Valveless Hyperpolarized Solution Draw Mechanism
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing systems for drawing and delivering hyperpolarized solutions in MRI procedures are complex, costly, and often diminish the polarization of the substances due to moving mechanical parts, leading to short lifetimes of the hyperpolarized state and inefficient delivery.
Innovation Solution
A system comprising a filter, vacuum source, and actuator with one-way check valves and a flow exchanger that applies a vacuum to facilitate the movement of the solution, reducing mechanical complexity and enhancing the stability of the hyperpolarized state, allowing for rapid preparation and delivery.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If traditional systems with moving mechanical parts (solenoids) are used to draw and deliver hyperpolarized solutions, then the solution can be delivered to the patient, but the polarization of the hyperpolarized substance is diminished and the system becomes complex and costly
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces traditional moving mechanical parts (solenoids) with a valveless draw mechanism that uses a reservoir, tubing, and syringe system. The syringe plunger is advanced to create negative pressure that draws the hyperpolarized solution through the tubing and filters without requiring electromagnetic actuators, thereby maintaining polarization stability while reducing mechanical complexity
Solution Approach 2:
The patent extracts and removes the solenoid valves from the system entirely, replacing them with a passive valveless draw mechanism. This elimination of problematic mechanical components that generate electromagnetic fields directly addresses the contradiction by removing the source of polarization degradation while simplifying the overall system architecture
2Ease of operation
If traditional systems with numerous moving mechanical parts are used, then the solution can be delivered, but the system becomes costly to manufacture and maintain
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs disposable filters (e.g., 0.2-micron sterilizing filters) and single-use tubing components that eliminate the need for expensive, maintenance-intensive mechanical valves. These inexpensive disposable components perform the necessary function of filtering and directing the solution while being discarded after single use, dramatically reducing manufacturing and maintenance costs
Solution Approach 2:
By replacing expensive mechanical solenoid valves with a simple syringe-based negative pressure system and disposable filters, the patent achieves solution delivery capability through a much less expensive system that requires no complex maintenance, directly addressing the cost contradiction
3Productivity
If traditional systems with long draw times are used, then the solution can be delivered to the patient, but the portion of the hyperpolarized substance lifetime spent inside the patient is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The valveless draw mechanism enables continuous, uninterrupted flow of the hyperpolarized solution from the reservoir through the filters and tubing directly into the syringe and then to the patient. By eliminating the need for mechanical valve actuation cycles, the system maintains continuous flow, minimizing draw time and maximizing the portion of hyperpolarized substance lifetime that is actually delivered to and utilized by the patient
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 solution enables rapid preparation and delivery of hyperpolarized substances, extending their usable lifetime within a patient and improving quality control by ensuring the solution injected is representative of the intended dose, while reducing mechanical complexity and costs.
Implementation Method 1
The vacuum source is in fluid communication with the first output port and operative to apply a vacuum to the flow path
Implementation Method 2
The actuator is operative to facilitate movement of the solution along the flow path
Data Source
AI summary
A system for drawing a solution is provided. The system includes a filter, a vacuum source, and an actuator. The filter has an input port, a first output port, a second output port, and a flow path defined in part by the input port and the second output port. The vacuum source is in fluid communication with the first output port and operative to apply a vacuum to the flow path. The actuator is operative to facilitate movement of the solution along the flow path.