Centrifuge Assembly for Continuous Blood Component Collection
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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 non-desired blood components.
Innovation Solution
A centrifuge assembly with a loop rotational position guide and bearing system allows for continuous separation and return of unwanted blood components without stopping the centrifuge, using a flexible loop and bearing set to maintain the fluid line position during rotation, enabling faster collection.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Loss of time
If traditional apheresis method is used with stopping and restarting centrifuge, then blood components can be separated, but donation time is lengthy and donor comfort is poor
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements continuous centrifuge operation by using a second pump to return separated blood components to the donor without stopping the centrifuge. The system maintains continuous separation and return actions, eliminating idle time between phases and reducing overall donation time while improving donor comfort through faster completion.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent uses a second pump system prepared in advance to immediately return separated blood components to the donor as soon as separation occurs, without waiting for the centrifuge to stop. This preliminary preparation of the return mechanism enables seamless continuous operation.
2Productivity
If centrifuge is stopped and restarted for component separation, then collection can be completed, but process efficiency is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The system maintains continuous centrifuge operation with simultaneous separation and return functions, eliminating downtime between phases. This continuous operation increases donation center productivity by reducing the time each donor occupies the machine, allowing more donations per day.
3Speed
If flexible loop and bearing system are used, then continuous rotation is enabled, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces a bearing system as an intermediary mechanism between the flexible loop and the centrifuge rotation system. The bearings enable smooth continuous rotation while supporting the flexible loop structure, managing the complexity through a dedicated intermediate component rather than integrating complexity into the main centrifuge mechanism.
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 potentially 30% or more, enhancing donor comfort and increasing donation center productivity and donor return rates.
Implementation Method 1
The apheresis method extracts whole blood from a donor while the donor is connected to the specialized machine. The whole blood can again be centrifuged to collect only the blood component (e.g., plasma) that is desired
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.