U.S. patent application number 11/218896 was filed with the patent office on 2007-03-08 for pressure responsive fluid flow control valves.
This patent application is currently assigned to BELMONT INSTRUMENT CORPORATION. Invention is credited to Michael Gildersleeve, John III Landy.
Application Number | 20070051409 11/218896 |
Document ID | / |
Family ID | 37828947 |
Filed Date | 2007-03-08 |
United States Patent
Application |
20070051409 |
Kind Code |
A1 |
Landy; John III ; et
al. |
March 8, 2007 |
Pressure responsive fluid flow control valves
Abstract
In one set of embodiments a selected section of tubular stock
has its ends welded together to form a pillow-like pressure sensing
device with an entry tube and an exit tube each configured to
facilitate insertion of the pressure sensing device into the flow
path of IV infusate in an IV administration set or system. Fluid
pressure in excess of a predetermined amount reconfigures the
pressure sensing device from a generally oval configuration to a
generally circular configuration to restrict and/or cut off fluid
flow into the device while permitting fluid flow from the device to
reduce the fluid pressure again reconfiguring the device back to
its generally oval configuration and permitting fluid flow into and
through the device. In other embodiments a fluid pressure sensing
device is formed with a fluid entry chamber and a fluid exit
chamber interconnected by a passageway and provided with a piston
that reacts to an increase in fluid pressure above a predetermined
amount to close off the interconnection between the chambers and
fluid flow into the exit chamber. Continued fluid flow from the eit
chamber results in a reduction of fluid therein and reopening of
the fluid passageway between the chambers.
Inventors: |
Landy; John III; (Billerica,
MA) ; Gildersleeve; Michael; (Northborough,
MA) |
Correspondence
Address: |
MORRIS I. POLLACK
19 Eberhardt Road
East Hanover
NJ
07936
US
|
Assignee: |
BELMONT INSTRUMENT
CORPORATION
|
Family ID: |
37828947 |
Appl. No.: |
11/218896 |
Filed: |
September 2, 2005 |
Current U.S.
Class: |
137/510 |
Current CPC
Class: |
Y10T 137/7836 20150401;
Y10T 137/0379 20150401; A61M 5/16881 20130101; Y10T 137/7825
20150401; G05D 16/0647 20130101 |
Class at
Publication: |
137/510 |
International
Class: |
F16K 31/36 20060101
F16K031/36 |
Claims
1. A fluid pressure responsive valve, for insertion into a
predetermined fluid-flow path, and responsive to fluid pressure of
a predetermined amount; comprising: (a) deformable fluid-pressure
sensing means insertable into a fluid-flow path and responsive to a
predetermined fluid pressure; (b) fluid entry means for said fluid
pressure responsive means to receive fluid flow from the fluid path
and direct the fluid into said fluid pressure sensing means; and
(c) fluid exit means from said fluid pressure sensing means to
direct fluid from said fluid pressure sensing means back into said
fluid flow path; (d) said fluid pressure sensing means reacts to a
change of fluid pressure, within said fluid pressure sensing means,
in excess of said predetermined amount to restrict and/or close-off
fluid flow into said fluid pressure sensing means while permitting
fluid flow from said fluid pressure sensing means.
2. The fluid pressure responsive valve of claim 1; wherein, said
fluid pressure sensing means further reacts to the flow of fluid
from said fluid pressure sensing means and a resulting reduction of
fluid pressure therein below said predetermined amount to permit
the flow of fluid into said fluid pressure sensing means.
3. The fluid pressure responsive valve of claim 1; wherein, said
fluid pressure sensing means is fabricated from selected materials
and so as to be capable of being in a first configuration when
fluid at a fluid pressure less then said predetermined amount is to
pass into, through and out from said fluid pressure sensing means
and of being in a second configuration when fluid at a fluid
pressure at or above said predetermined amount is to be restricted
and/or cut-off from entering said fluid pressure sensing means but
permitted to flow from said fluid pressure sensing means.
4. The fluid pressure responsive valve of claim 2; wherein, said
first configuration of said fluid pressure sensing means is
substantially an oval pillow-like configuration and said second
configuration is substantially a circular configuration.
5. The fluid pressure responsive valve of claim 4; wherein, said
fluid pressure sensing means includes weld means proximate
respective opposite ends thereof that facilitate fabrication of
same into said first, oval pillow-like, configuration while also
permitting said sensing means to re-configure to said second
configuration.
6. The fluid pressure responsive valve of claim of claim 4;
wherein, said fluid entry means includes a fluid flow directing
means extending part way into said fluid pressure sensing means so
that when said fluid pressure sensing means is in said first
configuration fluid may flow there into and when said fluid
pressure sensing means is reconfiguring to said second
configuration fluid flow into said fluid pressure sensing means is
restricted and even cut-off from entering said fluid pressure
sensing means.
7. The fluid pressure responsive valve of claim 6; wherein, an
inside wall of said fluid pressure sensing means moves towards said
fluid entry means when said fluid pressure sensing means is
re-configuring to said second configuration thereof.
8. The fluid pressure responsive valve of claim 3; including, (a)
housing means within which said fluid pressure sensing means is
disposed; and (b) action means positioned in said housing means for
co-action with said fluid pressure sensing means such that upon
re-configuration of said fluid pressure sensing means from said
first configuration to said second configuration said fluid
pressure sensing means will co-act with said action means to
cut-off and/or arrest fluid flow into said fluid pressure sensing
means.
9. The pressure responsive valve of claim 8; wherein, said action
means includes a pivoting lever with a first lever arm disposed to
co-act with said fluid pressure sensing means as it reconfigures
between said first configuration thereof and said second
configuration thereof, and a second lever arm disposed for co-
action with said fluid entry means to either permit or restrict
and/or cut-off fluid flow therethrough.
10. The pressure responsive valve of claim 3; wherein, piston means
are disposed for co-action with said fluid pressure responsive
means as it reconfigures between said first configuration thereof
and said second configuration thereof, said piston means including
pinch means disposed for co-action with said fluid entry means to
either permit or restrict and/or cut-off fluid flow
therethrough.
11. The pressure responsive valve of claim 3; wherein, reaction
means are disposed for co-action with said fluid pressure
responsive means as it reconfigures between said first
configuration thereof and said second configuration thereof, said
reaction means including first and second pinch means between which
said fluid entry means is disposed and which co-act with said fluid
entry means to either permit or restrict and/or cut-off fluid flow
therethrough.
12. The pressure responsive valve of claim 2; wherein, (a) said
fluid sensing means includes a first sensing chamber disposed and
configured to receive fluid flow from said fluid entry means and a
second sensing chamber disposed and configured to receive fluid
from said first chamber and permit fluid flow to exit said pressure
sensing means through said fluid exit means and piston means
disposed between said first sensing chamber and said second sensing
chamber and co-acting therewith and responsive to an increase in
fluid pressure to or above said predetermined pressure to restrict
and/or cut-off fluid flow from said first sensing chamber to said
second sensing chamber.
13. The pressure responsive valve of claim 12; wherein, said piston
means includes a piston seat formed on wall means disposed between
said first sensing chamber and said second sensing chamber.
14. The pressure responsive valve of claim 13; wherein, said piston
seat and said piston are fabricated with corresponding tapered
surfaces which co-act to restrict and/or cut-off fluid flow from
said first sensing chamber to said second sensing chamber.
15. A fluid pressure responsive valve, for insertion into a
predetermined infusate flow path, within an infusate heating
device, and responsive to fluid pressure of said infusate of a
predetermined amount; comprising: (a) deformable infusate pressure
sensing means disposed and configured to define a sensing portion
of said infusate flow path and responsive to a predetermined fluid
pressure; (b) fluid entry means for said infusate pressure sensing
means to receive infusate flow from the infusate flow path and
direct the infusate into said infusate pressure sensing means; and
(c) fluid exit means from said infustae pressure sensing means to
direct fluid from said infusate pressure sensing means back into
said infusate flow path.
16. A fluid pressure responsive valve, for insertion into a
predetermined fluid-flow path, and responsive to fluid pressure of
a predetermined amount; comprising: (a) a deformable fluid pressure
sensing device for insertion into a fluid-flow path; (b) a fluid
entry for said fluid pressure sensing device; (c) a fluid exit from
said fluid pressure sensing device to direct fluid from said fluid
pressure sensing device back into said fluid flow path; (d) said
fluid pressure sensing device being configured and constructed to
react to a change of fluid pressure, within said fluid pressure
sensing device, in excess of said predetermined amount to restrict
and/or close-off fluid flow into said fluid pressure sensing device
while permitting fluid flow from said fluid pressure sensing
device.
17. The fluid pressure responsive valve of claim 16; wherein, said
fluid pressure sensing device further reacts to the flow of fluid
from said fluid pressure sensing device and a resulting reduction
of fluid pressure therein below said predetermined amount to permit
the flow of fluid into said fluid pressure sensing device.
18. A method of restricting and/or cutting off fluid flow through a
fluid flow path in response to a predetermined fluid pressure;
comprising: (a) providing a fluid pressure sensing device for
insertion into a fluid-flow path; (b) providing a fluid entry for
said fluid pressure sensing device; (c) providing a fluid exit from
said fluid pressure sensing device to direct fluid from said fluid
pressure sensing device back into said fluid flow path; (d)
fabricating said fluid pressure sensing device so as to react to a
change of fluid pressure, within said fluid pressure sensing
device, in excess of said predetermined amount to restrict and/or
close-off fluid flow into said fluid pressure sensing device while
permitting fluid flow from said fluid pressure sensing device.
19. The method of claim 18: including, forming said fluid pressure
sensing device from a selected length of flexible tubular material
and welding the ends of said selected length of tubular material
together to form a deformable pressure sensing device with a
pillow-like configuration.
20. The method of claim 18; including forming said pressure sensing
device with a fluid entry chamber and a fluid exit chamber
connected together with a fluid passageway and providing a valve
operating device responsive to a change of fluid pressure within
said fluid entry chamber in excess of said predetermined amount to
restrict and/or close-off fluid flow from said fluid entry chamber
to said fluid exit chamber while permitting fluid flow from said
fluid pressure sensing device.
Description
BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION
[0001] 1. Field of the Application
[0002] This invention relates to fluid-flow control valves, and
more particularly to pressure responsive fluid-flow control valves
particularly adapted for use with Intravenous (IV) infusion
applications.
[0003] 2. Background Of The Invention--Description Of Prior Art
[0004] In the administration of blood, and other fluids, it is
sometimes required to rapidly increase the flow rate through the IV
set to administer a large or larger volume of IV fluid. This is
usually done by applying pressure to the IV line. One very common
means of doing this is by manually squeezing a bladder or bulb in
the IV administration set. When that is done, especially if the
needle or cannula, or the other venous access device, cannot
accommodate the sudden increase in fluid-flow, the pressure in the
line usually quickly rises to a large and often dangerous value.
Such pressure can easily exceed 20 psi (greater than 1,000 mm Hg)
for a brief period. The use of a syringe to rapidly infuse fluid in
pediatric patients through a small needle can produce a similar
unacceptable pressure. The generally accepted safe pressure
threshold is about 300 mm Hg, or about 6 psi. If the venous access
device is not seated properly, this high pressure can be applied to
the patient's veins, and damage the vein and surrounding tissue. In
addition, some devices in the IV line are not made to withstand
such a high pressure, and can leak when subjected to this pressure.
It is, therefore, desirable and necessary to protect the
patient/recipient from such dangerous, and possibly damaging, high
pressure.
[0005] There are numerous examples of valves for use with IV
(intravenous) administration sets and devices. However, valves,
such as those shown and described in U.S. Pat. No. 4,146,055
patented on Mar. 27, 1979 to F. E. Ryder et al for "Valve
Structure"; U.S. Pat. No. 4,230,300 patented on Oct. 28,1980 to H.
L. Wiltse for "Flow Metering and Shut-Off Valve"; and U.S. Pat. No.
4,332,369 patented on Jan. 1, 1982 to M. Gordon et al for
"Adjustable In-Line Intravenous Valve With Locking Mechanism";
require human intervention to adjust the valves which are in no way
automatically, and/or otherwise, self-responsive to changes in
fluid-flow pressure. While a valve such as the one shown and
described in U.S. Pat. No. 5,453,097 patented on Sep. 26, 1995 to
J. R. Paradis for "Control of Fluid Flow" may very well permit
fluid under unacceptable and dangerous pressures to flow into and
out from the valve and from there to a person receiving the fluid
infusion. There are also shown and described in U.S. Pat. No.
4,256,104 patented on Mar. 17, 1981 to A. J. Muetterties et al for
"Equipment Sets and System For The Sequential Administration of
Medical Liquids At Dual Flow Rates"; U.S. Pat. No. 4,316,460
patented on Feb. 23,1982 to J. N. Genese et al for "Gravitational
Flow System For The Sequential Administration of Medical Liquids";
and in U.S. Pat. No. 4,417,577 patented on Nov. 29, 1983 to J. N.
Genese for "Gravitational Flow System For The Sequential
Administration Of Medical Liquids"; but such systems are relatively
complex and shut down one IV where a second one is turned on and
then act to restrict air-flow when the second IV is finished.
[0006] Other valves intended for use with IV administration sets;
such as, for example, those shown and described in U.S. Pat. No.
4,515,588 patented on May 7,1985 to P. J. Amendolia for "I.V. Flow
Regulator" and in U.S. Pat. No. 5,988,211 patented on Nov. 23, 1999
to W. D. Cornell for "I.V. Flow Controller" are provided for flow
rate control, and in fact show, describe and teach that there are
to be both inlet and outlet fluid-flow chambers and that the
pressure in the outlet fluid-flow chamber has to exceed the
pressure in the inlet fluid-flow chamber to permit passage of fluid
to the patient and, as such, unacceptable high fluid-flow pressure
entering the inlet chamber will necessitate an even higher and even
more unacceptable fluid-flow pressure to the fluid recipient. On
the other hand a pressure control valve, such as the one shown and
described in U.S. Pat. No. 4,787,413 patented to J. M. Saggers on
Nov. 29, 1988 for "Pressure Control Valve"; shows, describes and
teaches the use of an intermittent on/off air-flow control that
incorporates an inflatable sac that receives a bleed-off from an
air duct to operate a plate that, in turn, moves a sealing device
away from the opening of the air duct to permit air flow for the
end use. The sac, however, when air flow pressure is reduced,
returns air flow to the air duct and permits movement of the plate,
under spring action, to move the sealing device back into position
blocking the exit of air from the air duct and thus from the end
use. The air entering the Saggers air-sac does not pass through the
sac but is expelled, when expelled, through the air entry opening
to the air sac. As such the valve is obviously only suitable for
gasses and not for IV uses. It requires manual adjustment by a
rotatable shaft and vents the air to the outside rather than
confining it.
SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION
[0007] It is therefore an object of this invention to provide new
and novel pressure responsive valves.
[0008] It is another object of this invention to provide new and
novel fluid pressure responsive valves for incorporation into
intravenous administration and infusion sets and systems.
[0009] It is yet another object of this invention to provide new
and novel fluid pressure responsive valves for incorporation into
intravenous administration sets and systems with relative ease,
within the fluid-flow path between the source of the fluid and the
patient/recipient that is to receive the fluid, and permits normal
fluid flow with little or no flow restriction.
[0010] It is yet still another object of this invention to provide
new and novel pressure responsive valves, primarily for IV use,
which are relatively small in size and volume and which are
bio-compatable.
[0011] It is yet still another object of this invention to provide
new and novel pressure responsive valves, primarily for IV use,
which respond to a predetermined "critical pressure".
[0012] It is yet still another object of this invention to provide
new and novel pressure responsive valves, primarily for IV use,
which work passively without operator adjustment and facilitate a
normal fluid flow in safe fluid pressures independent of pressure
applied to the fluid.
[0013] It is yet still another object of this invention to provide
new and novel pressure responsive valves, primarily for IV use,
which respond to pressures above a predetermined value to reduce or
cut-off inflow of fluid to a pressure sensing device while
maintaining uninterrupted flow to the recipient.
[0014] It is yet still another object of this invention to provide
new and novel pressure responsive valves, primarily for IV use, for
incorporation into or with a fluid warmer.
[0015] It is still another object of this invention to provide new
and novel fluid pressure responsive valves, primarily for IV use,
that are constructed of materials so that the fluid-flow path can
be sterilized and made non-pyrogenic by conventional methods and so
that single use thereof is economically feasible.
[0016] Other objects of this invention will hereinafter become
obvious from the following description of the preferred embodiments
of this invention.
[0017] The instant pressure response valve (PRV) incorporates a
deformable sensor chamber. The geometry of the sensor chamber
allows normal fluid-flow to proceed with very low flow restriction
when the applied pressure is well below a predetermined "critical
value". When the fluid pressure is at or exceeds the "critical
value" the valve functions by change of the geometric configuration
of the sensing chamber with sufficient force to either overcome the
input pressure seen in the chamber or by action of a valve member
to crimp fluid flow tubing to the sensing chamber; or by deforming
so as to activate a feature in the valve to cut off fluid flow into
the sensor chamber; all without interfering with outflow from the
valve to the intended use or user. The pressure in the valve is
automatically reduced below the "critical value" by the continued
fluid flow from the sensing chamber, or part of the chamber, to
once again permit fluid inflow. The pressure responsive valve (PRV)
utilizes a small number of simple plastic components to accomplish
the pressure limiting function, and to maintain very small size,
and small priming volume. The components contacting the fluid are
relatively easily formed by injection molding or by welding or
sealing tubing components, and are presumably sterilizable by
conventional means. Example embodiments of simplified valves
employing these mechanisms are shown in the detailed description
that follows:
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
[0018] In the drawings:
[0019] FIG. 1 is a partially schematic view of an IV administration
set or system incorporating and embodying the principles of and the
instant invention;
[0020] FIG. 2 is a schematic plan view of a pressure responsive
valve incorporating the instant invention;
[0021] FIG. 3 is a schematic side view of the pressure responsive
valve of FIG. 2;
[0022] FIG. 4 is a schematic section taken on line 4-4 of FIG.
2;
[0023] FIG. 5 is a schematic section taken on line 5-5 of FIG. 2
and showing the pressure responsive valve as it would be ready to
receive fluid and/or as it would receive fluid with a pressure less
then a "critical pressure" for the pressure responsive valve;
[0024] FIG. 6 is a schematic section also taken on line 5-5 of FIG.
2 showing the pressure responsive valve as it would be responding
to fluid at or above the critical pressure;
[0025] FIG. 7 is a schematic side view of still another alternative
embodiment of pressure responsive valve incorporating the instant
invention;
[0026] FIG. 8 is a schematic side view of yet another alternative
embodiment of pressure responsive valve incorporating the instant
invention;
[0027] FIG. 9 is a schematic side view of yet still another
alternative embodiment of pressure responsive valve incorporating
the instant invention;
[0028] FIG. 10 is a schematic side view of yet still another
alternative embodiment of pressure responsive valve incorporating
the instant invention;
[0029] FIG. 11 is a schematic side view of yet still another
alternative embodiment of pressure responsive valve incorporating
the instant invention;
DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTIVE EMBODIMENTS
[0030] With reference to FIG. 1 there is generally shown at 20 an
intravenous IV administration set or system including a reservoir
22, which, by way of example, may be a pouch or fluid bag
containing any of a multiple of different fluids or infusate 24
appropriate for infusion into a recipient (which could be a person,
animal or the like) as will be hereinafter explained. An opening 26
facilitates providing a handle 28 for reservoir 22 to facilitate
carrying and/or hanging of same for use. A tube 40, of conventional
construction, connects an output port 42 of reservoir 22 to an
inlet port 44 of a conventional drip chamber 46; the outlet port 48
of which is connected to a tube 50. A hand pump, bladder, or
squeeze pump 56 may be incorporated into IV set 20, to facilitate
increasing pressure on the flow of fluid infusate 24 should that be
necessary, by having its input port 58 connected to tube 50 and its
output port 60 connected to a tube 62. Tube 62 also connects to a
conventional fluid-flow control valve or roller clamp 64 which is,
in turn, connected by a tube 66 to an input port 68 of a pressure
responsive fluid-flow valve 70 incorporating the instant invention.
An output port 72 of pressure responsive valve 70 is connected by a
tube 74 to a needle or cannula 76 that is usually inserted into an
arm 78 of a patient 80 for delivery of the potential infusate 24
flowing from reservoir 22.
[0031] Tubes 40, 50, 62, 66 and 74 are of conventional construction
and use; as are drip chamber 46, bladder 56, and hypodermic needle
76 to a patient/recipient 80. A piece of tape 82 may be utilized to
secure needle 76 in place. Thus it should be clear that tubes 40,
50, 62 and 66 and drip chamber 44, bladder 56, valve 64, pressure
responsive valve 70, tube 74 and needle 76 together define a
fluid-flow path 84 for the delivery of IV fluid 24 from reservoir
22 to a patient/recipient 78. It should be understood that while
the various components of IV set 20 have been shown as connected
and described herein that other suitable connections may be
utilized and additional and/or other components may be employed for
IV set or system 20.
[0032] Tube 66 (FIGS. 1-4) extends through input port 68 of
pressure responsive valve 70 and terminates at a "T" tube 90 (FIGS.
1-3, 5 & 6) open at its ends 92 and 94. Pressure responsive
valve 70 is fabricated in general as a tube from the same materials
as tubes 40, 50, etc. but so as to have a somewhat larger diameter
and, for purposes of this specification may be considered to have
an upper wall 100 (FIGS. 2-6) and a lower wall 102 (FIGS. 3-6). A
portion of the tube stock from which valve 70 is to be fabricated
is cut to a selected length and welds 110 (FIGS. 2 & 4) and 112
(FIG. 2) are fabricated at respective ends thereof to secure upper
wall 100 and lower wall 102 together to form valve 70 into a pillow
like configuration. Weld 110 also secures tube 66 in place so that
"T" tube 90 is properly positioned in pressure responsive valve 70
at a pressure responsive zone 108 as shown in FIGS. 5 & 6;
while weld 112 also secures tube 74 (FIG. 1) in place at output
port 72 of pressure responsive valve 70. Upper wall 100, lower wall
102 are fabricated from plastic materials which are transparent or
translucent and which posses a predetermined amount of resilience
and flexibility. The sizing and configuration of walls 100 and 102
is selected so that when tubes 66 and 72 are in place and with "T"
tube 90 extending as shown from input tube 66 welds 110, 112 are
applied so that valve 70 assumes said "pillow-like" configuration
enclosing a sensing space or chamber 120 within inner surfaces of
walls 100 and 102 and welds 110, 112. It should be noted that the
normal, usual or at-rest configuration for valve 70 is an oval
(FIG. 5).
[0033] When pressure responsive valve 70 is installed in IV set 20
(FIG. 1) fluid-infusate 24 from reservoir 22 will follow fluid-flow
path 84 entering pressure responsive valve 70 through tube 66, and
input port 68 and "T" tube 90, exiting valve 70 through exit port
72 and tube 74, to its end use such as by a patient/recipient 78.
As long as the pressure exerted by fluid 24 is below a
predetermined "critical pressure" valve 70 will remain in its oval
configuration, with its walls 100 and 102 spaced from open ends 92,
94 of "T" tube 90. As such fluid 24 will flow from ends 92, 94 of
"T" tube 90 into sensing space 120 and therefrom out of valve 70
through its exit port 72 and tube 74. Should the pressure within
valve 70 rise above the predetermined "critical pressure" fluid 24
within sensing space 120 will induce walls 100 102 and 104 of valve
70 to assume a circular or near circular configuration as shown in
FIG. 6. Walls 100 and 102 will approach or even touch ends 92, 94
of "T" tube 90 and the flow of fluid 24 from those ends will either
stop or be curtailed. However, the fluid 24 already in sensing
chamber 120, will continue to flow through exit port 72 and
thereafter along flow path 84 to a recipient/patient 78 because of
the fluid pressure in the sensing chamber.
[0034] As fluid 24 exits sensing space 120 the fluid pressure
therein will automatically and with no operator intervention be
reduced below the "critical limit". Walls 100, 102 and 104, due to
the material and fabrication thereof, will return to their oval
disposition (FIG. 5) where they are spaced from ends 92, 94, of "T"
tube 90. However, the fluid 24 already in sensing chamber 120 will
be at elevated pressure (near the critical pressure) and fluid will
continue to flow out of valve 70 through exit port 72 and therefore
along fluid path 84 to a recipient/patient 78.
[0035] With reference to FIG. 7 there is shown an alternative
embodiment of pressure responsive valve 150 that could be
incorporated into an IV administration set or system 152, similar
to IV set 20 (FIG. 1), and at a location in IV set 152 similar to
that of pressure responsive valve 70 of IV set 20. Valve 150 is
disposed in a housing 154 sized and configured to receive a sensing
tube or chamber 156, which is fabricated from materials similar to
that of sensing chamber 120 of IV set 20 of FIG. 1 and with welds
160, 162 proximate the ends of tube 156 so that tube 156 is
disposed in an oval, pillow-like, configuration. Weld 160 also
serves to retain inflow tube or entry 170 in place as an entry into
sensing tube or chamber 156; while weld 162 serves to retain
outflow or exit tube 172 in place as an exit or outflow from
sensing tube 156. An action lever 174 is positioned in housing 154
so that its response arm 176 is disposed in contact with sensing
chamber 156 and so that its pinch arm 178 is disposed in contact
with or proximate to a pinch or restriction zone 180 for inflow
tube 170 proximate where it enters sensing chamber 156 but outside
sensing chamber 156. A pivot 182 is formed where pinch arm 178
meets response arm 176. The angle at which pinch arm 178 meets
response arm 176, and the relative lengths and widths of same are
selected to provide appropriate coaction between action lever 174
and sensing tube/pillow 156 and commensurate operation of valve
150.
[0036] Tube 170 and valve 150 are incorporated into IV set 152 at a
suitable location so that the outflow from the IV reservoir (not
shown) and IV set components that receive that outflow becomes the
fluid inflow through tube 170 and into sensing chamber 156. As long
as the pressure exerted on, or by, such fluid remains under a
selected "critical pressure limit" the flow of the IV fluid will
continue through valve 150 and outflow tube 172 and thence to the
recipient of the IV infusion. Should the pressure on and exerted by
the IV fluid reach the "critical limit" or be in excess thereof,
the oval/pillow like configuration of sensing chamber 156 will
become rounder (less oval) and that occurrence will effect a
reaction of sensing chamber 156 with response arm 176 of action
lever 174 to pivot action lever 174 clockwise (FIG. 7) about pivot
182 and move pinch arm 178 against inflow tube 170 at
pinch/restriction zone 180 to thus reduce or cut-off inflow of the
fluid into sensing chamber 156. The flow of the fluid that is
already in sensing chamber 156, however, will continue, under
pressure, to flow from sensing chamber 156 and out through
exit/outflow port 172. As such the fluid pressure within and
exerted by sensing chamber 156 on response arm 176 of action lever
174 will diminish permitting the inflow of fluid through inflow
tube 170 to urge pinch arm 178 to pivot counterclockwise about
pivot 182 and response arm 176 to follow sensing chamber 156 as it
returns from its reactive circular configuration to its normal oval
configuration.
[0037] FIG. 8 shows another alternative embodiment of pressure
responsive valve 200 that could be incorporated into an IV
administration set or system 202, similar to IV set 20 (FIG. 1),
and at a location in IV set 202 similar to that of pressure
responsive valve 70 of IV set 20. Valve 200 is disposed in a
housing 204 sized and configured to receive a sensing tube or
chamber 206, which is fabricated from materials similar to that of
sensing chamber 120 (FIG. 1) of IV set 20 and sensing chamber 156
(FIG. 7) of IV set 152 and with welds 210 and 212 proximate the
ends of chamber 206 so that sensing chamber 206 is disposed in an
oval/pillow-like configuration. Weld 210 also serves to retain
inflow tube or entry 216 in place as an entry into sensing chamber
206; while weld 218 serves to retain outflow or exit tube 218 in
place as an exit or outflow from sensing chamber 206. A movable
piston 220 is positioned in housing 204 in contact with an action
wall 222 of sensing chamber 206 and for movement towards and away
from a pinch/restriction zone 224 of inflow tube 216. A pinch valve
218 is carried by piston 220 for coaction with fluid inflow tube
216 at pinch/restriction zone 224.
[0038] Inflow tube 216 and pillow-like sensing chamber 206 are
incorporated into IV set 202 at a suitable location so that outflow
from the IV reservoir (not shown) and IV set components that
receive fluid therefrom (not shown) becomes the fluid inflow
through tube 216 and into sensing chamber 206. As long as the
pressure exerted on or by such fluid remains under a selected
"critical pressure" or "critical limit" the flow of the IV fluid
will continue through valve 200 and outflow tube 218 and thence to
the recipient of the IV infusion. Should the pressure on and
exerted by the IV fluid reach the "critical pressure limit" or be
in excess therof, the oval/pillow-like configuration of sensing
chamber 206 becomes rounder (less oval) and that occurance will
effect a reaction of action wall 222 of sensing chamber 206 with
piston 220 to move pinch valve 228 against and into inflow tube 216
at pinch/restriction zone 224 to thus reduce or cut-off inflow of
the IV fluid into sensing chamber 206. The flow of the IV fluid
that is already in sensing chamber 206, however, will continue,
under pressure, to flow from sensing chamber 206 and out through
exit/outflow port 218. As such the fluid pressure within and
exerted by sensing chamber 206 will automatically diminish allowing
sensing chamber 206 to return to its oval/pillow-like configuration
and its action wall 222 on piston 220 will diminish permitting the
inflow of IV fluid through inflow tube 216 through sensing chamber
206 and therefrom to the recipient of the infusion.
[0039] FIG. 9 shows another alternative embodiment of pressure
responsive valve 250 that could be incorporated into an IV
administration set or system 252, similar to IV set 20 (FIG. 1),
and at a location in IV set 252 similar to that of pressure
responsive valve 70 of IV set 20. Valve 250 is disposed in a
housing 254 sized and configured to receive a sensing tube or
chamber 266, which is fabricated from materials similar to that of
sensing chamber 120 (FIG. 1) of IV set 20 and sensing chamber 156
(FIG. 7) of IV set 152 and with welds 260 and 262 proximate the
ends of chamber 256 so that sensing chamber 256 is disposed in an
oval/pillow-like configuration. Weld 260 also serves to retain
inflow tube or entry 270 in place as an entry into sensing chamber
256; while weld 262 serves to retain outflow or exit tube 272 in
place as an exit or outflow from sensing chamber 256. A reaction
device 274 is positioned in housing 254 so that a relatively
flexible action arm 276 thereof is in contact with an action wall
278 of sensing chamber 256 and for movement towards and away from a
pinch/restriction zone 280 of inflow tube 270. A pinch valve 282 is
carried by arm 276 for coaction with fluid inflow tube 270 at
pinch/restriction zone 280. A pinch piece 284 extends from another
arm 286 of reaction device 274 towards and for coaction with pinch
valve 282 at pinch/restriction zone 280.
[0040] Inflow tube 270 and pillow-like sensing chamber 256 are
incorporated into IV set 252 at a suitable location so that outflow
from the IV reservoir (not shown) and IV set components that
receive fluid therefrom (not shown) becomes the fluid inflow
through tube 270 and into sensing chamber 256. As long as the
pressure exerted on or by such fluid remains under a selected
"critical pressure or limit" the flow of the IV fluid will continue
through valve 250 and outflow tube 272 and thence to the recipient
of the IV infusion. Should the pressure on and exerted by the IV
fluid reach the "critical pressure limit" or be in excess therof,
the oval/pillow-like configuration of sensing chamber 256 becomes
rounder (less oval) and that occurance will effect a reaction of
action wall 278 of sensing chamber 256 with action arm 276 to move
pinch valve 282 against and into inflow tube 270 at
pinch/restriction zone 280, and in coaction with pinch piece 284 to
reduce or cut-off inflow of the IV fluid into sensing chamber 256.
The flow of the IV fluid that is already in sensing chamber 256,
however, will continue, under pressure, to flow from sensing
chamber 256 and out through exit/outflow port 272. As such the
fluid pressure within and exerted by sensing chamber 256 will
reduce allowing sensing chamber 256 to return to its
oval/pillow-like configuration and its action wall 276 on piston
274 will diminish permitting the inflow of IV fluid through inflow
tube 272 through sensing chamber 256 and therefrom to the recipient
of the infusion.
[0041] Another embodiment of pressure responsive valve 300 (FIG.
10) includes a housing or main body 302 within which there is
disposed a valve operator 308. Housing 302 and valve operator 308
may be fabricated from materials similar to those described above
for the other embodiments and may be circular, square, rectangular
or of any other suitable horizontal or vertical cross-section
configuration. Valve operator 308 includes a flexible silicone
diaphragm 310 with a stem 312 extending from its bottom wall and
with stem 312 terminating at a piston-like valve cap 316. Diaphragm
310 is seated on a rim 318 that surrounds an inner wall 320 of
housing 302. A valve seat 330, that surrounds valve stem 312, is
supported by a first ledge 332, that extends out from wall 320 of
housing 302 and a second ledge 334 that is supported by a leg 336
that extends out from a wall 338 of housing 302. First ledge 332
and second ledge 334 surround but are spaced from valve stem 312 to
form a fluid passageway 340 between a fluid entry or in-flow
chamber 342 for valve 302 and a fluid outflow or exit chamber 344
for valve 302. A fluid inflow tube 346 is utilized to connect
pressure responsive valve 302 into an IV set or system, of the type
described hereinabove and shown in FIG. 1, through an input port
348 of input chamber 342; while a fluid outflow tube 350 is
utilized to connect pressure responsive valve 302 into an IV set or
system through an output port 352 of output chamber 344 of valve
302. A cap 354, providing a cover for valve 300, includes a vent
hole 356.
[0042] IV fluid entering inflow chamber 342, of pressure responsive
valve 300, through tube 346, flows through fluid passage 340 and
into outflow or exit chamber 344 and then through outflow tube 350
to either other components of the IV set or system or to the
intended recipient of the fluid. Should the pressure of, or exerted
by, the fluid exceed a "critical limit pressure" the fluid in
outflow chamber 344 will exert sufficient pressure on an underside
of diaphragm 310 and move valve operator 308 along inner wall 320
of housing 302 until valve cap 316 seats against valve seat 330 and
closes fluid passage 340 and the flow of fluid from input chamber
312 into output chamber 344. Since there are no obstructions to
fluid flow out from chamber 344 the fluid will flow from chamber
344 through tube 350 and then to other components of the IV set or
system and/or then to the recipient of the fluid. As the fluid
continues to so flow the pressure in chamber 344 will diminish
without operator intervention and diaphragm 310 will move along
wall 320 of housing 302 until valve cap 316 moves away from valve
seat 330 to again permit fluid flow into valve 300 and on to the
recipient all automatically and without operator involvement.
[0043] Another embodiment of pressure responsive valve 400 (FIG.
11), similar to but different from the embodiment of FIG. 10,
includes a housing or main body 402 within which there is disposed
a valve operator 408. Housing 402 and valve operator 408 may be
fabricated from materials similar to those described above for the
other embodiments and may be circular, square, rectangular or of
any other suitable horizontal or vertical cross-section
configuration. Valve operator 408 includes a flexible silicone
diaphragm 410 with a stem 412 extending from its bottom wall and
with stem 412 terminating at a piston-like valve cap 414.
[0044] Diaphragm 410 is seated on a rim 418 that surrounds an inner
wall 420 of housing 402. A tapered valve seat 430, that surrounds
valve stem 412, is formed at a lower end of a first ledge 432, that
extends out from wall 420 of housing 402 and a second ledge 434
that is supported by a leg 436 that extends out from a wall 438 of
housing 402. First ledge 432 and second ledge 434 surround but are
spaced from valve stem 412 to form a fluid passageway 440 between a
fluid entry or in-flow chamber 442 for valve 402 and a fluid
outflow or exit chamber 444 for valve 402. Sides 445 of valve stem
412 are tapered down and out for co-action with correspondingly
tapered valve seat 430. A fluid inflow tube 446, of the type
described for previously described embodiments, is utilized to
connect pressure responsive valve 402 into an IV set or system, of
the type described hereinabove and shown in FIG. 1, through an
input port 448 of input chamber 442; while a fluid outflow tube 452
of similar size and construction is utilized to connect pressure
responsive valve 402 into an IV set or system through an output
port 452 of output chamber 444 of valve 402.
[0045] IV fluid entering inflow chamber 442, of pressure responsive
valve 400, through input port 448, flows through fluid passage 440
and into outflow or exit chamber 444 and then through output port
tube 452 to either other components of the IV set or system or to
the intended recipient of the fluid. Should the pressure of, or
exerted by, the fluid exceed a "critical limit pressure" the fluid
in outflow chamber 444 will exert sufficient pressure on an
underside of diaphragm 410 to flex diaphragm 410 and move valve cap
416 to seat same against valve seat 430 and close fluid passage 440
and the flow of fluid from input chamber 442 into output chamber
444. Since there are no obstructions to fluid flow out from chamber
444 the fluid will flow from chamber 444 through port 450 and then
to other components of the IV set or system and/or then to the
recipient of the fluid. As the fluid continues to so flow the
pressure in chamber 444 will diminish without operator intervention
and diaphragm 410 will flex or return back until valve cap 416
moves away from valve seat 430 to again permit fluid flow into
valve 400 and on to the recipient all automatically and without
operator involvement.
[0046] At times an IV warming device 570 (FIG. 12) is employed, as
a component of an IV set or system of the type shown in FIG. 1,
with an inflow tube 572 to receive fluid flow and an outflow tube
574 to conduct the warmed IV fluid to the next component and/or the
recipient of the IV fluid. Warming device 570 includes a case or
housing 580 which, in turn, receives a warming mechanism 582 into a
seat 584, sized and configured to receive same. The above described
pressure responsive valves may be utilized for such IV sets and
systems.
[0047] The instant pressure responsive valves (PRV's) operate as a
simple components of IV infusion sets and/or systems. The set must
be a closed system to maintain both sterility of the infusate, and
not expose workers in the field to unsafe fluids. The PRV's are
constructed of materials so that the fluid path is
biocompatible-compatible with blood products, and does not leach
out any substance which is harmful to tissue. Its flow path is
readily sterilized and rendered pyrogen free by commonly used
means. It is relatively small, with small priming volume, and
capable of being placed in-line in the set. It does not contain any
electrical components. It operates passively, without requiring the
user to make any adjustments or settings and can deliver infusate
at unregulated pressures 0 to greater than 1500 mm Hg.
[0048] The instant pressure responsive valves allow for sudden
increase in flow so long as the applied pressure remains below a
"critical pressure limit or value", (in the range of about 250 to
350 mm Hg for instance). The valve has a minimal flow resistance
when used at typical IV pressures of 50-100 mm Hg, as well as at
increased pressures which are below the said "critical value". The
respective valves are formed to provide valves of single "critical
pressure limits or values". It being understood that valves with
other "critical pressure limits or values" may be fabricated
depending on proposed uses and fluids to be infused.
[0049] The present invention can be used as a separate device in an
IV set, can be built into a fluid administration set, or can be
integrated into an existing device. The described PRV embodiments
may, for example, be permanently bonded to the inflow tubing of a
device such as the Blood Heater Disposable Set, which is one
embodiment of U.S. Pat. No. 6,480,257, "Heat Exchanger Usable in
Wearable Fluid Heater." to protect the device from excessive
pressure, or to protect the patient distal to the device, from
excessive pressure. The disclosed PRV's may may be fabricated with
luer or other fittings for insertion into an IV administration set
or system.
[0050] While only certain specific preferred embodiments of the
invention have been described, it is understood that, many
variations thereof are possible without departing from the
principals of this invention as defined in the following
claims.
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