Linear peristaltic pumping apparatus and disposable casette therefor

Abstract

A linear peristaltic pump, and a disposable casette therefor, particularly suitable for the infusion of parenteral fluids. The pump includes a housing having a power-driven shaft and a series of small bearing assemblies having their inner members eccentrically mounted upon that shaft. A thin elastomeric membrane extends along the series of bearing assemblies for engagement with the outer members thereof along a first band or linear zone of contact lying in the same plane as the axis of the shaft. The disposable casette is removably supported by the housing and takes the form of a rigid, planar, perimetric frame having an opening across which is stretched a section of elastomeric tubing. Locators provided by the housing and frame orient the casette with the axis of the tubing in the same plane as the first band of contact and the axis of the shaft, and a platen provided by the housing engages the section of elastomeric tubing that bridges the opening of the frame to urge that section into engagement with the opposite side of the membrane along a second band or linear zone of contact parallel with the first band of contact. The casette may include tubular extensions and connectors for connecting opposite ends of the section of elastomeric tubing to a source of fluid and to a patient.