| abstract |
A cassette serves in association with one or more peristaltic pumps to centralize pumping, valving, and pressure sensing functions. The cassette includes a housing having first and second pump ports. A flexible tubing loop extends between the first and second pump ports outside the housing for engagement with an external peristaltic pump element. A liquid port on the housing attaches to a length of tubing that also extends outside the housing. Liquid passages within the housing that establish communication among the liquid port, the first pump port, and the second pump port. Valve stations formed within the housing are responsive to the application of external force for controlling liquid flow through the liquid passages. A sensing chamber is formed within the housing along at least one liquid passage. The sensing chamber transmits information regarding liquid pressure present within the one liquid passage to an external sensing element. |