Hemodialysis system with ultrafiltration controller

Abstract

The hemodialysis system includes a closed loop dialysate flow path which includes a dialyzer and a reservoir for storing dialysate, and a closed loop blood flow path which passes through the dialyzer in the opposite direction as the dialysate flow path. In addition, the hemodialysis system includes pumps for pumping dialysate and blood through their respective flow paths, a flow sensor for measuring the flow rate of dialysate in the dialysate flow path, and a level sensor for measuring the level of dialysate in the dialysate reservoir. A processor is connected to the flow sensor, reservoir level sensor and pumps to provide a first closed loop control system including the processor, flow sensor and a first dialysate pump, and a second closed loop control system including the processor, level sensor and a second dialysate pump which enable the processor to initiate, monitor and maintain ultrafiltration.

Claims

1. A hemodialysis system comprising: an arterial blood line for connecting to a patient's artery for collecting blood from a patient; a venous blood line for connecting to a patient's vein for returning blood to the patient; a dialyzer having a semipermeable membrane, said semipermeable membrane having two sides including a blood side and a dialysate side; a blood flow path connected to said arterial blood line and said venous blood line for transporting blood from the patient to said dialyzer and back to the patient, said blood flow path passing through said dialyzer on said blood side of said semipermeable membrane; a reservoir for storing dialysate; a closed loop dialysate flow path, isolated from the blood flow path, for transporting the dialysate from said reservoir to said dialyzer and back to said reservoir, said dialysate flow path passing through said dialyzer on said dialysate side of the semipermeable membrane opposite said blood flow path; a blood pump for pumping blood through said blood flow path; a first dialysate pump connected to said dialysate flow path upflow from said dialyzer which pumps dialysate at a first pump velocity through said dialysate flow path; and a second dialysate pump connected to said dialysate flow path downflow from said dialyzer which pumps dialysate at a second pump velocity through said dialysate flow path; said reservoir positioned exterior to and not forming part of said first and second dialysate pumps; a reservoir level sensor within said reservoir which measures a level of the dialysate in said reservoir to produce level sensor electrical signals; and a processor connected to said reservoir level sensor for processing said level sensor electrical signals for determining the level of the dialysate in said reservoir, said processor connected to said first and second dialysate pumps for controlling the first pump velocity and the second pump velocity, said processor also connected to said reservoir level sensor to process said level sensor electrical signals to monitor any change in the level of the dialysate in said reservoir to determine if there is a pressure differential across said dialyzer's semi-permeable membrane, and determine a rate of ultrafiltration or reverse ultrafiltration.

2. The hemodialysis system of claim 1 wherein said processer stores preprogrammed parameters of ultrafiltration or reverse ultrafiltration, and said processor automatically adjusts the first pump velocity or second pump velocity of one of said dialysate pumps based upon measurements from said level sensor to maintain the rate of ultrafiltration or reverse ultrafiltration within said preprogrammed parameters.

3. The hemodialysis system of claim 1 further comprising a flow sensor in said dialysate flow path positioned upflow of said dialyzer and which is connected to said processor, said processor programmed to control the first pump velocity of said first dialysate pump based on measurements from said flow sensor, and said processer automatically adjusts the second pump velocity of said second dialysate pump based upon measurements from said level sensor to maintain ultrafiltration or reverse ultrafiltration within predetermined parameters.

4. The hemodialysis system of claim 1 further comprising a filter connected to said dialysate flow path for removing uremic toxins from the dialysate.

Description

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

(1) FIG. 1 is a perspective view of the hemodialysis system illustrated in use treating a patient, in accordance with at least one embodiment;

(2) FIG. 2 is an exploded perspective view illustrating the hemodialysis system, in accordance with at least one embodiment;

(3) FIG. 3 is an additional exploded perspective view of the hemodialysis system, in accordance with at least one embodiment;

(4) FIG. 4 is a perspective view of the hemodialysis system, in accordance with at least one embodiment;

(5) FIG. 5 is an exploded perspective view of the hemodialysis system's disposable cartridge above the dialysis machine's tray, in accordance with at least one embodiment;

(6) FIG. 6 is an exploded perspective view illustrating a preferred pump, including pump actuator and pump motor, for use with the hemodialysis system, in accordance with at least one embodiment;

(7) FIG. 7 is an exploded perspective view illustrating the reservoir and filter for use with the hemodialysis system, in accordance with at least one embodiment;

(8) FIG. 8 is a perspective view illustrating the hemodialysis system's disposable cartridge including filter as it connects to the hemodialysis system's reservoir, in accordance with at least one embodiment;

(9) FIG. 9 is a top plan view of the hemodialysis system's disposable cartridge, in accordance with at least one embodiment;

(10) FIG. 10 is a bottom plan view of the hemodialysis system's disposable cartridge, in accordance with at least one embodiment;

(11) FIG. 11 is a top plan view illustrating the dialysis machine's tray for receiving the disposable cartridge, in accordance with at least one embodiment;

(12) FIG. 12 is a flow chart illustrating a safety feature of the hemodialysis system including pressure sensor, bubble sensor and pinch valve, in accordance with at least one embodiment;

(13) FIG. 13 is a flow chart illustrating the flow of blood and dialysate through the hemodialysis system, in accordance with at least one embodiment;

(14) FIG. 14 is a diagram illustrating the connection of the various electronics and electromechanical components of the hemodialysis system, in accordance with at least one embodiment;

(15) FIG. 15 is a more detailed flow chart illustrating the flow of blood and dialysate through the hemodialysis system, in accordance with at least one embodiment;

(16) FIG. 16 is a circuit diagram of an exemplary heater of an ammonia sensor, in accordance with at least one embodiment;

(17) FIG. 17 is a cross-sectional view of the disposable cartridge's cassette and dialysis machine's tray showing the blood leak sensor assembly;

(18) FIG. 18 is a diagram illustrating the arrangement of electrodes provided by an exemplary level sensor, in accordance with at least one embodiment;

(19) FIG. 19 is a side view illustrating a level sensor for measuring the level of dialysate in a reservoir;

(20) FIG. 20 is a top cutaway view of a preferred flow sensor spoked wheel for measuring the flow rate of dialysate in the dialysate flow path;

(21) FIG. 21 is a top cutaway view of a preferred flow sensor spoked wheel and magnetic field sensors for measuring the flow rate of dialysate in the dialysate flow path;

(22) FIG. 22 is a perspective view of a preferred flow sensor spoked wheel for measuring the flow rate of dialysate in the dialysate flow path;

(23) FIG. 23 is a graph illustrating the waveform produced by the Hall effect switches activating with the rotation of the spoked wheel;

(24) FIG. 24 is a graph illustrating the waveform produced by the Hall effect switches in the event that a wheel magnet has insufficient field strength or has dislodged;

(25) FIG. 25 includes two graphs illustrating the waveforms produced by the Hall effect sensor in the event that a sensor fails; and

(26) FIG. 26 is a flow chart illustrating the operation of the control system for controlling ultrafiltration or reverse ultrafiltration.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS

(27) While the present invention is susceptible of embodiment in various forms, as shown in the drawings, hereinafter will be described the presently preferred embodiments of the invention with the understanding that the present disclosure is to be considered as an exemplification of the invention, and it is not intended to limit the invention to the specific embodiments illustrated.

(28) With reference to FIGS. 1-25, the hemodialysis system 1 of the present invention includes a reused dialysis machine 201, a disposable cartridge 11, an arterial blood line 3 including a needle 7 for connecting to a patient's artery, and a venous blood line 5 including a needle 7 for connecting to a patient's vein. With reference particularly to FIGS. 1-5 and 15, the disposable cartridge 11 includes a housing 13 having conduits 17 providing a blood flow path 15 and conduits 21 providing a dialysate flow path 19. Preferably the cartridge's blood flow path and dialysate flow path are conduits with an approximately 0.156 inch (3-5 millimeters) inside diameter. The disposable cartridge 11 may be a single piece construction. However, preferably and as described herein, the disposable cartridge can be disassembled into multiple pieces such as to allow disengagement of a dialyzer 25 and filter 79, but the multiple pieces can be assembled together to form a disposable cartridge 11. Preferably, the cartridge's housing is made from Federal Drug Administration approved materials. The presently preferred material for the cartridge's housing is polycarbonate plastic.

(29) The disposable cartridge's blood flow path 15 connects at one end to the arterial blood line 3 and at the other end to the venous blood line 5. Both the blood flow path 15 and dialysate flow path 19 travel through a dialyzer 25 to transport their respective fluids through closed loop systems wherein the dialysate flow path is isolated from the blood flow path by a semipermeable membrane (not shown). Preferably, the dialysate flows in the opposite direction to blood flow within the dialyzer 25 which possesses an inlet 31 for receiving dialysate, an outlet 33 for expelling dialysate, an inlet 27 for receiving blood from a patient, and an outlet 29 for returning blood to a patient.

(30) More particularly, and as illustrated in FIGS. 1, 3 and 9, the disposable cartridge's housing 13 includes a coupling 37 for connecting the dialyzer's inlet 27 to the arterial blood line 3, and a coupling 39 for connecting the dialyzer's blood outlet 29 to the venous blood line 5. In addition, the disposable cartridge's housing 13 includes a cassette section 23 including conduits 21 for transporting dialysate back and forth from a reservoir 209. To this end, the cassette 23 connects to the dialyzer's inlet 31 and outlet 33 through couplings 47 and 43. Dialysate is received into the cassette 23 through the cassette's coupling 47. Thereafter, the dialysate travels through dialysate flow path 19 (within conduits 21) until entering the dialyzer 25 at the dialyzer's inlet 31. The dialysate then exits the dialyzer 25 at the dialyzer's outlet 33, and continues to travel through the dialysate flow path 19 through conduits 21 until exiting the cassette 23 at coupling 43.

(31) Preferably, the cartridge's cassette 23 possesses two pump actuators 51 and 53. A first pump actuator 51 is positioned upflow of the dialyzer 25 to pump dialysate through the dialysate flow path 19 to the dialyzer 25. The second pump actuator 53 is positioned almost immediately downflow of the dialyzer 25 for pumping dialysate from the dialyzer 25. By independently controlling the operation of the first pump actuator 51 relative to the second pump actuator 53 allows one to increase or decrease the pressure of the dialysate fluid within the dialyzer 25. Preferably the disposable cartridge's housing 13 includes a third pump actuator 55 which is positioned within the housing's coupling 37 which connects to the arterial blood line 3. This third pump actuator 55 pumps blood through the blood flow path 15, and is preferably positioned upflow of the dialyzer 25.

(32) As best illustrated in FIGS. 2, 7 and 8, the disposable cartridge 11 includes a filter 79. The filter 79 includes a housing 81 for encapsulating filter materials for removing toxins from the dialysate liquid. The filter material may be of a composition and construction known or as can be determined by those skilled in the art for removing the various wastes, primarily urea and creatine, from blood. The filter 71 includes an inlet 83 and an outlet 85. The filter's inlet 83 connects to the cassette's coupling 43, and the filter's outlet 85 connects to a reservoir's inlet 211, described in greater detail below. In a preferred embodiment, the filter's housing 81 includes a vapor membrane 87 illustrated in FIGS. 7 and 8. The vapor membrane 87 is a semipermeable membrane capable of releasing gases including ammonia, but not liquids and particularly not the dialysate liquid, flowing through the filter 79.

(33) As discussed in detail below, the disposable cartridge 11 possesses various sensors for monitoring the dialysis occurring within the dialyzer 25. As illustrated in FIGS. 5-10, the preferred disposable cartridge 11 includes two pairs of flow sensors 93 and pressure sensors 95 in the cassette for measuring the fluid flow and pressure of the dialysate in the dialysate flow path 19. Preferably, the flow sensors 93 are positioned upflow and downflow, respectively, of the dialyzer 25. The flow sensors transmit electrical signals to the processor 249 which determines the flow rate. In the event that the processor determines that the flow rate is improper, the processor modifies the speed of the pumps to effect a proper flow rate, or the processor disables the dialysis system entirely. For example, the processor may compare the flow rates of the two dialysate flow path flow sensors 93. In the event that the flow sensor reports different flow rates, the processor may indicate a fault condition and disable further dialysis treatment.

(34) As illustrated in FIGS. 5, 8-10 and 20-23, in a preferred embodiment, each flow sensor 93 in the dialysate flow path includes a circular chamber 91 and rotatable spoked wheel 271 within the chamber 91 which are located in the disposable cassette 23. A preferred spoked wheel 271 is made of a molded plastic and includes an axle 274 and radially extending spokes 273 which are rotated by the flow of dialysate. Preferably, the spokes 273 are aligned at a slight angle to the axle 274. The angled spokes minimize chatter which would be caused by the low-tolerance capture of the axle 274 within the circular chamber 91. Without this slight cant, at certain speeds, the spoked wheel 271 may “chatter” due to turbulent flow. Conversely, with the cant, the spoked wheel is forced by fluid flow in a consistent direction to overcome the tendency to chatter.

(35) With reference to FIGS. 20-21, preferably the spoked wheel 271 includes two magnets 275 which reveal the wheel's rotational position and rotational velocity which is used by the processor to determine fluid flow. The preferred flow sensor 93 includes at least one magnet 275, and more preferably two magnets which are integrated into the spoked wheel 271 so as to spin with the rotation of the spoked wheel. The magnets may be small, rare-earth magnets of sufficient strength to maintain enough field strength to cover the gap between the magnet and a magnetic field sensor, to cause the sensor to actuate. Where the spoked wheel 271 includes two or more magnets 275, the magnets may be aligned to have the same polarity or opposite polarity depending on the magnetic field sensor that is employed.

(36) With reference also to FIGS. 11 and 21, the flow sensor 93 also includes a magnetic field sensor 277 located in the reusable dialysis machine 201 adjacent to the spoked wheels' one or more magnets 275 for detecting the rotation of the spoked wheel. A preferred sensor is a small omnipolar Hall effect switch such as Texas Instruments, Inc. part no. DRV5033 which requires ±6.9 mT to actuate. Since the sensor is omnipolar, the orientation of the magnets in the spoked wheel may be arbitrary, simplifying manufacturing. Advantageously, the Hall effect switch outputs a falling edge electrical signal on detection of the magnetic field which is transmitted to the processor 249. For example, FIG. 23, illustrates the waveform produced by the Hall effect switches activating with the rotation of the spoked wheel.

(37) The processor 249 determines the flow rate of the dialysate through the dialysate flow path applying the following formulas.

(38) $Q_{\mathrm{meter}}=\frac{1}{1000}\times k_{\mathrm{meter}}\times A_{\mathrm{cross}}\times 2\pi \frac{r_{\mathrm{hub}}+r_{\mathrm{channel}}}{2}\times \frac{1}{t}$$\frac{\mathrm{ml}}{\min }=\frac{\mathrm{ml}}{{\mathrm{mm}}^3}\times \frac{\mathrm{ml}/\min }{\mathrm{ml}/\min }\times {\mathrm{mm}}^2\times \frac{\mathrm{mm}}{\mathrm{rev}}\times \frac{\mathrm{rev}}{\min }$

(39) Where:

(40) A.sub.cross is the cross section area of the flow channel (in mm.sup.2)

(41) k.sub.meter is the coupling factor between the flow and the rotor (in ml/min per ml/min)

(42) Q.sub.meter is the flow rate measured by the flow meter (in ml/min=1000 mm.sup.3/min)

(43) r.sub.hub is the radius of the rotor hub (in mm)

(44) r.sub.channel is the outer radius of the flow channel (in mm)

(45) t is the time measured for one revolution (in min/rev)

(46) As illustrated in FIG. 21, preferably each flow sensor 93 has two magnetic field sensors 277, such as Hall effect switches, located at right-angles, and at the same radius from the axle as the magnets 275. By the flow sensor 93 including two magnetic field sensors 277, the processor 249 can detect a fault condition such as a missing magnet, one of the magnets having insufficient magnetic field to trigger a magnetic field, or one of the magnetic field sensors having failed. A missing or weak magnet is illustrated by the waveform shown in FIG. 24 wherein the missing magnet is determined by tAA≠2TAB. Meanwhile, FIG. 25 illustrates the waveform of a failed magnetic field sensor resulting from a Hall effect switch not transitioning with the rotation of the spoked wheel 271.

(47) Preferably, the cassette pressure sensors 95 for measuring dialysate pressure are also positioned upflow and downflow, respectively, of the dialyzer 25 for measuring the pressure of the dialysate prior to the dialysate entering the dialyzer 25 and subsequent to the dialysate leaving the dialyzer 25. The cassette's pressure and flow sensors may be Federal Drug Administration approved sensors as can be selected by those skilled in the art.

(48) Preferably, the disposable cartridge possesses still additional sensors 97 for measuring the pressure and fluid flow of the blood passing through the blood flow path 15 both immediately after the blood is received from a patient, and prior to returning the blood to a patient. In a preferred embodiment, both the pressure and fluid flow measurements of the blood are made by a single sensor. As best illustrated in FIGS. 5, 9, 10, 13 and 15, the preferred cartridge 11 includes a first pressure/fluid sensor 97 within coupling 37 for measuring the pressure and fluid flow of the blood as it is received by the arterial blood line 3 prior to the blood entering the dialyzer 25. In addition, preferably the cartridge possesses a second pressure/fluid sensor 97 within the coupling 39 for measuring the pressure and fluid flow of the blood prior to the blood being returned to the patient through the venous blood line 5. To transfer measurements produced by the cassette flow sensors and pressure sensors, the disposable cartridge 11 possesses electrical terminals 101.

(49) The hemodialysis system's dialysis machine 201 is best illustrated in FIGS. 1-5. Preferably, the dialysis machine 201 possesses a case 205 having a cavity 207 for encapsulating and protecting the various components of the dialysis machine 201 and disposable cartridge 11. Preferably, the case 205 is of a size suitable for travel in an overhead bin of a commercial airliner. The dialysis machine 201 possesses a reservoir 209 for storing the dialysate during the hemodialysis procedure. A preferred reservoir stores 1 gallon (3.785 liters) of dialysate which can be introduced into the reservoir through the reservoir's removable cap 215. In addition, the reservoir 209 includes an inlet 211 and an outlet 213. As best illustrated in FIG. 7, the reservoir's inlet 211 connects to the disposable cartridge's filter's outlet 85. Meanwhile, the reservoir's outlet 213 connects to the disposable cartridge's connector 47. Preferably the dialysis machine possesses a heater 221 (illustrated in FIG. 15) which is thermally coupled to the reservoir 209 for heating and maintaining the temperature of the dialysate at a desired temperature.

(50) Preferably the dialysis machine 201 includes a tray 219 for supporting and mating to the disposable cartridge's housing 13, dialyzer 25, arterial line coupling 37, and venous line coupling 39. The tray 219 may include latches 225 for locking the disposable cartridge 11 in engagement with the dialysis machine 201. In the preferred embodiment, the tray 219 also includes three pump motors (227, 229 and 231) for coupling to the disposable cartridge's three pump actuators (51, 53 and 55). With reference to FIGS. 5, 6 and 11, the dialysis machine includes a first pump motor 227 for coupling with the disposable cartridge's first pump actuator 51, a second pump motor 221 for coupling with the disposable cartridge's second pump actuator 53, and a third pump motor 231 for coupling with the disposable cartridge's third pump actuator 55. Preferably, the pump motors are traditional commercial off-the-shelf electric rotary motors as can be selected by those skilled in the art.

(51) As illustrated in FIG. 6, preferably each pump actuator (51, 53 and 55) does not employ deformable members for providing pumping action, such as employed with a common roller pump engaging an arterial line or venous line. Instead, the preferred pump actuators possess a sliding vane construction. To this end, each pump actuator includes an inlet 57 for introducing fluid into a cavity 63 and an outlet 59 for expelling such fluids. Furthermore, each pump actuator includes a circular rotor 65 having slots 67 for receiving radially moving vanes 69. Centrifugal force, hydraulic pressure and/or a biasing means, such as springs or push rods, push the vanes to the walls of the cavity 63 to form chambers formed by the rotor, vanes and cavity sidewall. In the preferred embodiment illustrated in FIG. 6, centrifugal force caused by rotation of the rotor pushes the vanes to the cavity sidewall. Preferably, the cavity 63 and rotor 67 are substantially circular and the rotor is positioned within the larger cavity. However, the rotor's center and cavity's center are axially offset (eccentric) from one another. In operation, the rotor 65 and vanes 69 form an impeller. As the rotor rotates, fluid enters the pump actuator through the inlet 57. Rotation of the rotor and vanes pump fluid to be propelled from the pump actuator's outlet 59. Preferably, each pump actuator is made of substantially non-deformable materials including Federal Drug Administration approved plastics. As used herein, the term “non-deformable”is not meant to mean that the pump actuator components will not undergo some insignificant deformation during pump operation. However, the non-deformable pump actuator components do not deform in a manner to provide pumping action such as provided by a peristaltic roller pump engaging a flexible tube, such as a blood line, as is commonly employed for current hemodialysis treatment. In the preferred embodiments, the pump actuator's housing and rotor are made of polycarbonate, and the pump actuator's vanes are made of polyether ether ketone (PEEK).

(52) Still with reference to FIG. 6, the pump actuator's rotor 63 may be connected to the electric motor 67 by various constructions known to those skilled in the art. For example, the rotor may include a shaft which is keyed to form a press-fit with a corresponding receptacle formed in the rotor. However, in the preferred embodiment illustrated in FIG. 6, the motor 227 and rotor 65 are coupled utilizing magnets 71. As illustrated, a preferred rotor possesses six magnets wherein the polarity (north-south direction) is alternated for each adjacent magnet 71. Similarly, the motor 227 contains six additional magnets 71 wherein the polarity of each magnet is alternated. When a disposable cartridge 11 is coupled to the dialysis machine 201, the motor magnets are positioned and aligned to come in close contact with the rotor magnets. Magnetic forces couple the pump motors to the pump actuators so that controlled activation of the pump motors rotates the rotors, and thus operates the pump actuators.

(53) As discussed in detail below, in addition to the sensors found in the disposable cartridge 11, the preferred dialysis machine 201 also possesses various sensors for monitoring proper operation of the hemodialysis system 1. For example, the dialysis machine preferably includes a temperature sensor 223 for measuring the temperature of the dialysate within the reservoir 209. In addition, the dialysis system includes an ammonia sensor 237 (see FIG. 15) which is positioned adjacent to the filter's vapor membrane 87 for detecting any ammonia within the filter 79. As illustrated in FIGS. 2, 3 and 12, preferably the dialysis machine 201 also includes a pair of sensors (239 and 241) and a valve 245 connected to the venous blood line 5 for providing still additional redundant safety to a patient. The additional sensors include a pressure sensor 239 for measuring the pressure of the blood in the venous blood line 5 and a bubble sensor 241 to determine whether there are any unwanted air bubbles in the venous blood line 5. In the event that the blood pressure is not within a predetermined range or in the event that an unwanted air bubble is detected, a pinch valve 245 is made to close.

(54) With reference to FIG. 14, the dialysis machine 201 includes a processor 249, a user interface 25, and a power supply 253 for providing power to the processor 249, user interface 251, pump motors, and sensors. The processor 249 is connected to the dialysis machine sensors (including reservoir level sensor 217, blood leak sensor 235, ammonia sensor 237, venous blood line pressure sensor 239, and venous blood line bubble sensor 241), three pump motors 227, 229 and 231, and pinch valve 245 by traditional electrical circuitry. In addition, the dialysis machine possesses electrical terminals 247 (see FIG. 11) for connecting to the disposable cartridge's electrical terminals 101 so as to connect the processor 249 with the disposable cartridge's sensors (including flow and pressure sensors). The processor may be a general purpose computer or microprocessor including hardware and software as can be determined by those skilled in the art to monitor the various sensors and provide automated or directed control of the heater, pumps, and pinch valve. The processor may be located within the electronics of a circuit board or within the aggregate processing of multiple circuit boards.

(55) In operation, the processor 249 is electrically connected to the first, second and third pump motors for controlling the activation and rotational velocity of the pump motors, which in turn controls the pump actuators, which in turn controls the pressure and fluid velocity of blood through the blood flow path and dialysate through the dialysate flow path. By independently controlling operation of the first and second pump actuators, the processor can maintain, increase or decrease the pressure and/or fluid flow within the dialysate flow path within the dialyzer. Moreover, by controlling all three pump actuators independently, the processor 249 can control the pressure differential across the dialyzer's semipermeable membrane to maintain a predetermined pressure differential (zero, positive or negative), or maintain a predetermined pressure range. For example, most hemodialysis is performed with a zero or near zero pressure differential across the semipermeable membrane, and to this end, the processor can monitor and control the pumps to maintain this desired zero or near zero pressure differential. Alternatively, the processor may monitor the pressure sensors and control the pump motors, and in turn pump actuators, to increase and maintain positive pressure in the blood flow path within the dialyzer relative to the pressure of the dialysate flow path within the dialyzer. Advantageously, this pressure differential can be affected by the processor to provide ultrafiltration and the transfer of free water and dissolved solutes from the blood to the dialysate.

(56) Moreover, the processor monitors all of the various sensors to ensure that the hemodialysis machine is operating efficiently and safely, and in the event that an unsafe or non-specified condition is detected, the processor corrects the deficiency or ceases further hemodialysis treatment. For example, if the venous blood line pressure sensor 239 indicates an unsafe pressure or the bubble sensor 241 detects a gaseous bubble in the venous blood line, the processor signals an alarm, the pumps are deactivated, and the pinch valve 245 is closed to prevent further blood flow back to the patient. Similarly, if the blood leak sensor 235 detects that blood has permeated the dialyzer's semipermeable membrane, the processor 249 signals an alarm and ceases further hemodialysis treatment.

(57) The dialysis machine's user interface 251 may include a keyboard or touch screen for enabling a patient or medical personnel to input commands concerning treatment or enable a patient or medical personnel to monitor performance of the hemodialysis system. Moreover, the processor may include Wi-Fi connectivity for the transfer of information or control to a remote location.

(58) As mentioned above, the hemodialysis system 1 incorporates numerous improved sensors never before incorporated into a hemodialysis device. The improved sensors include ammonia sensor 237, fluid level sensor 217, and blood leak sensor 235. Each of these sensors is described in greater detail below.

Ammonia Sensor System

(59) As also mentioned above, the at least one ammonia sensor 237 is positioned adjacent to the filter's vapor membrane 87 and configured for detecting any ammonia within the filter 79. In a bit more detail, in at least one embodiment, each ammonia sensor 237 incorporates a heater (not shown) having the following parameters:

(60) TABLE-US-00001 Parameter Symbol Min Typ Max Unit Heating Power P.sub.H 60 66 73 mW Heating Voltage V.sub.H 2.2 V Heating Current I.sub.H 30 mA Heating Resistance at R.sub.H 64 72 80 Ω Nominal Power

(61) In at least one embodiment, due to the nature of the chemo-sensitive film on the ammonia sensor 237, it is important that the temperature rise from the heater be repeatable and consistent over the lifetime of the ammonia sensor 237. To that end, it is also important to control the power applied to the heater as consistently as possible, especially knowing the resistance of the heater changes over the lifetime of the ammonia sensor 237. In at least one embodiment, the ammonia sensor 237 uses a single load resistor in series with the heater. This configuration is extremely sensitive to variations in VCC as well as R.sub.H. Using nominal VCC=3.3V±3.0% and R.sub.L=36.5Ω±1.0% produces P.sub.H=0.0669 W±10.3% (with design center P.sub.H=0.0667 W) as demonstrated in the following table:

(62) TABLE-US-00002 V.sub.CC (V) R.sub.H (ohm) R.sub.L (OHM) P.sub.H (W) 3.201 64 36.135 0.0654 3.201 64 36.865 0.0645 3.201 80 36.135 0.0608 3.201 80 36.865 0.0600 3.399 64 36.135 0.0737 3.399 64 36.865 0.0727 3.399 80 36.135 0.0685 3.399 80 36.865 0.0677 Min 0.0600 −10.3% Max 0.0737 10.3%

(63) In at least one embodiment, in order to more tightly control the power dissipation in the heater, the circuit shown in FIG. 16 is used. The LDO is used to force a constant current through R.sub.L, and R.sub.P is used to balance the current through R.sub.H. Using V.sub.FB=0.8V±1.25%, R.sub.L=13.0Ω±1%, R.sub.P=69.8Ω±1%, P.sub.H=0.0658 W±1.65% (with design center P.sub.H=0.0661 W) as demonstrated in the following table:

(64) TABLE-US-00003 V.sub.FB (V) R.sub.L (OHM) R.sub.H (ohm) R.sub.P (ohm) P.sub.H (W) 0.79 12.87 64 69.102 0.0650 0.79 12.87 64 70.498 0.0663 0.79 12.87 80 69.102 0.0647 0.79 12.87 80 70.498 0.0661 0.79 12.87 64 69.102 0.0650 0.79 12.87 64 70.498 0.0663 0.79 12.87 80 69.102 0.0647 0.79 12.87 80 70.498 0.0661 0.81 13.13 64 69.102 0.0656 0.81 13.13 64 70.498 0.0669 0.81 13.13 80 69.102 0.0654 0.81 13.13 80 70.498 0.0668 0.81 13.13 64 69.102 0.0656 0.81 13.13 64 70.498 0.0669 0.81 13.13 80 69.102 0.0654 0.81 13.13 80 70.498 0.0668 Min 0.0647 −1.65% Max 0.0669 1.65%

(65) The maximum power dissipation is P(R.sub.L)=0.050 W and P(RP)=0.076 W, which are well within normal operating parameters of 1/10 W, 0603 resistors. The maximum VOUT required by the LDO is 3.12 V (V(R.sub.H)+V.sub.FB). The dropout voltage at 62 mA is ˜80 mV. V.sub.CC(min)=3.12+0.08=3.20 V, which requires a VCC supply of 3.3V±3%.

(66) In at least one embodiment, the sensitive layer of the ammonia sensor 237 has chemo resistive characteristics. Due to the fabrication of the sensitive layer, the reference resistance, R.sub.0 (ambient conditions, synthetic air), is unable to be tightly controlled. Gas sensing is performed by taking the current sensing resistance, R.sub.S, and dividing it by the ambient resistance, as the SnO.sub.2 gas sensing layer reduces the NH.sub.3 (as well as other gases) at high temperatures, under bias and conductivity increases. The R.sub.S/R.sub.0 ratio is indicative of the gas concentration, and is used for calibration and threshold detection. The sensitive layer characteristics are shown in the table below:

(67) TABLE-US-00004 Characteristic Symbol Min Max Unit Sensing resistance in air R.sub.0 10 1,500 KΩ Sensitivity Factor (1 ppm NH.sub.3) S.sub.R 1.5 15 R.sub.0/R.sub.S Ratio (1 ppm NH.sub.3) R.sub.S/R.sub.0 0.67 0.067 Minimum R.sub.S R.sub.S 820 Sensitive Layer Power Dissipation P.sub.S 8 mW

(68) Since the output of the ammonia sensor 237 will be read across R.sub.L (differential), V(R.sub.L) must be kept below differential full scale input range of the converter (0.5V) for proper in-limits conversion. Due to the wide dynamic range of R.sub.0, it is apparent that multiple resistances need to be switched in order to manage the readout of the ammonia sensor 237. The following illustrates the configuration of at least one embodiment. With the low currents involved, the GPIO signals can be assumed to be GND (or repeatably close to GND). The GPIO pin is either left in the High-Z condition (floating), or driven 0.

(69) TABLE-US-00005 R.sub.L R.sub.S V.sub.L V.sub.L V.sub.L V.sub.L GPIO 1 GPIO 0 (effective) (min) (V.sub.S = 10K) (V.sub.S = 100K) (V.sub.S = 1M) (V.sub.S = 1.5M) 0 0 200 800 49 mV 5 mV 500 μV 333 μV 0 Z  2.2K 8.8K  450 mV 54 mV 5.5 mV 3.7 mV Z Z 22.2K 89K -over- 450 mV 54 mV 36 mV

(70) This configuration is used to ensure the highest voltage practical across the sensitive layer in order to ensure proper reduction at the sensitive layer gain boundaries. The maximum current and power through the sensitive layer is defined by the following formula:

(71) $I_S=\frac{2.5}{R_S+R_L}=\frac{2.5}{820+200}=2.5\mathrm{mA}$$P_S=I_S^2*R_S={0.0025}^2*820=5.1\mathrm{mW}$

(72) It should also be noted that the internal gain of the converter can be used to increase the dynamic range once the baseline R.sub.0 is determined after warm-up.

Blood Leak Sensor

(73) As also mentioned above, the blood leak sensor 235 is positioned and configured for detecting whether blood has permeated the semipermeable membrane of the dialyzer 25. In a bit more detail, in at least one embodiment, the blood leak sensor 235 uses the principle of optical absorption to determine the presence of blood in the dialysate.

(74) As illustrated with particularity in FIGS. 9, 11 and 17, the hemodialysis system 1 includes a blood leak sensor assembly 233 including both a light source 261 and a blood leak sensor 235 in the form of a light sensor 235. The light source 261 and light sensor are located in the dialysis machine's tray 219 so as to be reused, and not be disposed of after each hemodialysis treatment. Meanwhile, the disposable cartridge's cassette 23 is constructed to: receive the light 265 emitted from the light source 261; direct the light 265 through the dialysate flow path 19; and return the light to the light sensor 235. The light sensor 235 receives the light and converts the light into electrical signals which are transmitted to the processor 249 for analysis.

(75) To allow light produced by the light source 261 to pass through the dialysate flow path 19, at least a section 263 of the cassette's dialysate conduits 21 is made of a translucent material. As used herein, the term “translucent” is not meant to mean clear to light at all wavelengths. For example, the dialysate conduits may be made of a material that blocks wavelengths of light that might damage the dialysate. However, as used herein, “translucent” means that the dialysate conduit section 263 adjacent the light source 261 and light sensor 235 permits the passage of sufficient light at a predetermined wavelength (or wavelengths) from the light source to allow the light sensor and processor 249 to determine whether blood has leaked into the dialysate. In a preferred embodiment, the cassette housing, including conduit section 263, is made of translucent polycarbonate.

(76) Various constructions may be employed by those skilled in the art to transmit light from the light source 261 through the translucent dialysate conduit section 263 to the light sensor 235. For example, the disposable cassette 23 and non-disposable dialysis machine tray 219 may be constructed to position the light source 261 and light sensor 235 to be inwardly facing on opposite sides of the translucent dialysate section 263. However, as illustrated in FIG. 17, in a preferred embodiment, the cassette 23 includes a first prism 259 which receives the light from the light source 261 and redirects the light through the translucent section 263 of the dialysate flow path 19. The light 265 is then redirected through a second prism 259 back to the light sensor 235. In a preferred embodiment, the prisms 259 are constructed of polycarbonate wherein the reflecting surfaces have been polished to reflect light in the desired direction.

(77) To prevent errors such as due to ambient light and compensate for changes in the dialysate clarity, preferably the light sensor 235 emits light having at least two peak wavelengths of visible or invisible (infrared or ultraviolet) light. In a preferred embodiment, the light source includes two light emitting diodes (LEDs) producing two different peak wavelengths. Preferably, a first peak wavelength is below 600 nanometers (nm) and a second peak wavelength is above 600 nm. An acceptable light source is a dual color semiconductor manufactured by Rohm Co., Ltd having Part No. SML-020MLTT86. This surface mountable chip includes two LEDs producing green and red light having peak wavelengths at substantially 570 nm and substantially 660 nm, respectively.

(78) The light from the light source 261 is directed through the prisms 259 and the translucent section 263 of the dialysate flow path 19 before being received by the light sensor 235. An acceptable light sensor is sold by Fairchild Semiconductor Corporation having Part No. KDT00030A. This light sensor 235 incorporates a phototransistor detector chip which provides spectral response similar to the human eye and a peak sensitivity at 630 nm which is advantageously intermediate of the wavelengths produced by the preferred light source, Rohm Co., Ltd Part No. SML-020MLTT86. The light sensor 235 converts the light into electrical signals for analysis by the processor 249. In turn, the processor analyzes the electrical signals produced by the light sensor 235 to determine whether the amount of light, and thus either peak wavelength, has been altered to indicate the possibility of blood in the dialysate. In the event that the processor 249 concludes that the light sensor's signals indicate the possibility of blood in the dialysate flow path, the processor terminates further hemodialysis treatment.

Level Sensor Control

(79) As also mentioned above, the at least one level sensor 217 is positioned and configured for monitoring and measuring the level of the dialysate fluid in the dialysate reservoir 209 (FIGS. 13 and 15). In at least one embodiment, the fluid is contained within the reservoir 209, and the level sensor 217 is positioned outside and adjacent the reservoir 209. The level sensor 217 provides a safety critical function as it monitors the dialysate reservoir 209 for increases and decreases in fluid level. Aside from catastrophic fluid loss (i.e., ruptured reservoir 209 or flow path 19), gain or loss of dialysate fluid indicates the pressure balance across the dialyzer 25 is incorrect and must be adjusted to provide zero pressure differential across the dialyzer membrane, or alternatively to provide positive or negative pressure differential across the dialyzer membrane which results in ultrafiltration or reverse ultrafiltration.

(80) With reference to FIG. 26, to provide ultrafiltration, the processor 249 is connected to both the level sensor 217 to monitor the level of the dialysate within the dialysate reservoir 209, and the dialysate flow sensor 93 (preferably upflow of the dialyzer) to monitor the flow rate of dialysate through the dialysate flow path. The processor 249 is also connected to the dialysate pump motors 229 and 230 to control the pump rate of each of the dialysate pump actuators 51 and 53. In a first closed loop control system, the processor 249 obtains feedback from the flow sensor 93 which indicates the flow of dialysate through the dialysate flow path into the dialyzer. The processor 249 uses this feedback to control the upflow dialysate pump motor 229 to maintain the desired dialysate flow rate through the dialyzer which has been preprogrammed or which has been input into the processor 249. In a second closed loop control system, the processor 249 monitors the level of fluid in the reservoir 209, and in turn the rate of increase or decrease of fluid in the reservoir. The rate of increase or decrease in fluid in the reservoir reflects the pressure differential across the dialyzer membrane, which in turn provides utilizes to determine the actual rate of ultrafiltration (or reverse ultrafiltration) that the patient is experiencing. The processor 249 automatically maintains the rate of ultrafiltration at preprogrammed parameters which has been preprogrammed into the machine or which has been input by a clinical or patient.

(81) In the event that the ultrafiltration rate starts to deviate from the preprogrammed parameters, the processor 249 increases or decreases the pump rate of the downflow dialysate pump motor 231 to maintain the desired ultrafiltration. More specifically, a differential flowrate between the upflow pump 229, which introduces dialysate to flow into the dialyzer, and the downflow pump 231, which pulls dialysate out of the dialyzer 25, causes an increase or decrease in the pressure of the dialysate within the dialyzer, and a resulting change in pressure differential across the dialyzer membrane. Utilizing the feedback with first closed loop control system between the processor 249 and flow sensor 93, and the feedback within the second closed look control system between the processor and level sensor 217, the processor can initiate, monitor and maintain ultrafiltration.

(82) The level sensor may be any type of sensor for determining the amount of fluid within the reservoir. Acceptable level sensors may include magnetic or mechanical float type sensors, conductive sensors, ultrasonic sensors, optical interfaces, and weight measuring sensors such as a load cell for measuring the weight of the dialysate in the reservoir. However, with reference to FIGS. 18 and 19, in a preferred embodiment the level sensor 217 uses change in capacitance to determine the fluid level 270 in the reservoir 209. A series of electrodes 260 and a ground surface 262 are positioned within or adjacent to the reservoir 209, and the change in capacitance at a given electrode 260 reflects the presence or absence of the mildly conductive dialysate fluid 35. In at least one embodiment, as illustrated in FIG. 18, the electrodes 260 are arranged vertically in a staggered pattern, providing overlap between electrodes 260. This overlap also allows for relatively better level resolution than non-overlapped electrodes 260. The capacitive coupling between the electrodes 260 and ground surface 262 (“GND”) changes depending on the presence of the dialysate fluid. This change in capacitance is measured and used to determine the fluid level 270 across all electrodes 260. Among the electrodes 260, the level sensor 217 includes a wet reference electrode 264 and a dry reference electrode 266, which are used as references for the capacitive coupling of the dialysate fluid 35, and the ambient capacitive coupling. In at least one embodiment, the wet reference electrode 264 is positioned for always being below the dialysate fluid level, and the dry reference electrode 266 is positioned for always being above the dialysate fluid level 270 during normal operation. The processor analyzes the electrical signals received from the top “dry” electrode and the bottom “wet” electrode to determining the capacitance of dialysate in the reservoir. In a first embodiment, the reservoir level sensor including at least three electrodes and a ground path wherein the three electrodes are positioned vertically in the reservoir to form an electrode array. The electrode array includes a top electrode, a middle electrode and a bottom electrode wherein the top electrode is positioned above the nominal fill level, and the middle electrode and the bottom electrode are positioned below the nominal fill level.

(83) With continued reference to FIGS. 18 and 19, in at least one embodiment, the level sensor 217 further provides a capacitance-to-digital converter (not shown), which measures the capacitance between each of the electrodes 260 and ground surface 262. The level sensor 217 also provides an AC shield output 268, which is in-phase with the driven electrode 260, and is used to isolate the electrode 260 from stray ground coupling. The AC shield 268 is used in a plane behind the electrodes 260 to shield the electrodes 260 from stray ground, and in an electrode position to assure equal loading for each of the electrodes 260. In at least one embodiment, each electrode 260 is a symmetric square rotated ninety degrees, with an overall height of 12 mm and an overall width of 12 mm (a rotated square with all sides of 8.49 mm long) with an area of 72 mm.sup.2. The electrodes 260 are spaced vertically at 7.5 mm between electrode 260 centers. An acceptable electrode array is available from Analog Devices, Inc. as part number AD7148 which has eight electrodes arranged vertically in a staggered pattern. Preferably, the electrode array is positioned within the reservoir so that four electrodes, including the top “dry” electrode, are positioned above a preferred nominal fill level 270, and four electrodes, including the bottom “wet” electrode, are positioned below the preferred nominal fill level 270. The nominal fill level may be marked on the inside of the reservoir, such as with a horizontal line, to provide a visible indicator as to where the dialysate fluid should be filled and maintained within the reservoir.

(84) The volume of dialysate fluid in the reservoir is proportional to the cross-sectional area at the fluid level. In an exemplary embodiment, the cross-sectional area of the reservoir 209 is 3,102 mm.sup.2. The volume represented by a deviation in level is calculated using the following equation:

(85) $\mathrm{Vol}\left(\mathrm{ml}\right)=\frac{3,102{\mathrm{mm}}^2*\mathrm{deviation}\left(\mathrm{mm}\right)}{1000\frac{{\mathrm{mm}}^3}{\mathrm{ml}}}$
In the exemplary embodiment, the level sensor 217 has a basic span (±18.75 mm) of ±58 ml. Assuming that the reservoir holds a nominal volume of 1000 ml, the level sensor is capable of monitoring 5.8% of the dialysate fluid. The level sensor, including electrodes, transmits electrical signals to the processor which are analyzed to confirm that there is a correct amount of dialysis in the reservoir.

(86) Exemplary embodiments of the present invention have been shown and described herein. Accordingly, it will be appreciated that a portable hemodialysis machine and disposable cartridge is disclosed. Because the principles of the invention may be practiced in a number of configurations beyond those shown and described, it is to be understood that the invention is not in any way limited by the exemplary embodiments, but is generally directed to a portable hemodialysis machine and disposable cartridge and is able to take numerous forms to do so without departing from the spirit and scope of the invention. It will also be appreciated by those skilled in the art that the present invention is not limited to the particular geometries and materials of construction disclosed, but may instead entail other functionally comparable structures or materials, now known or later developed, without departing from the spirit and scope of the invention. Furthermore, the various features of each of the above-described embodiments may be combined in any logical manner and are intended to be included within the scope of the present invention.

(87) Groupings of alternative embodiments, elements, or steps of the present invention are not to be construed as limitations. Each group member may be referred to and claimed individually or in any combination with other group members disclosed herein. It is anticipated that one or more members of a group may be included in, or deleted from, a group for reasons of convenience and/or patentability. When any such inclusion or deletion occurs, the specification is deemed to contain the group as modified.

(88) Unless otherwise indicated, all numbers expressing a characteristic, item, quantity, parameter, property, term, and so forth used in the present specification and claims are to be understood as being modified in all instances by the term “about.” As used herein, the term “about” means that the characteristic, item, quantity, parameter, property, or term so qualified encompasses a range of plus or minus ten percent above and below the value of the stated characteristic, item, quantity, parameter, property, or term. Accordingly, unless indicated to the contrary, the numerical parameters set forth in the specification and attached claims are approximations that may vary. At the very least, and not as an attempt to limit the application of the doctrine of equivalents to the scope of the claims, each numerical indication should at least be construed in light of the number of reported significant digits and by applying ordinary rounding techniques. Notwithstanding that the numerical ranges and values setting forth the broad scope of the invention are approximations, the numerical ranges and values set forth in the specific examples are reported as precisely as possible. Any numerical range or value, however, inherently contains certain errors necessarily resulting from the standard deviation found in their respective testing measurements. Recitation of numerical ranges of values herein is merely intended to serve as a shorthand method of referring individually to each separate numerical value falling within the range. Unless otherwise indicated herein, each individual value of a numerical range is incorporated into the present specification as if it were individually recited herein.

(89) The terms “a,” “an,” “the” and similar referents used in the context of describing the present invention (especially in the context of the following claims) are to be construed to cover both the singular and the plural, unless otherwise indicated herein or clearly contradicted by context. All methods described herein can be performed in any suitable order unless otherwise indicated herein or otherwise clearly contradicted by context. The use of any and all examples, or exemplary language (e.g., “such as”) provided herein is intended merely to better illuminate the present invention and does not pose a limitation on the scope of the invention otherwise claimed. No language in the present specification should be construed as indicating any non-claimed element essential to the practice of the invention.

(90) Specific embodiments disclosed herein may be further limited in the claims using “consisting of” or “consisting essentially of” language. When used in the claims, whether as filed or added per amendment, the transition term “consisting of” excludes any element, step, or ingredient not specified in the claims. The transition term “consisting essentially of” limits the scope of a claim to the specified materials or steps and those that do not materially affect the basic and novel characteristic(s). Embodiments of the present invention so claimed are inherently or expressly described and enabled herein.

(91) It should be understood that the logic code, programs, modules, processes, methods, and the order in which the respective elements of each method are performed are purely exemplary. Depending on the implementation, they may be performed in any order or in parallel, unless indicated otherwise in the present disclosure. Further, the logic code is not related, or limited to any particular programming language, and may comprise one or more modules that execute on one or more processors in a distributed, non-distributed, or multiprocessing environment.

(92) While several particular forms of the invention have been illustrated and described, it will be apparent that various modifications can be made without departing from the spirit and scope of the invention. Therefore, it is not intended that the invention be limited except by the following claims. Having described my invention in such terms so as to enable a person skilled in the art to understand the invention, recreate the invention, and practice it, and having identified the presently preferred embodiments thereof,