Parallel Sorbent Modules for In-Line Dialysate Recharging
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Solution Overview
Problem
Sorbent dialysis systems face high costs due to expensive materials in cartridges, generate waste, and require significant water for traditional dialysis, while existing systems are not portable and lack efficient recharging and recycling options for sorbent materials.
Innovation Solution
A modular sorbent cartridge design with parallel modules allows for the separation and recharging of sorbent materials, enabling the reuse of expensive materials and disposal of cheaper ones, with integrated valves for fluid flow management and recharging without disrupting the system's operation.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If traditional dialysis is used, then dialysis function is provided, but large amount of water is required and portability is lost
Solution Approach 1:
The dialysis system is divided into separate functional modules: a dialysis module with semi-permeable membrane and a sorbent module with sorbent material. This segmentation allows the sorbent to be selectively regenerated and reused, dramatically reducing water consumption while maintaining portability.
Solution Approach 2:
Instead of discarding spent dialysate as in traditional dialysis, the system recovers toxins by passing spent dialysate through the sorbent module. The sorbent is then regenerated in place, enabling continuous reuse and eliminating the need for large water volumes.
2Quantity of substance
If sorbent materials are reused to reduce water usage, then portability is improved, but recharging complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The system uses dynamic flow control with valves to switch between different operational modes: dialysis mode where spent dialysate flows through the sorbent, and regeneration mode where regenerant solution flows through the sorbent. This dynamic control enables single-cartridge operation without complex external recharging equipment.
Solution Approach 2:
The sorbent module serves multiple functions: toxin adsorption during dialysis, in-place regeneration using regenerant solution, and reuse in subsequent dialysis cycles. This multi-functionality within a single integrated cartridge reduces overall system complexity.
3Reliability
If expensive sorbent materials are used for effective toxin removal, then dialysis effectiveness is improved, but operational cost increases
Solution Approach 1:
The system recovers the sorbent's adsorption capacity by passing regenerant solution through the sorbent module after use. This regeneration process restores the sorbent's toxin-removing ability, allowing multiple reuse cycles and dramatically reducing the cost per dialysis session.
Solution Approach 2:
The sorbent module maintains continuous useful action through in-place regeneration. Instead of being discarded after single use, the sorbent is regenerated and reused across multiple dialysis sessions, extending its service life and reducing operational costs while maintaining effective toxin removal.
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 modular design reduces waste, lowers operational costs, and enhances portability by allowing for efficient recycling and recharging of sorbent materials within the cartridge, minimizing water usage and maintaining system functionality.
Implementation Method 1
The sorbent cartridge contains layers of sorbent material which selectively remove specific toxins, or break down toxins, in the dialysate
Implementation Method 2
Dialysis involves the movement of blood through a dialyzer that has a semi-permeable membrane. Simultaneously, dialysate is circulated through the dialyzer on an opposite side of the semi-permeable membrane. Toxins present in the blood stream of the patient pass from the blood through the membrane into the dialysate
Data Source
AI summary
Parallel modules for in-line recharging of sorbent materials using alternate duty cycles for a sorbent cartridge. The sorbent cartridge can have two or more modules contained therein having connectors connecting each of the modules. One or more of the modules can be reusable and the sorbent materials therein can be recharged.