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Abstract

A flow monitor including an optical sensing chamber and an electronic controller which allows determination of exact drop volumes and flow rates. In one embodiment, the flow monitor forms part of a gravity fed volumetric controller in an IV system. In another embodiment, the flow monitor takes the form of a urinary output monitor in a urine collection system. Basically, the flow monitor comprises a microcontroller which responds to parametric information fed into the system through a keyboard and variable information detected by a novel drop diameter detector. The electronic controller, in response to the parametric and variable information being fed into it, is able to determine the precise volume of IV solution or urine passing through the respective systems. In the volumetric controller, the microcontroller causes a linear actuator to control the diameter of a flexible pinch tube found in the IV system. Under one mode of operation, the diameter of the pinch tube is regulated to control drop size. In another mode of operation, the diameter of the tube is regulated to control the time interval between drops. By selectively combining the two modes of operation, a precise volume of IV fluid may be administered to a patient. Also forming part of the system are audible and visual alarms to alert the user to any malfunctions in need of correction.

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First Claim