US20070093753A1 - Malfunction Detection Via Pressure Pulsation - Google Patents

Abstract

Systems and methods of detecting occlusions and fluid-loss conditions (e.g., disconnects and/or leakages) in an infusion pump are discussed. For example, electrokinetic infusion pumps may develop an occlusion in the fluid flow path, which can disrupt control of fluid dispersed from the pump. As well, an infusion set disconnect can also result in a fluid-loss that can be disruptive. Such disruptions can be troublesome to systems that control the infusion pump, such as closed loop controllers. Accordingly, systems and methods described herein can be used to detect such occlusions and fluid-loss conditions during infusion pump operation. For example, a position sensor can be used to monitor fluid flow from the infusion pump, with the measurement being compared with an expected value to detect an occlusion or fluid-loss condition. Other algorithms for utilizing the position sensor are also described.

Description

CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS
• The present application claims the benefit of the following U.S. Provisional Applications, all filed on Sep. 19, 2005: Ser. No. 60/718,572, bearing attorney docket number LFS-5093USPSP and entitled “Electrokinetic Infusion Pump with Detachable Controller and Method of Use”; Ser. No. 60/718,397, bearing attorney docket number LFS-5094USPSP and entitled “A Method of Detecting Occlusions in an Electrokinetic Pump Using a Position Sensor”; Ser. No. 60/718,412, bearing attorney docket number LFS-5095USPSP and entitled “A Magnetic Sensor Capable of Measuring a Position at an Increased Resolution”; Ser. No. 60/718,577, bearing attorney docket number LFS-5096USPSP and entitled “A Drug Delivery Device Using a Magnetic Position Sensor for Controlling a Dispense Rate or Volume”; Ser. No. 60/718,578, bearing attorney docket number LFS-5097USPSP and entitled “Syringe-Type Electrokinetic Infusion Pump and Method of Use”; Ser. No. 60/718,364, bearing attorney docket number LFS-5098USPSP and entitled “Syringe-Type Electrokinetic Infusion Pump for Delivery of Therapeutic Agents”; Ser. No. 60/718,399, bearing attorney docket number LFS-5099USPSP and entitled “Electrokinetic Syringe Pump with Manual Prime Capability and Method of Use”; Ser. No. 60/718,400, bearing attorney docket number LFS-5100USPSP and entitled “Electrokinetic Pump Integrated within a Plunger of a Syringe Assembly”; Ser. No. 60/718,398, bearing attorney docket number LFS-5101USPSP and entitled “Reduced Size Electrokinetic Pump Using an Indirect Pumping Mechanism with Hydraulic Assembly”; and Ser. No. 60/718,289, bearing attorney docket number LFS-5102USPSP and entitled “Manual Prime Capability of an Electrokinetic Syringe Pump and Method of Use.” The present application is also related to the following applications, all filed currently herewith: “Infusion Pump with Closed Loop Control and Algorithm” (Attorney Docket No. 106731-3), “Malfunction Detection With Derivative Calculation” (Attorney Docket No. 106731-22), “Infusion Pumps with a Position Sensor” (Attorney Docket No. 106731-18), “Systems and Methods for Detecting a Partition Position in an Infusion Pump” (Attorney Docket No. 106731-21), “Electrokinetic Infusion Pump System” (Attorney Docket No. 106731-5). All of the applications recited in this paragraph are hereby incorporated by reference herein in their entirety.
FIELD OF THE INVENTION
• The present invention relates, in general, to medical devices and systems and, in particular, to infusion pumps, infusion pump systems and associated methods.
BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION
• Electrokinetic pumps provide for liquid displacement by applying an electric potential across a porous dielectric media that is filled with an ion-containing electrokinetic solution. Properties of the porous dielectric media and ion-containing solution (e.g., permittivity of the ion-containing solution and zeta potential of the solid-liquid interface between the porous dielectric media and the ion-containing solution) are predetermined such that an electrical double-layer is formed at the solid-liquid interface. Thereafter, ions of the electrokinetic solution within the electrical double-layer migrate in response to the electric potential, transporting the bulk electrokinetic solution with them via viscous interaction. The resulting electrokinetic flow (also known as electroosmotic flow) of the bulk electrokinetic solution is employed to displace (i.e., “pump”) a liquid. Further details regarding electrokinetic pumps, including materials, designs, and methods of manufacturing are included in U.S. patent application Ser. No. 10/322,083 filed on Dec. 17, 2002, which is hereby incorporated in full by reference.
SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION
• One exemplary embodiment is directed to a method of detecting a malfunction in an infusion pump using a pressure pulsation technique. Generally, the malfunction detection method can include determining a first position of a movable partition of an infusion pump having a non-mechanically driven movable partition, activating the infusion pump for a first pre-determined amount of time to induce movement of the movable partition, de-activating the infusion pump for a second predetermined amount of time, determining a second position of the movable partition, calculating a measured displacement based on the first and second positions of the movable partition, and comparing the measured displacement to a pre-determined threshold value to determine whether the infusion pump is malfunctioning. In one exemplary embodiment, the infusion pump can be an electrokinetic infusion pump. The position of the movable partition can be determined using a magnetic sensor. Calculating the measured displacement can include calculating a measured volume based on the first and second positions of the movable partition. Further, the pre-determined threshold value can represent a variety of infusion pump operating parameters.
• In one embodiment, the pre-determined threshold value can be a minimum acceptable value of the measured displacement of the movable partition. In this embodiment, the step of comparing the measured displacement to the predetermined value can further include indicating the presence of an occlusion in the pump if the measured displacement is less than the pre-determined threshold value. The malfunction detection method can also include repeating the steps of the method as the movable partition proceeds through the infusion pump. In this embodiment, the step of determining the first position of the movable partition can include equating the first position of the movable partition with a previously measured position of the movable partition. The method can also include generating an alarm if the presence of an occlusion is detected.
• In another embodiment, the pre-determined threshold value can be a maximum acceptable value of the measured displacement of the movable partition. In this embodiment, the step of comparing the measured displacement to the pre-determined value can further include indicating the presence of a fluid-loss condition in the pump if the measured displacement is greater than the pre-determined threshold value. As with the occlusion detection method, the fluid-loss detection method can also include repeating the steps of the method as the movable partition proceeds through the infusion pump. In this embodiment, the step of determining the first position of the movable partition can include equating the first position of the movable partition with a previously measured position of the movable partition. The method can also include generating an alarm if the presence of a fluid-loss condition is detected.
• In another exemplary embodiment of the malfunction detection method, the step of activating the infusion pump for the first pre-determined amount of time can be effective to cause a pressure build up in the pump. In this embodiment, de-activating the pump can include increasing the second pre-determined amount of time to cause a larger pressure drop in the pump. The second pre-determined amount of time can also be decreased to cause a smaller pressure drop in the pump.
• A system for detecting a malfunction in an infusion pump is also provided. The system can include an infusion pump having a non-mechanically driven movable partition disposed therein, a position sensor disposed on the pump, a controller associated with the pump, and a processor associated with the position sensor. A variety of configurations are available for the position sensor. For example, the position sensor can be a magnetic sensor, an optical sensor, or a linear variable differential transformer. In one embodiment, the infusion pump can be an electrokinetic infusion pump. The controller can be adapted to operate the infusion pump in an activate/de-activate cycle. The cycle can include activating the pump for a first predetermined amount of time to induce movement of the movable partition and de-activating the pump for a second pre-determined amount of time. In one embodiment, the controller can be adapted to cause a pressure build up in the infusion pump. In this embodiment, the pressure build up can be associated with the activation of the pump for the first pre-determined amount of time. The processor can be adapted to calculate a measured displacement based on the first and second positions of the movable partition, and to compare the measured displacement with a pre-determined threshold value to determine whether the infusion pump is malfunctioning.
• In one embodiment, the pre-determined threshold value can be a minimum acceptable value for the measured displacement. In this embodiment, the processor can be adapted to indicate a presence of an occlusion in the infusion pump if the measured displacement is less than the pre-determined threshold value. In another exemplary embodiment, the pre-determined threshold value can be a maximum acceptable value for the measured displacement. In this embodiment, the processor can be adapted to indicate presence of a fluid-loss condition in the infusion pump if the measured displacement is greater than the pre-determined threshold value.
• In another embodiment, the controller can be further adapted to repeat the activate/de-activate cycle while fluid is being delivered by the infusion pump. The malfunction detection system can also include an alarm signal generator that is coupled to the processor and configured to produce an alarm signal if the processor determines that the infusion pump is malfunctioning.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
• The invention will be more fully understood from the following detailed description taken in conjunction with the accompanying drawings, in which:
• FIG. 1A is a schematic illustration of an electrokinetic pump in a first dispense position consistent with an embodiment of the invention, the pump including an electrokinetic engine, an infusion module, and a closed loop controller.
• FIG. 1B is a schematic illustration of the electrokinetic pump ofFIG. 1A in a second dispense position.
• FIG. 2 is flow sheet illustrating a closed loop control algorithm for use with an electrokinetic infusion pump with closed loop control, according to an embodiment of the present invention.
• FIG. 3 is an illustration of an electrokinetic infusion pump with closed loop control according to an additional embodiment of the present invention.
• FIG. 4 is an illustration of a magnetic linear position detector as can be used in an electrokinetic infusion pump with closed loop control according to an embodiment of the present invention.
• FIGS. 5A and 5B illustrate portions of an electrokinetic infusion pump with closed loop control according to an embodiment of the present invention, including an electrokinetic engine, an infusion module, a magnetostrictive waveguide, and a position sensor control circuit. The electrokinetic infusion pump with closed loop control illustrated inFIG. 5A is in a first dispense position, while the electrokinetic infusion pump with closed loop control illustrated inFIG. 5B is in a second dispense position.
• FIG. 6 is a block diagram of a sensor signal processing circuit that can be used in an electrokinetic infusion pump with closed loop control according to an additional embodiment of the present invention. The block diagram illustrated inFIG. 6 includes a microprocessor, a digital to analog converter, an analog to digital converter, a voltage nulling device, a voltage amplifier, a position sensor control circuit, a magnetostrictive waveguide, and an electrokinetic infusion pump.
• FIG. 7 is an illustration of an electrokinetic infusion pump with closed loop control according to an embodiment of the present invention. The electrokinetic infusion pump with closed loop control illustrated inFIG. 7 includes an electrokinetic engine and infusion module, and was used to generate basal and bolus delivery of infusion liquid.
• FIG. 8 is a graph showing the performance of the electrokinetic infusion pump with closed loop control illustrated inFIG. 7 in both basal and bolus modes.
• FIG. 9 is a flow diagram illustrating a method of detecting occlusions in an electrokinetic infusion pump with closed loop control according to an additional embodiment of the present invention.
• FIG. 10 is a graph illustrating back pressure in an electrokinetic infusion pump with closed loop control according to an embodiment of the present invention.
• FIG. 11 is a graph illustrating the position of a moveable partition as a function of time when an occlusion occurs in an electrokinetic infusion pump with closed loop control according to an embodiment of the present invention.
• FIG. 12 is a graph illustrating sensor counts and shot duration as a function of time when an occlusion occurs in a electrokinetic infusion pump with closed loop control according to an embodiment of the present invention.
• FIG. 13 is graph illustrating the moving average over the course of a series of shots when an occlusion occurs in a electrokinetic infusion pump with closed loop control according to an embodiment of the present invention.
• FIG. 14 is a graph illustrating the number of false alarms for various values of first pre-determined threshold values.
• FIG. 15 is a graph illustrating sensor counts and shot duration as a function of time when a disconnect occurs in a electrokinetic infusion pump with closed loop control according to an embodiment of the present invention.
• FIG. 16 is a flow sheet illustrating a malfunction detection algorithm for use with an electrokinetic infusion pump with closed loop control, according to an embodiment of the present invention.
• FIG. 16A is a flow sheet illustrating one embodiment of the malfunction detection algorithm shown inFIG. 16.
• FIG. 16B is a flow sheet illustrating another embodiment of the malfunction detection algorithm shown inFIG. 16.
• FIG. 17 is a flow sheet illustrating another malfunction detection algorithm for use with an electrokinetic infusion pump with closed loop control, according to an embodiment of the present invention.
• FIG. 17A is a flow sheet illustrating one embodiment of the malfunction detection algorithm shown inFIG. 17.
• FIG. 17B is a flow sheet illustrating another embodiment of the malfunction detection algorithm shown inFIG. 17.
• FIG. 18 illustrates a malfunction detection system according to an embodiment of the present invention.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION
• Certain exemplary embodiments will now be described to provide an overall understanding of the principles of the structure, function, manufacture, and use of the devices and methods disclosed herein. One or more examples of these embodiments are illustrated in the accompanying drawings. Those of ordinary skill in the art will understand that the devices and methods specifically described herein and illustrated in the accompanying drawings are non-limiting exemplary embodiments and that the scope of the present invention is defined solely by the claims. The features illustrated or described in connection with one exemplary embodiment may be combined with the features of other embodiments. Such modifications and variations are intended to be included within the scope of the present invention.
• Embodiments of the present invention generally provide methods and systems for detecting malfunctions in infusion pumps. A variety of malfunctions are associated with the operation of infusion pumps. For example, occlusions, bubbles or other obstructions that form in an infusion set, can interfere with the flow from an infusion pump and result in inaccurate doses of infusion fluid. Other potential issues with infusion pumps include disconnects within the infusion set and leaks. The malfunction detection methods disclosed herein can include determining a first position of a movable partition of an infusion pump, activating the infusion pump to induce movement of the movable partition, de-activating the infusion pump, determining a second position of the movable partition, calculating a measured displacement based on the first and second positions of the movable partition, and comparing the measured displacement to pre-determined threshold value to determine whether the infusion pump is malfunctioning. The methods for detecting malfunctions in infusion pumps provided herein can work in conjunction with a variety of infusion pumps including, but not limited to, electrokinetic infusion pumps with closed loop control. Select embodiments of exemplary electrokinetic infusion pump systems are described below. Further details regarding infusion pumps with closed loop control suitable for use with the malfunction detection methods of the present invention are included co-pending applications entitled “Infusion Pump with Closed Loop Control and Algorithm” (Attorney Docket No. 106731-3) and “Electrokinetic Infusion Pump System” (Attorney Docket No. 106731-5), filed concurrently herewith and hereby incorporated by reference in their entirety.
• Electrokinetic Infusion Pumps
• Electrokinetic pumping can provide the driving force for displacing infusion liquid. Electrokinetic pumping (also known as electroosmotic flow) works by applying an electric potential across an electrokinetic porous media that is filled with electrokinetic solution. Ions in the electrokinetic solution form double layers in the pores of the electrokinetic porous media, countering charges on the surface of the electrokinetic porous media. Ions migrate in response to the electric potential, dragging the bulk electrokinetic solution with them. Electrokinetic pumping can be direct or indirect, depending upon the design. In direct pumping, infusion liquid is in direct contact with the electrokinetic porous media, and is in direct electrical contact with the electrical potential. In indirect pumping, infusion liquid is separated from the electrokinetic porous media and the electrokinetic solution by way of a moveable partition. Further details regarding electrokinetic pumps, including materials, designs, and methods of manufacturing, suitable for use in devices according to the present invention are included in U.S. patent application Ser. No. 10/322,083 filed on Dec. 17, 2002, and Ser. No. 11/112,867 filed on Apr. 21, 2005, which are hereby incorporated by reference in their entirety.
• A variety of infusion liquids can be delivered with electrokinetic infusion pumps using closed loop control, including insulin for diabetes; morphine and/or other analgesics for pain; barbiturates and ketamine for anesthesia; anti-infective and antiviral therapies for AIDS; antibiotic therapies for preventing infection; bone marrow for immunodeficiency disorders, blood-borne malignancies, and solid tumors; chemotherapy for cancer; and dobutamine for congestive heart failure. The electrokinetic infusion pumps with closed loop control can also be used to deliver biopharmaceuticals. Biopharmaceuticals are difficult to administer orally due to poor stability in the gastrointestinal system and poor absorption. Biopharmaceuticals that can be delivered include monoclonal antibodies and vaccines for cancer, BNP-32 (Natrecor) for congestive heart failure, and VEGF-121 for preeclampsia. The electrokinetic infusion pumps with closed loop control can deliver infusion liquids to the patient in a number of ways, including subcutaneously, intravenously, or intraspinally. For example, the electrokinetic infusion pumps can deliver insulin subcutaneously as a treatment for diabetes, or can deliver stem cells and/or sirolimus to the adventitial layer in the heart via a catheter as a treatment for cardiovascular disease.
• FIGS. 1A and 1B are schematic illustrations of an electrokinetic infusion pump withclosed loop control100 in accord with an exemplary embodiment. The electrokinetic infusion pump system illustrated inFIGS. 1A and 1B includes anelectrokinetic infusion pump103, and aclosed loop controller105. The electrokinetic infusion pump illustrated inFIG. 1A is in a first dispense position, while the pump illustrated inFIG. 1B is in a second dispense position.Electrokinetic infusion pump103 includeselectrokinetic engine102 andinfusion module104.Electrokinetic engine102 includeselectrokinetic supply reservoir106, electrokineticporous media108, electrokineticsolution receiving chamber118,first electrode110,second electrode112, andelectrokinetic solution114.Closed loop controller105 includesvoltage source115, and controlselectrokinetic engine102.Infusion module104 includesinfusion housing116, electrokineticsolution receiving chamber118,movable partition120,infusion reservoir122,infusion reservoir outlet123, andinfusion liquid124. In operation,electrokinetic engine102 provides the driving force for displacing infusion liquid124 frominfusion module104. During fabrication,electrokinetic supply reservoir106, electrokineticporous media108, and electrokineticsolution receiving chamber118 are filled withelectrokinetic solution114. Before use, the majority ofelectrokinetic solution114 is inelectrokinetic supply reservoir106, with a small amount in electrokineticporous media108 and electrokineticsolution receiving chamber118. To displaceinfusion liquid124, a voltage is established across electrokineticporous media108 by applying potential acrossfirst electrode110 andsecond electrode112. This causes electrokinetic pumping ofelectrokinetic solution114 fromelectrokinetic supply reservoir106, through electrokineticporous media108, and into electrokineticsolution receiving chamber118. As electrokineticsolution receiving chamber118 receiveselectrokinetic solution114, pressure in electrokineticsolution receiving chamber118 increases, forcingmoveable partition120 in the direction ofarrows127, i.e., thepartition120 is non-mechanically-driven. Asmoveable partition120 moves in the direction ofarrows127, it forcesinfusion liquid124 out ofinfusion reservoir outlet123.Electrokinetic engine102 continues to pumpelectrokinetic solution114 untilmoveable partition120 reaches the end nearestinfusion reservoir outlet123, displacing nearly all infusion liquid124 frominfusion reservoir122.
• Once again referring to the electrokinetic infusion pump withclosed loop control100 illustrated inFIGS. 1A and 1B, the rate of displacement of infusion liquid124 frominfusion reservoir122 is directly proportional to the rate at whichelectrokinetic solution114 is pumped fromelectrokinetic supply reservoir106 to electrokineticsolution receiving chamber118. The rate at whichelectrokinetic solution114 is pumped fromelectrokinetic supply reservoir106 to electrokineticsolution receiving chamber118 is a function of the voltage and current applied acrossfirst electrode110 andsecond electrode112. It is also a function of the physical properties of electrokineticporous media108 and the physical properties ofelectrokinetic solution114. As mentioned previously, further details regarding electrokinetic pumps, including materials, designs, and methods of manufacturing, suitable for use in devices according to the present invention are included in U.S. patent application Ser. No. 10/322,083 filed on Dec. 17, 2002, which has been incorporated by reference in its entirety.
• InFIG. 1A,movable partition120 is infirst position119, while inFIG. 1B,movable partition120 is insecond position121. The position ofmovable partition120 can be determined, and used by closedloop controller105 to control the voltage and current applied acrossfirst electrode110 andsecond electrode112. By controlling the voltage and current applied acrossfirst electrode110 andsecond electrode112, the rate at whichelectrokinetic solution114 is pumped fromelectrokinetic supply reservoir106 to electrokineticsolution receiving chamber118 and the rate at whichinfusion liquid124 is pumped throughinfusion reservoir outlet123 can be controlled. A closed loop controller can use the position ofmovable partition120 to control the voltage and current applied tofirst electrode110 andsecond electrode112, and accordingly control infusion fluid delivered from the electrokinetic infusion pump.
• The position ofmovable partition120 can be determined using a variety of techniques. In some embodiments,movable partition120 can include a magnet, and a magnetic sensor can be used to determine its position.FIG. 4 illustrates the principles of one particularmagnetic position sensor176.Magnetic position sensor176, suitable for use in this invention, can be purchased from MTS Systems Corporation, Sensors Division, of Cary, N.C. Inmagnetic position sensor176, a sonic strain pulse is induced inmagnetostrictive waveguide177 by the momentary interaction of two magnetic fields. Firstmagnetic field178 is generated by movablepermanent magnet149 as it passes along the outside ofmagnetostrictive waveguide177. Secondmagnetic field180 is generated bycurrent pulse179 as it travels downmagnetostrictive waveguide177. The interaction of firstmagnetic field178 and secondmagnetic field180 creates a strain pulse. The strain pulse travels, at sonic speed, alongmagnetostrictive waveguide177 until the strain pulse is detected bystrain pulse detector182. The position of movablepermanent magnet149 is determined by measuring the elapsed time between application ofcurrent pulse179 and detection of the strain pulse atstrain pulse detector182. The elapsed time between application ofcurrent pulse179 and arrival of the resulting strain pulse atstrain pulse detector182 can be correlated to the position of movablepermanent magnet149.
• Other types of position detectors that include a magnetic sensor for identifying the position of a moveable partition that use a magnetic sensor can also be used such as Hall-Effect sensors. In a particular example, anisotropic magnetic resistive sensors can be advantageously used with infusion pumps, as described in the co-pending application entitled “Infusion Pumps with a Position Sensor” (Attorney Docket No. 106731-18), filed concurrently herewith and hereby incorporated herein by reference in its entirety. In other embodiments, optical components can be used to determine the position of a movable partition. Light emitters and photodetectors can be placed adjacent to an infusion housing, and the position of the movable partition determined by measuring variations in detected light. In still other embodiments, a linear variable differential transformer (LVDT) can be used. In embodiments where an LVDT is used, the moveable partition includes an armature made of magnetic material. A LVDT that is suitable for use in the present application can be purchased from RDP Electrosense Inc., of Pottstown, Pa. Those skilled in the art will appreciate that other types of position detectors can also be utilized, consistent with embodiments of the present invention.
• Depending upon desired end use,electrokinetic engine102 andinfusion module104 can be integrated into a single assembly, or can be separate and connected by tubing.Electrokinetic engine102 andinfusion module104 illustrated inFIGS. 3, 5A, and5B are integrated, whileelectrokinetic engine102 andinfusion module104 illustrated inFIG. 8 are not integrated. Regardless of whetherelectrokinetic engine102 andinfusion module104 are integrated, the position ofmovable partition120 can be measured, and used to control the voltage and current applied across electrokineticporous media108. In this way,electrokinetic solution114 andinfusion liquid124 can be delivered consistently in either an integrated or separate configuration.
• Electrokinetic supply reservoir106, as used in the electrokinetic infusion pump with closed loop control illustrated inFIGS. 1A, 1B,3,5A,5B,7 and8, can be collapsible, at least in part. This allows the size ofelectrokinetic supply reservoir106 to decrease aselectrokinetic solution114 is removed.Electrokinetic supply reservoir106 can be constructed using a collapsible sack, or can include a moveable piston with seals. Also,infusion housing116, as used in electrokinetic infusion pump with closed loop control inFIGS. 1A, 1B,3,5A,5B,7, and8, is preferably rigid, at least in part. This makes it easier to displacemoveable partition120 than to expandinfusion housing116 as electrokineticsolution receiving chamber118 receiveselectrokinetic solution114 pumped fromelectrokinetic supply reservoir106, and can provide more precise delivery ofinfusion liquid124.Moveable partition120 can be designed to prevent migration ofelectrokinetic solution114 intoinfusion liquid124, while decreasing resistance to displacement as electrokineticsolution receiving chamber118 receiveselectrokinetic solution114 pumped fromelectrokinetic supply reservoir106. In some embodiments,moveable partition120 includes elastomeric seals that provide intimate yet movable contact betweenmoveable partition120 andinfusion housing116. In some embodiments,moveable partition120 is piston-like, while in other embodimentsmoveable partition120 is fabricated using membranes and/or bellows. As mentioned previously, closed loop control can help maintain consistent delivery ofelectrokinetic solution114 andinfusion liquid124, in spite of variations in resistance caused by variations in the volume ofelectrokinetic supply reservoir106, by variations in the diameter ofinfusion housing116, and/or by variations in back pressure at the user's infusion site.
• Closed Loop Control Schemes
• Various exemplary embodiments are directed to methods and systems for controlling the delivery of infusion liquids from an electrokinetic infusion pump. In particular embodiments, a closed loop control scheme can be utilized to control delivery of the infusion liquid. Although many of the various closed loop control schemes described in the present application are described in the context of their use with electrokinetic engines, embodiments using other engines are also within the scope of embodiments of the present invention. Closed loop control, as described in the present application, can be useful in many types of infusion pumps. These include pumps that use engines or driving mechanisms that generate pressure pulses in a hydraulic medium in contact with the movable partition in order to induce partition movement. These driving mechanisms can be based on gas generation, thermal expansion/contraction, and expanding gels and polymers, used alone or in combination with electrokinetic engines. As well, engines in infusion pumps that utilize a moveable partition to drive delivery an infusion fluid (e.g., non-mechanically driven partitions of an infusion pump such as hydraulically actuated positions) can include the closed loop control schemes described herein. Further details regarding electrokinetic infusion pumps with closed loop control suitable for use with the malfunction detection methods of the present invention are included in co-pending application entitled “Infusion Pump with Closed Loop Control and Algorithm” (Attorney Docket No. 106731-3) filed concurrently herewith and hereby incorporated by reference in its entirety.
• Use of a closed loop control scheme with an electrokinetic infusion pump can compensate for variations that may cause inconsistent dispensing of infusion liquid. For example, with respect toFIGS. 1A and 1B, if flow ofelectrokinetic solution114 varies as a function of the temperature of electrokineticporous media108, variations in the flow ofinfusion liquid124 can occur if a constant voltage is applied acrossfirst electrode110 andsecond electrode112. By using closed loop control, the voltage acrossfirst electrode110 andsecond electrode112 can be varied based upon the position ofmovable partition120 and the desired flow ofinfusion liquid124. Another example of using closed loop control involves compensating for variations in flow caused by variations in down stream resistance to flow. In cases where there is minimal resistance to flow, lower voltages and current may be used to achieve a desired flow ofelectrokinetic solution114 andinfusion liquid124. In cases where there is higher resistance to flow, higher voltages and current may be used to achieve a desired flow ofelectrokinetic solution114 andinfusion liquid124. Since resistance to flow is often unknown and/or changing, variations in flow ofelectrokinetic solution114 andinfusion liquid124 may result. By determining the position ofmovable partition120, the current and voltage can be adjusted to deliver a desired flow rate ofelectrokinetic solution114 andinfusion liquid124, even if the resistance to flow is changing. Another example of using closed loop control involves compensating for variation in flow caused by variation in the force required to pushmovable partition120. Variations in friction betweenmovable partition120 and the inside surface ofinfusion housing116 may cause variations in the force required to pushmovable partition120. If a constant voltage and current are applied across electrokineticporous media108, variation in flow ofelectrokinetic solution114 andinfusion liquid124 may result. By monitoring the position ofmovable partition120, and varying the voltage and current applied across electrokineticporous media108, a desired flow rate ofelectrokinetic solution114 andinfusion liquid124 can be achieved. Accordingly, in some embodiments, a closed loop control algorithm can utilize a correction factor, as discussed herein, to alter operation of a pump (e.g., using the correction factor to change the current and/or voltage applied across the electrokinetic pump's electrodes).
• Electrokinetic infusion pumps that utilize a closed loop control scheme can operate in a variety of manners. For example, the pump can be configured to deliver a fluid shot amount in a continuous manner (e.g., maintaining a constant flow rate) by maintaining one or more pump operational parameters at a constant value. Non-limiting examples include flow rate of infusion fluid or electrokinetic solution, pressure, voltage or current across electrodes, and power output from a power source. In such instances, a closed loop control scheme can be used to control the operational parameter at or near the desired value.
• In some embodiments, the pump is configured to deliver an infusion fluid by delivering a plurality of fluid shot amounts. For example, the electrokinetic infusion pump can be configured to be activated to deliver a shot amount of fluid. The amount can be determined using a variety of criteria such as a selected quantity of fluid or application of a selected voltage and/or current across the electrodes of the pump for a selected period of time. Following activation, the pump can be deactivated for a selected period of time, or until some operating parameter reaches a selected value (e.g., pressure in a chamber of the electrokinetic pump). Continuous cycles of activation/deactivation can be repeated, with each cycle delivering one of the fluid shot amounts. An example of such operation is discussed herein. Closed loop control schemes can alter one or more of the parameters discussed with respect to an activation/deactivation cycle to control delivery of the infusion fluid. For instance, the shot duration of each shot can be altered such that a selected delivery rate of infusion fluid from the pump is achieved over a plurality of activation/deactivation cycles. Alteration of shot durations during activation/deactivation cycles can be utilized advantageously for the delivery of particular infusion fluids such as insulin. For example, diabetic patients typically receive insulin in two modes: a bolus mode where a relatively large amount of insulin can be dosed (e.g., just before a patient ingests a meal), and a basal mode where a relatively smaller, constant level of insulin is dosed to maintain nominal glucose levels in the patient. By utilizing activation/deactivation cycles, both delivery modes can easily be accommodated by simply adjusting the shot duration (e.g., very short shots during basal delivery and one or more longer shots for a bolus delivery) and/or the deactivation duration.
• One potential advantage to operating under repeated activation/deactivation cycles is that such an operation prevents too much infusion fluid from being released at once. Take, for example, an infusion pump operating at a constant delivery rate (i.e., not a continuous activation/deactivation cycle). If such an infusion pump becomes occluded, a closed loop controller could potentially continue to try and advance the plunger, causing the pressure to rise in the infusion set with little change in fluid delivery. Thus, if the occlusion is suddenly removed, the stored pressure could inject a potentially hazardous and even lethal dose of infusion fluid into the patient. Electrokinetic infusion pumps operating under a repeated cycle of activation and deactivation can reduce the risk of overdose by allowing the pressure stored within the infusion set to decrease over time due to leakage back through the electrokinetic porous material. Accordingly, some of the embodiments discussed herein utilize an infusion pump operating with an activation/deactivation cycle.
• Another potential advantage of utilizing continuous activation/deactivation cycles is that such cycles can help an electrokinetic pump avoid potential mechanical inefficiencies. For example, with respect to insulin delivery in the basal mode, a very small pressure may be associated with infusing insulin at a slow rate. Very low pressures, however, may result in mechanical inefficiencies with pump movement. For example, smooth partition/piston movement may require a threshold pressure that exceeds the low pressure needed to infuse insulin at the designated basal rate, otherwise sporadic movement may result, leading to difficulties in pump control. By utilizing activation/deactivation cycles, a series of relatively small “microboluses” can be released, sufficiently spaced in time, to act as a virtual basal delivery. Each microbolus can use a high enough pressure to avoid the mechanical inefficiencies.
• Some embodiments are directed to methods of controlling fluid delivery from an electrokinetic infusion pump. The electrokinetic infusion pump can be configured to deliver one or more fluid shot amounts. For example, the pump can deliver a single continuous fluid shot amount, consistent with continuous operation. Alternatively, a plurality of fluid shot amounts can be delivered as in a series of activation/deactivation cycles. One or more measured amounts can be determined for the plurality of shot amounts. For example, a measured amount can be obtained for each of a plurality of fluid shots, or after a selected number of fluid shots when a pump operates utilizing a series of activation/deactivation cycles. In another example, a series of measured amounts can be determined for a single continuous shot, corresponding to determining the amount of fluid displaced from the pump over a series of given time intervals during continuous fluid dispensing. Fluid shot amounts and measured amounts can be described by a variety of quantities that denote an amount of fluid. Though volume is utilized as a unit of shot amount in some embodiments, non-limiting other examples include mass, a length (e.g., with an assumption of some cross-sectional area), or a rate (e.g., volumetric flow rate, flux, etc.). An average measured amount can be calculated from the measured amounts, and subsequently used to calculate a correction factor. The correction factor can also depend upon an expected amount, which is either selected by a pump user or designated by a processor or controller of the pump. The correction factor can be used to adjust subsequent fluid delivery from the pump (e.g., used to adjust a subsequent fluid shot amount from the pump). Such subsequent fluid delivery can be used to correct for previous over-delivery or under-delivery of infusion fluid, or to deliver the expected amount.
• During pump operation, as fluid is delivered, the steps of determining a measured amount; calculating an average measured amount; calculating a correction factor; and adjusting subsequent fluid delivery based at least in part on the correction factor, can be serially repeated (e.g., after each fluid shot, or after a selected plurality of fluid shots when using activation/deactivation cycles) to control dispensing of fluid from the pump. A more specific example of the implementation of these methods is described with respect toFIG. 2 herein.
• FIG. 2 is a flow sheet illustrating a closedloop control algorithm400 for use with an electrokinetic infusion pump having closed loop control, according to an embodiment of the present invention. The immediate following description herein assumes that the pump utilizes activation/deactivation cycles. Accordingly measured amounts are referred to as measured shot amounts, average measured amounts are referred to as average shot amounts, and expected amounts are referred to as expected shot amounts. It is understood, however, that the embodiment can also be utilized with a pump operating in a continuous delivery mode as described below.
• With reference toFIGS. 1A, 1B, and2, closedloop control algorithm400 starts with aninitial shot profile402, i.e., activation of the electrokinetic pump to cause a shot of infusion fluid to be dispersed therefrom. The shot profile can be chosen to provide an expected shot fluid amount to be dispensed from the pump. In one example, shotprofile402 includes application of voltage acrossfirst electrode110 andsecond electrode112 for a selected length of time. The voltage is referred to as shot voltage, and the time is referred to as shot duration. Although one can vary shot voltage or shot duration (among other operational variables) in closed loop control algorithms, in this description, shot duration is varied.
• Returning toFIG. 2, inshot profile402, shot voltage is applied for a shot duration, resulting in a delivered amount intended to correspond with an expected shot amount. In one particular example, shot amounts are designated by volume. Therefore, the expected shot amount is an expectedshot volume404. Next a corresponding measuredshot volume406 is measured. The measured shot volume can be identified by any number of techniques. For example, by measuring the displacement ofmovable partition120 during a shot profile, and knowing the cross-sectional area of a fluid reservoir, measured shotvolume406 can be determined. The displacement of the moveable partition can be determined using any number of position sensors, including those described herein.
• When a position sensor is implemented, the particular technique used to measure the position ofmovable partition120 can have a direct effect upon the precision and accuracy of measuredshot volume406, and, accordingly, upon closedloop control algorithm400. In particular, if sampling of a position sensor's movement between shots is such that the actual displacement is of the order of the resolution of the position sensor, shot-to-shot precision can be difficult to maintain with a closed loop control scheme that only utilizes the last two measured shot amounts to calculate a correction factor. Other sources of error can also adversely affect the shot-to-shot precision (e.g., either random errors or systematic errors that cause a drift in an operating parameter such as fluid output over a period of time). To improve the precision and accuracy of closedloop control algorithm400, measured shotvolume406 can be combined with previous measurements to calculate an average measuredshot volume408, which can be used in the closedloop control algorithm400.
• Returning toFIG. 2, the deviation from expectedshot volume410 can be determined by comparing the average measuredshot volume408 to the expectedshot volume404. The deviation from expectedshot volume410 can then be used to calculate acorrection factor412, which can be applied to adjust asubsequent shot profile402. In this embodiment, thecorrection factor412 is typically some value indicative of the deviation between an expected shot amount and an average shot amount. For example thecorrection factor412 can be set equal to the deviation value. In another example, thecorrection factor412 can be the deviation multiplied by a proportional adjustment such as a designated fraction, referred to as λ, resulting in an adjustedcorrection factor414. For example, if λ=0.4, then 40 percent of deviation is applied in calculating the subsequent shot profile. Application of adjustedcorrection factor414 results in asubsequent shot profile402, and the algorithm is repeated, i.e., the adjusted correction factor is used to determine some operating pump parameter such as voltage, current, or shot duration to provide the subsequent shot profile.
• In one embodiment, several measured shot volumes are determined and averaged before making corrections to shotprofile402. Henceforth, closedloop control algorithm400 can be used to adjust shotprofile402. Closedloop control algorithm400 can be particularly useful when electrokinetic infusion pump withclosed loop control100 is deliveringinfusion liquid124 in basal mode, as is described in the Examples discussed below.
• Electrokinetic Infusion Pump with Closed Loop Controller
• FIG. 3 is an illustration of an electrokinetic infusion pump withclosed loop control100 according to an exemplary embodiment of the present invention. Electrokinetic infusion pump withclosed loop control100 includes closedloop controller105 andelectrokinetic infusion pump103. In the embodiments of electrokinetic infusion pump withclosed loop control100 illustrated inFIGS. 3, 5A,5B,7, and8electrokinetic infusion pump103 and closedloop controller105 can be handheld, or mounted to a user by way of clips, adhesives, or non-adhesive removable fasteners.Closed loop controller105 can be directly or wirelessly connected to remote controllers that provide additional data processing and/or analyte monitoring capabilities. As outlined earlier, and referring toFIGS. 1 and 2, closedloop controller105 andelectrokinetic infusion pump103 can include elements that enable the position ofmovable partition120 to be determined.Closed loop controller105 includesdisplay140,input keys142, andinsertion port156. After fillingelectrokinetic infusion pump103 withinfusion liquid124,electrokinetic infusion pump103 is inserted intoinsertion port156. Upon insertion intoinsertion port156, electrical contact is established betweenclosed loop controller105 andelectrokinetic infusion pump103. An infusion set is connected to theinfusion reservoir outlet123 afterelectrokinetic infusion pump103 is inserted intoinsertion port156, or before it is inserted intoinsertion port156. Various means can be provided for priming of the infusion set, such as manual displacement ofmoveable partition120 towardsinfusion reservoir outlet123. After determining the position ofmoveable partition120, voltage and current are applied across electrokineticporous media108, andinfusion liquid124 is dispensed. Electrokinetic infusion pump withclosed loop control100 can be worn on a user's belt providing an ambulatory infusion system.Display140 can be used to display a variety of information, including infusion rates, error messages, and logbook information.Closed loop controller105 can be designed to communicate with other equipment, such as analyte measuring equipment and computers, either wirelessly or by direct connection.
• FIGS. 5A and 5B illustrate portions of an electrokinetic infusion pump with closed loop control according to an embodiment of the present invention.FIGS. 5A and 5B includeelectrokinetic infusion pump103, closedloop controller105,magnetic position sensor176, and positionsensor control circuit160. Positionsensor control circuit160 is connected to closedloop controller105 by way offeedback138.Electrokinetic infusion pump103 includesinfusion housing116,electrokinetic supply reservoir106, electrokineticporous media108, electrokineticsolution receiving chamber118,infusion reservoir122, andmoveable partition120.Moveable partition120 includesfirst infusion seal148,second infusion seal150, and moveablepermanent magnet149.Infusion reservoir122 is formed betweenmoveable partition120 and the tapered end ofinfusion housing116.Electrokinetic supply reservoir106, electrokineticporous media108, and electrokineticsolution receiving chamber118 containelectrokinetic solution114, whileinfusion reservoir122 containsinfusion liquid124. Voltage is controlled byclosed loop controller105, and is applied acrossfirst electrode110 andsecond electrode112.Magnetic position sensor176 includesmagnetostrictive waveguide177, positionsensor control circuit160, andstrain pulse detector182.Magnetostrictive waveguide177 andstrain pulse detector182 are typically mounted on positionsensor control circuit160.
• InFIG. 5A,moveable partition120 is infirst position168. Positionsensor control circuit160 sends a current pulse downmagnetostrictive waveguide177, and by interaction of the magnetic field created by the current pulse with the magnetic field created by moveablepermanent magnet149, a strain pulse is generated and detected bystrain pulse detector182.First position168 can be derived from the time between initiating the current pulse and detecting the strain pulse. InFIG. 5B,electrokinetic solution114 has been pumped fromelectrokinetic supply reservoir106 to electrokineticsolution receiving chamber118, pushingmoveable partition120 towardsecond position172. Positionsensor control circuit160 sends a current pulse downmagnetostrictive waveguide177, and by interaction of the magnetic field created by the current pulse with the magnetic field created by moveablepermanent magnet149, a strain pulse is generated and detected bystrain pulse detector182.Second position172 can be derived from the time between initiating the current pulse and detecting the strain pulse. Change inposition170 can be determined using the difference betweenfirst position168 andsecond position172. As mentioned previously, the position ofmoveable partition120 can be used in controlling flow inelectrokinetic infusion pump103.
• As mentioned previously, when designing an electrokinetic infusion pump withclosed loop control100, theinfusion module104 and theelectrokinetic engine102 can be integrated, as illustrated inFIGS. 3, 5A,5B, and7, or they can be separate components connected with tubing, as illustrated inFIG. 8. InFIG. 8, electrokinetic infusion pump withclosed loop control100 includesinfusion module104 andelectrokinetic engine102, connected byconnection tubing244.Infusion module104 includesmoveable partition120 andinfusion reservoir outlet123.Moveable partition120 includes moveablepermanent magnet149. Further details regardingelectrokinetic engine102, including materials, designs, and methods of manufacturing, suitable for use in electrokinetic infusion pump withclosed loop control100 are included in U.S. patent application Ser. No. 10/322,083, previously incorporated by reference.
• Malfunction Detection
• As indicated above, electrokinetic infusion pumps can operate in a variety of manners. For example, the pump can be configured to deliver a fluid by maintaining some operational parameter at a constant value. Non-limiting examples include flow rate of infusion fluid or electrokinetic solution, pressure, voltage or current across electrodes, and power output from a power source. In some embodiments, the pump is configured to deliver an infusion fluid by delivering a plurality of fluid shot amounts. For example, the electrokinetic infusion pump can be configured to be activated to deliver a shot amount of fluid. The amount can be determined using a variety of criteria such as a selected quantity of fluid (e.g., a microbolus of fluid) or application of a selected voltage and/or current across the electrodes of the pump for a selected period of time. Following activating, the pump can be deactivated for a selected period of time, or until some operating parameter reaches a selected value (e.g., pressure in a chamber of the electrokinetic pump). Continuous cycles of activation/deactivation can be repeated, with each cycle delivering one of the fluid shot amounts.
• One potential advantage to operating under the continuous activation/deactivation cycle is that such an operation can prevent too much infusion fluid from being released at once. Take, for example, an infusion pump operating at a constant delivery rate (i.e., not a continuous activation/deactivation cycle). If such an infusion pump becomes occluded, the pump will continue to advance the plunger, causing the pressure to rise in the infusion set, but no infusion fluid will be delivered. Thus, if the occlusion is suddenly removed, the stored pressure will inject a potentially hazardous and even lethal dose of infusion fluid into the patient. Electrokinetic infusion pumps operating under a continuous cycle of activation and deactivation reduce the risk of overdose by allowing the pressure stored within the infusion set to decrease over time due to leakage back through the electrokinetic porous material.FIG. 12 presents data from an electrokinetic infusion pump with closed loop control that has become occluded. The sensor counts and shot duration are shown as a function of time. As illustrated inFIG. 12, the infusion set became blocked approximately 65 minutes into the simulation. Blockage is indicated by a decrease in forward plunger movement (reduced increase in sensor counts). As a result of the plunger movement being smaller than a desired value, the control algorithm tries to correct for this by increasing the shot duration. Because the infusion set was occluded, the closed loop controller was unable to correct the operation of the pump within its operational boundaries. The following method for detecting malfunctions provides an additional safeguard to electrokinetic infusion pump operation.
• Malfunction Detection with Microbolus Delivery
• FIG. 16 is a flow diagram illustrating an exemplary embodiment of a method of detecting malfunctions in an infusion pump withclosed loop control100. Generally, the malfunction detection method can include determining a first position of a non-mechanically driven movable partition of aninfusion pump610, activating the infusion pump to induce movement of themovable partition620, de-activating theinfusion pump630, determining a second position of themovable partition640, calculating a measureddisplacement650 based on the first and second positions of the movable partition, and comparing the measured displacement to a pre-determined threshold value to determine whether the infusion pump is malfunctioning660. Although the malfunction detection methods are shown and described as applied to an infusion pump having aclosed loop control100, a person skilled in the art will appreciate that the malfunction detection methods disclosed herein can be used with a variety of infusion pumps including electrokinetic infusion pumps and those pumps without closed loop control. Further, the malfunction detection methods disclosed herein are independent of any particular closed loop control algorithm and should not be limited to the closed loop control embodiments specifically discussed herein.
• As shown inFIGS. 1A and 1B, the position of themovable partition120 can be determined using a variety of techniques. For example, a position sensor associated with theclosed loop controller105 can be used to determine the position of themovable partition120. Exemplary position sensors include, but are not limited to, magnetic position sensors, optical position sensors, or linear variable differential transformers. In a particular example, anisotropic magnetic resistive sensors can be advantageously used with infusion pumps, as described in the co-pending application entitled “Infusion Pumps with a Position Sensor” (Attorney Docket No. 106731-18), filed concurrently herewith and hereby incorporated herein by reference in its entirety. A person skilled in the art will appreciate that any sensor capable of measuring position can be used occlusion detection methods disclosed herein.
• After determining theposition119 of themovable partition120, the infusion pump can be activated for a first pre-determined amount of time to induce movement of themovable partition120. The infusion pump can then be de-activated for a second pre-determined amount of time, and asecond position121 of themovable partition120 can be determined. As indicated above, activating the infusion pump can include delivering a shot amount of fluid. The amount can be determined using a variety of criteria such as a selected quantity of fluid (e.g., a microbolus of fluid) or application of a selected voltage and/or current across the electrodes of the pump for a selected period of time. Following activation, the pump can be deactivated for a selected period of time, or until some operating parameter reaches a selected value (e.g., pressure in a chamber of the pump). Deactivation can include reducing or eliminating the voltage or current across the electrodes. Activating and de-activating the infusion pump for the first and second pre-determined amounts of time can affect the amount of pressure in the pump and how long it takes for pressure to build up in the pump. For example, activating the pump for the first pre-determined amount of time can be effective to cause a pressure build up in the pump such that the pressure build up is effective to induce movement of the movable partition. De-activating the pump can be effective reduce the amount of pressure in the pump. In one embodiment, the infusion pump can be de-activated for a longer period of time to cause a larger drop in pressure in the pump. In another embodiment, the infusion pump can be de-activated for a shorter period of time to cause a smaller drop in pressure in the pump. Thus, the amount of pressure in the pump can be controlled by increasing or decreasing the de-activation time. Continuous cycles of activation/deactivation can be repeated, with each cycle delivering one of the fluid shot amounts. Further, the infusion pump can be activated and/or de-activated prior to determining the position of the movable partition.
• Once the first andsecond positions119,121 of themovable partition120 are determined, a measured displacement can be calculated based on the first andsecond positions119,121 of themovable partition120. The measured displacement can represent a variety of characteristics of pump operation. For example, in one embodiment, the measured displacement can represent the actual distance traveled by themovable partition120. In another exemplary embodiment, the measured displacement can represent the volume of infusion fluid displaced by themovable partition120. After calculating the measured displacement, some measure of the displacement can be compared to a pre-determined threshold value to determine whether the infusion pump is malfunctioning660. The comparison of measured displacement to the predetermined threshold value can take a variety of forms. For example, in one embodiment, the actual measured displacement can be compared to the pre-determined threshold value. In another embodiment, the square of the actual measured displacement can be compared to the pre-determined threshold value. In yet another exemplary embodiment, comparing the measured displacement to the pre-determined threshold value can include indicating a presence of a malfunction if an absolute value of difference between the measured displacement and the pre-determined threshold value is greater than a predetermined threshold difference.
• The pre-determined threshold value can represent a variety of infusion pump operating parameters. For example, in one exemplary embodiment shown inFIG. 16A, the pre-determined threshold value can be a minimum acceptable value for the measured displacement of the movable partition. In this embodiment, comparing the measured displacement to the pre-determined threshold value can further include indicating the presence of an occlusion in the infusion pump670aif the measured displacement is less than thepre-determined threshold value660a. In another exemplary embodiment, shown inFIG. 16B, the pre-determined threshold value can be a maximum acceptable value for the measured displacement of the movable partition. In this embodiment, comparing the measured displacement to the pre-determined threshold value can further include indicating the presence of a fluid-loss condition670b(e.g., an infusion set disconnect or a leak) in the infusion pump if the measured displacement is greater than thepre-determined threshold value660b. These pre-determined threshold values can be selected by a user or determined by a processor or controller, as described herein, depending upon a desired pump operation mode.
• In one exemplary embodiment, the malfunction detection method can include two pre-determined threshold values. In this embodiment, one pre-determined threshold value can correspond to occlusion detection and the other pre-determined threshold value can correspond to fluid-loss detection. Thus, this embodiment can provide simultaneous detection of both occlusions and fluid-loss conditions. All or some of the malfunction detection steps described above can be included in this embodiment.
• As indicated above, it can be advantageous to operate the infusion pump under a continuous activation/deactivation cycle. Thus, in one exemplary embodiment of the malfunction detection method disclosed herein, all or some of the above steps can be repeated so as to monitor the infusion pump for malfunctions throughout all or part of the activation/deactivation cycle. A person skilled in the art will appreciate that the steps of the method need not occur in any specific order. For example, the infusion pump can be activated prior to determining a first position of the movable partition. In an exemplary embodiment, the above steps can be repeated as themovable partition120 is advanced through theinfusion housing116. In this embodiment, the step of determining the first position of themovable partition120 can include equating the first position of themovable partition120 with a partition position corresponding with a previously measured position of the movable partition. In yet another embodiment, the method can include generating an alarm if the presence of a malfunction is detected680a,680b.
• A system for detecting a malfunction in an infusion pump is also provided. As shown inFIG. 18, the system can include aninfusion pump500 having a non-mechanically driven movable partition508 (e.g., hydraulically actuated) disposed therein, aposition sensor504 disposed on thepump500, acontroller502 associated with thepump500, and aprocessor506 associated with theposition sensor504. In one exemplary embodiment, the infusion pump can be an electrokinetic infusion pump. A variety of configurations are available for theposition sensor504. For example, the position sensor can be a magnetic sensor, an optical sensor, or a linear variable differential transformer. A person skilled in the art will appreciate that any sensor adapted to measure position can be used with the malfunction detection system.
• Thecontroller502 of the malfunction detection system can be adapted to operate theinfusion pump500 in an activate/de-activate cycle. The cycle can include activating thepump500 for a first pre-determined amount of time to induce movement of themovable partition508 and de-activating thepump500 for a second pre-determined amount of time. Thecontroller502 can also be adapted to cause a pressure build up in theinfusion pump500 as thepump500 is activated and de-activated for the first and second pre-determined amounts of time. In one exemplary embodiment, thecontroller502 can be adapted to repeat the activate/de-activate cycle while fluid is being delivered by theinfusion pump500. A person skilled in the art will appreciate that thecontroller502 can be adapted to repeat the cycle as many times are as necessary for themovable partition508 to proceed through theinfusion pump500. Furthermore, one or more separate components or hardware control units can be combined as a “controller” consistent with embodiments of the invention described herein. As well, a “controller” can include memory units that are read-only or capable of being overwritten to hold parameters such as selected values or control parameters (e.g., the number of measured shot amounts used in an averaging calculating, an expected shot amount, the first and second pre-determined amounts of time, etc.). All these variations, and others, are within the scope of the disclosure of the present application.
• Theprocessor506 of the malfunction detection system can be adapted to calculate a measured displacement based on the first and second positions of themovable partition508 and to compare the measured displacement with a pre-determined threshold value to determine whether theinfusion pump500 is malfunctioning. Theprocessor506 can also be adapted to lengthen or shorten the amount of time that thepump500 is de-activated to cause a slower or faster build-up of pressure in the pump, respectively. In one embodiment, theprocessor506 can be adapted to indicate a presence of a malfunction if an absolute value of difference between the measured displacement and the pre-determined threshold value is greater than a predetermined threshold difference. As indicated above, the pre-determined threshold value can represent a variety of infusion pump operating parameters. For example, in one exemplary embodiment, the pre-determined threshold value can be a minimum acceptable value for the measured displacement of the movable partition. In this embodiment, theprocessor506 can be configured to indicate the presence of an occlusion in the infusion pump if the measured displacement is less than the pre-determined threshold value. In another exemplary embodiment, the pre-determined threshold value can be a maximum acceptable value for the measured displacement of the movable partition. In this embodiment, theprocessor506 can be configured to indicate the presence of a fluid-loss condition in the infusion pump if the measured displacement is greater than the pre-determined threshold value. In one exemplary embodiment, the system can further include an alarm adapted to receive a signal from theprocessor506 and to indicate the presence of a malfunction.
• In another exemplary embodiment, the malfunction detection system can include two pre-determined threshold values. One pre-determined threshold value can correspond to occlusion detection and the other pre-determined threshold value can correspond to fluid-loss detection. Thus, this embodiment can provide simultaneous detection of both occlusions and fluid-loss conditions. In this embodiment, the processor can be configured to indicate the presence of an occlusion if the calculated moving average is less than a pre-determined occlusion threshold value as well as indicate the presence of a fluid-loss condition if the calculated moving average is greater than a pre-determined fluid-loss threshold value. Additionally, in this embodiment, the processor can include all the functionality as described above.
• Furthermore, as with thecontroller502 described above, one or more separate components or hardware/software control units can be combined as a “processor” consistent with embodiments of the invention described herein. As well, a “processor” can include memory units that are read-only or capable of being overwritten to hold parameters such as selected or pre-determined values or control parameters (e.g., the measured displacement, the expected displacement, the first and second pre-determined amounts of time, etc.). All these variations, and others, are within the scope of the disclosure of the present application.
• Malfunction Detection with Derivative Calculation
• Another exemplary embodiment of a method for detecting a malfunction in an infusion pump is illustrated in general form in the flow chart provided inFIG. 17. The infusion pump can be activated710 for a first pre-determined amount of time to induce movement of a non-mechanically driven movable partition of the pump and to release a shot of fluid from the pump. In an exemplary embodiment, the infusion pump can be an electrokinetic infusion pump. The infusion pump can then be de-activated710 for a second pre-determined amount of time, and the position of the movable partition can be determined710 using any of the techniques described above, for example, using a magnetic sensor. The above steps can then be repeated for each of a plurality ofinstances710. For example, the above steps can be repeated for at least two, three, or five instances. A person skilled in the art will appreciate that the above steps can be repeated for any number of plurality of instances. Note that the position of the movable partition need not be determined at the end of each activate/de-activate cycle. In some embodiments, the activate-de-activate cycle can be run for a selected number of times before determining the position of the movable partition.
• A derivative for each of the plurality of instances can then be calculated720. The derivative can be based on a change in position of the movable partition with respect to a change in the number of shots intended to be released. The change in position of the movable partition can be represented by a variety of parameters. For example, in one embodiment, the change in position can represent the actual measured distance traveled by the movable partition. In another embodiment, the change in position can be represented by a change in sensor counts (e.g., a change in position sensor output). Additionally, in an exemplary embodiment, the derivative can be calculated using the last two known positions of the movable partition for each of the plurality of instances. A person skilled in the art will appreciate that the derivative can be calculated using any two known positions of the movable partition for each of the plurality of instances.
• After calculating the derivative, a moving average can be calculated using the calculated derivative values corresponding to each of the plurality ofinstances730. In an exemplary embodiment, the moving average can represent the average of the last N calculated derivative values over a specified period of time, number of activate/de-activate cycles, or number of shots released. In one embodiment, calculating the moving average can further include multiplying the calculated derivative values by a weighting factor. In another embodiment, the moving average can be an arithmetic mean of derivative values. The calculated moving average can then be compared with a pre-determined threshold value to determine whether the infusion pump is malfunctioning740.
• The pre-determined threshold values can be selected by a user or determined by a processor or controller, as described herein, depending upon a desired pump operation mode. Moreover, the pre-determined threshold values can represent a variety of infusion pump operating parameters. For example, in one exemplary embodiment shown inFIG. 17A, the pre-determined threshold value can represent a minimum acceptable value for the change in position of the movable partition with respect to the change in the number of shots released740a. In other words, if the change in position of the movable partition with respect to the change in number of shots released is less than the pre-determined threshold value, this can indicate that the proper amount of infusion fluid is not being released (i.e., too little infusion fluid is released) and that the pump may be occluded.FIG. 13 illustrates the moving average A (sensor counts/shot) over the course of a series of shots, wherein the moving average A is an average of calculated derivative values based on a change in position of a movable partition of a pump with respect to a change in the number of shots released by the pump. As shown inFIG. 13, the algorithm indicated a malfunction (i.e., an occlusion) in the infusion pump after approximately 80 shots when the moving average A dropped below threshold a which was set at 0.5 sensor counts/shot. In one exemplary embodiment, comparing the calculated moving average to the pre-determined threshold value can further include triggering a positive occlusion flag if the calculated moving average is less than thepre-determined threshold value750a. Further, the occurrence of a positive occlusion flag can also include generating an alarm signal if the calculated moving average is less the firstpre-determined threshold value770a.
• As indicated above, it is advantageous to operate the infusion pump under a continuous activation/deactivation cycle. Thus, in one exemplary embodiment of the malfunction detection method disclosed herein, all or some of the above steps can be repeated so as to monitor the infusion pump for malfunctions throughout all or part of the activation/deactivation cycle. For example, the above steps can be repeated as themovable partition120 is advanced through theinfusion housing116. In this embodiment, the step of comparing the calculated moving average can include indicating the presence of an occlusion if the positive occlusion flag occurs at least a pre-determined number ofconsecutive times760a. Some non-limiting examples of pre-determined number of consecutive times include at least two, three, or five consecutive positive occlusion flags. A person skilled in the art will also appreciate that the pre-determined number of consecutive times can be any number of times and determination of which will depend on the infusion pump's individual design and operating parameters.
• As shown inFIG. 17B, the pre-determined threshold value can also represent a maximum acceptable value for the change in position of the movable partition with respect to the change in the number of shots released740b. In other words, if the change in position of the movable partition with respect to the change in number of shots released is greater than the pre-determined threshold, this can indicate that the proper amount of infusion fluid is not being released (i.e., too much infusion fluid is released) and that there may be a fluid-loss condition in the infusion set (e.g., an infusion set disconnect or a leak).FIG. 15 presents data from an electrokinetic infusion pump with closed loop control having a fluid-loss condition in the infusion set. The sensor counts and shot duration are shown as a function of time. As shown inFIG. 15, a malfunction was detected at approximately 45 minutes into the experiment. At this time, the infusion set was disconnect from the infusion reservoir, resulting in a lowering of infusion pressure as the hydraulic resistance in the infusion line was removed. This reduction of pressure results in a noticeable sudden forward movement of the plunger. As a result of the increased speed of the plunger, the control algorithm reduced the shot duration. The fluid-loss condition is indicated by a decrease in shot duration and an increase in sensor counts, as the closed loop control attempted to correct the malfunctioning electrokinetic infusion pump. As indicated inFIG. 15, the line was reconnected at approximately 65 minutes into the experiment and it can be seen that the control algorithm increased the shot duration to accommodate the increased backpressure due to the re-attachment of the infusion line. In one exemplary embodiment, comparing the calculated moving average to the pre-determined threshold value can further include triggering a positive fluid-loss flag if the calculated moving average is greater than thepre-determined threshold value750b. Further, the occurrence of a positive fluid-loss flag can also include generating an alarm signal if the calculated moving average is greater the firstpre-determined threshold value770b.
• In one exemplary embodiment, the malfunction detection method can include two pre-determined threshold values. In this embodiment, one pre-determined threshold value can correspond to occlusion detection and the other pre-determined threshold value can correspond to fluid-loss (or set disconnect) detection. Thus, this embodiment can provide simultaneous detection of both occlusions and fluid-loss conditions. All or some of the malfunction detection steps described above can be included in this embodiment.
• As indicated above, it is advantageous to operate the infusion pump under a continuous activation/deactivation cycle. Thus, similar to the occlusion detection method, all or some of the above steps can be repeated so as to monitor the infusion pump for fluid-loss conditions throughout all or part of the activation/deactivation cycle. As with the occlusion detection method, the step of comparing the calculated moving average can include indicating the presence of a fluid-loss condition if the positive fluid-loss flag occurs at least a pre-determined number ofconsecutive times760b. Some non-limiting examples of pre-determined number of consecutive times include at least two, three, or five consecutive positive fluid-loss flags. One skilled in the art will appreciate that the pre-determined number of consecutive times need not be the same for indicating the presence of an occlusion and/or a fluid-loss condition. For example, the presence of an occlusion can be indicated if the positive occlusion flag occurs at least three times, and the presence of a fluid-loss condition can be indicated if the positive fluid-loss flag occurs at least two times. A person skilled in the art will also appreciate that the methods disclosed herein for detecting occlusions and/or fluid-loss conditions can be performed independent of each other or in conjunction.
• A system associated with the above method for detecting a malfunction in an infusion pump is also provided. The system can include aninfusion pump500 having a non-mechanically drivenmovable partition508 disposed therein, aposition sensor504 disposed on thepump500, acontroller502 associated with thepump500, and aprocessor506 associated with theposition sensor504. In one exemplary embodiment, the infusion pump can be an electrokinetic infusion pump. A variety of configurations are available for theposition sensor504. For example, theposition sensor504 can be a magnetic sensor, an optical sensor, or a linear variable differential transformer. A person skilled in the art will appreciate that any sensor adapted to measure position can be used with the malfunction detection system.
• Thecontroller502 of the malfunction detection system can be adapted to operate theinfusion pump500 in an activate/de-activate cycle. The cycle can include activating the pump for a first pre-determined amount of time to induce movement of the movable partition and release a shot of fluid and de-activating the pump for a second pre-determined amount of time. Thecontroller502 can also be adapted to cause a pressure build up in theinfusion pump500 as the pump is activated and de-activated for the first and second pre-determined amounts of time. In one exemplary embodiment, thecontroller502 can be adapted to repeat the activate/de-activate cycle while fluid is being delivered by theinfusion pump500. A person skilled in the art will appreciate that thecontroller502 can be adapted to repeat the cycle as many times are as necessary for themovable partition508 to proceed through theinfusion pump500.
• Theprocessor506 of the malfunction detection system can be adapted to perform a series of functions after each activate/de-activate cycle. For example, theprocessor506 can be adapted to calculate a derivative based on a change in position of themovable partition508 with respect to a change in the number of shots released. Theprocessor506 can also be adapted to calculate a moving average from a plurality of the calculated derivative values. In one exemplary embodiment, calculating the moving average can further include multiplying the calculated derivative values by a weighting factor. Theprocessor506 can also be configured to calculate the moving average based upon calculated derivatives from at least a last three cycles. In another embodiment, theprocessor506 can be configured to calculate the moving average based upon calculated derivatives from a last fives cycles. Additionally, theprocessor506 can be adapted to determine whether thepump500 is malfunctioning by comparing the calculated moving average to a pre-determined threshold value. The pre-determined threshold value can represent a variety of infusion pump operating parameters. For example, in one exemplary embodiment, the pre-determined threshold value can represent a minimum acceptable value for the change in position of the movable partition with respect to the change in the number of shots released. In this embodiment, theprocessor506 can be configured to provide a positive occlusion flag if the calculated moving average is less than the pre-determined threshold value. In one embodiment, theprocessor506 can be further configured to produce an occlusion detection signal if the positive occlusion flag is produced after each of at least a pre-determined number of consecutive cycles. For example, in some exemplary embodiments, the pre-determined number of cycles can be at least one, two, three, or five.FIG. 14 illustrates the number of false alarms (i.e., the number of false indications of an occlusion) for various values of pre-determined threshold values which represented the minimum acceptable value for the change in position of the movable partition with respect to the change in the number of shots released. Theprocessor506 used in the simulation was configured to produce an occlusion detection signal if a positive occlusion flag was produced after each or at least one, two, or three consecutive cycles. As shown inFIG. 14, the greatest number of false alarms occurred when theprocessor506 was configured to produce an occlusion detection signal if a positive occlusion flag was produced after one consecutive cycle. The least number of false alarms occurred when theprocessor506 was configured to produce an occlusion detection signal if a positive occlusion flag was produced after three consecutive cycles. Thus, increasing the number of consecutive positive occlusion flag cycles required before indicating the presence of an occlusion, decreases the number of false alarms. However, increasing the number of consecutive positive occlusion flag cycles required also increases the amount of time it takes to detect an occlusion.
• In another exemplary embodiment, the pre-determined threshold value can represent a maximum acceptable value for the change in position of the movable partition with respect to the change in the number of shots released. In this embodiment, theprocessor506 can be configured to provide a positive fluid-loss flag if the calculated moving average is greater than the pre-determined threshold value. As with the occlusion detection signal, theprocessor506 can be further configured to produce an fluid-loss detection signal if the positive fluid-loss flag is produced after each of at least a pre-determined number of consecutive cycles. As indicated above, one skilled in the art will appreciate that the pre-determined number of consecutive times need not be the same for indicating the presence of an occlusion and/or a fluid-loss condition. For example, the presence of an occlusion can be indicated if the positive occlusion flag occurs at least three times, and the presence of a fluid-loss condition can be indicated if the positive fluid-loss flag occurs at least two times. A person skilled in the art will also appreciate that the pre-determined number of consecutive times can be any number of times and determination of which will depend on the infusion pump's individual design and operating parameters. Additionally, in one exemplary embodiment, the system can further include an alarm coupled to the processor and adapted to produce a signal indicating a malfunction (e.g. an occlusion and/or a fluid-loss condition) upon activation.
• In one exemplary embodiment, the malfunction detection method can include two pre-determined threshold values. One pre-determined threshold value can correspond to occlusion detection and the other pre-determined threshold value can correspond to fluid-loss detection. Thus, this embodiment can provide simultaneous detection of both occlusions and fluid-loss conditions. In this embodiment, the processor can be configured to provide a positive occlusion flag if the calculated moving average is less than a pre-determined occlusion threshold value as well as provide a positive fluid-loss flag if the calculated moving average is greater than a pre-determined fluid-loss threshold value. Further, in this embodiment, the processor can include all the functionality as described above.
EXAMPLES
• The following examples are provided to illustrate some aspects of the present application. The examples, however, are not intended to limit the scope of any embodiment of the invention.
Example 1Basal and Bolus Liquid Delivery
• Referring toFIG. 7, using an electrokinetic infusion pump withclosed loop control100 basal and bolus infusion liquid delivery rates were determined. In basal infusion, small volumes are dispensed at high frequency. In bolus infusion, large volumes are dispensed at a low frequency. Basal and bolus infusion liquid delivery rates were determined by applying voltage toelectrokinetic engine102 for a period of time (referred to as the pump on time), then switching the voltage off for a period of time (referred to as the pump off time). The sum of pump on time and pump off time is referred to as cycle time in this example. The mass of infusion liquid pumped during each cycle time (referred to as the shot size) was determined with a Mettler Toledo AX205 electronic balance. The shot size was determined repeatedly, using the same pump on time and the same cycle time, giving an indication of shot size repeatability. Using the density of water (about 1 gram per cubic centimeter), the shot size volume was derived from the mass of infusion liquid pumped during each cycle time.
• Electrokinetic engine102 was connected toinfusion module104 usingconnection tubing244.Connection tubing244 was rigid PEEK tubing with an inside diameter of 0.040″, an outside diameter of 0.063″, and a length of approximately 3″. A similar piece of PEEK tubing, approximately 24″ long, was connected toinfusion reservoir outlet123 on one end, and to glass capillary tubing on the other end. The glass capillary tubing had an inside diameter of 0.021″, an outside diameter of 0.026″, and a length of about 6″. The end of the glass capillary tubing, which was not connected toinfusion reservoir outlet123, was inserted into a small vial being weighed by the Mettler Toledo AX205 electronic balance. A small amount of water was placed in the bottom of the small vial, covering the end of the glass capillary tubing, and a drop of oil was placed on top of the water in the bottom of the small vial to reduce evaporation of the water.Electrokinetic engine102 was also connected to a vented electrokinetic solution reservoir (not shown inFIG. 7) that provided electrokinetic solution toelectrokinetic engine102.Electrokinetic engine102, vented electrokinetic solution reservoir,infusion module104,connection tubing244, the glass capillary tubing, and the Mettler Toledo AX205 electronic balance, were placed inside a temperature-controlled box, held to +/−1° C., to eliminate measurement errors associated with temperature variations. The temperature-controlled box was placed on top of a marble table to reduce errors from vibration. A personal computer running LabView software controlled electrokinetic infusion pump withclosed loop control100 and collected data from the Mettler Toledo AX205 electronic balance.
• To determine basal delivery of infusion liquid,electrokinetic engine102 was connected toinfusion module104 withconnection tubing244 and driven with a potential of 75V. At 75V,electrokinetic engine102 delivered electrokinetic solution toinfusion module104 at a rate of approximately 15 microliters/minute.Electrokinetic engine102 was run with an on time of approximately 2 seconds and an off time of approximately 58 seconds, resulting in a cycle time of 60 seconds and a shot size of approximately 0.5 microliters. The on-time ofelectrokinetic engine102 was adjusted, based upon input frommagnetostrictive waveguide177 and positionsensor control circuit160, which ran a closed loop control algorithm in accord with the description ofFIG. 2. For each cycle of basal delivery, the position of moveablepermanent magnet149 was determined. If moveablepermanent magnet149 did not move enough, the on time for the next cycle of basal delivery was increased. If moveablepermanent magnet149 moved too much, the on time for the next cycle of basal delivery was decreased. The determination of position of moveablepermanent magnet149, and any necessary adjustments to on time, was repeated for every cycle of basal delivery.
• To determine bolus delivery of infusion liquid,electrokinetic engine102 was connected toinfusion module104 withconnection tubing244 and driven with a potential of 75V. Once again, at 75Velectrokinetic engine102 delivered electrokinetic solution toinfusion module104 at a rate of approximately 15 microliters/minute.Electrokinetic engine102 was run with an on time of approximately 120 seconds and an off time of approximately 120 seconds, resulting in a cycle time of 4 minutes and a shot size of approximately 30 microliters. For each cycle of bolus delivery, the position of moveablepermanent magnet149 was determined while theelectrokinetic engine102 was on. Once moveablepermanent magnet149 moved the desired amount,electrokinetic engine102 was turned off. The position of moveablepermanent magnet149 was used to control on time ofelectrokinetic engine102 for every cycle of bolus delivery.
• Basal and bolus delivery of infusion liquid were alternated, as follows. Thirty cycles of basal delivery was followed by one cycle of bolus delivery. Then, thirty-seven cycles of basal delivery, was followed by one cycle of bolus delivery. Finally, thirty-eight cycles of basal delivery was followed by a one cycle of bolus delivery and forty-nine additional cycles of basal delivery.FIG. 8 is a graph showing measured shot size as a function of time, for alternatingbasal delivery243 andbolus delivery245, as outlined above. In basal mode, the average shot size was about 0.5 microliters with a standard deviation of less than 2%.
Example 2Occlusion Detection with Closed Loop Control
• FIG. 9 is a flow diagram illustrating a method of detecting occlusions in an electrokinetic infusion pump withclosed loop control100 according to an embodiment of the present invention. With reference toFIG. 9, andFIGS. 1 through 8, closedloop controller105 starts with anormal status246. In the next step, closedloop controller105 determinesposition250 ofmoveable partition120. After determining theposition250 ofmoveable partition120, closedloop controller105 waits beforedose252. During this time, the pressure inelectrokinetic infusion pump103 decreases. After waiting beforedose252, a fixed volume is dosed254. This is accomplished by activating theelectrokinetic engine102. As a result of dosing a fixed volume254 (electrokinetic engine on time), the pressure inelectrokinetic infusion pump103 increases as a function of time, as illustrated inFIG. 10. Multiple graphs are illustrated inFIG. 10, showing the effect of time between shots (electrokinetic engine off time) on pressure inelectrokinetic infusion pump103. Waiting 1 minute between shots results in a rapid build up of pressure. Waiting 5 minutes between shots results in a longer time to build pressure. The rate at which pressure builds is the same in each graph, but the starting pressure decreases as a function of time between shots, and therefore results in longer times to build pressure. Each graph eventually reaches the same approximate pressure, in this case about 3.2 psi. This is the pressure needed to displacemoveable partition120. Returning toFIG. 9, after dosing a fixedamount254, and waiting after dose256 (during which time the pressure inelectrokinetic infusion pump103 increases), the change inposition258 ofmoveable partition120 is determined. The position ofmoveable partition120 can be determined using a variety of techniques, as mentioned previously. After determining the change inposition258 ofmoveable partition120, closedloop controller105 determines ifmoveable partition120 has moved as expected260, or if it has not moved as expected264. Ifmoveable partition120 has moved as expected260, then noocclusion262 has occurred, and theclosed loop controller105 returns tonormal status246. If themoveable partition120 has not moved as expected264, then anocclusion266 has occurred, and theclosed loop controller105 enters analarm status248.FIG. 11 is a graph illustrating the position ofmoveable partition120 as a function of time when an occlusion occurs in an electrokinetic infusion pump withclosed loop control100, according to the embodiment described in the previous example (i.e., running with a series of on/off times using feedback control). As can be seen inFIG. 11, after about 70 minutes the rate at whichmoveable partition120 moves as a function of time suddenly decreases inregion250. This indicates that an occlusion has occurred, blocking the movement ofmoveable partition120.
• One skilled in the art will appreciate further features and advantages of the invention based on the above-described embodiments. Accordingly, the invention is not to be limited by what has been particularly shown and described, except as indicated by the appended claims. All publications and references cited herein are expressly incorporated herein by reference in their entirety.

Claims (26)

1. A method for detecting a malfunction in an infusion pump having a non-mechanically driven movable partition, comprising:

determining a first position of the movable partition of the infusion pump using a position sensor disposed on the pump;

activating the infusion pump for a first pre-determined amount of time to induce movement of the movable partition;

de-activating the infusion pump for a second pre-determined amount of time;

determining a second position of the movable partition using the position sensor;

calculating a measured displacement based on the first and second positions of the movable partition; and

comparing the measured displacement to a pre-determined threshold value to determine whether the infusion pump is malfunctioning.

2. The method ofclaim 1, wherein the pre-determined threshold value is a minimum acceptable value for the measured displacement of the movable partition.

3. The method ofclaim 2, wherein comparing the measured displacement to the pre-determined threshold value further comprises indicating the presence of an occlusion in the infusion pump if the measured displacement is less than the pre-determined threshold value.

4. The method ofclaim 3, further comprising:

generating an alarm if the presence of the occlusion is detected.

5. The method ofclaim 2, further comprising:

repeating the steps of the method as the movable partition proceeds through the infusion pump.

6. The method ofclaim 5, wherein the steps of determining the first position of the movable partition include equating the first position of the movable partition with a previously measured position of the movable partition.

7. The method ofclaim 1, wherein the pre-determined threshold value is a maximum acceptable value for the measured displacement of the movable partition.

8. The method ofclaim 7, wherein comparing the measured displacement to the pre-determined threshold value further comprises indicating the presence of a fluid-loss condition in the infusion pump if the measured displacement is greater than the pre-determined threshold value.

9. The method ofclaim 8, further comprising:

generating an alarm if the presence of the fluid-loss condition is detected.

10. The method ofclaim 7, further comprising:

repeating the steps of the method as the movable partition proceeds through the infusion pump.

11. The method ofclaim 10, wherein the steps of determining the first position of the movable partition include equating the first position of the movable partition with a previously measured position of the movable partition.

12. The method ofclaim 1, wherein determining the position of the movable partition further comprises using a magnetic sensor.

13. The method ofclaim 1, wherein activating the infusion pump for the first pre-determined amount of time is effective to cause a pressure build up in the pump.

14. The method ofclaim 13, wherein de-activating the infusion pump includes increasing the second pre-determined amount of time to cause a larger drop in pressure in the pump.

15. The method ofclaim 13, wherein de-activating the infusion pump includes decreasing the second pre-determined amount of time to cause a smaller drop in pressure in the pump.

16. The method ofclaim 1, wherein calculating a measured displacement comprises calculating a measured volume based on the first and second positions of the movable partition.

17. The method ofclaim 1, wherein the infusion pump is an electrokinetic infusion pump.

18. A system for detecting a malfunction in an infusion pump, comprising:

an infusion pump having a non-mechanically driven movable partition disposed therein;

a position sensor disposed on the pump, wherein the position sensor comprises at least one of a magnetic sensor, an optical sensor, and a linear variable differential transformer;

a controller associated with the infusion pump and adapted to operate the infusion pump in an activate/de-activate cycle, the cycle comprising activating the pump for a first pre-determined amount of time to induce movement of the movable partition and de-activating the pump for a second pre-determined amount of time; and

a processor associated with the position sensor, the processor adapted to calculate a measured displacement based on the first and second positions of the movable partition, and to compare the measured displacement with a pre-determined threshold value to determine whether the infusion pump is malfunctioning.

19. The system ofclaim 18, wherein the controller is adapted cause a pressure build up in the infusion pump, the pressure build up being associated with the activation of the pump for the first pre-determined amount of time.

20. The system ofclaim 18, wherein the pre-determined threshold value is a minimum acceptable value for the measured displacement.

21. The system ofclaim 20, wherein the processor is adapted to indicate a presence of an occlusion in the infusion pump if the measured displacement is less than the pre-determined threshold value.

22. The system ofclaim 18, wherein the pre-determined threshold value is a maximum acceptable value for the measured displacement.

23. The system ofclaim 22, wherein the processor is adapted to indicate a presence of a fluid-loss condition in the infusion pump if the measured displacement is greater than the pre-determined threshold value.

24. The system ofclaim 18, wherein the controller is further adapted to repeat the activate/de-activate cycle while fluid is being delivered by the infusion pump.

25. The system ofclaim 18, further comprising an alarm signal generator coupled to the processor and configured to produce an alarm signal if the processor determines that the infusion pump is malfunctioning.

26. The system ofclaim 18, wherein the infusion pump is an electrokinetic infusion pump.

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