Single-Scale Weight-Dependent Filling for Peritoneal Dialysis Hose Systems
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing systems for peritoneal dialysis hose systems with only one scale lack automated, weight-dependent control for valve opening and proper bag clamp recognition, leading to inefficiencies and potential errors in flushing and filling processes, which can compromise patient safety and comfort.
Innovation Solution
A method and apparatus for automatic, weight-dependent flushing of a hose system in peritoneal dialysis, using a single scale to control valve opening durations based on the weight of solution bags, with features to detect and correct weight changes, verify valve openings, and alert operators to malfunctions or improper setups.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Device complexity
If a single scale is used for weight-dependent filling control, then device complexity is reduced, but measurement precision and reliability are compromised due to inability to simultaneously measure solution bag weight and detect valve opening
Solution Approach 1:
The system dynamically switches the measurement function of the single scale between two modes: (1) measuring solution bag weight during filling phase, and (2) detecting valve opening through weight change detection during drainage phase. The control unit adapts the scale's purpose based on process stage, allowing one device to perform multiple temporal functions.
Solution Approach 2:
The scale performs preliminary weight measurement of the solution bag before filling begins, establishing a baseline weight. This preliminary measurement enables subsequent automatic calculation of required opening duration and provides reference for detecting actual weight changes during the process.
2Productivity
If automated valve control based on solution bag weight is implemented, then productivity and operating comfort are improved, but device complexity increases due to additional control mechanisms
Solution Approach 1:
The control unit continuously monitors weight changes on the scale and uses this feedback to automatically adjust valve opening duration. The system calculates the difference between initial solution bag weight and current weight, then determines valve opening time based on this real-time feedback, enabling automated control without complex mechanical mechanisms.
Solution Approach 2:
The system uses the existing scale infrastructure to automatically determine filling parameters and control valve operation. The control unit self-regulates the filling process by interpreting weight data and autonomously setting valve timing, eliminating the need for external complex control devices or manual intervention.
3Loss of time
If the scale is used to detect both solution bag weight and valve opening status, then loss of time is reduced, but measurement precision deteriorates due to signal interference
Solution Approach 1:
The system operates in distinct periodic phases: (1) filling phase where scale measures solution bag weight, and (2) drainage/verification phase where scale detects valve opening through weight changes. This temporal separation of measurement functions eliminates signal interference while maintaining rapid overall response time.
Solution Approach 2:
The control unit records the initial weight of the solution bag before filling begins. This preliminary measurement serves as a reference for both calculating filling parameters and later verifying valve opening, enabling multi-purpose use of the scale without requiring simultaneous measurements.
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
Ensures accurate and efficient filling of the hose system with dialysis fluid, reduces the risk of air introduction and overfilling, enhances patient safety, and simplifies the flushing process by automating valve operations and reducing operator effort.
Implementation Method 1
having only one scale, wherein the hose system comprises at least three line sections which are configured for connecting the hose system to at least one drainage bag, to at least one solution bag and to a patient
Data Source
AI summary
A method and an apparatus are provided for the automatic, weight-dependent filling of a hose system, in particular for a gravimetric cycler for peritoneal dialysis, having only one scale. The hose system includes at least three line sections for connection to at least one drainage bag, to at least one solution bag and to a patient. The method includes opening at least one bag valve and at least drainage: valve, and deriving a first opening duration of the valves from a weight of the solution bag measured by means of the scale and from at least one characteristic.