Dual-Membrane Cassette Module for Fast, Clean Fluid Switching
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing cassette modules for fluid flow control in blood treatment and infusion systems rely on pneumatic actuation, which can lead to contamination if the membrane tears, and have limitations in valve switching speed and precision.
Innovation Solution
Incorporating a plunger disk or actuation element between two membranes for direct pressure transmission, and using a multilayer membrane structure with laser light-absorbing and transmitting layers for reliable bonding and actuation, allowing for precise control of fluid flow without contamination.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Device complexity
If a single membrane is used for pneumatic actuation, then the structure is simple, but contamination risk increases if the membrane tears
Solution Approach 1:
The single membrane is divided into two separate membranes (first membrane and second membrane) that work together in the actuation system. This segmentation allows the treatment fluid to be isolated from the actuator medium by two barriers, reducing contamination risk while maintaining structural functionality
Solution Approach 2:
The dual membrane structure serves as a preventive measure against contamination. If one membrane tears, the second membrane still provides protection, cushioning against the harmful effect of contamination before it can occur
2Speed
If pneumatic actuation is used with a single membrane, then the actuation speed is moderate, but valve switching precision and speed are limited
Solution Approach 1:
A plunger element is introduced as an intermediary between the first and second membranes. This plunger transmits pressure more efficiently and directly to the membrane, enabling faster and more precise valve switching while maintaining the benefits of pneumatic actuation
Solution Approach 2:
The system uses pneumatic pressure applied to the first membrane, which transmits force through the plunger to the second membrane, creating a mechanical advantage that enhances both switching speed and precision without requiring direct pneumatic connection to the valve
3Ease of operation
If pneumatic actuation is applied directly to the membrane, then the actuation is simple, but pressure transmission reliability is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The plunger element acts as a mediator between the pneumatic actuation and the second membrane, ensuring reliable pressure transmission. It converts the pneumatic pressure into direct mechanical force on the membrane, improving reliability while keeping the operation simple
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
This configuration ensures reliable and precise control of fluid flow, prevents contamination by separating the actuator medium from the treatment fluid, and enables faster valve switching, enhancing the reliability and efficiency of fluid management in cassette modules.
Implementation Method 1
at least one layer absorbing the laser light, wherein the outer layer absorbing the laser light forms the connection region of the membrane to at least one further component of the cassette module
Implementation Method 2
A reliable force transmission from one membrane to the other membrane takes place by means of the named actuation element which can be designed, for example, as a plunger disk, plate, etc., which transmits the pressure which is exerted onto a membrane
Data Source
AI summary
The present invention relates to a cassette module for controlling fluid flows, in particular for use in blood treatment systems or in infusion systems, wherein the cassette module comprises at least one base body having means for the flow guidance of at least one fluid flow and at least two membranes which are at least sectionally directly or indirectly in contact with the base body, wherein at least one actuation element is arranged between the membranes by means of which the means for the flow guidance can be acted on.