Portable Gas Exchange Device Merging Pumping and Mixing
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing gas exchange devices for treating biological liquids are bulky, heavy, and limited to stationary use, restricting patient mobility and requiring auxiliary equipment for operation, especially for patients with chronic pulmonary diseases.
Innovation Solution
A portable gas exchange device with a compact housing integrating a pumping system and mixing chamber, equipped with a mobile power supply and selectively permeable walls for gas exchange, allowing for autarkic operation and easy transport by a patient.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If conventional gas exchange devices are used, then gas exchange function is provided, but device size and weight increase, limiting patient mobility
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines the pumping system and gas exchange chamber into a single integrated housing unit, eliminating the need for separate equipment and auxiliary components. This merging of functions reduces overall device weight and size while maintaining full gas exchange capability, enabling portable use by patients.
Solution Approach 2:
The device is designed to perform multiple functions within a single unit: the pumping system handles fluid circulation, the housing provides structural support and containment, and the mixing chamber enables gas exchange. This multi-functionality eliminates the need for separate stationary equipment, improving patient mobility without sacrificing therapeutic effectiveness.
2Adaptability or versatility
If conventional gas exchange devices are used, then gas exchange function is provided, but device complexity increases, requiring auxiliary equipment
Solution Approach 1:
The patent integrates the pumping system, housing, and mixing chamber into a single self-contained unit. All necessary components for gas exchange are combined within the housing, eliminating the need for auxiliary equipment and reducing operational complexity. The device requires no external power supply or additional support equipment, making it truly portable.
3Duration of action of moving object
If conventional gas exchange devices are used, then gas exchange function is provided, but space requirements increase, limiting long-term wearability
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs a nested structure where the pumping system is housed within the housing, and the mixing chamber is integrated within the same housing structure. This nesting of components maximizes space utilization, minimizing the overall device volume while maintaining all necessary functions for long-term wearability.
Solution Approach 2:
By merging the pumping system and mixing chamber into a single housing unit, the device achieves compact dimensions suitable for long-term wearability. The integrated design eliminates wasted space and reduces overall device volume, enabling patients to wear the device continuously without restriction.
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 continuous and efficient gas exchange between a biological fluid and ambient air, reducing the need for stationary power and equipment, enhancing patient mobility and quality of life by providing a lightweight, compact solution for long-term gas exchange.
Implementation Method 1
a wall which separates the first gas exchange section and the second gas exchange section and is designed to be permeable at least to the first gas
Implementation Method 2
a pumping system which is designed at least for transport of a first fluid with a low concentration of a first gas into the first gas exchange section
Implementation Method 3
Due to the difference in concentration, oxygen or carbon dioxide may diffuse in respectively opposite directions through a semi-permeable membrane
Data Source
AI summary
The invention relates to a portable gas exchange device for gas exchange of at least one gas from a liquid to a fluid. The gas exchange device comprises a first gas exchange section, for passage of a fluid, and a second gas exchange section for passage of a liquid enriched with a first gas, wherein the fluid has a lower concentration of the first gas than the liquid. A pumping system for transporting a first fluid with a lower concentration of a first gas in the first gas exchange section, in particular in a first fluid circuit, is also configured in the gas exchange device. In a mixing chamber configured in the gas exchange device, the first gas exchange section and the second gas exchange section adjoin one another via a wall designed such that at least the first gas can pass through. A housing serves as the common receptacle at least of the pumping system and the mixing chamber.