Dialysate Sampling Device Using Single Volumetric Meter
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current devices for evaluating the effectiveness of hemodialysis sessions lack precision and are complex, often requiring the collection of large volumes of dialysis liquid, are prone to operational disruptions, and require lengthy disinfection processes.
Innovation Solution
A device using a peristaltic pump and a selector to distribute dialysis liquid into two streams, with single-use pipes and detectors for precise volume measurement, allowing for accurate sampling and simplifying disinfection operations.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If a pump is used to collect dialysis liquid for sampling, then a representative sample can be obtained, but the device becomes complex and requires two volumetric meters which increase manufacturing complexity and operational complexity
Solution Approach 1:
The patent extracts the sampling function from the main dialysis liquid flow by using a T-connector to create a separate sampling branch. This allows a representative sample to be obtained without requiring complex pumping mechanisms or multiple volumetric meters, thereby reducing device complexity while maintaining measurement precision.
Solution Approach 2:
The single volumetric meter in the sampling branch serves multiple functions: it measures both the total dialysis liquid volume (when the sampling valve is closed) and the sampled volume (when the sampling valve is open). This multi-functionality eliminates the need for two separate volumetric meters, reducing manufacturing complexity and operational complexity.
2Measurement precision
If two volumetric meters are used to distribute flows between main pipeline and sampling pipeline, then precise sample composition is achieved, but manufacturing cost and operational complexity increase
Solution Approach 1:
The single volumetric meter is designed to perform dual functions: measuring total liquid volume during normal operation and measuring sampled volume during sampling operation. This eliminates the need for manufacturing two separate volumetric meters, thereby improving ease of manufacture while maintaining precise sample composition through the microprocessor-controlled sampling mechanism.
Solution Approach 2:
The microprocessor receives signals from the single volumetric meter and automatically controls the sampling valve to maintain precise sample composition. This feedback control system ensures accurate measurement without requiring manual intervention or multiple meters, simplifying both manufacturing and operation.
3Measurement precision
If a collection container and separator device are used to distribute dialysis liquid, then a representative sample is obtained, but the device becomes bulky and requires lengthy disinfection operations
Solution Approach 1:
The patent extracts the sampling function from the main dialysis liquid flow by using a T-connector to create a separate sampling branch. This eliminates the need for a bulky collection container and separator device, thereby reducing disinfection time while maintaining sample representativeness through the microprocessor-controlled sampling mechanism.
Solution Approach 2:
The sampling system uses disposable sampling bags instead of permanent collection containers. These single-use bags eliminate the need for lengthy disinfection operations, as they are discarded after use. The bags are sterilized during manufacturing and maintain sample integrity without requiring post-use disinfection.
4Manufacturing precision
If two different pumping means are used to generate two flows of different flow rates, then precise dosing is achieved, but the device becomes complex and fragile
Solution Approach 1:
The patent extracts the flow rate control function from complex dual-pump mechanisms by using a single pump with a microprocessor-controlled sampling valve. This allows precise dosing to be achieved through electronic control rather than mechanical complexity, thereby reducing device complexity and fragility while maintaining manufacturing precision.
Solution Approach 2:
The microprocessor receives feedback from the single volumetric meter and automatically adjusts the sampling valve to achieve precise dosing. This feedback control system eliminates the need for two separate pumping means with different flow rates, simplifying the device while maintaining accurate volume measurement and dosing precision.
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 precise measurement of the volume of sampled and total dialysis liquid with reduced complexity and disinfection time, maintaining accuracy and reliability regardless of dialysis operation conditions.
Implementation Method 1
the pumping means consist of a single pump of the peristaltic type
Data Source
Figure 1~2
AI summary
The present invention relates to a device for collecting a representative sample of dialysis fluid from the outlet of a dialyzer (2), comprising: - a means (3) for collecting and storing the used dialysis fluid, intended to be connected by a pipe (11) to the outlet of the dialyzer (2), - pumping means (5) for pumping fluid stored in the collection and storage means (3), - means (6) for dividing the fluid into two separate streams, one (12) intended to be collected in its entirety for dosing and the other (13) intended to be discharged. The collection and storage means (3) is a single-use container.