Apheresis Centrifuge Loop Rotation for Continuous Blood Return
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Solution Overview
Problem
The apheresis process for blood component collection is lengthy and uncomfortable for donors due to the need for prolonged connection to the machine, necessitating a more efficient method to separate and return unwanted blood components.
Innovation Solution
A centrifuge assembly with a loop rotational position guide and bearing system that allows for continuous rotation of the fluid line loop, enabling the separation of desired blood components while simultaneously returning unwanted components to the donor without stopping the centrifuge.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Productivity
If traditional apheresis method is used to separate blood components, then blood components can be separated and collected, but the donation process becomes lengthy and uncomfortable requiring donors to remain connected for an hour
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements continuous operation of the centrifuge throughout the entire donation process. The centrifuge runs continuously while pumps selectively redirect separated blood components to either collection containers or back to the donor, eliminating the need to stop and restart the centrifuge multiple times. This continuous operation reduces donation time and improves efficiency.
Solution Approach 2:
The system dynamically adjusts the operation of pumps and valves during the donation process to control the flow direction of different blood components. By dynamically switching between collecting components and returning them to the donor based on real-time separation status, the system optimizes the donation process efficiency and reduces overall time required.
2Ease of operation
If the centrifuge is stopped and restarted to move blood components during separation, then components can be manually transferred, but the process becomes more time-consuming and less efficient
Solution Approach 1:
The system uses automated pumps and valves to self-manage the transfer of separated blood components without requiring manual intervention. The pumps automatically detect and redirect separated components based on their density and separation status, eliminating the need for operators to manually transfer components between containers.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces manual mechanical transfer operations with an automated pump-based fluid control system. Instead of manually stopping the centrifuge and physically transferring blood components, the system uses electronically controlled pumps and valves to automatically redirect fluid flow, improving efficiency and reducing operational complexity.
3Adaptability or versatility
If specialized apheresis machine is used for blood component extraction, then only desired components can be collected and returned to donor, but the machine complexity and procedural length increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent divides the blood separation and redirection functions into distinct modular components: the centrifuge for separation, individual pumps for different fluid paths, and valves for directional control. This segmentation allows each component to perform its specific function independently, making the overall system more manageable and adaptable to different donation scenarios.
Solution Approach 2:
The system uses a single centrifuge that performs all separation functions, and a shared pump/valve system that handles both collection and return operations. This multi-functional approach allows one set of equipment to perform multiple tasks (separation, collection, and return of different blood components) rather than requiring separate specialized machines for each function.
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
This approach reduces donation time by up to 30% and enhances donor comfort, increasing donation efficiency and productivity at collection centers.
Implementation Method 1
The first is whole blood donation from a donor, followed by a centrifugal process that separates blood components from the whole blood based on the density of the blood component
Data Source
AI summary
Methods and devices for separating components from multi-component fluids are provided. A method for collecting a blood component includes drawing whole blood into a centrifuge, spinning the centrifuge to cause centrifugal force to act on the whole blood to separate the whole blood into a least a first blood component and a second blood component that is different from the first blood component, extracting the first blood component from the centrifuge, detecting when the second blood component is about to be extracted from the centrifuge, and after the second blood component is detected and while the centrifuge continues to spin, flowing the separated first blood component back towards the centrifuge to move at least the second blood component from the centrifuge.