Dialysis Machine Actuator Heating Element Integration
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Solution Overview
Problem
Dialysis machines face challenges in efficiently heating large quantities of dialysate to body temperature, which is crucial for peritoneal dialysis, often requiring inefficient heating methods that are not compact or effective.
Innovation Solution
Incorporating a heating element on the actuator of the dialysis machine that heats the liquid through the actuator region of the fluid system, allowing for direct or indirect heating and improved temperature control via a temperature sensor and controller, enabling a more compact and efficient heating process.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Temperature
If a separate heating bag or heating region is used to heat dialysate, then the liquid can be heated to body temperature, but the device structure becomes less compact and the heating efficiency is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The heating element is integrated directly into the actuator that is already part of the fluid system coupling interface. This merging of heating function with the existing actuator structure eliminates the need for separate heating bags or heating regions, achieving compact integration while maintaining effective heating capability.
Solution Approach 2:
The actuator serves dual functions: it moves the flexible film to control liquid flow and simultaneously acts as a heating element through its integrated heating element. This multi-functionality reduces the overall number of components needed in the system while achieving both fluid control and temperature regulation.
2Temperature
If large quantities of dialysate are heated using traditional heating methods, then the liquid reaches body temperature, but the heating process becomes inefficient and requires more space
Solution Approach 1:
Instead of heating large quantities of dialysate throughout the entire fluid system, the heating element is positioned locally at the actuator region where a small volume of liquid is present. This localized heating approach significantly improves heating efficiency and reduces the time and energy required to achieve body temperature.
Solution Approach 2:
The actuator heats the liquid in advance within the actuator region before the liquid is delivered to the patient. This preliminary heating action ensures that the liquid is already at the required temperature when needed, improving overall system efficiency and response time.
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 solution enhances the heating capability of the dialysis machine, allowing for more efficient and compact heating of dialysate to body temperature, improving patient comfort and treatment efficiency.
Implementation Method 1
a heating element (301) is provided for the heating of the actuator (51) so that the liquid can be heated via the actuator in the actuator region of the fluid system
Data Source
AI summary
The present invention relates to a dialysis machine having a coupling surface for the coupling of a fluid system, in particular for the coupling of a cassette, and having an actuator arranged on the coupling surface for the movement of an actuator region of the fluid system. In accordance with the invention, a heating element is now provided for the heating of the actuator, with the liquid being able to be heated via the actuator in the actuator region of the fluid system.