One-Piece Thrust Bearing for Umbilicus Rotation
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing blood processing systems using the 'one-omega, two-omega' operating principle require precision components and are costly, particularly due to the need for ball bearings in thrust bearings, and alternative solutions like cemented thrust bearings introduce disadvantages.
Innovation Solution
A one-piece thrust bearing assembly with an inner lumen engaging the umbilicus and an outer surface engaging the gimbal assembly, featuring traction features to prevent relative rotation and facilitate rotation relative to the gimbal, replaces traditional ball bearings and cemented solutions.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If traditional ball bearings are used in thrust bearings, then rotation support is reliable, but device complexity and cost increase due to precision components
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs a disposable fluid processing assembly containing the thrust bearing, which is discarded after single use. This eliminates the need for precision ball bearings and complex adjustment mechanisms, as the entire bearing assembly is replaced rather than maintained. The disposable nature allows use of simpler, less precise components that would be unacceptable in permanent installations.
Solution Approach 2:
The thrust bearing is integrated directly into the fluid processing assembly rather than being a separate, reusable component. The bearing support, thrust bearing, and fluid processing elements are combined into a single disposable unit, eliminating the need for separate bearing housings and precision components that would otherwise be required.
2Device complexity
If cemented thrust bearings are used, then device complexity is reduced, but manufacturing precision and reliability deteriorate
Solution Approach 1:
The thrust bearing is molded as an integral part of the fluid processing assembly, with the bearing support and bearing elements formed as a single piece. This integration eliminates alignment issues between separate cemented components, as the bearing geometry is precisely defined by the molding process rather than assembly of multiple parts.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent changes the manufacturing method from mechanical assembly (cementing) to integral molding. This parameter change allows the bearing surfaces to be precisely formed during the molding process itself, achieving high manufacturing precision without requiring post-assembly alignment or cement bonding.
3Ease of operation
If precision components are used in thrust bearings, then rotation performance is improved, but cost increases
Solution Approach 1:
The entire thrust bearing assembly is incorporated into a disposable fluid processing unit that is discarded after single use. This eliminates the need for expensive precision components, as the bearing surfaces are formed by standard molding processes rather than precision machining, and the entire assembly is replaced rather than maintained.
Solution Approach 2:
The lubrication and rotation support functions are built into the disposable bearing assembly itself through its molded geometry and material properties, rather than requiring separate precision components or external maintenance. The bearing surfaces are self-lubricating or pre-lubricated as part of the molding process.
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 solution reduces the need for precision components and costs while maintaining the sterile integrity of the fluid processing system, allowing for efficient and cost-effective rotation of the umbilicus during centrifugation.
Implementation Method 1
A one-piece thrust bearing is secured to the umbilicus... The bearing includes... an outer surface adapted to engage at least a portion of the gimbal assembly for rotation relative to the gimbal assembly
Implementation Method 2
The centrifuge assembly engages and spins a portion of the fluid processing assembly... during a collection procedure... the other end rotates at a two-omega speed with the centrifuge chamber
Data Source
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AI summary
A one-piece bearing (78) is provided for use with a fluid processing assembly of the type having an umbilicus (24), a bearing support (70), a gimbal (80) received within the bearing support, and a liner (82) at least partially received within the gimbal. The bearing is secured to a midsection of the umbilicus and adapted to be at least partially received within the liner. An inner surface of the bearing engages the umbilicus while an outer surface of the bearing engages at least a portion of the liner for rotation relative to the liner.