Leukocyte Detection in Dialysis Fluid via Optical Turbidity

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Solution Overview

Problem

There is a need for a device that can detect changes in liquids, such as turbidity caused by leukocytes or luminescence, in peritoneal dialysis bags or tubing after medical use, which existing technologies have not adequately addressed, particularly for real-time monitoring in medical and non-medical applications.

Innovation Solution

A device comprising a base body, light source, detector, and display unit that irradiates a transparent component containing the flushing solution, detects non-absorbed or luminescent light, and analyzes the measurements to indicate leukocyte presence or other changes, including bacteria, cells, or particles, using sensors for conductivity, viscosity, and coloration, with options for visual, acoustic, or vibrational feedback.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Measurement precision

If a device is designed to detect turbidity and luminescence in flushing solutions, then measurement precision is improved, but device complexity increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvedetection of leukocytes and luminescenceVSAvoidapparatus structure
Core Design Contradiction:
Measurement precisionVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The device is divided into functionally independent modules: a light source unit, a detector device, a holding unit for the transparent component, and an evaluation/display device. This segmentation allows each module to perform its specific function optimally while simplifying the overall design and maintenance of the complex system.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The device is designed to perform multiple detection functions using a unified platform: it can measure both turbidity (light absorption) and luminescence simultaneously, and can detect various impurities including bacteria, cells, and particles. This multi-functionality reduces the need for multiple separate devices.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

2Reliability

If real-time monitoring is implemented in medical settings, then reliability is improved, but ease of operation decreases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvereal-time detection capabilityVSAvoiddevice usability
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSEase of operation

Solution Approach 1:

The device automatically performs measurements and evaluations without requiring manual intervention. The evaluation device autonomously processes the detector signals, determines leukocyte presence and luminescence, and displays results. This automation maintains high reliability for real-time monitoring while keeping operation simple for medical personnel.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #25Self-service

Solution Approach 2:

The device provides immediate visual feedback through the display device when leukocytes or luminescence are detected. This instant feedback mechanism enhances reliability by enabling real-time decision-making while maintaining ease of operation through intuitive indication without complex user interactions.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #23Feedback

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

Enables real-time detection and monitoring of leukocytes and other impurities in peritoneal dialysis solutions, providing immediate feedback on changes in liquid properties, suitable for various applications including in-patient, out-patient, and home care settings, ensuring safe and effective use of medical fluids.

Implementation Method 1

the quantity of light not absorbed or the quantity of light occurring due to luminescence is detected using the detector device

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectLight absorption: Absorption (EM radiation)

Implementation Method 2

the quantity of light not absorbed or the quantity of light occurring due to luminescence is detected using the detector device

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectLuminescence: Luminescence

Data Source

PatentUS10983124B2Device for detecting leukocytes in an aqueous flushing solution
Publication Date: 2021.04.20 BECKER FRANZ FERDINAND
  • US10983124B2 patent drawing
  • US10983124B2 patent drawing

AI summary

The device for detecting turbidity in an aqueous flushing solution is characterized by a base body, at least one light source, a detector device at which the at least one light source is aimed, a holding unit for a component, containing the flushing solution, between the at least one light source and the detector device, and a display device for the findings of turbidity detected.