Peritoneal Dialysis Fluid Control Using Weight Sensors and Auto Valves
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Solution Overview
Problem
Continuous ambulatory peritoneal dialysis systems are prone to errors due to patient-controlled manual cycles, leading to potential fluid imbalance and difficulty in monitoring by medical staff, which can result in heart-related complications.
Innovation Solution
A continuous ambulatory peritoneal dialysis device with integrated weight sensors and automated valves, controlled by a processor, that automatically manages fluid intake and drainage based on predetermined weight thresholds, coupled with a mobile device for data storage and communication, ensuring precise filtration data collection and remote monitoring.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If manual patient-controlled cycles are used, then ease of operation is improved, but reliability deteriorates due to errors in fluid management
Solution Approach 1:
The system automatically monitors fluid intake and drainage using weight sensors, eliminating the need for manual patient tracking. The processor autonomously detects when drainage is complete and when refilling should occur, making the system self-regulating without requiring patient intervention for monitoring
Solution Approach 2:
Weight sensors continuously provide feedback on the actual weight of dialysis fluid bags. This feedback loop allows the processor to compare actual weights against target weights and automatically initiate corrective actions (drainage or refilling) to maintain fluid balance accuracy
2Reliability
If automated valves and processors are added, then reliability of fluid management is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
Manual mechanical monitoring and control by the patient is replaced with electronic weight sensors and a processor. The electronic system automatically detects fluid levels and controls valves, substituting complex electronic components for simple manual operations
Solution Approach 2:
The processor performs multiple functions: it receives weight sensor signals, determines when drainage is complete, controls the drainage valve, and initiates refilling cycles. This multi-functionality consolidates control logic into a single component rather than requiring separate mechanisms for each function
3Measurement precision
If weight sensors and automated control are implemented, then measurement precision of fluid amounts is improved, but ease of operation deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The system automatically uses weight sensor data to control the entire dialysis cycle without requiring patient intervention. The processor autonomously determines when drainage ends and when refilling should start, making the precise measurement system self-operating
4Reliability
If remote monitoring capability is added, then reliability of medical oversight is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
A mobile device acts as an intermediary between the dialysis system and remote servers. The mobile device collects data from weight sensors and transmits it to servers for physician access, providing remote monitoring capability through a standardized communication interface
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 system ensures safe and reliable fluid management, reduces errors, and facilitates remote monitoring, enhancing patient safety and medical staff oversight.
Implementation Method 1
a first weight sensor (4a) in the area where the dialysis fluid bag (7a) is hanged upon which measures the weight of the bag (7a) and generates a signal proportional thereto
Implementation Method 2
a processor (2c) which generates a control signal to close the dialysis fluid valve (2a) when the signal received from first weight sensor (4a) is equal or less than a predetermined value, and to close the dialysate valve (2b) when the signal received from second weight sensor (4b) is equal or greater than a predetermined value
Implementation Method 3
Diffusion and osmosis exchanges take place between the solution and the bloodstream across the peritoneal membrane
Implementation Method 4
Diffusion and osmosis exchanges take place between the solution and the bloodstream across the peritoneal membrane
Implementation Method 5
new sterile fluid is reloaded to the abdomen by means of gravity for about 6- 8 minutes
Data Source
Figure 1~2
Figure 3~4
AI summary
The present invention relates to a gravimetric type continuous ambulatory peritoneal dialysis device. The invention particularly relates to a continuous ambulatory peritoneal dialysis device and a system thereof which are provided with automatization by means of controlled valves and storing the dialysate data in a remote database, allowing the medical doctor to monitor the treatment process and observe commitment of the patient.