U.S. patent application number 14/965794 was filed with the patent office on 2016-04-07 for fluid trap and method of separating fluids.
The applicant listed for this patent is David E. CASSIDY, Eric E. MAY, Garrett Austin SHEFFER. Invention is credited to David E. CASSIDY, Eric E. MAY, Garrett Austin SHEFFER.
Application Number | 20160095986 14/965794 |
Document ID | / |
Family ID | 47294603 |
Filed Date | 2016-04-07 |
United States Patent
Application |
20160095986 |
Kind Code |
A1 |
CASSIDY; David E. ; et
al. |
April 7, 2016 |
FLUID TRAP AND METHOD OF SEPARATING FLUIDS
Abstract
A fluid trap apparatus includes an inlet configured to receive a
flow of composite fluid into the apparatus. The composite fluid
contains at least a first fluid and a second fluid. An outer wall
defines an interior chamber. A flow diffuser is interposed within
the interior chamber. The flow diffuser directs the flow of the
composite fluid to circulate through the interior chamber. The
first fluid and the second fluid separate as the composite fluid
circulates through the interior chamber. A method of separating a
first fluid from a second fluid includes introducing a flow of
composite fluid into a separate chamber. A pressure gradient is
created within the separation chamber. A flow diffuser is
interposed in a flow path between an inlet and an outlet. The flow
diffuser directs the flow of the composite fluid within the
separation chamber. The first fluid and the second fluid are
separated.
Inventors: |
CASSIDY; David E.;
(Chelmsford, MA) ; MAY; Eric E.; (Norfolk, MA)
; SHEFFER; Garrett Austin; (Hoboken, NJ) |
|
Applicant: |
Name |
City |
State |
Country |
Type |
CASSIDY; David E.
MAY; Eric E.
SHEFFER; Garrett Austin |
Chelmsford
Norfolk
Hoboken |
MA
MA
NJ |
US
US
US |
|
|
Family ID: |
47294603 |
Appl. No.: |
14/965794 |
Filed: |
December 10, 2015 |
Related U.S. Patent Documents
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Application
Number |
Filing Date |
Patent Number |
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14105993 |
Dec 13, 2013 |
9233198 |
|
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14965794 |
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|
13272907 |
Oct 13, 2011 |
8632624 |
|
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14105993 |
|
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Current U.S.
Class: |
604/122 |
Current CPC
Class: |
A61M 1/0281 20130101;
A61M 5/38 20130101; A61M 5/385 20130101; A61M 5/40 20130101; A61M
2202/0413 20130101; A61M 2205/36 20130101; A61M 1/3638 20140204;
A61M 2206/14 20130101; A61M 5/16822 20130101; A61M 5/36 20130101;
A61M 1/3627 20130101 |
International
Class: |
A61M 5/36 20060101
A61M005/36; A61M 5/40 20060101 A61M005/40; A61M 5/168 20060101
A61M005/168; A61M 1/02 20060101 A61M001/02; A61M 5/38 20060101
A61M005/38 |
Claims
1. A fluid trap apparatus comprising: an outer wall defining an
interior chamber; an inlet extending from the outer wall into the
interior chamber, the inlet configured to receive a flow of a
composite fluid into the apparatus, the composite fluid having at
least a first fluid and a second fluid; a flow diffuser interposed
centrally within the interior chamber and adjacent the inlet, the
flow diffuser configured to change a direction of a flow of the
composite fluid to separate the first fluid and the second fluid as
the composite fluid circulates through the interior chamber; a
first outlet integrated with the outer wall, the first outlet
configured to expel a flow of the separated first fluid out of the
fluid trap apparatus; and a second outlet integrated with the outer
wall, the second outlet configured to expel a flow of the separated
second fluid out of the fluid trap apparatus.
2. The fluid trap apparatus of claim 1, further comprising an
outlet seal configurable to at least partially occlude the first
outlet.
3. The fluid trap apparatus of claim 2, wherein the second outlet
comprises an actuator, and wherein the fluid trap apparatus further
comprises a shaft connected to the outlet seal and the actuator,
actuating the actuator moves the shaft and the outlet seal to at
least partially occlude the first outlet.
4. The fluid trap apparatus of claim 3, further comprising a
biasing element connected to the shaft.
5. The fluid trap apparatus of claim 3, wherein the shaft is
connected to the flow diffuser, wherein actuating the actuator
moves the flow diffuser.
6. The fluid trap apparatus of claim 1, further comprising: a
valve; and a post comprising a release passage, wherein the second
outlet comprises a movable actuator configured to engage the valve
with the post to provide a passageway for the separated second
fluid.
7. The fluid trap apparatus of claim 6, wherein the post is
connected to the flow diffuser.
8. The fluid trap apparatus of claim 1, further comprising a
rotatably actuated valve comprising a rotatable ring within a
recessed track of the outer wall.
9. The fluid trap apparatus of claim 8, wherein the rotatable ring
comprises an outlet opening, and wherein rotating the rotatable
ring to at least partially align the outlet opening with the second
outlet permits expelling the flow of the separated second fluid out
of the fluid trap apparatus.
10. The fluid trap apparatus of claim 1, further comprising a third
outlet integrated with the outer wall, the third outlet configured
to expel the flow of the separated second fluid out of the fluid
trap apparatus.
11. The fluid trap apparatus of claim 10, wherein the third outlet
is disposed opposite the second outlet.
12. The fluid trap apparatus of claim 1, wherein the flow diffuser
comprises a fan blade.
13. A fluid trap apparatus comprising: an outer wall defining an
interior chamber; an inlet extending from the outer wall into the
interior chamber, the inlet configured to receive a flow of a
composite fluid into the apparatus, the composite fluid having at
least a first fluid and a second fluid; a flow diffuser interposed
within the interior chamber and adjacent the inlet, the flow
diffuser configured to change a direction of a flow of the
composite fluid to separate the first fluid and the second fluid as
the composite fluid circulates through the interior chamber; a
first outlet integrated with the outer wall, the first outlet
configured to expel a flow of the separated first fluid out of the
apparatus; and an outlet seal configurable to at least partially
occlude the first outlet.
14. The fluid trap apparatus of claim 13, further comprising a stem
connected to the outlet seal.
15. The fluid trap apparatus of claim 14, further comprising a
float connected to the stem, the float configured to be suspended
at an interface between the separated first fluid and the separated
second fluid such that the stem moves and at least partially
occludes the first outlet based on a level of accumulation of the
separated second fluid within the interior chamber.
16. The fluid trap apparatus of claim 14, further comprising: a
second outlet integrated with the outer wall, the second outlet
configured to expel a flow of the separated second fluid out of the
fluid trap apparatus, the second outlet comprising an actuator,
wherein the stem is connected to the outlet seal and the actuator
and actuating the actuator moves the outlet seal to at least
partially occlude the first outlet.
17. The fluid trap apparatus of claim 16, wherein the stem is
connected to the flow diffuser, wherein actuating the actuator
moves the flow diffuser.
18. The fluid trap apparatus of claim 17, further comprising a
biasing element connected to the stem.
19. A fluid trap apparatus comprising: an outer wall defining an
interior chamber; an inlet extending from the outer wall into the
interior chamber, the inlet configured to receive a flow of a
composite fluid into the apparatus, the composite fluid having at
least a first fluid and a second fluid; a flow diffuser interposed
centrally within the interior chamber and adjacent the inlet, the
flow diffuser configured to change a direction of a flow of the
composite fluid to separate the first fluid and the second fluid as
the composite fluid circulates through the interior chamber; a
first outlet integrated with the outer wall, the first outlet
configured to expel a flow of the separated first fluid out of the
fluid trap apparatus; a second outlet integrated with the outer
wall, the second outlet configured to expel a flow of the separated
second fluid out of the fluid trap apparatus; and a third outlet
integrated with the outer wall, the third outlet configured to
expel the flow of the separated second fluid out of the fluid trap
apparatus.
20. The fluid trap apparatus of claim 19, further comprising a
rotatably actuated valve comprising a rotatable ring within a
recessed track of the outer wall, wherein the rotatable ring
comprises an outlet opening, and wherein rotating the rotatable
ring to at least partially align the outlet opening with the second
outlet or the third outlet permits expelling the flow of the
separated second fluid out of the fluid trap apparatus.
Description
CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS
[0001] This application is continuation of U.S. application Ser.
No. 14/105,993, filed Dec. 13, 2013, entitled "Fluid Trap and
Method of Separating Fluids,", which is a continuation of U.S.
application Ser. No. 13/272,907, filed Oct. 13, 2011, entitled
"Fluid Trap and Method of Separating Fluids," the contents of which
are incorporated herein by reference and for all purposes.
BACKGROUND
[0002] The present disclosure is related to the field of medical
fluid transport. More specifically, the present disclosure is
related to a fluid trap for use in the delivery or removal of fluid
from a patient.
[0003] When a patient is receiving extracorporeal fluid into the
blood stream, exemplarily intravenous (IV) solution treatment of a
transfusion of blood, there is a risk of introducing gas bubbles
into the patient's vascular system. Such gas bubbles, if allowed to
accumulate, can result in a gas embolism.
[0004] Additionally, many medical fluid procedures warm the blood
or fluid before it is delivered to the patient as this improves
patient comfort and the body's acceptance of the introduced fluid.
The process of heating a fluid decreases the solubility of any
gases dissolved in that fluid and therefore the warming of the
blood or fluid can result in out gassing, typically of nitrogen or
oxygen gas in the context of medical fluids. Therefore, it is
desirable to trap and/or remove gas from a fluid before it is
delivered to a patient.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION
[0005] An embodiment of a fluid trap apparatus includes an inlet
configured to receive a flow of a composite fluid into the
apparatus. The composite fluid contains at least a first fluid and
a second fluid. A first outlet is configured to expel flow of the
first fluid out of the apparatus. An outer wall is physically
connected to the inlet and the outer wall defines an interior
chamber. A flow diffuser is interposed within the interior chamber.
The flow diffuser directs the flow of the composite fluid to
circulate through the interior chamber from the inlet to the first
outlet. The first fluid and the second fluid separate as the
composite fluid circulates through the interior chamber.
[0006] An embodiment of a fluid trap apparatus includes an inlet
configured to receive a flow of a composite fluid into the
apparatus. The composite fluid includes at least a first fluid of a
first density and a second fluid of a second density. A first
outlet is configured to expel a flow of the first fluid out of the
apparatus. An outer wall physically connects the inlet to the first
outlet and the outer wall defines an interior chamber. A flow
diffuser is interposed within the interior chamber in a direct flow
path between the inlet and the first outlet. The flow diffuser
directs the flow of composite fluid to circulate within the
interior chamber between the inlet and the first outlet. The
circulation of the composite fluid within the interior chamber
separates the first fluid from the second fluid. A second outlet is
disposed through the outer wall. The second outlet is configured to
selectively remove the second fluid from within the interior
chamber.
[0007] An embodiment of a method of separating a first fluid from a
second fluid of a composite fluid includes introducing a flow of a
composite fluid into a separation chamber through an inlet. A
pressure gradient is created within the separation chamber between
the inlet and a first outlet. A flow diffuser is interposed in a
flow path between the inlet and the first outlet. The flow diffuser
directs the flow of the composite fluid within the separation
chamber. The first fluid and the second fluid are separated. The
first fluid is removed from the separation chamber through the
first outlet. A second outlet is selectively operated between an
open configuration and a closed configuration. The second outlet is
in the open configuration. The second fluid is removed from the
separation chamber.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
[0008] FIG. 1 is an environmental view that depicts an embodiment
of a fluid trap.
[0009] FIG. 2 depicts an embodiment of a passive fluid trap.
[0010] FIG. 3 depicts an embodiment of a fluid trap with a manually
operated outlet.
[0011] FIGS. 4A and 4B depict the operation of an alternative
embodiment of a fluid trap.
[0012] FIGS. 5A and 5B depict an alternative embodiment of an
outlet arrangement for a fluid trap.
[0013] FIGS. 6A and 6B depict an embodiment of a fluid trap with an
outlet seal.
[0014] FIG. 7 is a flow chart that depicts an embodiment of a
method of separating a first fluid from a second fluid.
DETAILED DISCLOSURE
[0015] FIG. 1 is an environmental view of an embodiment of a fluid
trap 10 in use for the delivery of an intravenous (IV) solution 12
stored in a bag or pouch 14 to a patient 16 through a catheter 18.
As will be described in further detail herein, the fluid trap 10
receives the IV solution 12 through an inlet 20. FIG. 1 further
depicts an embodiment that includes a heater 15, which exemplarily
may be the enFlow fluid warming system available from Vital Signs,
Inc. The heater 15 exemplarily includes a warming unit 17 that
secures to the catheter 18 at a position between the bag 14 and the
fluid trap 10, exemplarily at a location proximal the patient 16 to
minimize the distance traveled by the heated fluid. The warming
unit 17 is connected to a control unit 19 which operates the
warming unit 17 to a targeted warming temperature.
[0016] The IV solution 12 is a composite fluid, which is
exemplarily, but not limited to, saline, medication, or blood. The
IV solution 12 is a composite fluid as it is a mixture of at least
two different fluids of two different densities. In many
embodiments, one of the fluids is air, or another gas such as
oxygen or nitrogen; however, the fluid trap 10, as disclosed
herein, is not intended to be limited for use in separating air
from a fluid, and may also be used in embodiments to separate one
liquid from another, provided the two liquids have different
densities.
[0017] When the composite fluid comprises air, or another gas, the
air can be entrained in the fluid in a variety of forms. Air
emboli, described above, are large bubbles of air in the fluid.
Other air bubbles can be formed as a result of the heater 15, or
another mechanical device through which the fluid travels before
delivery to the patient. Micro bubbles are distinctly defined
bubbles, but are smaller than one millimeter is diameter, and are
sometimes used in contrast agent or drug delivery mechanism.
Finally, air (or other gas) can be dissolved in the fluid. Changes
in the physical conditions of the composite fluid (e.g.
temperature, pressure, flow rate) can separate or out gas the air
or other gas from the composite fluid.
[0018] The IV solution 12 enters the fluid trap 10 through the
inlet 20. A diffuser 22 is supported within an open interior 24 of
the fluid trap 10 by one or more supports 26 that extend inwardly
from an outer wall 28 shown in FIG. 1 of the fluid trap 10. The IV
solution changes paths to flow through the open interior 24 due to
the positioning of the diffuser 22 within the open interior 24. The
combination of the IV solution 12 striking the diffuser 22,
changing direction, and circulating through the open interior 24
separates the fluid of a higher density, exemplarily saline 30,
from the fluid of a lower density, exemplarily air 32. The air 32
is held within a portion of the open interior 24, while the saline
30 passes through the outlet 34 of the fluid trap 10 and is
delivered to the patient 16 through the catheter 18. In this
manner, the fluid trap 10 operates to prevent air bubbles that
enter the fluid trap 10 through the inlet 20 from passing directly
to the outlet 34.
[0019] By the shape of the fluid trap 10, with the inlet 20 and the
outlet 34 aligned along a center axis of the fluid trap and the
inlet 20 and the outlet 34 at least partially extending into the
open interior 24, the fluid trap 10 is orientation independent so
long as the trapped air 32 makes up less than a predetermined
volume of the open interior. In some embodiments this predetermined
volume is 20% of the volume of the open interior and in other
embodiments the predetermined volume may be 30% or 40%, however,
these examples of predetermined volumes are not intended to be
limiting on the ranges of predetermined volumes within embodiments
of the device and method as disclosed herein. Thus, as long as the
volume of trapped air 32 remains below this predetermined volume, a
continuous flow of separated saline 30 is provided through outlet
34. It is to be understood that while a spherical geometry of the
fluid trap 10 is depicted, other geometries may be used, including,
but not limited to cubic, cylinder, or conic geometries.
[0020] The fluid trap 10 represents an embodiment of a passive
fluid trap that is designed as a consumable medical product. In the
embodiment of the fluid trap 10, the fluid trap 10 is pre-primed,
exemplarily during production of the fluid trap 10 or by gravity or
syringe priming, to be filled with fluid, such as saline 30. As air
is trapped, an increasing volume of air 32 displaces volume of
saline 30. As there is no mechanism for the release of the trapped
air 32, the fluid trap 10 must be monitored by a clinician such
that the fluid trap 10 is replaced before the volume of trapped air
32 becomes so much as to reach the outlet 34 and be delivered to
the patient.
[0021] FIG. 2 is an alternative embodiment of a passive fluid trap
36. It should be noted that throughout the exemplarily embodiments
disclosed herein, like reference numerals are used to described
like structures between the embodiments.
[0022] The fluid trap 36 receives the flow of composite fluid 38,
which in the present example is a combination of saline and air,
through the inlet 20. As the composite fluid 38 flows into the open
interior 24 of the fluid trap 36, the flow of composite fluid 38 is
dispersed by the diffuser 22. In the fluid trap 36, the diffuser 22
is located adjacent the inlet 20 such that the diffuser 22 causes a
change in the direction of the flow of the composite fluid 38 upon
the composite fluid 38 entering the open interior 24, although it
will be recognized that alternative embodiments may include
alternative relationships between the inlet 20 and the diffuser 22.
As depicted in FIG. 2, the inlet 20 extends towards the center of
the open interior 24 where the diffuser 22 is located. The
dispersion of the composite fluid 38 caused by the diffuser 22
causes the composite fluid 38 to circulate within the open interior
24 causing separation of the air 32 from the saline 30. As the
saline 30 is of a higher density than the air 32, saline 30
separates to a bottom portion of the fluid trap 36 due to gravity
and exits the fluid trap 36 through the outlet 34. As depicted in
FIG. 2, the outlet 34 extends into the open interior 24 towards the
diffuser 22.
[0023] In alternative embodiments, and as disclosed in further
detail herein, one or both of the inlet 20 or outlet 34 may
comprise helical grooves or ridges (not depicted). Changes in the
composite fluid 38 flow rate or direction can facilitate separation
of the fluids. A helical geometry in one or both of these
structures can create a centrifugal force that separates the first
and second fluids. In still further embodiments disclosed herein,
the geometry within the open interior 24 is modified, exemplarily
with a helical flow path (not depicted) to control the flow of the
composite fluid. In one embodiment, such a geometry can have the
effect of reducing turbulence to keep unnecessary air from being
removed from solution in the composite fluid. Further, such an
embodiment may reduce sheer stresses within the fluid trap that can
contribute to hemolysis when the composite fluid comprises
blood.
[0024] In embodiments of the fluid trap 36, the fluid trap 36 is
primed at the start of use by filling the open interior with either
the composite fluid 38, or saline 30. The fluid trap 10 can be
primed by a clinician using a syringe to either inject or aspirate
fluid within the fluid trap 10. As the fluid trap 36 is used and
the air 32 collects within the open interior 24, the volume of the
open interior 24 that retains the air 32 increases, so long as such
volume of air 32 is retained at a predetermined volume.
Exemplarily, the predetermined volume is a percentage less than 45%
of the total volume of the open interior 24, in alternative
embodiments 40%, or any alternative volume as may be recognized by
one of ordinary skill in the art, the separated saline 30 will
continue to flow from the open interior 24 out through outlet 34.
Functionally, the predetermined volume is a volume of air 32 (or
other trapped fluid) that the fluid trap 36 can maintain trapped
within passing the air 32 (or other trapped fluid) through the
outlet 34, independent of the orientation of the fluid trap 36.
[0025] In the fluid trap 36, the diffuser 22 is spherical in shape;
however, the diffuser 22 can be of a variety of other shapes, as
disclosed herein. Additionally, the diffuser 22 can be configured
at the center of the fluid trap 36, or may be offset in the
direction of one or the other of the inlet 20 and outlet 34.
[0026] The fluid trap 36 is designed to passively control the
volume of air 32 retained within the open interior 24 through an
outlet 40. The outlet 40 is designed to facilitate the passive
release of the air 32 from the open interior 24. The outlet 40
includes a pressure release valve 42 that is designed to open upon
a predetermined pressure to release the air 32. The pressure
release valve 42 may be any of a variety of one-way or check valves
designed to open upon a predetermined pressure. Non-limiting
examples of such valves include ball valves, pop off valves, or
umbrella valves. In still further embodiments, a combination of two
or more valves provides redundancy or multiple valves in series or
parallel can be directed to specific functions (e.g. retaining
blood within the fluid trap or passing air out of the fluid
trap).
[0027] A filter 44 is retained within the outlet 40 downstream of
the pressure release valve 42 to retain any residual substance
entrained in the air 32 that is expunged through the outlet 40. In
examples wherein the composite fluid 38 is of a biological or
medicinal substance, it may be desirable to prevent the release of
any of these fluids that may be saturated in the air 32 that is
released into the external environment. Therefore, the filter 44
may be selected such as to remove any such material before the air
32 is released. Non-limiting examples of the filter 44 can be
hydrophopic membranes of hydrophilic membranes.
[0028] Additionally, some embodiments may include a selectively
permeable membrane 46 that is permeable to the second fluid, to be
removed with the fluid trap 36, yet the selectively permeable
membrane 46 is impermeable to the denser fluid to be released
through the outlet 34. The addition of the selectively permeable
member 46 further helps to ensure that only the air 32 is released
through the outlet 40.
[0029] In the exemplary embodiment of the fluid trap 36, multiple
outlets 40 are located around the perimeter of the outer wall 28.
Outlet 48 is located 180.degree. away from the outlet 40 around the
fluid trap 36. However, it will be recognized that alternative
embodiments may locate the outlets in any of a variety of
orientations with respect to the other outlets. Therefore, the
selectively permeable membrane 46 of the outlet 48 keeps the saline
30 from being released through the outlet 48. The inclusion of
multiple outlets 40, 48 around the perimeter of the fluid trap 36
make the fluid trap 36 position-independent in that regardless of
an orientation, the air 32 can be released through an outlet 40,
48, preserving flow of the saline 30 out of the outlet 34. In
further embodiments, the outlet 40 extends along an entire
circumference around the fluid trap 36. In still further
embodiments, multiple outlets 40 are spaced across the entire
surface of the fluid trap 36.
[0030] The outlet 34 may be dimensioned to be a smaller diameter
than the inlet 20. Alternatively, the inlet 20 may be dimensioned
to be a smaller diameter than the outlet 34. Either of these
configurations can create a pressure gradient across the open
interior 24 of the fluid trap 36. This pressure gradient
facilitates the expulsion of the air 32 through the pressure
release valve 42 of an outlet 40, 48. In still further embodiments,
the outlet 34 has an adjustable orifice (not depicted), or can be
selectively or partially occluded. In some embodiments, one or more
of the outlets 40 can extend through the outer wall 28 at the
outlet 34. Such an embodiment can be an outlet such as an umbrella
valve that is configured circumferentially about the outlet 34.
While not depicted, these embodiments may further provide any last
removal of separated air 32 before the saline 30 leaves the fluid
trap, or to remove any separated air 32 that is removed by helical
grooves or ridges (not depicted) located in the outlet 34 as
described above.
[0031] In some embodiments, maintenance of volumetric flow through
the fluid trap 36 is desired while a change to another
environmental condition within the fluid trap 36 is created,
exemplarily, but not limited to, pressure, flow rate, or internal
geometry in order to create a Venturi effect within the fluid trap
36.
[0032] FIG. 3 depicts an embodiment of an actively operated fluid
trap 50. As described above, a flow of composite fluid 38 is
received into the fluid trap 50 through an inlet 20. The fluid trap
50 exemplarily includes an alternative embodiment of a diffuser 52.
The diffuser 52 is shaped to create increased dispersion of the
composite fluid 38 upon entry into the open interior 24 by at least
partially surrounding the inlet 20. The increased dispersion and
change of direction in the flow path of the composite fluid 38
facilitates the separation of the air 32 from the saline 30. As in
other embodiments, the air 32 and the saline 30 are collected
within the fluid trap 50 based upon gravity. The saline 30 is
expelled from the fluid trap 50 through the outlet 34 after the
diffuser 52 causes further changes in the flow path of the saline
30 by at least partially surrounding the outlet 34.
[0033] The fluid trap 50 provides an example of an active outlet 54
which must be actuated, such as by a clinician or automated, in
order to release the air 32 from the open interior 24 of the fluid
trap 50. The outlet 54 includes a movable actuator 56 that upon
receiving a force in the direction of arrow 58 moves in the same
direction into the open interior 24. This movement engages a valve
60 with a post 62 that opens the valve 60 to release the air 32
therethrough. The post 62 is configured, exemplarily with release
passages 64 to provide a passageway for the release of the air 32
through the open valve 60. However, it is to be recognized that
alternative geometries or configurations may be used to achieve
similar purposes, exemplarily, but not limiting, the release
passages could be ports, grooves, or channels.
[0034] The actuator 56 is biased in the closed or outwardly
extending position in any one of a variety of known biasing
techniques, including springs material deformation, or
geometrically created biasing techniques, such that upon release of
pressure in the direction of arrow 58, the actuator 56 returns to
its fully extended position, closing the valve 60. Seal 66, which
is exemplarily an O-ring, provides a fluid seal about the actuator
56 across the outer wall 28.
[0035] FIGS. 4A and 4B depict an alternative embodiment of an
actively operated fluid trap 68. FIG. 4A depicts the fluid trap 68
in a closed configuration in which the air 32 is collected within
the open interior 24 of the fluid trap 68 while the saline 30 is
directed out through the outlet 34. FIG. 4B depicts an open
configuration wherein the air 32 is expelled from the open interior
24 through an outlet 70 and the outlet 34 is at least partially
occluded from flow of saline 30.
[0036] The outlet 70 includes an actuator 72 that is operable by a
clinician by pressing the actuator 72 in the direction of arrow 74.
The operation of the actuator 72 switches the fluid trap 68 between
the open and closed configurations. The actuator 72 includes an
outlet port 76 and a seal 66 maintains a fluid seal between the
outer wall 28 and the actuator 72.
[0037] The outer wall 28 further includes a fluid port 78. When the
fluid trap 68 is in the closed configuration, as depicted in FIG.
4A, the outlet port 76 of the actuator 72 is out of alignment with
the fluid port 78 of the outer wall 28 and the seal 66 provides a
fluid seal preventing any fluid flow between the fluid port 78 and
outlet port 76. In one embodiment a membrane (not depicted) in the
actuator 72 provides further protection against overflow or release
of the saline 30 through the outlet port 76. In a still further
embodiment, the actuator 72 includes threads (not depicted) such as
to engagingly receive a syringe which is used to draw the air out
through the outlet port 76 of the actuated actuator 72 in a
controlled and confined manner.
[0038] The actuator 72 further includes a shaft 80 that extends
into the open interior 24 of the fluid trap 68 and is connected to
the diffuser 82. The shaft 80 locates the diffuser 82 in a position
adjacent the inlet 20 and the outlet 34, such that the diffuser 82
is interposed in a direct flow path therebetween, when the fluid
trap 68 is in the closed configuration based upon the position of
the actuator 72.
[0039] Diffuser 82 provides an exemplary alternative of an
embodiment of a diffuser. It is to be recognized that the diffuser
82 could be used in a variety of embodiments disclosed herein,
while the fluid trap 68 may use a variety of diffusers.
[0040] Biasing element 84, which may be a spring (not depicted) or,
as depicted, a deformable structural component, biases the actuator
72 against a force in the direction of arrow 74. Thus, the fluid
trap 68 is biased to the closed configuration.
[0041] As will be described in further detail herein, a stopper 86
extends from the shaft 80 in a direction of the outlet 34. When the
actuator 72 is in the closed configuration, the stopper 86 extends
into the open interior 24, but does not substantially impede the
flow of saline 30 out of the fluid trap 68 through the outlet
34.
[0042] The actuator 72 depicts one exemplary embodiment of the
actuators that may be used in embodiments of the fluid trap 68. In
an alternative embodiment, the actuator further includes helical
tracks such that the actuator rotates as it is pressed, rotating
the stopper across the outlet. In another embodiment, rather than
being pressed, the actuator 72 is rotated about an axis to move the
fluid trap 68 between the open and closed configurations. In such
an embodiment, the actuator 72 can maintain alignment of the
diffuser 82 with the inlet 20 while moving the stopper 86 across
the outlet 34, occluding the outlet 34.
[0043] FIG. 4B depicts the fluid trap 68 in the open configuration,
which is created by a force applied to the actuator 72 in the
direction of arrow 74. The force in the direction of arrow 74
overcomes the biasing force provided by the biasing element 84,
compresses the biasing element 84, and the actuator 72 moves in the
direction of arrow 74 into the open interior 24 of the fluid trap
68. The movement of the actuator 72 aligns the outlet port 76 of
the actuator 72 with the fluid port 78 of the outer wall 28 and
thus the air 32 travels through the aligned fluid port 78 and
outlet port 76 from the open interior 24 to the exterior of the
fluid trap 68.
[0044] Simultaneously with the alignment of the fluid port 78 and
the outlet port 76, the stopper 86 is moved in the direction of
arrow 74 into a position that substantially impedes the flow of the
saline 30 out of the fluid trap 68 through the outlet 34. By
blocking the outlet 34 with the stopper 86 while the combined fluid
38 is still entering the fluid trap 68 through the inlet 20, the
pressure within the open interior 24 will increase, thus further
forcing the air 32 out of the outlet 70 through the aligned fluid
port 78 and outlet port 76. The increase in fluid pressure helps to
facilitate the expelling of the air 32 from the fluid trap 68. It
is to be understood that, in an embodiment, the stopper 86 can
occlude or partially occlude the outlet 34. In an alternative
embodiment, the stopper changes another environmental condition
within the fluid trap 68 such as, but not limited to, the flow rate
of the saline 30 or the flow path of the saline 30.
[0045] When the air 32 has been expelled through the outlet 70, the
clinician can end the expelling of the air 32 by releasing the
force on the actuator 72 in the direction of arrow 74 and the
biasing element 84 moves the actuator 72 and returns the fluid trap
68 to the closed configuration. Air 32 will once again build up
within the open interior 24 of the fluid trap 68, now in the closed
configuration.
[0046] FIGS. 5A and 5B depict a still further embodiment of an
actively operated fluid trap 88. FIG. 5A is a cutaway view of the
fluid trap 88 along a plane coincident with the flow path of the
composite fluid 38 and saline 30 between the inlet 20 and the
outlet 34. FIG. 5B is a cutaway view along a plane identified as
line B-B in FIG. 5A that is perpendicular to the flow between the
inlet 20 and the outlet 34.
[0047] The fluid trap 88 includes a rotatably actuated valve 90
that includes a rotatable ring 92 that rotates within a recessed
track 94 (or other engagement) of the outer wall 28. The rotatable
ring 92 includes an outlet 96 that may include a filter or other
selectively permeable membrane, as disclosed above, through which
the air 32 from the open interior 24 can pass. The ring 92 is
rotatable within the recessed track 94 such as to selectively align
the outlet 96 in the ring 92 with a fluid port 98 through the outer
wall 28. A seal 100, which is exemplarily an O-ring, but would be
recognized by one of ordinary skill in the art to be any of a
variety of suitable seals for use in the presently disclosed
embodiment, maintains a fluid seal between the outer wall 28 within
the recessed track 94 and the rotatable ring 92.
[0048] FIG. 5A depicts the fluid trap 88 in an open configuration
such that the outlet 96 is aligned with the fluid port 98, and the
air 32 passes through the fluid port 98 and the outlet 96 exterior
of the fluid trap 88.
[0049] As shown in FIG. 5B, the rotatable ring 92 is rotatable
within the recessed track 94 about the fluid trap 88 in the
direction of arrow 102. By rotating the rotatable ring 92 to a
position wherein the outlet 96 is out of alignment with the fluid
port 98, the fluid trap 88 is placed in a closed configuration and
the air 32 is permitted to build up within the open interior 24 of
the fluid trap 88. As further shown in FIG. 5B, one or more
supports 104 may extend from the outer wall 28 of the fluid trap
88, wherein the supports 104 hold the diffuser 22 in a specified
alignment between the inlet 20 and the outlet 34.
[0050] FIGS. 6A and 6B further depict an alternative embodiment of
a passive fluid trap 106. It is to be understood, however, that
embodiments of the fluid trap 106 may be designed as an active
fluid trap by implementing any of the outlets as disclosed above in
the previous embodiments. Additionally, a still further embodiment
of an active fluid trap may be implemented with the use of a
threaded outlet connection (not depicted), such as a Luer-Lok.TM..
In such an embodiment, a threaded male or female connection is
provided through the outer wall 28 and a clinician or technician
can remove air 32 from the fluid trap 106 with the use of a syringe
with an appropriate mating threaded connection.
[0051] The fluid trap 106 depicts a still further embodiment of a
diffuser 107 that can be implemented in fluid traps disclosed
herein. The diffuser 107 includes a fan blade 109 that rotates as
the composite fluid 38 flows into the fluid trap 106 through inlet
20. The diffuser 107 represents a mechanical design of a diffuser
that causes further agitation of the composite fluid, facilitation
separation into the first fluid and the second fluid.
[0052] Returning to the embodiment of the fluid trap 106 depicted
in FIGS. 6A and 6B, the fluid trap 106 includes an outlet seal 108.
The outlet seal 108 includes a float 110. The float 110 is designed
to be buoyed by the fluid of the composite fluid 38 that is of a
greater density, exemplarily saline 30. The float 110, as depicted
in FIGS. 6A and 6B, therefore is suspended at the interface between
the air 32 and the saline 30. A stem 112 extends from the float 110
and travels within a recess 114. The stem 112 includes an opening
116, such that when the outlet seal 108 is buoyed in the direction
of arrow 118, the opening 116 is substantially aligned with the
outlet 34 and the saline 30 can exit the fluid trap 106 through the
outlet 34. In an alternative embodiment (not depicted), the float
110 also operates as the outlet seal, limiting or blocking air from
entering the outlet as the trapped air building up within the fluid
trap as disclosed herein.
[0053] It is to be understood that in embodiments, the outlet seal
108 and float 110 can be configured to be freely rotatable about a
central axis. In still further embodiments, the outlet seal 108 and
float 110 are movably held within the recess 114, or another
similar recess (not depicted) such as to operate independently from
the orientation of the fluid trap 106. In one merely exemplary
embodiment, such outlet seal (not depicted) may position the float
in the middle of the outlet seal with two or more openings (not
depicted) configured in the outlet seal for operation connection
with various fluid trap orientations. In a still further
embodiment, the float itself is dimensioned to operate as the
outlet seal, facilitating occlusion or partial occlusion of the
outlet.
[0054] However, as the air 32 builds up within the open interior 24
of the fluid trap 106, the outlet seal 108 moves in the direction
of arrow 120 and the opening 116 is moved into recess 114 and the
stem 112 substantially blocks the outlet 34 from expelling a flow
of saline 30, as depicted in FIG. 6B. Since the flow of composite
fluid 38 is continuously provided to the fluid trap 106, the
pressure within the fluid trap 106 may further increase such as to
compress the volume taken up by the air 32 within the open interior
24 such that the outlet seal 108 moves in the direction of arrow
118 sufficiently enough so as to again permit the exiting flow of
the saline 30. In any event, the outlet seal 108 mechanism provides
a safety feature against a critical volume of air 32 being trapped
within the open interior 24, thus prevents the inadvertent delivery
of air 32 to the patient.
[0055] Embodiments of the fluid trap, as described above, can
gradually create a pressure gradient within the fluid trap by
progressively restricting flow out of the outlet as the air builds
up within the air trap. This buildup of air forces the float to
occlude the outlet.
[0056] As noted above, the embodiment of the fluid trap 106 may be
implemented as an actively operated fluid trap from which the air
32 can be removed, by the addition one of the above-described
outlets. In such embodiments of the fluid trap 106 configured to
passively or actively expel the trapped air 32, the blocking of the
outlet 34 by the outlet seal 108 can increase the pressure within
the open interior, thus facilitating the removal of the trapped air
32.
[0057] FIG. 7 is a flow chart that depicts an embodiment of a
method of separating a first fluid from a second fluid of a
composite fluid. It is to be understood that the method 200 as
depicted in FIG. 7 may be implemented in a variety of ways
including some or all of the actions shown in method 200.
Additionally, it will be recognized by one of ordinary skill that
within the scope of the present disclosure, certain disclosed
features of the method 200 may be performed in alternative orders
than that specifically disclosed in the flow chart of method 200
while being within the scope of the present disclosure.
[0058] At 202, the method 200 begins with the introduction of a
flow of composite fluid into the fluid trap. As disclosed above,
the composite fluid is a fluid that includes a first fluid of a
first density and a second fluid of a second density. In some
embodiments, the first fluid and the second fluid may both be
liquids, while in other embodiments, the first fluid and the second
fluid may be a liquid and a gas, respectively. The introduction of
the flow of composite fluid into the fluid trap at 202 may further
constitute the act of priming the fluid trap such that the flow of
composite fluid is provided while the fluid trap is operated in an
open configuration, such that the second outlet, as described
above, is opened to expel any gas from the open interior 24 which
otherwise may be referred to as a separation chamber. The act of
priming the fluid trap will thus remove any residual gas such that
a maximum amount of the second fluid may be accumulated in the
fluid trap before replacement of the fluid trap or, alternatively,
expelling the accumulated second fluid from the fluid trap as
required. In still further embodiments, the fluid trap may be
provided pre-primed, exemplarily with an inert liquid such as
saline, so that a clinician or technician need not manually prime
the fluid trap before use.
[0059] At 204, a pressure gradient is created within the separation
chamber of the fluid trap. A pressure gradient can be created or
established in a variety of manners as disclosed above. Exemplary
techniques for creating the pressure gradient include differing
dimensions between the inlet and the outlet of the fluid trap or
the operation of a flow restrictor, such as an outlet seal, to at
least partially occlude an outlet from the fluid trap.
[0060] The flow of the composite fluid is directed within the fluid
trap at 206. The composite fluid is received by the fluid trap
through an inlet and is directed to circulate through the
separation chamber, such as through the use of a diffuser that is
positioned in relation to at least the inlet or the outlet of the
fluid trap.
[0061] Next, at 208, the first fluid is separated from the second
fluid of the composite fluid. As disclosed above, the circulation
of the composite fluid within the separation chamber facilitates
the separation of the first fluid and the second fluid through the
force of gravity based upon the respective different densities of
the first fluid and the second fluid.
[0062] As detailed above, impact or other mechanical forces,
pressure drop, changes in flow rate, or other environmental
conditions within the fluid trap can also be used to separate the
first and second fluids.
[0063] At 210, the first fluid is removed from the fluid trap
through a first outlet. In embodiments, differences between the
diameters of the inlet and the outlet can create pressure gradients
within embodiments of the fluid traps disclosed herein. In still
further embodiments, a stopper, actuator, or other type of flow
restrictor, such as a valve, controls the flow of the first fluid
out of the first outlet. This can cause the pressure gradient or
other environmental change in the fluid trap that facilitates
separation and removal of the second fluid.
[0064] At 212, a second outlet is selectively operated to
selectively remove the second fluid from the fluid trap. As
disclosed above, the second outlet is configured, such that the
separated second fluid accumulates about the second outlet and the
selective operation of the second outlet removes the accumulated
second fluid from the fluid trap. As disclosed above, a variety of
outlets may be used as the second outlet while remaining within the
scope of the current disclosure. A non-limiting list of such
exemplary outlets include passively operated pressure valves,
actively operated push valves, or a rotatably operated valve.
[0065] The current disclosure has primarily relied upon an
exemplary description of a composite fluid that comprises saline
and air as the first and second fluids. However, it will be
recognized that is not intended to be limiting on the scope of
situations or composite fluids with which the presently disclosed
embodiments of fluid traps may be used. In an alternative
embodiment, the composite fluid can be blood provided to the
patient as part of a blood transfusion. The blood may exemplarily
be circulated through a warmer (not depicted) such as to elevate
the temperature of the blood to an approximate internal temperature
of the patient. The warming of the blood may reduce the solubility
of gas dissolved within the blood, particularly oxygen and/or
nitrogen, and the fluid trap may operate to remove any accumulation
of out gassed oxygen, nitrogen, or other gases in the blood before
the blood is delivered to the patient.
[0066] A variety of exemplary embodiments of the fluid trap have
herein been disclosed. It is to be understood that further
combinations of the components disclosed herein (e.g. combinations
of inlets, diffusers, and first and second outlets) are within the
scope of the disclosure, as would be recognized by one of ordinary
skill in the art.
[0067] In still further embodiments, the fluid trap may be
connected within a breathing circuit of a patient receiving
mechanical ventilation support. In such an embodiment, the fluid
trap operates to collect and expel moisture and/or mucus from the
breathing circuit in order to prevent the recirculation of these
substances back to the lungs of the patient. As would be recognized
by one of ordinary skill in the art, the composite fluid in these
embodiments would be an exhaled breath of air from the patient
within which water vapor and mucus is entrained. In these
embodiments, the fluid trap operates to separate and retain the
more dense fluid (e.g. condensed water or mucus) while facilitating
the flow of the less dense fluid (e.g. air) through the fluid trap
between the inlet and the outlet.
[0068] This written description uses examples to disclose the
invention, including the best mode, and also to enable any person
skilled in the art to practice the invention, including making and
using any devices or systems and performing any incorporated
methods. The patentable scope of the invention is defined by the
claims, and may include other examples that occur to those skilled
in the art. Such other examples are intended to be within the scope
of the claims if they have structural elements that do not differ
from the literal language of the claims, or if they include
equivalent structural elements with insubstantial differences from
the literal languages of the claims.
* * * * *