Infusate Container with Filter Partition and Bi-Channel Connector

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Solution Overview

Problem

There is a need for infusate containers that ensure proper solutes are added to the dialysate in specific concentrations during dialysis, preventing particulate matter from entering the dialysis system, and facilitating the connection of all necessary components to the dialysate flow path, while being cost-effective and easily manufactured.

Innovation Solution

The infusate containers feature a filter partitioning them into top and bottom compartments, a draw tube for fluid extraction, and bi-channel connectors for connection to a dialysis system, allowing for the dissolution of solid infusates into solutions of known concentration, with visual indicators for correct substance identification and easy connection to the dialysis system.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Reliability

If a filter is used to separate compartments and prevent particulate matter, then reliability is improved, but device complexity increases

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveprevention of particulate matter entering dialysis systemVSAvoidcontainer structure with filter and compartments

Core Design Contradiction:

ReliabilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The container is divided into two compartments by a filter: a first compartment for receiving solid infusate and a second compartment for collecting dissolved solution. The filter acts as a partition that separates the dissolution process from the output, allowing particulate matter to be contained while permitting filtered solution to pass through. This segmentation resolves the contradiction by integrating the filtering function into the compartment structure itself.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The filter serves as an intermediary element between the solid infusate in the first compartment and the dialysis system. It mediates the transition from solid to solution form while blocking particulate matter, thus improving reliability without requiring separate filtering components downstream in the dialysis system.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

2Ease of operation

If bi-channel connectors are used for fluid delivery and withdrawal, then ease of operation is improved, but device complexity increases

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveconnection to dialysis systemVSAvoidconnector structure

Core Design Contradiction:

Ease of operationVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The bi-channel connector combines two separate fluid pathways (fluid delivery and fluid withdrawal) into a single integrated component. The first channel delivers fluid from the second compartment to the dialysis system, while the second channel withdraws fluid from the first compartment for dissolution. This merging of functions into one connector improves ease of operation by simplifying the connection process while maintaining the necessary dual functionality.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #5Merging (Combining)

Solution Approach 2:

The connector serves multiple functions: it acts as both a delivery mechanism for the dissolved infusate solution and a withdrawal mechanism for fresh dialysis fluid. This multi-functionality eliminates the need for separate connectors or manual switching, thereby improving ease of operation without proportionally increasing complexity.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

3Ease of operation

If visual indicators are added for substance identification, then ease of operation is improved, but manufacturing cost increases

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvesubstance identificationVSAvoidproduction cost

Core Design Contradiction:

Ease of operationVSEase of manufacture

Solution Approach 1:

Visual indicators such as colored bands or color-coded components are incorporated into the container to indicate the type of infusate substance contained within. These visual cues enable rapid identification of the correct substance during operation, improving ease of use. The indicators are applied as simple surface markings or colored components that can be added during standard manufacturing processes, thereby minimizing the impact on production costs.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #32Color changes

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 ensures accurate and controlled addition of solutes to the dialysate, preventing particulate entry and ensuring correct component connection, thereby enhancing the efficiency and safety of dialysis treatments while maintaining low production costs.

Implementation Method 1

a filter connected to the container body; the filter separating the container body into the top portion and a bottom portion

Methodology Applied

Scientific EffectFiltration: Filter (physical)

Implementation Method 2

the draw tube downwardly extending through the filter into the bottom portion

Methodology Applied

Scientific EffectFluid flow through filter: Filter (physical)

Data Source

PatentUS11452803B2Infusate containers

Publication Date: 2022.09.27 MOZARC MEDICAL US LLC

AI summary

The invention relates to infusate containers and related systems and methods for housing infusates that can be added to a fluid flow path for use during dialysis. The infusate containers can include a filter partitioning the containers into a first and second compartment, a draw tube for drawing up fluid from a bottom portion, a cap, a fluid connector for delivery and withdrawal of fluid from the two compartments, and a fluid connector for connection to a dialysis system.