Autotransfusion Device with Movable Separator Partition
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current postoperative autotransfusion devices cannot automatically block a variable volume of supernatant in the collection tank, relying on a constant height separator partition, which limits the ability to discriminate and reinfuse only beneficial blood components effectively.
Innovation Solution
A device with a movable supernatant separator partition and sensor means to determine red cell concentration, allowing manual or automated control to block the transfer of supernatant to the reinfusion container, using a clamp mechanism and visual indicators to ensure only suitable red cells are reinfused.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If a constant height supernatant separator partition is used, then the device structure is simple, but it cannot automatically block a variable volume of supernatant in the collection tank
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies the dynamics principle by transforming the static constant height separator partition into a movable separator partition that can be dynamically adjusted to different heights. This allows the partition to adapt to variable volumes of supernatant automatically, resolving the contradiction between adaptability and structural simplicity by introducing controlled movement rather than complete complexity.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces the purely mechanical constant height partition with an automated control system that uses sensors to detect red cell concentration and electronically controls the separator partition position. This substitution of mechanical systems with sensor-based automation enables variable volume blocking while maintaining ease of operation and improving adaptability.
2Measurement precision
If automated control with sensor means is implemented, then the discrimination of red cells from supernatant is precise, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces manual visual inspection with automated sensor means that detect red cell concentration through optical or electromagnetic methods. This substitution provides precise measurement of blood component stratification while the electronic control system automatically adjusts the separator partition, reducing the need for complex manual operations and interfaces.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements self-service by enabling the system to automatically detect blood component concentrations and control the separator partition position without continuous operator intervention. The sensor means and electronic control work together to autonomously manage the autotransfusion process, improving measurement precision while minimizing the complexity of operator interaction.
3Ease of operation
If manual movement of separator partition is allowed, then the device is easier to operate, but the automation level decreases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies universality by designing the separator partition control system to support multiple operating modes: fully manual movement, automated electronic control, and a combination of both. This multi-functional approach allows the device to adapt to different operational preferences and scenarios, maintaining ease of operation through manual capability while enabling automation when needed for precision and efficiency.
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
Enables automated and manual control for precise discrimination of red cells from supernatant, ensuring only beneficial blood components are reinfused, enhancing the reliability and safety of the autotransfusion process while maintaining competitive costs.
Implementation Method 1
sensor means (5) adapted to be arranged around the delivery tube (2) and adapted to activate said tube clamping means when the concentration of red cells in the blood flowing through said tube is below a preset threshold
Implementation Method 2
the blood collected in the collection tank is stratified by way of the different specific gravity of blood components, undergoing sedimentation over time
Data Source
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AI summary
A postoperative autotransfusion device, comprising a tank (1) for collecting blood (12) to be reinfused into a patient, connected by means of a tube (2) to a reinfusion container (3), the device further comprising means (5, 15) adapted to determine the concentration of red cells in the blood (12) contained in the collection tank (1), in order to enable or not the flow of the blood to the reinfusion container (3).