FLOW METER AND RELATED METHOD

Abstract

This disclosure relates to a gravity-driven infusion system that uses image-based monitoring to regulate flow. A contrasting, infrared-backlit wall and camera capture pendant drops and meniscus levels within a transparent drip chamber. The controller defines a baseline referenced to the spout or meniscus and fits sparse spline points on the drop perimeter to derive geometric functionals, such as neck width and centroid height. Temporal changes of these functionals map directly to instantaneous flow without explicit volume integration. An optional Young-Laplace model provides a physics-based boundary and confidence metric. A meniscus trend yields a low-frequency flow estimate. Confidence-weighted fusion controls a flow-control valve that compresses a multi-lumen insert. An independent safety occluder and watchdog ensure fail-safe shutdown. A medication library stores fluid-aware calibration. Multi-source embodiments orchestrate multiple controllers with virtual head-height equalization and verified handoffs. It performs pre-infusion checks, logs uncertainty, and supports tilt compensation too. Continuous stream detection triggers alarms.

CPC Classifications