Variable Speed Blood Pumping System for Thrombus Prevention
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing blood pumping systems face challenges in preventing thrombus formation and inadequate flow conditions, which can lead to emboli and other ischemic events due to areas of low flow within the fluid drive module.
Innovation Solution
A blood flow system with a control module that operates a fluid drive module at varying speeds to modify flow vectors, reducing thrombus formation by altering flow rates and directions, and incorporating sensors and algorithms to adjust speeds based on flow conditions to prevent stagnant areas and enhance atrial volume loading.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If the fluid drive module operates at a constant speed, then the flow rate is stable, but thrombus formation occurs in low-flow areas
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies dynamics by varying the rotational speed of the fluid drive module over time. The control module adjusts the speed between a first speed (generating first speed flow vectors) and a second speed (modifying the flow vectors), creating dynamic flow patterns that prevent thrombus formation while maintaining overall flow stability.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements periodic action through cyclic speed variations. The fluid drive module alternates between operating at the first speed for a first time period and the second speed for a second time period. This periodic speed modulation creates alternating flow patterns that disrupt stagnant areas without compromising the average flow rate.
2Productivity
If the fluid drive module operates at high speed continuously, then flow rate is maintained, but energy consumption increases
Solution Approach 1:
The periodic speed variation allows the system to maintain adequate flow rates over time while reducing energy consumption during the second time period when operating at the second speed. The alternating pattern ensures flow requirements are met while utilizing lower energy states periodically.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent changes the operational parameter (rotational speed) of the fluid drive module between two distinct values. By switching between the first speed and second speed, the system optimizes the balance between flow rate maintenance and energy consumption, achieving flow requirements with variable energy input.
3Reliability
If the fluid drive module operates at variable speeds, then thrombus formation is reduced, but flow control complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The control module implements dynamic speed adjustment by operating the fluid drive module at a first speed for a first time period and a second speed for a second time period. This dynamic operation reduces thrombus formation through variable flow patterns while the control module manages the complexity through programmed speed transitions.
Solution Approach 2:
The system incorporates sensors that detect flow conditions and automatically trigger speed adjustments. The sensor-based feedback mechanism allows the system to self-regulate flow patterns, reducing thrombus formation while the automated control minimizes the operational complexity for the user.
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
The system effectively reduces thrombus formation and improves blood flow dynamics, minimizing the risk of emboli and enhancing long-term efficacy by dynamically adjusting flow patterns in response to changing conditions.
Implementation Method 1
the first speed generates a first speed flow pattern comprising multiple first speed flow vectors and further operates the fluid drive module at a second speed for a second time period, where the second speed is constructed and arranged to modify one or more of the multiple first speed flow vectors
Data Source
AI summary
A fluid flow system for a patient is disclosed. A fluid drive module includes a fluid drive element, a housing, and a chamber located between the housing and the fluid drive element. A controller or control module modifies the speed of the fluid drive element during use, such as to prevent thrombus or otherwise improve flow conditions. Methods of alternating fluid flow are also provided.