Universal Dialysis Machine Manifold for Mode Switching
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current dialysis technologies lack the flexibility to seamlessly transition between peritoneal and hemodialysis modes using a common machine, limiting patient options and increasing healthcare costs due to the need for separate equipment and procedures.
Innovation Solution
A modular dialysis system and method that allows for the interchangeability between peritoneal dialysis, hemodialysis, hemofiltration, and hemodiafiltration modes, utilizing a manifold with multiple flow paths and a dialysate management system that includes weighing and heating functions, enabling efficient dialysate circulation and regeneration.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If separate machines are used for peritoneal dialysis and hemodialysis, then each machine can be optimized for its specific function, but the overall system complexity increases and healthcare costs rise
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies universality by designing a single dialysis machine that can perform both peritoneal dialysis and hemodialysis functions. The machine includes a manifold with multiple flow paths that can be configured for different dialysis modes, allowing one device to replace what would traditionally require separate specialized machines for each dialysis type.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent applies segmentation by dividing the machine's fluid distribution system into separate modular flow paths within the manifold. Each flow path can be independently controlled and configured for specific dialysis modes, allowing the system to be segmented into functional modules that can be activated or deactivated based on treatment requirements.
2Device complexity
If a single machine performs multiple dialysis modes, then healthcare costs and device complexity are reduced, but the difficulty of operating and configuring the machine increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies dynamics by incorporating flow directors within the manifold that can be dynamically repositioned or reconfigured to direct fluid flow along different paths. This dynamic capability allows the single machine to adapt its internal flow configuration based on the selected dialysis mode, simplifying operation by automatically routing fluids appropriately rather than requiring manual reconfiguration of complex external tubing.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent applies the intermediary principle by using flow directors as mediating elements within the manifold. These flow directors act as intermediaries between the fluid sources and the different dialysis circuit configurations, simplifying the operator's task by providing a centralized control mechanism rather than requiring direct manipulation of multiple separate circuit connections.
3Ease of operation
If peritoneal dialysis is used, then patient comfort and flexibility are improved, but the peritoneal membrane may degenerate over time requiring switching to hemodialysis
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies universality by enabling the dialysis machine to seamlessly switch between peritoneal dialysis and hemodialysis modes. This capability allows patients to begin with peritoneal dialysis for its comfort and flexibility benefits, and later transition to hemodialysis if the peritoneal membrane degrades, all using the same machine without requiring acquisition of separate equipment.
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 flexible and cost-effective dialysis treatment by allowing a single machine to perform multiple dialysis modes, improving patient care and reducing healthcare costs through efficient dialysate management and regeneration.
Implementation Method 1
The dialysate can be heated in the dialysate reservoir
Implementation Method 2
The dialysate can be weighed in the dialysate reservoir
Implementation Method 3
removing blood toxins via osmotic transfer through the peritoneal membrane
Implementation Method 4
An exchange of solutes between the dialysate and the blood is achieved by diffusion
Data Source
AI summary
Methods, systems, and kits are provided for performing hemodialysis, hemodiafiltration, and peritoneal dialysis on a portable machine suitable for both clinical and home use. Peritoneal dialysate can be flowed into and out of the peritoneal cavity, and can also be regenerated within the system, without the need for introducing fresh dialysate. Common hardware and software can be utilized for both peritoneal dialysis and other forms of dialysis such as hemodialysis, hemofiltration, and hemodiafiltration, allowing for facile transition between different dialysis modes using the same dialysis machine.