Filtrate Bag Disposal via Vacuum Transfer and Pressurized Emptying
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Solution Overview
Problem
The manual handling and disposal of filtrate bags in hemofiltration processes are laborious due to the larger volume of filtrate compared to dialysate, requiring frequent and cumbersome emptying and replacement.
Innovation Solution
A self-supporting container with a lockable inlet valve, check valve, and pressure connection for connecting to a vacuum or air source, allowing for easy emptying of filtrate bags without removing them from the hemofiltration device, using negative pressure to transfer filtrate into the container and enabling refilling without disposal.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If manual disposal of filtrate bags is performed, then the filtrate can be disposed of, but the handling becomes laborious and time-consuming
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies pneumatic principles by using a vacuum source to create negative pressure that automatically draws filtrate from the filtrate bag through a connecting tube into the container, eliminating the need for manual emptying. The system uses pressure differentials (vacuum for filling, compressed air for emptying) to automate the entire filtrate transfer process, significantly reducing labor and time requirements.
Solution Approach 2:
The system enables self-service operation where the filtrate bag can be emptied automatically by connecting it to the vacuum source through the inlet valve. The check valve and pressure connection work together to allow the filtrate to transfer autonomously without human intervention, and the bag can be refilled multiple times without removal from the device.
2Productivity
If the filtrate bag is emptied manually by removal, then the filtrate can be disposed of, but the filtrate bag must be removed from the device and cannot be refilled
Solution Approach 1:
The system segments the emptying function from the filtrate bag itself by introducing a separate container that receives filtrate through a connecting tube. The inlet valve with check valve creates a one-way flow path that allows the bag to remain connected to the hemofiltration device while enabling independent emptying into the external container, permitting repeated refilling.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces an intermediary container and connecting tube system between the filtrate bag and the disposal point. This intermediary setup allows the filtrate to be transferred without removing the bag from the device, and the check valve acts as a mediator to ensure unidirectional flow while maintaining the bag's connection to the hemofiltration system for continuous use.
3Adaptability or versatility
If a self-supporting container with discharge device is used, then the container can be moved and emptied, but it cannot directly receive filtrate from the bag without manual handling
Solution Approach 1:
The pressure connection serves multiple functions: it can be connected to a vacuum source for automatic filling of the container from the filtrate bag, or to a compressed air source for emptying the container through the discharge device. This multi-functional pressure connection adapts the container system to handle both filling and emptying operations automatically, maintaining mobility while eliminating manual handling requirements.
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
Facilitates easier handling and reduces labor by allowing continuous use of filtrate bags, as they can be emptied and refilled without manual removal, leveraging existing hospital infrastructure for pressurization and vacuum connections.
Implementation Method 1
a check valve (9) with a hose connection (10) for a connecting hose (11) connectable to the filtrate bag (1)
Implementation Method 2
a pressure connection (12) connectable to a vacuum source and wherein the container (3) can be emptied by applying negative pressure to the container (3)
Implementation Method 3
Via a compressed air connection in the upper container area, the container can be pressurized, which forces the dialysate out of the container through the discharge line
Data Source
AI summary
A device for disposing of filtrate collected in a filtrate bag (1) from hemofiltration is described, comprising a self-supporting container (3) mounted on support wheels (4) and featuring a discharge device for the filled filtrate. To create advantageous handling conditions, it is proposed that the container (3) include in its upper region a lockable inlet valve (7) equipped with a check valve (9) and a hose connection (10) for a connecting hose (11) to the filtrate bag (1), as well as a pressure connection (12) to a vacuum source.