Control of pulsatile rotary pumps without pressure sensors

ASAIO Trans. 1991 Jul-Sep;37(3):M208-10.

Abstract

When ventricular assistance is achieved with a volumetric pump driven by an electric actuator, overpumping can cause venous collapse. To prevent this problem, pump speed must be monitored and controlled. The authors developed a regulatory system based on the current intensity signal from the electric motor. This signal is processed and compared with predicted values calculated according to a mathematical model at the beginning of each ejection phase. If a difference is detected, pump speed is adequately adjusted. The great advantage of this system is elimination of the need for an implantable pressure sensor. It requires a simple and ubiquitous electronic component, i.e., a resistor, that can be easily integrated into the motor control circuit and does not require calibration.

Publication types

  • Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't

MeSH terms

  • Animals
  • Blood Pressure Monitors*
  • Cattle
  • Heart-Assist Devices*
  • Hemodynamics / physiology
  • Humans
  • Prosthesis Design
  • Pulsatile Flow