Infrared Reflectance Sensor for Hematocrit Prediction in Blood Processing
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current blood processing methods require prior knowledge of blood characteristics, specifically hematocrit, to establish process parameters, which can be impractical and inefficient.
Innovation Solution
A method and system using an infrared reflectance sensor and correlation equation to predict hematocrit in blood processing, where blood is flowed through a processing kit with a sensing field, and the natural log of reflectance measurements is input into a correlation equation to output the predicted hematocrit, eliminating the need for prior knowledge of blood characteristics.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If prior knowledge of blood characteristics (hematocrit) is required to establish process parameters, then process parameters can be accurately established, but the blood processing procedure becomes inefficient and requires manual intervention
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces manual hematocrit measurement methods (mechanical/physical procedures requiring operator intervention) with an optical detection system using infrared light. The sensor optically detects hematocrit by measuring light absorption properties of blood, automatically providing accurate measurements without manual intervention, thus resolving the contradiction between measurement accuracy and processing efficiency
Solution Approach 2:
The blood sample itself provides the measurement information through its optical properties. The infrared sensor detects hematocrit directly from the blood's light absorption characteristics without requiring external input or manual preparation, enabling the system to self-determine process parameters and eliminate the need for prior knowledge entry
2Reliability
If manual input of blood characteristics is required, then accurate process parameters can be established, but the complexity of operation increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces manual data entry operations with an automated optical sensing system. The infrared sensor automatically detects and measures hematocrit from the blood sample, eliminating the need for operators to manually input blood characteristics while maintaining reliable and accurate process parameter establishment
Solution Approach 2:
The system implements real-time feedback by continuously monitoring blood optical properties as they flow through the sensor. The detected hematocrit information is immediately fed back to the control system, which automatically adjusts process parameters based on the measured values, ensuring reliability without requiring operator intervention
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 accurate and efficient prediction of hematocrit without prior knowledge, allowing for automated blood separation and processing with preprogrammed correlation equations, improving the efficiency of blood processing procedures.
Implementation Method 1
an infrared reflectance sensor that receives a segment of the tubing... an infrared reflectance measurement of the segment of the tubing
Implementation Method 2
a sensing field defined by an infrared light source and an infrared reflectance sensor
Data Source
AI summary
A separation device is disclosed along with systems and methods employing the device in blood processing procedures. In one embodiment, a spinning membrane separator is provided. Automated systems and methods are disclosed for separating a unit of previously-collected whole blood into selected blood components, such as concentrated red cells and plasma, including prediction of the hematocrit of the whole blood using a light source and an optical sensor.