Dialysis Machine Hydraulic Connector Security System
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Current dialysis machines face the risk of connector confusion during handling, which can lead to contamination of the inflow coupling by pathogenic organisms from consumed dialyzate, compromising hygiene and safety.
Innovation Solution
The dialysis machine incorporates connection sensors, releasable latch mechanisms, cover sensors, actuators, and a control unit to ensure correct parking of filter couplings by recognizing connections and disconnections, using warning signals and mechanical covers to prevent incorrect placement.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If color codes are used to indicate connector matching, then ease of operation is improved, but reliability deteriorates due to risk of confusion and contamination
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces the mechanical/color-based identification system with an optical scanning system. The control unit automatically scans connectors and parking positions using light, detects their identities, and provides acoustic/visual signals to guide correct placement, eliminating reliance on manual color code interpretation
Solution Approach 2:
The system performs automatic self-identification of connectors and parking positions through the scanning mechanism. The control unit autonomously determines which connector belongs to which parking position and guides the user through signals, reducing human error in the matching process
2Ease of operation
If manual handling of connectors is allowed, then ease of operation is improved, but reliability deteriorates due to incorrect placement
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements a feedback system where the scanning mechanism continuously monitors connector positions and the control unit provides real-time acoustic and visual signals to guide correct placement. The system gives feedback signals when connectors are correctly or incorrectly positioned, enabling users to self-correct without compromising reliability
Data Source
AI summary
A dialysis machine has two hydraulic connectors at the dialysate side to which a respective connection line having a filter coupling is connected for connection to a dialyzer, with the hydraulic connectors being an inflow connector for feeding fresh dialysis liquid to the dialyzer and a backflow connector for draining consumed dialysate from the dialyzer. The dialyzer machine also has two parking positions associated with the respective hydraulic connectors for storing the filter couplings when not in operation, wherein the filter couplings of both hydraulic connectors are equipped with a connection sensor which recognizes a connecting of the filter coupling to a dialyzer and/or that both parking positions are provided with separate covers.