System comprising device for extracorporeal blood treatment and heat exchanger

Abstract

The invention relates to a system comprising a device for extracorporeal blood treatment and a heat exchanger for heat exchange between dialysate flowing out of the device for extracorporeal blood treatment and permeate to be supplied to the device for extracorporeal blood treatment, the device for extracorporeal blood treatment and the heat exchanger are configured as separate devices.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present invention relates to a system comprising an apparatus for extracorporeal blood treatment (eg a dialysis machine) and a heat exchanger for exchanging heat between dialysate and permeate, and to a heat exchanger for use in such a system. Background Art

[0002] In dialysis systems, heat exchangers are often integrated with devices for extracorporeal blood treatment (e.g., dialysis machines). This means, in practice, that they are installed in a common fluid system and are often also housed by a common housing. However, there are very different application scenarios for such devices (e.g., dialysis machines), and known solutions do not always meet the desired application scenarios, which can be reflected, for example, in reduced efficiency. Summary of the Invention

[0003] The task of the present invention is to provide a system that can adapt to a wider range of application scenarios.

[0004] The invention provides a system according to claim 1. Preferred embodiments are described in the dependent claims. The invention also relates to a heat exchanger for use in such a system.

[0005] The system according to the present disclosure comprises an apparatus for extracorporeal blood treatment, in particular a dialysis machine, and a heat exchanger for exchanging heat between dialysate flowing out of the apparatus for extracorporeal blood treatment and permeate to be supplied to the apparatus for extracorporeal blood treatment, wherein the apparatus for extracorporeal blood treatment and the heat exchanger are designed as separate devices.

[0006] In the following description, for better readability, the features and explanations representing a "device for extracorporeal blood treatment" are described using a "dialysis machine" as an example, by which all devices for extracorporeal blood treatment should be included, for example, in addition to a dialysis machine also devices for blood filtration, hemodiafiltration, blood gasification or blood separation.

[0007] The heat exchanger can be used, for example, in hemodialysis and / or peritoneal dialysis.

[0008] In other words, a system is provided that includes a heat exchanger that is external to the dialysis machine. The heat exchanger can be structurally independent of the dialysis machine in such a way that it can be connected to the dialysis machine and / or to the heat exchanger without modification and / or can be connected to and disconnected from the dialysis machine without opening the dialysis machine. The heat exchanger can be structurally independent of the dialysis machine in such a way that it can be used simultaneously or sequentially with multiple dialysis machines without modifying the dialysis machines.

[0009] In normal operation, the fresh solution flowing before the dialyzer in the direction of flow can be referred to as permeate, particularly before the addition of concentrates to produce the dialysate. Before reaching the dialyzer, in normal operation, one or more concentrates are typically added to the permeate, typically an alkaline concentrate and an acidic concentrate. The resulting mixture is called the dialysate or dialysis solution, and is supplied to the dialyzer. The used solution after passing through the dialyzer can be referred to as the dialysate. In proper operation, the dialysate is typically warmer than the permeate, and the permeate can be preheated using a heat exchanger so that the heat of the dialysate can still be used beneficially.

[0010] Currently, heat exchangers are constructed integrally with the dialysis machine, which in practice means that they are installed in a common fluid system and are usually covered by a common housing.

[0011] In contrast, the system according to the present disclosure provides for constructing the dialysis machine and the heat exchanger as separate devices.

[0012] This enables the system to be highly efficient in meeting different demand situations. Thus, for example, the size design of the heat exchanger can be selected as required. The components of the system can be used flexibly to ensure optimal operation. Thus, for example, multiple heat exchangers can be provided for one dialysis machine, or one heat exchanger can be provided for multiple dialysis machines. Multiple heat exchangers can be used independently of each other or in series. Heat exchangers can also be easily supplemented, removed, or replaced, and / or the connection of components (heat exchangers and one or more dialysis machines) can be flexibly adapted to the demand situation. Thus, high efficiency can be ensured for a variety of demand situations through increased flexibility. That is, a system adaptable to a wider range of application scenarios can be provided.

[0013] According to the present disclosure, the dialysis machine and the heat exchanger can be connected to each other via the first coupling portion of the dialysis machine, the second coupling portion of the dialysis machine, the first coupling portion of the heat exchanger and the second coupling portion of the heat exchanger. The system can optionally include a first pipeline (e.g., a first hose) and a second pipeline (e.g., a second hose). The first coupling portion of the heat exchanger can be connected to the first coupling portion of the dialysis machine by means of the first pipeline, and the second coupling portion of the heat exchanger can be connected to the second coupling portion of the dialysis machine by means of the second pipeline. Optionally, the first pipeline and / or the second pipeline can be thermally insulated.

[0014] That is to say, the dialysis machine and the heat exchanger can be detachably connected to each other via corresponding couplings. The connection can be a direct connection, as long as the couplings are compatible with each other, or an indirect connection, for example, via an adapter, or as described above, via a pipeline, wherein the corresponding two couplings are connected to each other via a pipeline. In this way, the dialysis system can be simply and flexibly configured. By corresponding additional couplings at the dialysis machine and / or heat exchanger and / or by correspondingly constructed pipeline segments and / or switching elements, it is also possible to achieve multiple dialysis machines being coupled to a heat exchanger and / or multiple heat exchangers being coupled to a dialysis machine. Therefore, it is possible to establish a suitable configuration for the corresponding use scenario, which realizes high efficiency for different use scenarios. The optional thermal insulation of the pipeline makes it possible to achieve this flexibility and efficiency and simultaneously keep heat loss low, even in the case where the pipeline is longer or the distance is greater.

[0015] The heat exchanger may include a heat transfer section, at least one valve switchable by an actuator, and a sensor, in particular a temperature sensor. The heat exchanger may be configured to switch the valve by means of the actuator based on sensor data from the sensor. In particular, the heat exchanger may be configured to switch such that, upon determining that a first temperature threshold of a liquid flowing out of the dialysis machine (e.g., dialysate or liquid used for disinfection, decalcification, and / or cleaning of the dialysis machine) through the heat exchanger has been exceeded, the at least one valve is switched by means of the sensor such that the flowing liquid and / or permeate does not flow through the heat transfer section.

[0016] Providing such a valve can make it possible to redirect the flow of permeate and / or outflowing liquid so that no heat exchange occurs between the permeate and the outflowing liquid. In particular, for example, the permeate can be redirected so that it does not flow through the heat transfer section.

[0017] The switching described above also allows, for example, the use of heat from the outflowing liquid for heat utilization in other processes. Coupling with exceeding a temperature threshold can be a safety feature that prevents excessive heating of the permeate by the outflowing liquid and / or allows for the advantageous use of very high temperatures of the outflowing liquid, for example, for processes requiring higher temperatures, such as cleaning processes.

[0018] The heat exchanger may comprise a temperature sensor / the temperature sensor and the heat exchanger may be configured to automatically supply a maintenance liquid (e.g. a cleaning agent, a disinfectant or a decalcifying agent) into the flow path of the heat exchanger, in particular into the heat transfer section / the heat transfer section of the heat exchanger, when a second temperature threshold of a liquid flowing out of the dialysis machine through the heat exchanger (e.g. a dialysate or a liquid used in the case of disinfection, decalcification and / or cleaning of the dialysis machine) is exceeded.

[0019] Cleaning processes generally work better at higher temperatures. Identifying and utilizing sufficiently high temperatures for the outflowing liquid can be an alternative to dedicated heating for cleaning purposes, or can support such heating. This in turn increases the efficiency of the system.

[0020] The heat exchanger can have a service liquid supply section, via which a service liquid (eg a cleaning agent, disinfectant or decalcifying agent) can be supplied into the flow path of the heat exchanger, in particular into the heat transfer section / sections of the heat exchanger.

[0021] In particular, the system can be configured such that the automatic supply of cleaning liquid described above includes automatically establishing a fluid connection between the maintenance liquid supply section and the flow path (in particular, the heat transfer section) when a second temperature threshold is exceeded. The second temperature threshold may be different from the first temperature threshold, in particular higher than the first temperature threshold. For example, the system can be configured to automatically switch a valve to establish the fluid connection.

[0022] The system may include multiple dialysis machines, and the heat exchanger may be connected to the dialysis machines via corresponding first and second couplings of the dialysis machines. To this end, the heat exchanger may include multiple first couplings and second couplings, each of which is connected to the first and second couplings of the dialysis machines. Alternatively or additionally, the first and second couplings of the heat exchanger may be connected to multiple first couplings or second couplings of the dialysis machines, respectively. The system may include corresponding switching elements and / or pipeline segments.

[0023] This connection allows multiple dialysis machines to share a single heat exchanger. This allows for better utilization of the heat exchanger and / or more even supply to the dialysis machines. It also enables demand-based supply, which improves overall efficiency and provides greater flexibility for expansion of the overall system.

[0024] The system can include multiple heat exchangers. This allows for greater flexibility with respect to expansion of the overall system. Furthermore, a degree of redundancy can be provided, enabling faults caused by malfunctions, cleaning, or maintenance to be intercepted. In particular, the system can include multiple heat exchangers connected in series relative to the flow direction.

[0025] According to the present disclosure, the heat exchanger can be configured as a countercurrent heat exchanger. Due to the common configuration and common operation, this is particularly advantageous for dialysis systems.

[0026] According to the present disclosure, the heat exchanger may be configured as a double-pipe regenerator, a tube bundle regenerator, or a plate regenerator.

[0027] The heat transfer section of the heat exchanger can be constructed from stainless steel or polymer-based materials, particularly polypropylene or polyphenylene sulfide. Stainless steel offers high thermal conductivity and robustness, while polymer-based materials are lighter and therefore easier to transport. They can also be configured into various shapes, for example using additive manufacturing methods, to optimize the exchange surface and / or flow behavior.

[0028] The heat exchanger can stand on the floor during proper operation. A freestanding heat exchanger allows for any desired heat exchanger dimensions, which would be more difficult with a suspended configuration, for example. There is no need to worry about compatibility with the dialysis machine design.

[0029] The heat exchanger can have rollers by means of which it can be transported, in particular supported during transport and, optionally, during proper operation. This allows for flexible positioning of heat exchangers, even with larger dimensions, as appropriate for operation. This is particularly advantageous for flexible system configurations (e.g., connecting multiple heat exchangers and / or coupling them to one or more dialysis machines). Simple positioning also prevents heat losses, as the distance to the dialysis machine can be easily reduced by repositioning if necessary.

[0030] The system can comprise a suspension system which is designed to suspend the heat exchanger on a dialysis machine, in particular on a machine housing of the dialysis machine.

[0031] This results in a shorter flow path between the dialysis machine and the heat exchanger, and therefore also in lower heat losses. This also increases the mobility of the system, as joint movement is simplified. Thus, some of the advantages of an integrated heat exchanger can also be achieved with an external heat exchanger.

[0032] The heat exchanger can be arranged upstream of the inlet valve relative to the dialysate circuit of the dialysis machine, with respect to the inflow direction of the permeate. This arrangement enables flexible switching on and off of the dialysis machine, thus facilitating flexible configuration of the system, for example by allowing easy replacement of the heat exchanger without interfering with the dialysate circuit of the dialysis machine.

[0033] The dialysate circuit can, for example, comprise a complete hydraulic system between the permeate inlet and the dialysate outlet of the dialyzer. For example, the dialysate circuit can comprise a water treatment device in the dialyzer, a degassing section for degassing water, a dialysate treatment device, a section and / or a feeder for conveying through the dialyzer, a section and / or equipment for balancing the dialysate and the dialysate, and / or a section and an equipment for conveying to a drain. In particular, the dialysate circuit can comprise a dialyzer (if a dialyzer is to be installed). Therefore, for example, a heat exchanger can be considered as being arranged before the (inside) hydraulic system of the dialyzer begins.

[0034] The heat exchanger can be arranged between the ring line system and the dialysis machine with respect to the inflow direction of the permeate, in particular wherein the system comprises the ring line system and the dialysis machine is connected to the ring line system via the heat exchanger during proper operation.

[0035] Here, the ring line system can, for example, comprise a water line from a water treatment facility (eg a reverse osmosis facility) and supply fresh water to the dialysis machine during operation. Unused water can be supplied to the reverse osmosis facility again during operation via the ring line system.

[0036] The arrangement of the heat exchanger allows for a particularly high degree of flexibility in terms of system configuration. For example, if the heat exchanger is integrated into a ring line system, some of the flexible design and configuration possibilities mentioned above, in particular with regard to replacement, dimensioning and flexible wiring, may be more difficult to implement.

[0037] As already explained above, the dialysis machine can have a machine housing. The first coupling part / the first coupling part and the second coupling part / the second coupling part of the dialysis machine can be arranged on the machine housing, in particular on the outside thereof.

[0038] This design makes it possible to shield the dialysis machine and still provide a simple possibility of connecting the heat exchanger to the dialysis machine fluid. In particular, the heat exchanger can be flexibly coupled and will not interfere with the dialysate circuit of the dialysis machine, more precisely, will not interfere with the dialysis machine.

[0039] The heat exchanger may have a housing, on which the first connection part / the first connection part and the second connection part / the second connection part of the heat exchanger may be arranged, in particular on its outer side.

[0040] Such a housing enables shielding, in particular also thermal shielding, while at the same time allowing for a simple possibility of flexibly connecting the heat exchanger.

[0041] The dialysis machine can have a machine housing, and the heat exchanger can be arranged outside the machine housing. In particular, the entire heat exchanger can be completely arranged outside the machine housing.

[0042] The heat exchanger can have a housing as described above, and the dialysis machine can have a machine housing, wherein the housing of the heat exchanger is arranged outside the machine housing of the dialysis machine.

[0043] The features described above are particularly advantageous in terms of flexibility, since the dialysis machine and the heat exchanger can be shielded and moved independently of one another, and the system can therefore be configured flexibly.

[0044] The heat exchanger can be connected to the dialysis machine in such a way that, during proper operation, heat exchange occurs in the heat exchanger, in particular in the heat transfer section of the heat exchanger, between the permeate to be supplied to the dialysis machine by the heat exchanger and the dialysate flowing out of the dialysis machine. In particular, the heat exchanger can include corresponding fixed flow paths or flow paths that can be switched by means of valves. Heat exchange can be achieved by directing the flow of the liquid into the corresponding flow paths.

[0045] The system, in particular the heat exchanger, may include a display unit configured to display a valve / valve position thereof and / or sensor / sensor data, in particular the temperature of the liquid, in particular the dialysate, flowing out of the dialysis machine. For example, the display unit (e.g., a screen) may be arranged on the housing of the heat exchanger or integrated into the housing of the heat exchanger. Such a display unit may be used to indicate the status of the system, in particular the heat exchanger, to a user, which, for example, also allows the user to intervene in the operation.

[0046] The system, in particular the heat exchanger, can have an energy supply, in particular a battery and / or a mains power supply, for operating sensors and / or reading out sensors and / or operating a display unit and / or controlling actuators for switching valves and / or operating actuators.

[0047] Alternatively or additionally, the heat exchanger may include a thermoelectric generator, which is designed to generate energy by means of a temperature difference between the liquid (in particular the dialysate) and the permeate flowing out of the dialysis machine, in order to operate the sensors and / or read out the sensors and / or operate the display unit and / or control the actuators for switching valves and / or operating the actuators and / or charging the battery. The generator may utilize the Seebeck effect or the Peltier effect.

[0048] This enables at least temporary autonomous operation of the heat exchanger. It also enables the use of excess heat in a still beneficial manner in the event of excess heat. In this way, efficiency can be further increased.

[0049] The system can have a data connection between the heat exchanger and the dialysis machine and be designed to transmit sensor data, in particular data from a temperature sensor, from the heat exchanger to the dialysis machine, in particular for controlling the dialysis fluid temperature.

[0050] Alternatively, the data connection and the energy supply can be provided by means of a common connecting element, for example by means of a connecting cable which allows both energy supply and data transmission.

[0051] Dialysis machines typically contain one or more temperature sensors, whose measured values ​​are used in controlling the operation of the dialysis machine. This control can be improved if the temperature data of the heat exchanger is also taken into account. For example, in the production of the dialysate in the dialysis machine, in addition to the composition of the liquid, its temperature can also be adapted. Temperature control is usually a complex process. This is particularly because the control loop is usually quite large, that is, there may be many other components, such as valves, chambers, branches, filters and sensors, between the heating device and the location where the rated temperature should be present. The control system is usually distributed with multiple temperature sensors, and their data is used to control the dialysate temperature. According to the present disclosure, the temperature sensor data of the heat exchanger can also be taken into account in this control.

[0052] The data provided by the dialysis machine to the heat exchanger can be used to switch the valves of the heat exchanger. For example, for the valve described above, the valve can be switched so that the permeate and / or dialysate do not flow through the heat transfer section. For example, if the temperature target value (rated temperature) is lower than the current temperature of the dialysate, it may be necessary to turn off the heater for cooling and convey the warm dialysate to the drain. In this case, the permeate may be accidentally heated in the heat exchanger. By exchanging the information of the rated temperature from the dialysis machine to the heat exchanger, the valves of the heat exchanger can be opened, for example as described above, to prevent heat exchange. This allows the cooling of the hydraulic system of the dialysis machine to be designed to be more efficient.

[0053] The present disclosure further relates to a method for exchanging heat between dialysate flowing out of a dialysis machine and permeate to be supplied to the dialysis machine by means of a heat exchanger, wherein the dialysis machine and the heat exchanger are configured as separate devices of a system, in particular the system of the present disclosure. The present disclosure further relates to the use of the system according to the present disclosure for exchanging heat between dialysate flowing out of a dialysis machine and permeate to be supplied to the dialysis machine. The advantages and features described above apply analogously.

[0054] The present disclosure further relates to a heat exchanger for use in a system according to the present disclosure, in particular for connection with one or more dialysis machines according to the present disclosure.

[0055] In particular, the heat exchanger can be designed as described above in conjunction with the system. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0056] Further examples and embodiments are explained below with reference to the accompanying drawings.

[0057] Figure 1 Schematic and not to scale illustrations of systems according to the present disclosure are shown.

[0058] Figure 2 Schematic and not to scale illustrations of systems according to the present disclosure are shown.

[0059] Figure 3 A schematic and not-to-scale illustration of a heat exchanger according to a system of the present disclosure is shown.

[0060] Figure 4 A schematic and not-to-scale illustration of a heat exchanger according to a system of the present disclosure is shown. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0061] Figure 1 1 shows a system 100 comprising an apparatus 101 for extracorporeal blood treatment, such as a dialysis machine, and a heat exchanger 102 for exchanging heat between dialysate flowing out of the dialysis machine and permeate supplied to the dialysis machine. The dialysis machine and the heat exchanger are configured as separate devices. For example, the heat exchanger can be a countercurrent heat exchanger. Various types of heat exchangers are contemplated, such as double-pipe regenerators, tube bundle regenerators, or plate regenerators.

[0062] The heat exchanger can be connected to the dialysis machine such that during proper operation, heat exchange occurs in the heat exchanger, in particular in the heat transfer section of the heat exchanger, between the permeate to be supplied to the dialysis machine by the heat exchanger and the dialysate flowing out of the dialysis machine.

[0063] The first coupling portion 103a and the second coupling portion 103b of the dialysis machine and the first coupling portions 104a and 104b of the heat exchanger are shown as examples. The heat exchanger and the dialysis machine are interconnected via the coupling portions. More specifically, the first coupling portions 103a and 104a can be interconnected by means of a first pipeline 105a, which can be configured as a hose, for example. The second coupling portions 103b and 104b can be interconnected by means of a second pipeline 105b, which can be configured as a hose, for example. The cables can optionally be thermally insulated.

[0064] For example, the heat exchanger can be arranged upstream of the inlet valve 101 a relative to the dialysate circuit 101 b of the dialysis machine with respect to the inflow direction of the permeate.

[0065] exist Figure 1 , an exemplary heat transfer section 106 of a heat exchanger is shown. Illustratively, it may be constructed from stainless steel or a polymer-based material, particularly polypropylene or polyphenylene sulfide.

[0066] Alternatively, as Figure 1 As shown in FIG, an actuator 107, a valve 108 switchable by means of the actuator, and a sensor 109, which can be part of a heat exchanger, for example, can be provided. The sensor can be a temperature sensor, for example.

[0067] For example, the heat exchanger can be configured to switch a valve using an actuator based on sensor data from a sensor. In particular, the valve can be switched such that, when the sensor determines that a first dialysate temperature threshold has been exceeded, the valve is switched so that the permeate does not flow through the heat transfer section. In other words, if the dialysate temperature is too high, the permeate is no longer heated further by heat transfer. Alternatively, for example, the permeate can always flow through the heat transfer section, and the dialysate can be directed through this section as needed.

[0068] The heat exchanger can be designed to automatically supply a maintenance liquid (e.g., a cleaning agent, a disinfectant, or a decalcifying agent) into the flow path of the heat exchanger, in particular into the heat transfer section 106 of the heat exchanger, when a second temperature threshold of the dialysate is exceeded. This can be achieved, for example, using the measured values ​​of the sensor 109.

[0069] The heat exchanger may optionally have a service liquid supply section 110 , via which a service liquid (eg a cleaning agent, disinfectant or decalcifying agent) can be supplied into the flow path of the heat exchanger, in particular into the heat transfer section 106 of the heat exchanger.

[0070] The system may optionally include multiple dialysis machines. Figure 1 Optional additional dialysis machines 111a to 111c are shown by way of example in dashed lines. The heat exchanger is connected to the dialysis machine via its respective first and second connections. The fact that three additional dialysis machines are shown here should be understood purely as an example; fewer or more dialysis machines may also be provided.

[0071] The system may (alternatively or in addition to a possible additional dialysis machine) comprise additional heat exchangers 112a to 112d, which are Figure 1 102. In particular, at least some of the heat exchangers can be connected in series with respect to the flow direction. The fact that four further heat exchangers are shown here is purely exemplary; fewer or more heat exchangers can also be provided.

[0072] The heat exchanger can be placed on the ground when in proper operation, e.g. Figure 1 1 for the heat exchanger 102. The heat exchanger can optionally have rollers 113, by means of which the heat exchanger can be transported, in particular the heat exchanger is supported on these rollers during transport and optionally during proper operation.

[0073] As shown at the optional heat exchanger 112d, the heat exchanger can also be suspended at the dialysis machine. For this purpose, the system can have a suspension system 114, by means of which the heat exchanger is suspended at the dialysis machine. In particular, the heat exchanger can be suspended at a machine housing 115 of the dialysis machine.

[0074] The first connection 103a and the second connection 103b of the dialysis machine can be arranged on the outside of the machine housing.The first connection 104a and the second connection 104b of the heat exchanger can be arranged on the outside of the housing 116 of the heat exchanger.

[0075] exist Figure 1 In FIG, the entire heat exchanger (in particular together with the housing 116) is shown to be arranged completely outside the machine housing 115 of the dialysis machine. This is an exemplary expression of the feature that the dialysis machine and the heat exchanger are separate devices.

[0076] The system, in particular the heat exchanger, can have a display unit 117 which is designed to display the valve position of the valve 108 and / or sensor data of the sensor 109 , in particular the temperature of the dialysate.

[0077] The system, in particular the heat exchanger, can have an energy supply 118 , in particular a battery and / or a mains power supply, for operating sensors and / or reading out sensors and / or operating a display unit and / or controlling actuators 107 for switching valves and / or operating actuators.

[0078] The heat exchanger may have a thermoelectric generator 120 which is designed to provide energy using the temperature difference between dialysate and permeate to operate sensors and / or read out sensors and / or operate a display unit and / or control actuators for switching valves and / or operating actuators and / or charging batteries.

[0079] The system can optionally have a data connection 121 between the heat exchanger and the dialysis machine and be designed to transmit sensor data, in particular data from a temperature sensor, from the heat exchanger to the dialysis machine, in particular for regulating the permeate temperature.

[0080] Figure 1 Also shown is a ring line system 119, which may optionally be part of the system of the present disclosure. A heat exchanger may be arranged between the ring line system and the dialysis machine with respect to the inflow direction of the permeate. In particular, the dialysis machine may be connected to the ring line system via the heat exchanger during proper operation. The ring line system may include, for example, a water line that comes from a water treatment facility (e.g., a reverse osmosis facility) and supplies fresh water to the dialysis machine.

[0081] Further features and advantages are described below.

[0082] The present disclosure relates to a system comprising a dialysis machine and a heat exchanger, also referred to below as a regenerator. These are designed as separate devices. Therefore, the regenerator is also referred to as an external regenerator. The heat exchanger is provided for a dialysis machine, i.e., an apparatus for extracorporeal blood treatment, as an external regenerator that can be installed (particularly retrofittably) between a ring line system and the apparatus in order to utilize waste heat from the outflowing fluid to heat the inflowing fluid and thus save energy.

[0083] In particular, the heat exchanger disclosed herein may not be a component of a dialysis machine, not be a component of a ring line system and not be a component of a reverse osmosis plant.

[0084] Regenerators for preheating high-purity dialysis water (permeate) and their use in dialysis machines are known. Here, the regenerator is part of the machine and installed in the hydraulic system. In the simplest case, it is a heating coil through which the outflowing dialysate flows and which is located in the feed container. The permeate to be heated flows into the feed container, where it is then mixed with alkaline and acidic components. However, the disadvantage of simple heating coils is that they are not very efficient and do not recover much heat. Alternatively, plate-type regenerators are used, which have a larger exchange surface and therefore higher efficiency. However, the disadvantage is that plate-type regenerators are expensive to maintain and difficult or even impossible to empty in the installed state, which must be done before the dialysis machine is delivered. In some cases, the heat exchanger (removable if necessary) is an integral part of the dialysis machine. However, to remove it, it must be opened, which can only be performed by a service technician. The general principle is that efficiency increases with increasing exchange surface. However, due to the limited space within the dialysis machine, waste heat cannot always be used efficiently.

[0085] If an attempt is made to design the regenerator as part of the ring line system instead, the integration of the regenerator into the existing ring line system is associated with high complexity or is simply not possible.

[0086] The disclosed system enables the provision of a regenerator that utilizes waste heat from outgoing dialysate to preheat incoming permeate. The regenerator can be integrated between the ring piping system and the dialysis machine. Thus, the regenerator is not an integral part of the machine. Optionally, the regenerator is also not an integral part of the ring piping system. A design that is independent of the dialysis machine and, if necessary, the ring piping system allows for easier retrofitting of existing machines with the external regenerator.

[0087] Therefore, the heat exchanger can be used as needed without any changes to the machine or the ring pipeline system. Figure 4), and multiple heat exchangers in series and / or in parallel are possible. There are possible solutions for passive embodiments with continuous heat transfer or active embodiments (in which the valve position in the heat exchanger is actively adjusted depending on the temperature), such as the release path ( Figure 3 ).

[0088] Figure 2 A dialysis machine 10 according to the present disclosure is schematically shown, to which a regenerator 200 is connected. Permeate from a ring pipeline system or reverse osmosis facility reaches the regenerator 200 via pipeline 310 and then further reaches the dialysis machine 10 via pipeline 210. The (warm) dialysate flows into the regenerator 200 via pipeline 220 and then flows into a drain or treatment unit via pipeline 320. Here, the liquids are directed past each other in opposite directions (countercurrent principle). In the regenerator 200, heat exchange occurs between the dialysate and the permeate. Various structural forms are conceivable as regenerators 200. These include, in particular, double-tube, tube bundle, and plate-type regenerators. Since the regenerator 200 is located outside the dialysis machine 10, size restrictions are not mandatory as there is sufficient space outside the machine. Stainless steel can be used as a corrosion-resistant material for the heat transfer unit, which has good thermal conductivity and high robustness. Alternatively, polymer-based units are conceivable. They offer the advantage that, in particular through additive manufacturing methods, almost any design can be realized, and thus the exchange surface and flow behavior can be optimized. Thermally conductive polypropylene or polyphenylene sulfide are suitable materials, for example. Polymer-based regenerators are also easier to transport due to their lower weight compared to stainless steel. The regenerator 200 can be placed on the ground or have rollers so that it can be moved when necessary. It is also possible to equip the regenerator with elements for hanging on the dialysis machine 10. It is recommended to keep the distance between the regenerator 200 and the dialysis machine 10, and therefore the length of the lines 210 and 220, as short as possible to avoid heat loss. The lines 210 and 220 can also be thermally insulated. For cleaning, disinfection, or decalcification, the heat transfer unit may have a site for applying a cleaning agent, which then flushes the flow path. The present disclosure also includes the possibility of connecting multiple regenerators in sequence to increase efficiency.

[0089] It is possible to equip the regenerator with further elements, ie in particular sensors and actuators, in addition to the actual heat exchange unit. Figure 3 In this embodiment, it is shown as an example Figure 2Regenerator 200 in FIG. Wall 201 divides the interior of regenerator 200 into two spaces 202 and 203, with space 202 containing the actual heat transfer unit 204. Space 203 contains valves 205 and 206, through which the permeate to be heated from line 310 passes, either into heat transfer unit 204 or directly into line 210. The latter bypasses heating of the permeate, which is particularly advantageous after disinfection, as hot liquid flows through line 220 during disinfection, and fresh permeate would only be unnecessarily heated (above physiologically tolerable temperatures) in certain situations (e.g., when preparing a new dialysis treatment). To this end, regenerator 200 may also include at least one temperature sensor that measures at least the temperature of the dialysate exiting the dialysis machine 10. If a threshold value (e.g., 40°C) is exceeded, valve 205 can be closed and valve 206 can be opened to prevent undesirable heating of the permeate. Temperature can also be used to control the automatic temperature-dependent application of cleaning agents into the flow path of the regenerator, as cleaning efficiency increases with increasing temperature.

[0090] The regenerator 200 may also have a display unit, which displays, for example, valve position and / or temperature and / or other sensor data. For this purpose, the energy supply can be realized via a battery or provided by the power grid. It is also feasible to design the regenerator to be energy self-sufficient. For this purpose, for example, the Seebeck effect or the Peltier effect can be used to generate a voltage based on the temperature difference between the warm dialysate and the cooler permeate, and then use this voltage to read the sensor value, control the actuator and / or operate the display unit. In addition, a wireless or wired connection to the dialysis machine can be achieved. For example, it is conceivable to transmit the temperature data of the regenerator to the connected machine in order to use this data to optimize the control of the dialysate temperature. The present disclosure is optionally provided so that the regenerator is used for multiple machines. For this purpose, the regenerator 200 has multiple leads to the dialysis machines D1 to D n The permeate line 210 and the permeate line from machine D1 to D n The dialysate line 220 leads to the regenerator 200 (see, for example, Figure 4 ).

[0091] The regenerator can then also be integrated between a conventional ring line system and the dialysis machine.

[0092] Although the present invention has been presented and described in detail in the drawings and the foregoing description, such presentation and description should be considered as illustrative and not restrictive. The present invention is not limited to the disclosed embodiments. In view of the foregoing description and the drawings, it will be apparent to those skilled in the art that various modifications may be made within the scope of the invention as defined in the claims.

Claims

1. A system (100) comprising an apparatus (101) for extracorporeal blood treatment and a heat exchanger (102) for exchanging heat between dialysate flowing out of the apparatus (101) for extracorporeal blood treatment and permeate to be supplied to the apparatus (101) for extracorporeal blood treatment, wherein: The device (101) for extracorporeal blood treatment and the heat exchanger (102) are designed as separate devices.

2. The system (100) according to claim 1, in, The device for extracorporeal blood treatment (101) and the heat exchanger (102) are connected or connectable to each other via a first connection (103a) of the device for extracorporeal blood treatment (101), a second connection (103b) of the device for extracorporeal blood treatment (101), a first connection (104a) of the heat exchanger (102) and a second connection (104b) of the heat exchanger (102), and wherein the system (100) comprises a first line (105a), for example a first hose, and a second line (105b). b), for example a second hose, and the first connection (104a) of the heat exchanger (102) is connected to the first connection (103a) of the device (101) for extracorporeal blood treatment by means of the first line (105a), and the second connection (104b) of the heat exchanger (102) is connected to the second connection (103b) of the device (101) for extracorporeal blood treatment by means of the second line (105b), in particular wherein the first line (105a) and / or the second line (105b) are thermally insulated, or The device (101) for extracorporeal blood treatment and the heat exchanger (102) are connected or can be connected to each other via a first connection portion (103a) of the device (101) for extracorporeal blood treatment, a second connection portion (103b) of the device (101) for extracorporeal blood treatment, a first connection portion (104a) of the heat exchanger (102), and a second connection portion (104b) of the heat exchanger (102).

3. The system (100) according to any one of the preceding claims, in, The heat exchanger (102) comprises a heat transfer section (106), at least one valve (108) switchable by means of an actuator (107), and a sensor (109), in particular a temperature sensor. The heat exchanger (102) is configured to switch the valve (108) based on sensor data of the sensor (109) by means of the actuator (107), in particular in such a way that when a first temperature threshold value of a liquid flowing out of the device for extracorporeal blood treatment through the heat exchanger, such as dialysate or a liquid used in the case of disinfection, decalcification and / or cleaning of the device for extracorporeal blood treatment, is determined to be exceeded, at least one valve (108) is switched by means of the sensor (109) in such a way that the permeate and / or the outflowing liquid does not flow through the heat transfer section (106).

4. The system (100) according to any one of the preceding claims, in, The heat exchanger (102) comprises a temperature sensor / the temperature sensor, wherein the heat exchanger (102) is designed to automatically supply a maintenance liquid, such as a cleaning agent, a disinfectant or a decalcifying agent, into the flow path of the heat exchanger (102), in particular into the heat transfer section (106) / the heat transfer section (106) of the heat exchanger (102), when a second temperature threshold of a fluid flowing out of the device for extracorporeal blood treatment through the heat exchanger, such as dialysate or a fluid used in the case of disinfection, decalcification and / or cleaning of the device for extracorporeal blood treatment, is exceeded.

5. The system (100) according to any one of the preceding claims, in, The heat exchanger (102) has a maintenance liquid supply section (110), via which maintenance liquid, such as a cleaning agent, disinfectant or decalcifying agent, can be supplied to the flow path of the heat exchanger (102), in particular to the heat transfer section (106) of the heat exchanger (102).

6. The system (100) according to any one of the preceding claims, in, The system (100) comprises a plurality of devices (101, 111a, 111b, 111c) for extracorporeal blood treatment, and the heat exchanger (102) is connected to the devices (101, 111a, 111b, 111c) for extracorporeal blood treatment via respective first coupling portions (103a) and second coupling portions (103b) of the devices for extracorporeal blood treatment, and / or The system (100) comprises a plurality of heat exchangers (102, 112a, 112b, 112c, 112d), in particular a plurality of heat exchangers connected in series with respect to the flow direction.

7. The system (100) according to any one of the preceding claims, in, The heat exchanger (102) is configured as a counter-flow heat exchanger, and / or The heat exchanger (102) is constructed as a double-pipe regenerator, a tube bundle regenerator or a plate regenerator.

8. The system (100) according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein The heat transfer section (106) of the heat exchanger (102) is constructed from stainless steel or a polymer-based material, particularly polypropylene or polyphenylene sulfide.

9. The system (100) according to any one of the preceding claims, in, The heat exchanger (102) stands on the ground during proper operation, and / or The heat exchanger (102) has rollers (113) by means of which the heat exchanger (102) can be transported, in particular the heat exchanger (102) being supported on the rollers during transport and optionally during operation as required, and / or The system (100) includes a suspension system (114), which is configured to suspend the heat exchanger (112d) on the device (101) for extracorporeal blood treatment, in particular on the outside of a machine housing (115) of the device (101) for extracorporeal blood treatment.

10. The system (100) according to any one of the preceding claims, in, The heat exchanger (102) is arranged upstream of the inflow valve (101a) relative to the dialysate circuit (101b) of the device (101) for extracorporeal blood treatment with respect to the inflow direction of the permeate, and / or The heat exchanger (102) is arranged between the ring line system (119) and the device (101) for extracorporeal blood treatment with respect to the inflow direction of the permeate, in particular, the system (100) comprises a ring line system (119), and the device (101) for extracorporeal blood treatment is connected to the ring line system (119) via the heat exchanger (102) during proper operation.

11. The system (100) according to any one of claims 1 to 10, in, The device (101) for extracorporeal blood treatment has a machine housing (115), in particular, a first connection portion (103a) / the first connection portion (103a) and a second connection portion (103b) / the second connection portion (103b) of the device (101) for extracorporeal blood treatment are arranged on the outside of the machine housing, and / or The heat exchanger (102) has a housing (116), and in particular, a first connection part (104a) / the first connection part (104a) and a second connection part (104b) / the second connection part (104b) of the heat exchanger (102) are arranged on the outside of the housing.

12. The system (100) according to claim 11, in, The device (101) for extracorporeal blood treatment comprises the machine housing (115), and the heat exchanger (102) is arranged outside the machine housing (115), and / or The heat exchanger (102) has a housing (116), and the device (101) for extracorporeal blood treatment has a machine housing (115), wherein the housing (116) of the heat exchanger (102) is arranged outside the machine housing (115) of the device (101) for extracorporeal blood treatment.

13. The system (100) according to any one of the preceding claims, in, The heat exchanger (102) is connected to the device (101) for extracorporeal blood treatment in such a way that, during proper operation, heat exchange occurs in the heat exchanger (102), in particular in the heat transfer section (106) / the heat transfer section (106) of the heat exchanger (102), between the permeate to be supplied by the heat exchanger (102) to the device (101) for extracorporeal blood treatment and the dialysate flowing out of the device (101) for extracorporeal blood treatment.

14. The system (100) according to any one of the preceding claims, in, The system (100), in particular the heat exchanger (102), has a display unit (117) which is designed to display the valve (108) / the valve position of the valve (108) and / or the sensor (109) / the sensor data of the sensor (109), in particular the temperature of the liquid flowing out of the device for extracorporeal blood treatment, in particular the dialysate, and / or The system (100), in particular the heat exchanger (102), has an energy supply (118), in particular a battery and / or a grid current supply, for operating the sensor (109) and / or reading the sensor (109) and / or operating the display unit (117) and / or controlling the actuator (107) / the actuator (107) to switch the valve (108) and / or operate the actuator (107), and / or The heat exchanger (102) has a thermoelectric generator (120), which is configured to provide energy by means of a temperature difference between a liquid flowing out of the device for extracorporeal blood treatment, in particular a dialysate and a permeate, in order to operate the sensor (109) and / or read the sensor (109) and / or operate the display unit (117) and / or control the actuator (107) / the actuator (107) to switch the valve (108) and / or operate the actuator (107) and / or charge the battery.

15. The system (100) according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein The system (100) has a data connection (121) between the heat exchanger (102) and the device (101) for extracorporeal blood treatment and is designed to transmit sensor data, in particular temperature sensor data, from the heat exchanger (102) to the device (101) for extracorporeal blood treatment, in particular for regulating the permeate temperature, wherein the data connection and the energy supply are optionally provided by means of a common connecting element, for example by means of a connecting cable that allows energy supply and data transmission.

16. A heat exchanger (102) for use in a system (100) according to any one of the preceding claims, in particular for connection to one or more devices (101) for extracorporeal blood treatment according to the preceding claims.

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