BMIVPOT, a Fully Automated Version of the Intravenous Pole: Simulation, Design, and Evaluation

Table 1

The advantages and disadvantages of the IV poles existing both in research and in the market.

IV pole types	Method	Advantages	Disadvantages
Research IV poles	Autonomous IV stand	Automated movement	High cost (>2000); complex design; no wireless communication between the nurse and the IV pole; can carry only one IV bag, i.e., can withstand a low weight; consumes a lot of power
	Novel robotic IV pole	Semiautomated movement; saline sensor and alarm; can carry several IV bags; can be manually controlled	Needs patient training; not accurate sensing; no obstacle detection; power consuming
Commercial IV poles	Ambulatory patient support stand	Stable; resembles the walker; helpful for patients with walking difficulties	Occupies a lot of space
	Homecare IV stand	Easy assembly and disassembly; lightweight	Low load capacity, i.e., can hold slight weight merely
	Hanging IV pole	Occupies lower space; low probability of transporting bacteria	Limited mobility area; requires nurse assistance; absence of a place to attach a medical equipment
	Brewer stand	Simple design; high strength; high system stability; smooth movement; most popular	Limited mobility of patients; requires nurse assistance
	Dyaun IV stand	Brake on the wheels	Unstable design