Infusate Holder with Segmented Compartments for Dialysis
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current dialysis systems face challenges in ensuring proper addition and control of solutes like sodium chloride, sodium bicarbonate, and cations during dialysis, requiring multiple containers to be cleaned and disinfected each time, and there is a need for systems that ensure correct connection of components to maintain solute concentrations and reduce container usage.
Innovation Solution
An infusate holder with multiple compartments aligned with fluid connectors on a dialysis machine, allowing for the secure holding and controlled delivery of sodium chloride, sodium bicarbonate, and cation infusates, featuring a base with upwardly extending exterior walls, interior compartments, and a lid forming an air-tight seal, with optional filters and draw tubes for efficient solute management.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If multiple separate containers are used for holding different infusates, then each infusate can be stored separately, but the number of containers requiring cleaning and disinfection increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines multiple separate infusate containers into a single integrated infusate holder with multiple compartments. Each compartment stores a different infusate (sodium chloride, sodium bicarbonate, cations), but all are housed within one unified structure that connects to the dialysis system through a single interface, reducing the number of separate containers from three or more to one.
Solution Approach 2:
The infusate holder is segmented into multiple distinct compartments, each dedicated to storing a specific type of infusate. This segmentation maintains the separation and identification of different infusates while consolidating them into a single holder unit, preventing cross-contamination and ensuring proper connection to the dialysis system.
2Ease of operation
If manual connection of infusates to dialysis system is used, then flexibility is maintained, but incorrect connection of components may occur
Solution Approach 1:
The infusate holder employs asymmetric design features including a non-circular base shape and specifically positioned fluid connectors that must align with corresponding asymmetric features on the dialysis system. This asymmetric configuration provides mechanical guidance and prevents incorrect connection orientations, ensuring that the infusate holder can only be connected in the proper orientation.
Solution Approach 2:
The infusate holder incorporates self-aligning features such as a tapered bottom portion and positioned fluid connectors that automatically guide the holder into correct alignment with the dialysis system during insertion. The design provides mechanical feedback and physical constraints that enable the system to self-correct minor misalignments and ensure proper connection without requiring manual verification.
3Measurement precision
If infusate holder with aligned compartments is used, then correct solute addition is ensured, but the device structure becomes more complex
Solution Approach 1:
The infusate holder features localized structural variations including an inwardly tapered bottom portion in specific compartments to facilitate complete drainage of certain infusates, and strategically positioned fluid connectors in each compartment. These localized quality adjustments optimize the function of each compartment for its specific infusate type while maintaining overall structural simplicity through the use of a unified base and wall structure.
Data Source
AI summary
The invention relates to an infusate holder for use in dialysis. The infusate holder can include one or more interior compartments for holding infusate containers or infusates. The interior compartments are aligned to cooperate with fluid connectors of a dialysis system, ensuring that the proper infusates are added to the dialysis system at a proper location.