Blood Component Separation via Optical Interface Detection
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current methods for separating composite fluids, such as whole blood, into its components lack an effective means to identify the interface between different components, leading to potential contamination and impurity in collected fractions.
Innovation Solution
A method and apparatus utilizing visible light and infrared light to detect the interface between components by measuring the transmission and reflection of light through the fluid, allowing precise control of component flow into separate collection bags using valves and sensors.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If conventional separation methods are used without light detection, then the separation process is simpler and less expensive, but the interface between components cannot be accurately identified leading to contamination
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces light as an intermediary substance to detect the interface between blood components. Light sources emit light through the fluid column, and photosensors detect the transmitted light. The interface is identified when there is a significant change in light transmission characteristics, providing accurate component separation without direct mechanical intervention.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces mechanical interface detection methods with optical detection. Instead of using physical probes or mechanical sensors to detect component interfaces, the system uses light transmission through the fluid column. This substitution reduces mechanical complexity while improving measurement precision for interface identification.
2Manufacturing precision
If manual component collection is used without automated light detection, then the equipment is simpler, but component purity and separation accuracy deteriorate
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements a feedback control system where photosensors continuously monitor light transmission through the blood components. When the detected light transmission indicates an interface position (significant change in transmission characteristics), the system automatically triggers valve actuation to switch collection bags. This closed-loop feedback ensures high component purity by precisely tracking the interface location.
Solution Approach 2:
The system uses the optical properties of the blood components themselves to identify interfaces and trigger collection. The components' inherent light absorption and transmission characteristics provide the detection signal, eliminating the need for external tracers or additional marking mechanisms. The process is self-regulating based on the physical properties of the material being separated.
3Measurement precision
If multiple light sources and sensors are added to detect component interfaces, then interface identification improves, but the device complexity and cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent designs the optical detection system with multi-functionality. The same light sources and photosensors used for interface detection also provide information about component composition and volume. The transmitted light characteristics serve multiple purposes: identifying interface positions, determining component boundaries, and monitoring separation progress, reducing the need for separate detection systems.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent combines the detection functions into a unified optical system. Rather than using separate mechanisms for different detection tasks, the light transmission measurement serves as a universal indicator for all interface detection needs. The system merges the detection of plasma-platelet interface, platelet-red blood cell interface, and component volume measurement into a single optical detection approach.
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 the collection of relatively pure components by accurately identifying the interface between plasma, platelets, and red blood cells, minimizing contamination and ensuring efficient separation.
Implementation Method 1
A first beam of a first light is emitted at the flow of plasma. A first photosensor then detects a first amount of the first light transmitted through the flow of plasma.
Implementation Method 2
A ratio of the first amount of the first light to the first amount of the second light is determined. The method then involves determining whether a change in the ratio meets a predetermined criterion.
Data Source
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AI summary
Described are embodiments for determining components of a composite liquid and controlling the flow of the components into containers. In one embodiment, components of whole blood, after separation, are determined and directed to different containers for collection and storage. Embodiments may be implemented on an apparatus configured to separate multiple discrete volumes of composite liquid (e.g., whole blood) into components.