Disposable Fluid-Line Components for Automated APD Cap Removal
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Solution Overview
Problem
The complexity and size of past machines and associated disposables for Automated Peritoneal Dialysis (APD) modalities have dampened widespread patient acceptance, making them less attractive as an alternative to manual peritoneal dialysis methods.
Innovation Solution
Development of disposable fluid handling cassettes with integrated pump chambers, flowpaths, and membranes for automated peritoneal dialysis systems, featuring spacer elements and automated line connection mechanisms to minimize human interaction and reduce contamination risk.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Extent of automation
If conventional peritoneal dialysis machines and disposables are used, then automated dialysis function is provided, but device complexity and size increase, reducing patient acceptance
Solution Approach 1:
The system is divided into separate reusable components (cycler machine, carriage, cap stripper) and disposable components (cassettes with spikes, caps). This segmentation allows the complex automated functions to be concentrated in the reusable cycler while the disposable portions remain simple and easy to replace, resolving the contradiction between automation extent and device complexity.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent employs disposable cassettes, spikes, and caps that are discarded after single use. These inexpensive disposable components eliminate the need for complex cleaning, sterilization, and maintenance procedures, thereby reducing the overall system complexity and improving patient acceptance while maintaining automated functionality.
2Ease of operation
If manual connection of fluid lines is performed, then patient acceptance may be maintained, but contamination risk increases
Solution Approach 1:
The system enables self-service through automated cap stripping and connection. The cap stripper automatically removes caps from spikes and connects fluid lines without requiring manual handling, thereby eliminating contamination risks associated with manual connection while maintaining ease of operation through simple cassette insertion and removal.
Solution Approach 2:
The disposable cassette acts as an intermediary between the reusable cycler and the patient's peritoneal cavity. It provides a sterile barrier that prevents contamination while allowing automated fluid management, thus protecting the patient without requiring manual intervention.
3Object-affected harmful factors
If automated cap stripping and line connection is implemented, then contamination risk is reduced, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The complex cap stripping and connection functions are extracted from the disposable cassette and placed in the reusable cycler machine. This allows the disposable portion to remain simple and low-complexity while the automated contamination-prevention functions are housed in the permanent, serviceable cycler, resolving the contradiction between contamination protection and device complexity.
Data Source
AI summary
Components for a medical infusion fluid handling system, such as an APD system, in which one or more lines (such as solution lines), spikes or other connection ports may be automatically capped and/or de-capped. This feature may provide advantages, such as a reduced likelihood of contamination since no human interaction is required to de-cap and connect the lines, spikes or other connections. For example, a fluid handling cassette may include one or more caps that cover a corresponding spike and include a raised and/or recessed feature to assist in removal of the cap from the cassette. A solution line cap may include a hole and recess, groove or other feature to engage with a spike cap and enable removal of the cap.