Pressure regulator for infusor

Abstract

An improved ambulatory infusion device for dispensing a fluid into a patient includes a flexible bladder enclosure having a first open end a closed second end. The closed second end of the sheath is free to conform to the body of the patient so that the device is comfortable when worn. In other aspects, a pressure regulator of the device is adapted to maintain the outlet pressure within a predetermined range of pressures so that the fluid flow rate is substantially constant during fluid flow. A flow restrictor of the device is formed of flexible tubing. An ambulatory infusion device for dispensing a fluid at a predetermined fluid flow rate includes an elastic bladder having an interior volume for storing the fluid under pressure and an opening for dispensing the fluid. A pressure regulator is in fluid communication with the opening of the bladder and includes an inlet for receiving fluid from the bladder at an inlet pressure and an outlet for discharging the fluid at a predetermined outlet pressure. A valve at the inlet has a hemispheric-shaped head adapted to cooperate with a frustoconic-shaped seat to promote uniform fluid flow therebetween. A movable diaphragm is connected to the valve, and a valve plate opposite a surface of the diaphragm has channels or texture therein. The diaphragm and the valve are movable in response to the fluid pressure acting on the diaphragm surface.

Dependencies are inferred from the claim text.