Design research on a smart infusion device to reduce medical workload and enhance patient safety

Abstract

In traditional infusion processes, issues such as untimely medication replacement and patients' difficulty in continuously monitoring their medication levels are prevalent. This study presents the design of a smart infusion automatic medication replacement device aimed at automating infusion management through three key modules: high-precision liquid level monitoring, automated medication replacement, and a smart control system. By monitoring liquid levels in real time, the system eliminates the need for patients to constantly check their medication levels, accurately controlling the amount of medication dispensed and transmitting monitoring signals within safe thresholds. The rotational medication replacement mechanism stores and precisely replaces medicine bottles, optimizing usage and minimizing waste. Automated settings for liquid level monitoring and the plug-and-push system replace the need for manual assessment of medication completion and input quality, ensuring consistent dosage and high-quality delivery. The rotational mechanism also reduces the time needed for refilling and decreases the labor intensity for healthcare providers. A stabilization and calibration mechanism ensures bottles remain centered, preventing issues with internal pressure changes and loosening of the piercing tool. By replacing repetitive manual adjustments with automated processes, healthcare professionals can focus more on patient care rather than the cumbersome medication replacement procedures. The smart infusion automatic medication replacement device enhances the quality of infusion therapy for patients and alleviates the repetitive workload of medical staff.

Keywords: Automatic medication replacement; Healthcare automation; Medical device innovation; Smart infusion device.

Fig. 1

Schematic of the smart infusion automatic medication replacement device: (a) actual photograph of the smart infusion automatic medication replacement device and (b) model diagram of the device. (1. fixed calibration mechanism, 2. liquid level monitoring mechanism, 3. rotary replacement mechanism, 4. plug-and-push mechanism, 5. control module, 6. device casing)

Fig. 2

Schematic of the smart infusion automatic medication replacement device enclosure dimensions and structure.

Fig. 3

3D model printing schematic: (a) diagram of 3D printing equipment operation and (b) diagram of some printed parts.

Fig. 4

Schematic of the plug-and-push mechanism: (a) actual photograph of the plug-and-push mechanism (b) model diagram of the mechanism (c) exploded view of the mechanism: (1. bearing protection sleeve, 2. bearing, 3. slider, 4. connector, 5. piercer mounting plate, 6. screw, 7. bearing, 8. slide table, 9. motor fixing plate, 10. motor)

Fig. 5

Distribution diagram for power calculations of the plug-and-push mechanism (1. piercing force, 2. torque, 3. power).

Fig. 6

Schematic of the stabilization and calibration mechanism: (a) actual photograph of the mechanism (b) model diagram of the mechanism (c) exploded view of the mechanism. components: (1. securing cylinder, 2. upper securing platform, 3. upper bearing, 4. central housing, 5. lower bearing, 6. bottle neck securing screw, 7. lower securing platform).

Fig. 7

Schematic of medicine bottles stabilization: (a) actual photograph of the vial stabilization (b) installation model diagram for medicine bottles and medicine bags (c) cross-sectional view of medicine bag fixation and (d) cross-sectional diagram of the medicine bottles stabilization points (1. securing hook, 2. bottom fixation, 3. body fixation, 4. neck fixation).

Fig. 8

Schematic of the rotational medication replacement mechanism: (a) actual photograph of the mechanism and (b) model diagram of the mechanism (1. lower securing platform, 2. connecting disc, 3. flange, 4. servo motor).

Fig. 9

Rotation diagram.

Fig. 10

Cross-section diagram of the liquid level monitoring mechanism: (1. monitored liquid level, 2. liquid level sensor, 3–4. wiring hole).

Fig. 11

Core organizational structure chart.

Fig. 12

Workflow diagram of the smart infusion automatic medication replacement device.

Fig. 13

Tools for experiment preparation.

Fig. 14

Schematic diagram of the specific experimental procedure: (a) install the medicine bottle on the device (b) rotate to the front of the liquid level monitor (c) insert the puncture device into the mouth of the medicine bottle (d) the liquid level monitor checks the water level (e) the puncture device returns downward (f) the servo motor drives the platform to rotate (g) the medicine bottle completes the rotation and (e) insert the trocar into the new bottle opening.