Dialysate Temperature Control Using Thermoelectric Modules
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing dialysis systems struggle to maintain dialysate at a safe and comfortable temperature, particularly in varying ambient conditions, which can be uncomfortable or hazardous for patients.
Innovation Solution
Incorporation of thermoelectric modules in dialysis machines and separate temperature control devices to regulate dialysate temperature through heating or cooling, using closed-loop control systems based on ambient and fluid temperature sensors to ensure dialysate reaches the patient at approximately 37°C.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Temperature
If dialysis systems use conventional heating or cooling methods, then temperature control is achieved, but the system complexity and response time to ambient temperature changes increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines heating and cooling functions into a single integrated temperature control system using thermoelectric modules that can operate in both heating and cooling modes, reducing the need for separate heating elements and cooling mechanisms, thereby simplifying the overall device complexity while maintaining effective temperature control
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces conventional mechanical heating elements and cooling systems with thermoelectric modules that use electrical current to directly generate heat or cooling effects through the Peltier effect, eliminating complex mechanical components and reducing system complexity while improving response time to ambient temperature changes
2Speed
If thermoelectric modules are used for temperature control, then response time to temperature changes improves, but energy consumption increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements a closed-loop control system with temperature sensors that continuously monitor dialysate temperature and ambient temperature, feeding this information back to the control circuitry which adjusts the power supplied to thermoelectric modules in real-time, ensuring energy is consumed only when and where needed to maintain target temperature, thus optimizing the balance between response time and energy consumption
Solution Approach 2:
The control system employs periodic temperature monitoring and adjustment cycles, where temperature is measured at intervals and corrections are made only when deviations from target temperature are detected, rather than continuous operation, reducing overall energy consumption while maintaining rapid response capability when temperature changes are needed
3Manufacturing precision
If thermoelectric modules are integrated into the dialysis machine, then temperature control accuracy improves, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent designs the thermoelectric modules to serve multiple functions: they can heat, cool, and potentially act as temperature sensors themselves, eliminating the need for separate heating elements and cooling systems, thereby achieving high temperature control accuracy without proportionally increasing device complexity
Solution Approach 2:
The patent achieves precise temperature control by dynamically adjusting electrical parameters (voltage, current, polarity) supplied to the thermoelectric modules rather than changing physical or mechanical parameters, allowing for fine-grained temperature regulation through software control without adding mechanical complexity to the device structure
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
Ensures dialysate is delivered at a safe and comfortable temperature, minimizing treatment delays and reducing the impact of ambient temperature fluctuations.
Implementation Method 1
one or more thermoelectric modules arranged to be adjacent the cassette while the cassette is received by the compartment. The one or more thermoelectric modules are configured to effectuate energy transfer with a dialysis fluid
Data Source
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AI summary
Devices, systems, and methods can be used to deliver temperature-controlled medical fluids to patients. For example, this disclosure provides devices, systems, and methods for controlling the temperature of dialysate delivered to a patient during a peritoneal dialysis treatment.