Sorbent Device Preservation in Dialysis Systems
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Solution Overview
Problem
The sorbent cartridge in dialysis systems loses its ability to regenerate dialysate effectively after a treatment, leading to reduced efficiency and increased costs due to frequent replacements.
Innovation Solution
A method and system that includes circulating a fluid through the sorbent device and a filter after a dialysis treatment to prevent solidification and remove contaminants, thereby extending the life of the sorbent cartridge.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If the sorbent cartridge is used continuously without fluid circulation between treatments, then the system is simpler to operate, but the sorbent cartridge deteriorates and loses regenerative capability
Solution Approach 1:
The system performs preliminary fluid circulation through the sorbent cartridge between dialysis treatments to prevent solidification and maintain regenerative capability. This preliminary maintenance action ensures the sorbent remains functional for the next treatment without requiring complex intervention during treatment operations.
Solution Approach 2:
The sorbent cartridge is kept in a state of continuous fluid circulation between treatments to maintain its regenerative properties. This continuous action prevents deterioration while the system is not in active treatment mode, bridging the gap between discrete treatment sessions.
2Reliability
If the sorbent cartridge is replaced frequently to maintain effectiveness, then the regenerative capability is maintained, but the operational cost and time increase
Solution Approach 1:
The system performs preliminary fluid circulation through the sorbent cartridge between dialysis treatments to prevent solidification and maintain regenerative capability. This preliminary maintenance action ensures the sorbent remains functional for the next treatment without requiring complex intervention during treatment operations.
Solution Approach 2:
The sorbent cartridge is kept in a state of continuous fluid circulation between treatments to maintain its regenerative properties. This continuous action prevents deterioration while the system is not in active treatment mode, bridging the gap between discrete treatment sessions.
3Duration of action of stationary object
If fluid is circulated through the sorbent cartridge between treatments to prevent solidification, then the sorbent cartridge life is extended, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The pump and fluid circulation system serve multiple functions: they circulate fluid through the sorbent cartridge for preservation between treatments, and also facilitate the dialysis treatment process itself. This multi-functionality reduces the need for separate dedicated preservation equipment.
Solution Approach 2:
The system uses its existing pump and fluid circulation infrastructure to perform the preservation function. The pump that circulates dialysate during treatment is also used to circulate fluid through the sorbent cartridge between treatments, making the system self-sufficient for preservation without external equipment.
4Duration of action of stationary object
If fluid is circulated through the sorbent cartridge between treatments to prevent solidification, then the sorbent cartridge life is extended, but the energy consumption increases
Solution Approach 1:
The system uses its existing pump and fluid circulation infrastructure to perform the preservation function. The pump that circulates dialysate during treatment is also used to circulate fluid through the sorbent cartridge between treatments, making the system self-sufficient for preservation without external equipment.
Solution Approach 2:
Fluid circulation through the sorbent cartridge is performed periodically between dialysis treatments rather than continuously. This periodic operation reduces energy consumption compared to continuous circulation while still maintaining the sorbent's regenerative capability throughout the interval.
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 prevents damage to the sorbent cartridge, maintains its regenerative capabilities, and extends its usage life for multiple dialysis treatment cycles, reducing costs and effort associated with frequent replacements.
Implementation Method 1
circulating the fluid through a filter coupled to an outlet of the sorbent device to remove contaminants from the fluid
Implementation Method 2
a sorbent cartridge for regenerating (e.g., recycling) dialysate
Data Source
AI summary
A dialysis system includes a sorbent device positioned along a fluid circuit for regenerating dialysate during a dialysis treatment carried out at the dialysis system, a filter coupled to an outlet of the sorbent device such the any fluid flowing through the sorbent device must first flow through the filter before reentering the fluid circuit, and a pump positioned downstream of the filter along the fluid circuit. The pump is operable between first and second dialysis treatments carried out at the dialysis system to circulate a fluid through the sorbent device to prevent matter within the sorbent device from solidifying and circulate the fluid through the filter to remove contaminants from the fluid.