Coriolis Mass Flow Sensor for Dialysis Fluid Monitoring
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Solution Overview
Problem
Traditional dialysis systems require multiple sensors to monitor flow rates, fluid concentrations, and temperatures, which can lead to complexity and increased risk of clotting, hemorrhaging, and other complications, while existing sensors may not accurately detect additives, wastes, contaminants, and air bubbles.
Innovation Solution
A method and system that utilize Coriolis-type mass flow sensors to measure density and flow rate of bodily fluids before and after alteration, allowing for real-time monitoring and control of fluid density and flow rates, replacing multiple traditional sensors with a single multi-functional sensing unit capable of detecting additives, wastes, contaminants, and air bubbles.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If multiple traditional sensors are used to monitor flow rates, fluid concentrations, and temperatures, then measurement coverage is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies multi-functionality by integrating multiple sensing capabilities into a single sensor device that can simultaneously measure flow rate, fluid concentration, and temperature, thereby reducing the total number of sensors needed while maintaining comprehensive monitoring coverage
Solution Approach 2:
The patent combines multiple previously separate sensing functions into one integrated sensor unit, merging the capabilities of flow rate sensors, concentration sensors, and temperature sensors into a single device that performs all measurements concurrently
2Reliability
If traditional sensors are used to monitor dialysis parameters, then monitoring capability is provided, but the risk of clotting and hemorrhaging increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces traditional mechanical and electrical sensors with a magneto-optical sensing system that uses magnetic fields and optical detection, eliminating the need for physical contact between sensors and bodily fluids, thereby reducing the risk of clotting and hemorrhaging
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces magnetic fields as an intermediary medium for sensing, allowing measurement of flow rate and other parameters without direct physical contact between the sensor and the bodily fluid, thus avoiding the harmful effects of mechanical intrusion
3Measurement precision
If existing sensors are used to detect fluid parameters, then basic monitoring is achieved, but detection of additives, wastes, contaminants, and air bubbles is insufficient
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies multi-functionality by designing a sensor system capable of detecting multiple different substances and conditions (additives, wastes, contaminants, air bubbles) using the same magneto-optical platform, thereby expanding detection versatility without requiring separate specialized sensors for each parameter
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 simplifies dialysis monitoring, reduces the risk of complications by providing accurate and simultaneous measurement of fluid parameters, ensuring proper flow rates, dosages, and temperatures, enhancing the safety and efficacy of dialysis treatments.
Implementation Method 1
utilize Coriolis-type mass flow sensors to measure density and flow rate of bodily fluids
Data Source
AI summary
A method of treating a bodily fluid withdrawn and then returned to a living body. The method involves withdrawing the bodily fluid from the living body and causing the bodily fluid to flow through a treatment system, altering at least the density of the bodily fluid through the action of a second fluid as the bodily fluid flows through the treatment system, sensing at least the density and flow rate of the bodily fluid before the density thereof is altered by the second fluid, sensing at least the density and flow rate of the bodily fluid after the density thereof is altered by the second fluid, sensing at least the density and flow rate of the second fluid, controlling the density and/or flow rate of the second fluid based on the sensed densities and flow rates, and returning the bodily fluid to the living body.