| abstract |
Provided is an automated syringe pump that includes a syringe plunger controller and an elastic member, such as a spring, positioned between a rigid member and a syringe plunger retainer. The controller may include a transducer, such as a linear potentiometer, for generating a signal representative of force applied to a syringe plunger present in the syringe plunger retainer. In addition, the controller may include a proportional-integral-derivative (PID) controller that provides for at least one of constant pressure on the syringe plunger and constant flow rate of fluid out of a syringe operated by the automated syringe pump. Also provided are methods, systems and kits using the automated syringe pumps. |