Infusion tubing tracing system using vibration generator and vibration sensor

Abstract

A system for tracing tubing which forms a conduit from a source of infusion liquid to a patient by way of an infusion pump has a vibration generator manually operable by a user to generate vibrations at an origin location along the tubing, wherein the vibrations are propagated by the tubing and have a vibration signature. A vibration sensor arranged at a destination location along the tubing receives the vibrations and generates a digital vibration signal. Signal processing circuitry connected to the vibration sensor processes and evaluates the digital vibration signal to determine a trace status of the tubing between the vibration generator and the vibration sensor. An indicator connected to the signal processing circuitry provides an indication of the determined trace status. Trace status possibilities include clear, cross-over, and null. A likely number of cross-overs may also be indicated.