Automated Thromboelastometry System with Independent Actuation Units
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current methods for assessing blood clot formation and stability in point-of-care settings are often cumbersome, time-consuming, and do not effectively evaluate the functional parameters of blood coagulation under physiological conditions, particularly in surgical environments where rapid and reliable results are critical.
Innovation Solution
An automated thromboelastometry system with a reusable console and single-use components that automatically performs blood coagulation analysis, using independent actuation units, CCD evaluation, and vibration sensing to provide qualitative and quantitative results on clotting time, stability, and lysis, enabling prompt and reliable assessment of blood characteristics.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If automated thromboelastometry system with independent actuation units is used, then measurement precision and reliability are improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The system divides the measurement function into multiple independent actuation units (first, second, third actuation units), each capable of independent operation. This segmentation allows parallel measurements to be performed simultaneously, improving precision through replication while managing complexity through modular design.
Solution Approach 2:
The system incorporates a feedback mechanism where measurement results from multiple actuation units are compared and evaluated. The control unit receives data from all actuation units, performs consistency checks, and uses this feedback to ensure measurement accuracy and reliability before finalizing results.
2Productivity
If multiple independent measurement modules are implemented, then productivity and speed of analysis are improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The system implements multiple independent measurement modules (first, second, third actuation units with各自的 probes and cups), enabling parallel processing of blood samples. This segmentation allows simultaneous coagulation analysis of multiple samples or multiple parameters, significantly improving productivity.
Solution Approach 2:
Multiple independent measurement modules are integrated into a single unified system with a common control unit, sample handling mechanism, and result evaluation system. This merging allows the system to function as a cohesive whole while maintaining the parallel processing capabilities of individual modules.
3Measurement precision
If CCD evaluation and calibration methods are applied, then measurement precision is improved, but ease of operation decreases
Solution Approach 1:
The system performs CCD evaluation and calibration as preliminary actions during system setup or before measurements. Calibration standards are pre-programmed into the control unit, and the CCD is automatically evaluated and calibrated without requiring manual intervention during actual measurements, maintaining ease of operation.
Solution Approach 2:
The CCD evaluation and calibration process is automated through the control unit, which independently manages the calibration standards, performs the evaluation, and adjusts the CCD parameters without user intervention. The system serves itself by automatically ensuring optimal CCD performance.
4Reliability
If vibration sensing and error indication are implemented, then reliability of measurements is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The system incorporates vibration sensors that continuously monitor the measurement environment and provide feedback to the control unit. When vibration exceeds predetermined thresholds, the system generates error indications and can automatically pause or repeat measurements, ensuring reliability through real-time environmental monitoring.
Solution Approach 2:
The vibration monitoring system performs preliminary detection of adverse conditions before they affect measurements. By detecting vibrations in advance and issuing warnings, the system can prevent compromised measurements rather than detecting errors after they occur.
Data Source
AI summary
Some embodiments of a blood coagulation testing system include an analyzer console device and a single-use components configured to releasably install into the console device. In some embodiments, the blood coagulation testing system can operate as an automated thromboelastometry system that is particularly useful, for example, at a point-of-care site. The systems can be configured with features such as individual actuation systems for each measurement module, and firmware for initial and ongoing calibration and error detection.