Optical Simulation Model for Blood Leak Detector Testing

Resolve Bottlenecks,
Find Innovative Solutions
Generate Solutions

Solution Overview

Problem

Current methods for testing the functionality of blood leak detectors in blood treatment machines are complex, resource-intensive, and limited to specific test conditions, requiring actual solutions and hose lines, which is inefficient and not easily automated.

Innovation Solution

A simulation model that mimics various test conditions, such as filtrate or saline solution, within a hose line using a single component, allowing for automated monitoring of the blood leak detector by simulating light absorption behaviors with adjustable red and green light sources and a light-directing element, enabling the recreation of different fluid states without actual solutions or hose lines.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Reliability

If manual testing with actual solutions and hose lines is used, then the blood leak detector can be tested under realistic conditions, but the testing process becomes complex, resource-intensive, and time-consuming

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvetesting accuracyVSAvoidtesting complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent creates a simulation model that copies the optical properties of actual blood, plasma, and saline solutions using light-absorbing materials. Instead of using real biological fluids and hose lines, the model reproduces their light absorption characteristics at specific wavelengths (530nm for plasma, 600nm for saline), enabling simplified yet accurate testing of the blood leak detector without the complexity of manual testing with actual solutions.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #26Copying

Solution Approach 2:

The patent replaces the mechanical/physical system of pumping actual fluids through hose lines with an optical system. Light sources emit specific wavelengths through the simulation model to the photodetector, substituting the mechanical fluid flow system with an optical measurement system that achieves the same testing objective more efficiently.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #28Mechanics substitution (Replace mechanical system)

2Adaptability or versatility

If manual testing methods are used, then various test conditions can be evaluated, but the process is slow and requires relatively large resources

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvetest condition coverageVSAvoidtesting speed
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSProductivity

Solution Approach 1:

The simulation model achieves multi-functionality by using different light-absorbing materials with specific absorption coefficients at different wavelengths to represent multiple test conditions (blood, plasma, saline). A single simulation model structure can evaluate various test conditions by changing the light-absorbing material or wavelength, eliminating the need for multiple separate testing setups and enabling faster, more versatile testing.

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

Solution Approach 2:

The patent utilizes parameter changes in light absorption characteristics to differentiate test conditions. By selecting materials with specific absorption coefficients at specific wavelengths (530nm for plasma simulation, 600nm for saline simulation), the system can rapidly switch between test conditions by changing optical parameters rather than physical fluid conditions, significantly increasing testing speed and productivity.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #35Parameter changes

3Reliability

If actual solutions and hose lines are used for testing, then realistic test scenarios can be created, but the method is not easily automated

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvetest realismVSAvoidautomation capability
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSExtent of automation

Solution Approach 1:

The patent replaces the mechanical fluid handling system with an optical system that is inherently more suitable for automation. Light sources can be controlled by electronic circuits to emit specific wavelengths on demand, and photodetectors can automatically measure and process the transmitted light. This optical approach eliminates the need for manual fluid preparation, pumping, and handling, enabling easy automation while maintaining test reliability through accurate optical simulation of blood and fluid properties.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #28Mechanics substitution (Replace mechanical system)

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 approach allows for a faster, more resource-saving, and automated testing method, enabling the simulation of various test conditions and improving patient safety by ensuring the blood leak detector's functionality can be checked efficiently and accurately.

Implementation Method 1

transmits light of a defined wavelength through the tubing and thus through the fluid flowing in it

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectLight transmission: Light

Implementation Method 2

light detector, which is usually a phototransistor

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectPhotodetection: Photoelectric Effect

Implementation Method 3

the absorption curve of deoxygenated and oxygenated hemoglobin drops sharply in the red wavelength range and is thus much lower than in the green wavelength range between 500 nm and 600 nm

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectLight absorption: Absorption (EM radiation)

Implementation Method 4

at least one light-guiding element which is arranged in the hollow cylindrical section and is designed to deflect light introduced into the hollow cylindrical section

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectLight refraction/deflection: Refraction

Data Source

PatentEP3921618B1Simulation model for simulating a tube line for a blood leakage detector, and method for testing a blood leakage detector
Publication Date: 2024.03.27 FRESENIUS MEDICAL CARE DEUTSCHLAND GMBH
  • EP3921618B1 patent drawingFigure 1~2
  • EP3921618B1 patent drawingFigure 3
  • EP3921618B1 patent drawingFigure 4

AI summary

The invention relates to a simulation model for simulating a tube line, comprising at least one hollow cylindrical section which is designed to be arranged in a tube receiving area of a blood leakage detector of a blood treatment machine, wherein each axial end of the hollow cylindrical section is equipped with a respective receiving area for a respective light source, by means of which light can be introduced into the hollow cylindrical section, and at least one light deflecting element, which is arranged in the hollow cylindrical section and is designed to deflect light introduced into the hollow cylindrical section such that the light exits the hollow cylindrical section through at least one opening in the radial exterior of the hollow cylindrical section. The invention also relates to a method for testing the function of a blood leakage detector using a simulation model according to the invention.