Autonomous Dialysate Sampling Device with Flow-Actuated Sequential Outlet Selection
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing devices for collecting dialysate samples in peritoneal dialysis are complex and require external supply sources or input control signals, which complicates their operation and reduces the autonomy of the sampling process.
Innovation Solution
A device with an inlet for receiving dialysate flow, a plurality of outlets for saturated dialysate, and means for sequential selection of outlets activated solely by the dialysate flow, eliminating the need for external power or control signals, utilizing principles such as gravity, float mechanisms, and shape memory materials to facilitate sample collection.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Device complexity
If a device for collecting dialysate samples is designed to be autonomous and simple, then device complexity is reduced and ease of operation is improved, but the ability to perform sequential outlet selection without external control signals becomes challenging
Solution Approach 1:
The device uses the dialysate flow itself to actuate the sequential selection mechanism. The flowing dialysate directly drives the movement between outlets without requiring external power sources, control signals, or complex automation systems. This self-service approach eliminates the need for motors, sensors, or electronic controls while maintaining autonomous operation.
Solution Approach 2:
The invention employs hydraulic principles where the dialysate flow creates pressure differences that drive the sequential selection mechanism. The fluid flow itself becomes the actuating force, using pressure gradients and flow dynamics to control the switching between outlets, thereby eliminating the need for external mechanical or electrical actuation systems.
2Ease of operation
If external supply sources and control signals are eliminated, then ease of operation and autonomy are improved, but the mechanism for sequential outlet selection becomes more difficult to design
Solution Approach 1:
The device structure itself is designed to be actuated by the dialysate flow. The sequential selection mechanism uses the flow's kinetic energy and pressure to automatically switch between outlets, making the system self-operating without external intervention. The geometry and arrangement of channels and valves are configured to respond naturally to flow direction and pressure changes.
Solution Approach 2:
The selection mechanism is designed to be dynamic rather than static, allowing automatic adaptation to flow conditions. The system uses movable components that respond to real-time flow variations, enabling sequential outlet selection based on the natural dynamics of dialysate circulation without requiring external control systems.
3Reliability
If the device operates without external power sources, then reliability and autonomy are improved, but the capability to perform periodic sampling at regular intervals becomes limited
Solution Approach 1:
The device leverages the periodic nature of dialysate flow during the dwell and drain phases to achieve periodic sampling. The sequential selection mechanism is designed to switch outlets in rhythm with the natural flow cycles, capturing samples at regular intervals corresponding to the treatment phases without requiring external timing devices or power sources.
Solution Approach 2:
The system uses inherent feedback from the dialysate flow characteristics to regulate sampling frequency. The flow rate and pressure variations during different treatment phases automatically trigger the sequential selection mechanism, ensuring samples are collected at appropriate intervals based on actual physiological conditions rather than fixed external timing.
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
The device operates simply and robustly, ensuring autonomous periodic sampling without external intervention, maintaining the advantages of peritoneal dialysis by simplifying the collection process and reducing operational complexity.
Implementation Method 1
a float (132) able to rise and fall with the flow of dialysate
Implementation Method 2
a flexible actuator (134) mounted on the float (132) and able to convert the vertical movement of the float into a horizontal movement of a slider (138)
Implementation Method 3
a float (132) able to rise and fall with the flow of dialysate
Data Source
AI summary
A device for collecting dialysate samples has an inlet for receiving a flow of dialysate, a plurality of outlets for providing a flow of saturated dialysate, and means for sequential selection of one of the outlets. The sequential selection means are actuated only by the flow of dialysate received from the inlet. A system for peritoneal dialysis includes the device for collecting dialysate samples.