Combination linear potentiometer and syringe thumbpress detection sensor and related systems and methods
A combined detectional and positional sensor for a syringe pump. The sensor can comprise a syringe thumbpress clamp that is pivotable so that an engagement pin deflects a linear membrane potentiometer first circuit thus providing a closed switch for detection of a syringe in the pump and a variable signal return for indication of plunger head position. Embodiments of the sensor can be used in relatively large syringe pumps and in relatively small syringe pumps, for example.
1. A syringe pump sensor configured to detect a presence and seating of a syringe within a syringe pump (detection sensing) and a linear position of a plunger head of the syringe (positional sensing), the syringe pump sensor comprising:
a syringe thumbpress clamp; and
a linear membrane potentiometer coupled to the syringe thumbpress clamp,
wherein the thumbpress clamp includes a first arm having a projection configured to engage with the syringe, a second arm having a potentiometer engagement pin configured to engage with the linear membrane potentiometer, and a pivot ring, with the first arm, the second arm and the pivot ring comprising a unitary, substantially rigid component.
2. The syringe pump detectional and positional sensor of claim 1 , wherein the linear membrane potentiometer has a first circuit and a second circuit, wherein the first circuit is deflectable.
3. A syringe pump detectional and positional sensor comprising:
a syringe thumbpress clamp comprising a first arm having a projection on a distal end of the arm, a pivot ring, and a pressure arm having an engagement pin at a distal end of the pressure arm, wherein the first arm, the pivot ring and the second arm comprise a unitary, substantially rigid component; and
a linear membrane potentiometer comprising a first circuit and a second circuit, wherein the first circuit is deflectable.
4. A syringe pump sensor configured to detect a proper seating of a syringe within a syringe pump and a linear position of a plunger head of the syringe, the syringe pump sensor comprising:
a unitary, substantially rigid holder having a first arm configured to engage with a portion of the syringe, a second arm having an engagement pin and a pivot ring positioned therebetween;
a switch in contact with the engagement pin; and
a variable signal indicator in movable contact with the engagement pin.