312 of outer housing 308 is
the stored energy means of the invention for acting upon inner
expandable housing 162 in a manner to cause the fluid contained
within fluid reservoir 164 to controllably flow through an outlet,
the character of which will presently be described. Any gases
contained within the expandable housing will be substantially
vented to atmosphere through a vent "V" via a passageway 316 and a
filter 317.
[0209] In this alternate form of the invention, the important
stored energy means is identical in construction and operation to
the earlier described stored energy means and here comprises a
compressively deformable, elastomeric member 170 that is carried
within the second portion 312 of the outer housing. As before, in
operation, member 170 is first compressed by fluid flowing into
reservoir 164 and then is controllably expanded to cause fluid flow
from the fluid reservoir.
[0210] As previously mentioned, in the last described embodiment of
the invention, the fill means which is carried by the second
portion 312 of outer housing 308 for filling the reservoir 164 with
the fluid to be dispensed comprises the septum 304. Septum 304 is
pierceable by the needle of the syringe which contains the
medicinal fluid that can be used to fill or partially fill
reservoir 164 via passageway 314 formed in second portion 312 of
the housing.
[0211] Turning once again to FIG. 64, also forming a part of the
fluid dispensing apparatus of this latest form of the invention is
dispensing means for dispensing fluid to the patient. This
dispensing means is identical in construction and operation to the
previously identified administration set 94 and is connected to the
ullage defining means of the invention that comprises a part of the
housing 308. This ullage means is provided in the form of an ullage
defining member 315 that includes a first portion 315a that is
disposed within inner expandable housing 162 and a second portion
315b having a passageway 316 that is in communication with fluid
reservoir 164.
[0212] Upon opening the fluid delivery path to the administration
set 94, the stored energy means, or member 170, will tend to return
to its uncompressed starting configuration thereby controllably
urging fluid flow outwardly of reservoir 164. As the fluid
contained within the bellows reservoir 164 is urged outwardly
thereof by the stored energy means, the fluid will flow under
pressure through a filter means shown here as filter 116 that is
identical to that previously described. After flowing through
filter 116, the fluid will flow, via a stub passageway 318 (FIG.
66) and into a fluid passageway 320, which comprises a fine bore
capillary line portion of the administration set 94. The capillary
line portion can be of various diameters and lengths to thereby
enable precise fluid flow rate control.
[0213] As in the earlier described embodiments of the invention, as
the fluid flows outwardly of the apparatus due to the urging of the
stored energy means or elastomeric member 170, the bellows
structure 162 will be collapsed and at the same time a member 112
will travel inwardly of housing portion and will provide an
indication of the volume of fluid remaining in the load reservoir
in the same manner as earlier described.
[0214] This latest embodiment also uniquely includes fastening
means for releasably fastening the device to the clothing of the
patient, such as a shirt pocket or a belt. This fastening means is
here provided in the form of a spring clip 322 that is affixed to
one side of the housing 308.
[0215] Referring next to FIGS. 71 through 85, yet another
embodiment of the dispensing apparatus of the present invention is
there illustrated and generally designated by the numeral 442. As
best seen in FIGS. 71 and 72, the apparatus here comprises an outer
housing 444 having first and second portions 446 and 448
respectively and a bonded end plate 449. Disposed within outer
housing 444 is an inner, expandable housing 450 having a fluid
reservoir 452 provided with an inlet 454 (FIG. 73) for permitting
fluid flow into the fluid reservoir and an outlet 456 for
permitting fluid flow from the fluid reservoir. Expandable housing
450, which can be constructed from a metal or plastic material,
comprises a bellows structure having an expandable and
compressible, accordion-like, annular-shaped sidewall 450a, the
configuration of which is best seen in FIGS. 73 and 74. As best
seen in FIG. 74, the inner wall of the bellows is provided, in the
manner previously described herein, with one or more layers of a
protective coating 458 that is compatible with the fluids contained
within reservoir 452.
[0216] Disposed within second portion 448 of outer housing 444 is
the novel stored energy means of the invention for acting upon
inner expandable housing 450 in a manner to cause the fluid
contained within fluid reservoir 452 to controllably flow outwardly
of the housing. In the present form of the invention, this
important stored energy means comprises a compressively deformable,
elastomeric member 460 that is carried within the second portion
448 of the outer housing. In a manner presently to be described,
member 460 is first compressed by fluid flowing into reservoir 452
and then is controllably expanded to cause fluid flow from the
outer housing through the dispensing means of the invention. Stored
energy member 460 can be constructed from a wide variety of
materials including metals and plastics. By way of example, stored
energy member 460 can be constructed from a wide variety of
foam-like, solid and cellular materials including rubbers, molded
or extruded plastics and other thermoplastic elastomers (TPE) and
thermoplastic urethane (TPU) and polyethylene. By way of example,
suitable materials include latex rubber, rubber polyolefins,
polyisoprene (natural rubber), butyl rubber, nitrile rubber,
polyurethane, vinyls, vinyl-end-blocked polydimethylsiloxanes,
other homopolymer, copolymers (random alternating, block, graft,
cross-link and star block), silicones and other flouropolymers,
mechanical poly-blends, polymer alloys and other thermoplastic
elastomers (TPE) and thermoplastic urethane (TPU) and
polyethylene.
[0217] Forming an important aspect of the apparatus of the present
invention is fill means carried by outer housing 444 for filling
the reservoir 452 with the fluid to be dispensed. As best seen in
FIG. 73, first portion 446 includes a fluid passageway 462 in
communication with inlet 454 of fluid reservoir 452. Proximate its
lower end 462a, fluid passageway 462 communicates with a cavity 464
formed within portion 446 of the housing 444. Disposed within
cavity 464 is a pierceable septum 466 that comprises a part of one
form of the fill means of the invention. Septum 466 is held in
position by a retainer 466a and is pierceable by the needle of the
syringe which contains the medicinal fluid to be dispensed and
which can be used in a conventional manner to fill or partially
fill reservoir 452 via passageway 462.
[0218] Forming another very important aspect of the apparatus of
the present invention is a novel flow control means that is
disposed interiorly of outer housing 444. This flow control means
functions to precisely control the outwardly rate of fluid flow
from reservoir 452 and toward the patient. In the form of the
invention shown in FIGS. 71 through 88 the flow control means
comprises a flow control assembly generally designated in the
drawings by the numeral 470. As best seen in FIGS. 81 and 82, this
novel flow control assembly here comprises an inlet manifold 472
having an inlet port 474 that is in communication with the outlet
456 of the fluid reservoir 452 and an outlet manifold 476 that is
interconnected with intake manifold 472 by means of a separator
plate 478. As indicated in FIGS. 81 and 82, outlet manifold 476 as
an outlet port 479 that is in communication with the outlet of the
apparatus and is provided with an elongated microchannel 480 that
is coated with a coating C-1 (FIG. 86A) and is in communication
both with inlet port 474 and with the outlet port 479 of the outlet
manifold. Disposed intermediate inlet manifold 472 and a generally
circular shaped separator plate 478 is filter means, here provided
as a filter member 482 that functions to filter fluid flowing
toward outlet port 478 of the outlet manifold. Generally disk
shaped filter member 482 can be formed from various porous
materials, including porous metals, plastics and porous
ceramics.
[0219] As best seen in FIG. 82, separator plate 478 is provided
with standoff ribs 484 for supporting filter member 482 in the
manner shown in FIG. 81. The assemblage made up of inlet manifold
472, outlet manifold 476, separator plate 478 and filter 482 is
preferably encapsulated within an outer metal or plastic casing 486
(see FIG. 81).
[0220] As indicated in FIG. 81, the flow rate control means, or
assemblage 470, has an axial centerline "C" with which the inlet
port 474 of the inlet manifold 472 is coaxial aligned. However, the
outlet port 479 of the outlet manifold is radially spaced from the
axial centerline. With this construction, fluid will flow from
reservoir 452 into inlet port 474, through filter member 482,
through a central opening 478a formed in separator plate 478 and
thence into microchannel 480 (see also FIG. 85). By controlling the
length, depth and width of the microchannel 480, the rate of fluid
flow flowing outwardly of outlet 479 can be precisely controlled.
In this regard, the microchannel can take several forms as for
example that illustrated in FIG. 86 of the drawings and generally
designated therein by the numeral 480a. Where required for drug
compatibility purposes, the micro channel 480a can be coated with a
compatibility coating "C-1" of the character previously described.
This coating can be accomplished in several ways, including the
plasma coating process earlier described herein.
[0221] Turning once again to FIGS. 71, 72 and 73, also forming a
part of the fluid dispensing apparatus of the present invention is
dispensing means for dispensing fluid to the patient. In the
present form of the invention this dispensing means comprises an
administration set 488 that is connected to the first portion 446
of housing 444 in the manner shown in the drawings. The proximal
end 490a of administration line 490 of the administration set 488
is in communication with an outlet fluid passageway 492 which is
formed in housing portion 446 in the manner best seen in FIG. 73.
Disposed between the proximal and 490a and the distal end 490b of
the administration line is a conventional gas vent and filter 496.
Provided at the distal end 490b of the administration line is a
luer connector 498 of conventional construction (FIG. 71).
[0222] To control fluid flow from the outlet 479 of the flow rate
control means toward outlet passageway 492, novel operating means
are provided. This operating means here comprises a control knob
assembly 500 that includes a finger gripping portion of 502 and a
generally cylindrically shaped shank portion 504 that is rotatably
received within a bore 506 formed in housing portion 446 (FIG. 73).
As indicated in FIG. 75, control knob assembly 500 is rotatable
from a first "on", or fluid flow position, to a second "off"
position as indicated by indicia provided on the forward face of
housing portion 446. The control knob assembly is retained in
position with a housing 446 by a retainer ring 505. Shank portion
504 of the control knob assembly includes an axial flow passageway
508 that communicates with the earlier identified outlet flow
passageway 492 via a stub passageway 509. The flow passageway 508
also communicates with outlet 479 of flow rate control assembly 470
when the control assembly is in the "on" position shown in FIG. 75.
In this position, fluid it can flow from reservoir 452, through
outlet 456, through flow rate control assembly 470, into central
passageway 508 of the control knob assembly and then toward the
administration set via passageway 492. As indicated in FIGS. 76 and
78, to guide the travel of the control knob assembly, the control
knob assembly is provided with a protuberance 502a that travels
within a groove 511 provided in the housing portion 446.
[0223] In using the apparatus of the invention, with the control
knob assembly in the "off" position, the reservoir 452 of the
bellows component 450 can be filled by filling means which
comprises a conventional syringe having a needle adapted to pierce
the pierceable septum 466 which is mounted within portion 446 of
the apparatus housing. As the fluid flows into the bellows
reservoir, the bellows will be expanded from a collapsed into an
expanded configuration, such as is shown in FIG. 73. As the bellows
member expands it will urge a telescopically movable volume
indicator member 512 that is carried within a second portion 448 of
the housing into engagement with the stored energy source causing
it to compress. As the reservoir 452 fills with fluid from the
filling syringe, any gases trapped within the reservoir will be
vented to atmosphere via vent means "V" mounted in knob 502.
[0224] With the infusion apparatus interconnected with the
patient's clothing by means of a spring clip assembly 518, which is
affixed to the side of the device housing in the manner shown in
FIGS. 72 and 75, and with the administration set 488 interconnected
with the patient, opening the fluid delivery path to the
administration set can be accomplished by rotating the control knob
from the "off" position to the "on" position. Upon opening the
fluid delivery path, the stored energy means, or member 460, will
tend to return to its starting configuration thereby controllably
urging fluid flow outwardly of reservoir 452 via the flow rate
control means of the invention, passageway 508 of the control knob
assembly and delivery passageway 492 formed in housing portion 446.
As the fluid flows outwardly of the apparatus due to the urging of
the stored energy means, the bellows structure 450 will be
collapsed and at the same time member 512 will travel inwardly of
housing portion 448. Member 512, which forms a part of the volume
indicator means of the invention, includes a radially outwardly
extending indicating finger 512a that is visible through a volume
indicator window 514 that is provided in a second portion 448 of
the apparatus housing and also comprises a part of the volume
indicator means of the invention (FIGS. 71 and 72). Indicia 516,
which are provided on indicator window 514, function to readily
indicate to the caregiver the amount of fluid remaining within
fluid reservoir 452.
[0225] As previously discussed, a number of beneficial agents can
be introduced into reservoir 452 and can be controllably dispensed
to the patient including, by way of example, medicaments of various
types, drugs, pharmaceuticals, hormones, antibodies, biologically
active materials, elements, chemical compounds, or any other
suitable material useful in diagnostic cure, medication, treatment
or preventing of diseases or the maintenance of the good health of
the patient.
[0226] Referring next to FIG. 87, an alternate form of flow control
means of the invention is there shown. This flow control means can
be mounted within a modified housing 444 that will accommodate
off-set, in-line input and output ports of the diameter shown in
FIGS. 27 and 28. This latter flow control means functions to
precisely control the rate of fluid flow from reservoir 452 toward
the patient. In the form of the invention shown in FIG. 87, the
flow control means comprises a flow control assembly generally
designated in the drawings by the numeral 520. Flow control
assembly 520 here comprises a first component or inlet manifold 522
having an inlet port 524 that can be placed in communication of the
outlet 456 of the fluid reservoir 452 and an outlet manifold 526
that can be interconnected with first component 522 by means of a
pair of separator plates or components 528 and 529. Outlet manifold
component 526 has an outlet port 528 that is in communication with
the outlet 542 of separator plate 529 and also in communication
with the outlet of the apparatus. Intake manifold 522 has an inner
surface 522a that is provided with a plurality of interconnected,
imbedded capillaries 532. Capillaries 532 are in communication both
with inlet port 524 and with an outlet port 534 formed in the inlet
manifold. Disposed adjacent manifold 522 is separator plate 528.
Separator plate 528 has an inner, uninterrupted surface 528a that
is also provided with a plurality of imbedded capillaries 536 that
are in communication with outlet port 534 formed in the inlet
manifold. Fluid flowing from capillaries 532 flows into capillaries
536 via an inlet port 537 and then outwardly of separator plate 528
via an outlet port 536a.
[0227] Separator plate 529, which is disposed intermediate
separator plate 528 and outlet manifold 526, has an inner,
uninterrupted surface 529a that is provided with a plurality of
interconnected capillaries 540 that receive the fluid flowing
outwardly of outlet port 536a. After the fluid flow through
capillaries 540, it will flow toward outlet 543 of outlet manifold
526 via an outlet port 542.
[0228] By controlling the length, width and depth of capillaries
532, 536, and 540, the rate of fluid flow flowing outwardly of
outlet 543 can be precisely controlled. In this regard, it is to be
understood that the capillaries of the flow control assembly can
take several forms depending upon the end use of the fluid delivery
device.
[0229] Turning now to FIG. 88, still another form of flow control
means of the invention is there shown. This flow control means can
also be mounted within housing 444 in place of flow control
assembly 470 and functions to precisely control the rate of fluid
flow from reservoir 452 and toward the patient. In the form of the
invention shown in FIG. 88, the flow control means comprises a flow
control assembly generally designated in the drawings by the
numeral 550. Flow control assembly 550 here comprises a first
component or inlet manifold 552 having an inlet port 554 that can
be placed in communication with the outlet 456 of the fluid
reservoir 452 and a second component or outlet manifold 556 that
can be interconnected with intake manifold 552 by means of a
separator component or plates 558 and 559. Outlet manifold 556 has
an outlet port 558 that is in communication with the outlet 560 of
separator plate 559 and also in communication with the outlet of
the apparatus. Intake manifold 552 has an inner surface 552a that
is provided with a plurality of interconnected imbedded capillaries
562. Capillaries 562 are in communication both with inlet port 554
and with an outlet port 564 formed in the inlet manifold. Disposed
adjacent manifold 552 is a separator plate 558. Separator plate 558
has an inner surface 558a that is provided with a plurality of
imbedded capillaries 566 that are in communication with outlet port
554 formed in the inlet manifold. Fluid flowing from capillaries
562 flows into capillaries 566 via an inlet port 567 and then
outwardly of separator plate 558 via an outlet port 569.
[0230] Separator plate 559, which is disposed intermediate
separator plate 558 and outlet manifold 556, has an inner surface
559a that is provided with a plurality of interconnected
capillaries 570 that receive the fluid flowing outwardly of outlet
port 569. After the fluid flows through capillaries 570, it will
flow toward outlet 558 of outlet manifold 556 via an outlet port
560.
[0231] As before, by controlling the length, width and depth of
capillaries 562, 566, and 570 the rate of fluid flow flowing
outwardly of outlet 558 can be precisely controlled.
[0232] Having now described the invention in detail in accordance
with the requirements of the patent statutes, those skilled in this
art will have no difficulty in making changes and modifications in
the individual parts or their relative assembly in order to meet
specific requirements or conditions. Such changes and modifications
may be made without departing from the scope and spirit of the
invention, as set forth in the following claims.
* * * * *