Interface and fluid-transfer system

Abstract

A fluid transfer system (100) includes a transfer device (104) and an interface device (102). The transfer device (104) includes a fluid transfer member (164) and a transfer coupling member (125) to align the fluid transfer member (164) with the interface device (102). The interface device (102) includes a reservoir port (108), a fluid transfer member receptacle (144), an interface coupling member (124), and a reservoir valve (110). The interface coupling member (124) is configured to close the fluid transfer member receptacle (144) and to couple to the transfer coupling member (125) and open the fluid transfer member receptacle (144) to receive the fluid transfer member (164). The reservoir valve (110), e.g., a sliding seal, is configured to close the reservoir port (108) from the fluid transfer member receptacle (144) and to open the reservoir port (108) to the fluid transfer member (164) when the fluid transfer member (164) is positioned in the fluid transfer member receptacle (144). The fluid transfer member (164) can include a plunger assembly configured to open and close the reservoir port (108).

Description

[0001] related application [0002] This application claims the benefit of US Provisional Application No. 61 / 738,265, filed December 17, 2012. The entire teachings of the aforementioned applications are incorporated herein by reference. Background technique [0003] There are many sterilization and aseptic sampling systems on the market today. Sampling systems are often connected to the vessel by a sanitary connection (typically a standard port of 0.75", 1.5" or 2" in diameter). Some systems are actuated by a valve mechanism, while others employ a needle to pierce the septum. Typically , the number of samples that can be taken may be limited by any of the following: the size of the septum (multiple punctures at one site are generally unacceptable in the industry), the container that can be attached to the vessel (bag, bottles, etc.), and the size (diameter) of the tubing attached to the sanitary connections. Ability to take samples via manifold attachment when a particular p...

AI Technical Summary

Problems solved by technology

However, attachment through a manifold creates an undesirable stagnation volume (also known as a stagnation zone) and requires a flushing step, which adds cost and complexity to a given process

[0004] A disadvantage of many current sampling systems is that they require excessive processing, as all single-use sampling containers must be pre-attached immediately prior to the start of the process

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