Apheresis Centrifuge Separation With Continuous Return Flow
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Solution Overview
Problem
The apheresis process for blood component collection is lengthy and uncomfortable for donors due to the need to remain connected to the machine for an hour, necessitating a more efficient and comfortable method.
Innovation Solution
A system and method that uses centrifugal force to separate desired blood components while simultaneously returning unwanted components to the donor, maintaining centrifuge speed and reducing donation time by 30% or more.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If traditional apheresis method is used to separate blood components, then complete separation and collection of desired component is achieved, but donation time becomes lengthy and donor comfort deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies preliminary action by pre-positioning the flexible loop and separation bladder in the centrifuge before blood donation begins. The loop is automatically guided into place using bearing surfaces that ensure correct positioning without manual intervention during the donation process, enabling the system to be ready for immediate high-speed operation.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements continuity of useful action by maintaining constant centrifuge rotation throughout the entire blood component separation and return process. The centrifuge operates continuously at high speed while the separated components are pushed back to the donor through the same centrifugal force, eliminating the need to stop and restart the centrifuge and reducing total donation time by 30% or more.
2Manufacturing precision
If centrifuge is stopped and restarted during blood component collection, then component separation precision is maintained, but donation efficiency decreases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent eliminates interruptions in the centrifuge operation by designing a system where both blood component separation and return to donor occur during continuous centrifugal rotation. The flexible loop and separation bladder remain in position throughout, allowing the centrifuge to maintain constant speed and continuous separation precision while improving donation efficiency.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent uses the centrifugal force itself as an intermediary mechanism that simultaneously achieves both component separation and component return. By maintaining continuous rotation, the centrifugal force acts as a consistent mediator that directs blood components to appropriate destinations (collection or return to donor) based on density, eliminating the need to stop the centrifuge to switch modes.
3Manufacturing precision
If manual positioning of flexible loop is used in centrifuge, then loading accuracy is achieved, but operation complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements self-service by designing the flexible loop to automatically guide itself into the correct position within the centrifuge using bearing surfaces. The loop's flexibility allows it to conform to the guiding surfaces and position itself accurately without manual manipulation, reducing operator complexity while maintaining positioning precision.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces manual mechanical positioning with an automated mechanical guidance system. Bearing surfaces and geometric constraints substitute for human hands and tools, automatically guiding the flexible loop into the correct position through controlled mechanical interaction rather than manual placement.
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
Faster and more comfortable donations are achieved, increasing donation center productivity and donor return rates by maintaining centrifuge speed and efficiently moving unwanted components back to the donor.
Implementation Method 1
uses centrifugal force to separate desired blood components while simultaneously returning unwanted components to the donor
Data Source
AI summary
Described are embodiments that include methods and devices for separating components from multi-component fluids. Embodiments may involve use of separation vessels and movement of components into and out of separation vessels through ports. Embodiments may involve the separation of plasma from whole blood. Also described are embodiments that include methods and devices for positioning portions, e.g., loops, of disposables in medical devices. Embodiments may involve use of surfaces for automatically guiding loops to position them into a predetermined position.