Safer intravenous infusion therapy enabled by aerosol jet printed non-contact ultrasensitive flow sensors

Objective

Intravenous (IV) infusion therapy is a widely used procedure in hospitals, with over a billion infusions administered annually globally. Despite its prevalence, IV infusions pose significant risks, with up to 60% experiencing incorrect flow rates, leading to adverse events for vulnerable patient groups such as preterm babies and critically ill individuals. To solve this problem, we developed a patented innovative aerosol jet printed micro-electromechanical-systems (MEMS) flow monitoring technology that measures IV flow rates in real-time and alerts clinicians instantly when a flow discrepancy is detected. The technology stands apart from its competitors due to its accuracy in measuring true flows, compact size, exceptional sensitivity, and cost-effectiveness, heralding a new era in IV patient safety protocols. Through the iVSEAL project, we propose to use these printed MEMS flow sensors in IV infusion monitoring by developing them into a fully-functional medical device (‘works-like’ prototype). Technical validation of the flow monitoring system will involve rigorous in-vitro testing in diverse critical infusion fluids. In addition to technical and pre-clinical validation studies, we will also conduct interviews with the customers, stake-holders and understand the regulatory pathways, and create a business plan.