Development and Evaluation of an Arduino-based Photodiode Infrared Sensor Module for Improving Flow Rate Measurement Accuracy in Infusion Pumps

Abstract

Precise quantification of flow rates in infusion pumps is essential for the accurate delivery of fluids to patients. Nevertheless, current techniques, like infrared photodiode sensors, may display notable measurement flaws, especially when dealing with larger flow rates, which could be beyond the specified tolerance limits. The objective of this study is to enhance the precision of flow rate measurements in infusion pumps, thereby improving patient safety and ensuring accurate fluid administration. The study suggests a new design for measuring the flow rate of an infusion pump. This design includes a photodiode infrared sensor and an Arduino microcontroller. The module being suggested employs a photodiode infrared sensor to detect fluid droplets. The output of the sensor is used as a reference input for an Arduino microcontroller. The microcontroller utilizes the droplet count and duration to compute the flow rate, enabling real-time monitoring capabilities. A calibration and performance evaluation of an infusion pump and a syringe pump was conducted using an Infusion Device Analyzer, following the ECRI 416-0595 criteria. Data measurements were stored on an SD card for analysis. An evaluation was conducted to determine the precision of the infrared photodiode sensor, and subsequently, a novel module design was created and subjected to testing. The measurements obtained from the infusion set showed greater levels of uncertainty in comparison to those obtained from the syringe pump. The infrared photodiode sensor exhibited an accuracy deviation of ±5 ml/hour, with a notable divergence of ±20 ml/hour for flow rates over 60 ml/hour up to 250 ml/hour, which may surpass the tolerance limits of the syringe pump. The suggested module design, which integrates a photodiode infrared sensor and an Arduino microcontroller, can enhance the precision of flow rate measurements in infusion pumps. Precise and reliable flow rate measurements in infusion pumps are crucial for ensuring patient safety and accurate administration of fluids. The suggested module has the potential to improve the precision of measurements, leading to improved patient care and a decrease in the likelihood of negative outcomes related to incorrect fluid administration.