Abstract: An apparatus and method for allowing an operator of a portable infusion device continue to operate the device after the primary battery source becomes depleted. The invention contemplates providing a secondary, rechargeable battery in addition to the primary battery, to allow the infusion device to operate even in the instance of a sudden drop in primary battery voltage. The apparatus includes a housing accommodating a syringe, where the syringe contains a liquid to be infused. Also included is a motor, a drive system operatively connected to the motor, where the drive system advances a piston of the syringe in order to expel the liquid from a barrel of the syringe. A power source is in electrical contact with and supplies power to the motor. The power source includes a primary battery module, and a rechargeable battery module, wherein the primary battery source supplies power to the rechargeable battery module. The result is a fail-safe system of alerting the user of low or critical battery conditions.

Abstract: A system and method for detecting the presence of a medicament reservoir within the housing of an infusion pump. A medicament reservoir, affixed to a reservoir cap is removably inserted within the housing of an infusion pump. A magnet is affixed to or embedded in one or both of the reservoir or the reservoir cap. Alternately, the cap or the reservoir can be made of magnetic material. A sensing device embedded or otherwise affixed to the pump housing senses the presence or absence of the magnetic field created by the magnet. The presence of the magnetic field indicates that the reservoir is inserted properly within the housing and the absence of the magnetic field indicates that the reservoir has been at least partially withdrawn from the pump's housing.