| 摘要 |
An implantable medical pump featuring a low power multi-stable valve. In particular, the present invention features a valve constructed using an electrolytic fluid, the fluid releasing a gas when subject to an electronic current, the same gas absorbed again by the fluid when such current is removed. The fluid is further housed within an uniquely designed actuation chamber such that the out-gassing of the fluid deforms the membranes defining the chamber. The membranes, in turn, are positioned such that this deformation will inhibit or completely restrict the flow pathway between the reservoir and ultimately the patient. Through such a design a valve is provided which has complete variability in the possible flow rates but which uses a minimal amount of electronic current. Moreover, the valve has the additional safety feature of being in the normally closed position when no energy is provided. In a further embodiment the pump features such a valve coupled to a flow sensor, the flow sensor thereby providing input to control the electrolytic fluid and thereby the valve position. A still further embodiment provides a method of compensating for any changes in the electrolytic fluid over time caused by reduction or oxidation of the fluid. Such compensation is provided through the application of a biasing current to thereby inhibit any such reduction or oxidation of the fluid.
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