External Heat Exchanger for Flexible Dialysis Configuration

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing dialysis systems face inefficiencies due to integrated heat exchangers that cannot meet diverse application scenarios, limiting flexibility and efficiency.

Innovation Solution

A system comprising a dialysis machine and a separate, externally connected heat exchanger that allows for flexible configuration, enabling independent connection and disconnection without modifying the machine, and includes features like temperature-controlled valves and maintenance fluid supply for enhanced efficiency.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Adaptability or versatility

If the heat exchanger is integrated into the dialysis machine, then the system structure is simplified and space is saved, but the adaptability to diverse application scenarios is reduced

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveadaptability to diverse application scenariosVSAvoidsystem structure
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The system is divided into separate functional modules: the dialysis machine and the heat exchanger are independent devices that can be used separately or combined. This segmentation allows each component to be optimized independently and enables flexible configuration based on different application scenarios, resolving the contradiction between adaptability and structural simplicity.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The heat exchanger is designed as a universal component that can be integrated with multiple different dialysis machines or used independently. The standardized connection interfaces and modular design enable the heat exchanger to serve multiple functions across different application scenarios, thereby improving adaptability without requiring complex integrated designs for each specific case.

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

2Ease of operation

If the heat exchanger is integrated into the dialysis machine, then the system is compact, but the flexibility in configuration and maintenance is reduced

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveflexibility in configuration and maintenanceVSAvoidsystem size
Core Design Contradiction:
Ease of operationVSVolume of stationary object

Solution Approach 1:

By separating the heat exchanger from the dialysis machine into independent modules, the system allows flexible configuration where components can be easily added, removed, or replaced based on operational needs. This segmentation also simplifies maintenance activities, as the heat exchanger can be serviced independently without disassembling the entire dialysis machine, thereby improving ease of operation.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The patent introduces external connection means (such as connection pieces or adapters) that serve as intermediaries between the dialysis machine and the heat exchanger. These intermediaries enable flexible coupling and decoupling of the components, allowing the system to be configured adaptively while maintaining a compact footprint when components are integrated, and enabling easy maintenance when separated.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

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

The solution provides high system efficiency and flexibility, allowing for optimal operation across various scenarios, reduced heat loss, and improved maintenance capabilities.

Implementation Method 1

a heat exchanger for heat exchange between dialysate flowing out of the device for extracorporeal blood treatment and permeate to be supplied to the device for extracorporeal blood treatment

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectHeat exchange: Heat Exchanger

Data Source

PatentEP4623946A1System comprising a device for extracorporeal blood treatment and a heat exchanger
Publication Date: 2025.10.01 B BRAUN AVITUM
  • EP4623946A1 patent drawingFigure 1~2
  • EP4623946A1 patent drawingFigure 3~4
  • EP4623946A1 patent drawing

AI summary

The invention relates to a system comprising a device for extracorporeal blood treatment and a heat exchanger for heat exchange between dialysate flowing from the device for extracorporeal blood treatment and permeate to be supplied to the device for extracorporeal blood treatment, wherein the device for extracorporeal blood treatment and the heat exchanger are designed as separate devices.