Reduced size implantable pump
View Patent ↗A variable hydraulic resistor for use with implantable pumps is disclosed. The variable hydraulic resistor according to the present invention is particularly useful in varying the flow rate of a medication fluid from an otherwise constant flow implantable pump. An implantable pump is also disclosed, which does not require a complicated clinching system or the like, and which may include an undulating membrane and chamber design to reduce the height of the pump.
1. A resistor for varying the flow rate of a fluid from a first point to a second point comprising:
a capillary having an inner surface;
a filament received within said capillary, said filament having an outer surface opposing said inner surface of said capillary defining therebetween a passage way for the flow of said fluid therethrough, said filament being elongatable between a first non-elongated state and a second elongated state to alter the passage way and the flow of said fluid therethrough and having a non-uniform cross section along its length in the first and second states.
2. The resistor according to claim 1 , wherein said filament is constructed of a polymer.
3. The resistor according to claim 1 , wherein the filament is located centrally within said capillary.
4. The resistor according to claim 1 , wherein the filament is located eccentrically within said capillary.
5. The resistor according to claim 1 , wherein the filament at any given point along its length has a substantially circular cross section.
6. The resistor according to claim 1 , further comprising means for elongating the filament.
7. The resistor according to claim 6 , wherein said means for elongating the filament includes at least two magnetic elements.
8. The resistor according to claim 6 , wherein said means for elongating the filament includes an axle.
9. The resistor according to claim 1 , further comprising means for controlling the movement of said flow control element.
10. The resistor according to claim 9 , wherein the means for controlling are wireless.
11. The resistor according to claim 1 , wherein said resistor is adapted to be connected with an implantable device for dispensing an active substance to a patient.