Volume-based flow rate compensation technique for infusion therapy

A method for controlling a pumping mechanism of an infusion pump including a tubular administrative set and a pumping mechanism, the pumping mechanism being constructed and arranged for releasably receiving the tubular administrative set and for exerting a pulsing force on the tubular administrative set, thus pressurizing a portion of the tubular administrative set for creating a flow of fluid from an outlet of the tubular administrative set, the method controlling the pumping mechanism to pump fluid through the tubular administrative set at a desired flow rate over a specified duration, a controller being connected to said pumping mechanism and configured for operating said pumping mechanism, the method comprising:

• using the controller to:
• determine a first pulse frequency to obtain a target fluid volume of fluid infused over a portion of the specified duration and the desired flow rate;
• output a control signal to said pumping mechanism for operating said pumping mechanism at said first pulse frequency;
• and
• adjust the first pulse frequency to a second pulse frequency, said second pulse frequency being different from said first pulse frequency,
• wherein said adjusting the first pulse frequency comprises adjusting the first pulse frequency at predetermined volume points based on a comparison of historical data of administrative set flow rate accuracy in terms of % error with an intended volume of fluid infused, such that said second pulse frequency compensates for a degradation of a material of the administrative set.