Bioreactor, end plate for a bioreactor and data transfer unit for an end plate

Abstract

Bioreactor (1) with a vessel (13), an end plate (11), a stirrer, a drive unit (15), at least one field device (50, 50a, 50b) arranged in an interior space (14), the field device having field device electronics and a data transmission unit arranged on the end plate (11), the data transmission unit having a motor head (40) which can be signal-technically coupled with an analysis unit and energy-technically coupled with the drive unit (15) and comprises motor head electronics, and at least one communication unit signal-technically coupled with the motor head (40), comprising an adaptation part (20, 20a, 20b) with adaptation electronics, the adaptation electronics being electrically connected with the field device electronics of the field device (50, 50a, 50b), the adaptation electronics and / or the communication electronics comprising a signal converter, and a communication part (20, 20a, 20b) with communication electronics, the communication electronics being electrically connected with the adaptation electronics and the motor head electronics, the adaptation part (20, 20a, 20b) and the communication part (20, 20a, 20b) being configured as separate, mutually couplable components, the motor head (40) being configured as a separate component which can be coupled with the communication unit.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This invention relates to a bioreactor, particularly a bioreactor for culturing microorganisms and / or cell cultures, an end plate for sealing such a bioreactor, and a data transmission unit for the end plate. The invention also relates to a method for providing the data transmission unit. Background Technology

[0002] A bioreactor, also commonly known as a fermenter, is a container in which certain microorganisms, cells, or plants are cultured, preferably under the most optimal, controlled, and reproducible conditions, to obtain the cells themselves, a portion thereof, or their metabolites. For this purpose, a bioreactor surrounds a reaction chamber capable of containing the culture medium.

[0003] Bioreactor volumes can range from a few milliliters in laboratory settings, particularly in screening models, to thousands of cubic meters in production scales. At the laboratory scale, especially for research and development purposes, bioreactors with volumes up to 10 liters are preferred. Laboratory-scale bioreactors differ from production-scale bioreactors in power input, mass, material transport, and the materials used. Laboratory-scale bioreactors are typically made of glass and / or metal, particularly stainless steel, because they must be sterilized between uses, preferably by hot steam sterilization in an autoclave. As an alternative to reusable bioreactors, single-use bioreactors can also be used. Single-use bioreactors are used to perform a single biological or biotechnological process and are subsequently disposed of. By providing a new, preferably sterilized during production, single-use bioreactor for each individual process, the risk of contamination can be reduced, while also saving the costs associated with cleaning and sterilization processes.

[0004] Most bioreactors have a stirrer, whose stirring shaft can be rotated by a drive unit. This allows the stirring elements, which are torsionally connected to the stirring shaft, to also rotate, and enables the mixing of substances, especially culture media, present in the reaction chamber. In particular, two or more stirring elements, preferably axially spaced apart, can be arranged on and connected to the stirring shaft. The one or more stirring elements can also be constructed as a single piece with the stirring shaft.

[0005] In addition, bioreactors typically have multiple interfaces, primary and secondary materials, and various instruments, such as sensors and / or actuators, which can be introduced into the reaction chamber. Fluid lines, especially gas lines, such as aeration or venting lines, are preferably also connected through these interfaces.

[0006] Optimal product yields can be achieved through the use of sensors and / or actuators. For this purpose, sensors are typically used to monitor conditions within the reaction chamber, particularly pH, redox potential, O2 content in the culture medium and possibly exhaust gases, CO2 content in the exhaust gases, temperature, optical density of the culture medium, foam formation, glucose content, glycerol content, and / or lactic acid content. Additionally, various actuators, such as Peltier coolers and / or light bars, can be provided to create the most optimal possible culture conditions.

[0007] Sensors and actuators (if present) are connected to their respective measurement and / or analysis and / or control units via cables. These cables are typically well-shielded and specially constructed to ensure data integrity, which can be severely affected by external influences such as electromagnetic fields. The sheer number of cables in the case of multiple sensors and / or actuators can lead to a high degree of ambiguity. Furthermore, the number of cables also limits the operation of the bioreactor. This operational limitation is particularly pronounced when the bioreactor is small in scale (e.g., within the 300 ml range). Summary of the Invention

[0008] Therefore, the object of the present invention is to provide an improved technical solution to solve at least one of the above-mentioned problems. In particular, the object of the present invention is to provide a technical solution that can improve the operation of a bioreactor and simultaneously achieve robust data transmission.

[0009] According to the first aspect, the aforementioned objective is achieved by a bioreactor, particularly a bioreactor for culturing microorganisms and / or cell cultures, comprising: a container; an end plate designed to enclose the container; a stirrer having a stirring shaft introduced into the interior space of the container through the end plate and a stirring element connected to the stirring shaft in the interior space of the container; a drive unit disposed on the end plate and connected to the stirring shaft; and at least one field device disposed in the interior space, having field device electronics. The end plate includes: an inner side and an outer side opposite to the inner side; a stirrer connection device configured to allow the stirring shaft to pass through the end plate and connect to the drive unit; at least one field device connection device configured to connect the field device to the inner side; and a data transmission unit disposed on the outer side. The data transmission unit has: a motor head that can be signal-technically connected to an analysis unit and energy-technically connected to the drive unit, and includes motor head electronics; and at least one communication unit signal-technically connected to the motor head. The communication unit includes: an adapter section with adapter electronics electrically connected to field device electronics of a field device; and a communication section with communication electronics electrically connected to the adapter electronics and motor head electronics; wherein the adapter electronics are designed to exchange signals between the field device electronics and the communication electronics, these signals carrying field device information and measurement information and / or control information; wherein the communication electronics are designed to exchange signals between the adapter electronics and the motor head electronics; wherein the data transmission unit further includes a signal converter, which is preferably configured as part of the adapter electronics and / or the communication electronics; wherein the adapter section and the communication section are configured as separate, interconnectable components; and wherein the motor head is configured as a separate component capable of being connected to the communication unit.

[0010] In a preferred embodiment, a bioreactor, particularly a bioreactor for culturing microorganisms and / or cell cultures, comprises: a container; an end plate designed to enclose the container; a stirrer having a stirring shaft passing through the end plate and introduced into the interior space of the container, and stirring elements connected to the stirring shaft in the interior space of the container; a drive unit disposed on the end plate and connected to the stirring shaft; and at least two field devices disposed in the interior space, each field device having a field device electronics. The end plate includes: an inner side and an outer side opposite to the inner side; a stirrer connection device configured to allow the stirring shaft to pass through the end plate and connect to the drive unit; at least two field device connection devices configured to connect each field device to the inner side; and a data transmission unit disposed on the outer side. The data transmission unit has: a motor head capable of being signal-technically connected to an analysis unit and energy-technically connected to the drive unit, and including motor head electronics; and at least two communication units respectively signal-technically connected to the motor head. The communication unit includes: an adapter section with adapter electronics electrically connected to field device electronics of one of the field devices; and a communication section with communication electronics electrically connected to the adapter electronics and motor head electronics; wherein the adapter electronics are designed to exchange signals between the field device electronics and the communication electronics, these signals carrying field device information and measurement information and / or control information; wherein the communication electronics are designed to exchange signals between the adapter electronics and the motor head electronics; wherein the data transmission unit further includes a signal converter, which is preferably configured as part of the adapter electronics and / or the communication electronics; wherein the adapter section and the communication section are configured as separate, interconnectable components; and wherein the motor head is configured as a separate component capable of being connected to the communication unit.

[0011] In the technical solution described herein, the bioreactor is configured with an end plate and a data transmission unit disposed on the outside of the end plate, which allows signal transmission between one or more field devices and an analytical unit. This bioreactor includes a container that can be closed by the end plate, and its internal space preferably defines a reaction chamber. The bioreactor also includes a stirrer that can be driven by a drive unit, particularly for mixing culture media inside the reaction chamber. To monitor and / or set desired reaction conditions, the bioreactor also includes one or more field devices, particularly sensors and / or actuators, disposed within the internal space. Here, the one or more field devices are field device connection devices disposed on the end plate. The data transmission unit is disposed on the outside of the end plate and is designed for communication between one or more field devices and the analytical unit. The data transmission unit includes a motor head, at least one adapter, and at least one communication unit. Preferably, the motor head can be mounted on the drive unit.

[0012] Bioreactors, particularly endplates, can preferably be equipped with various field devices, especially various sensors and / or actuators. These field devices can be configured as, for example, sensors, actuators, or other components of the bioreactor. Preferably, the bioreactor may include field devices for monitoring parameters that can preferably be collected during the culture of bacteria, animal, and human cells. Such parameters are preferably temperature, pH, dissolved oxygen content, and actual values ​​from actuators (e.g., pumps, stirrers, Peltier coolers, light bars, and / or aeration devices). Furthermore, other field devices can be provided to determine data such as viable cell density, nutrient concentration, and / or metabolite concentration. Field devices configured as sensors can be, for example, pH sensors, redox potential sensors, temperature sensors, dissolved oxygen content sensors, etc. Field devices configured as actuators can be, for example, pumps, stirrers, Peltier coolers, and / or light bars, etc.

[0013] Depending on the field equipment, a suitable adapter can be selected and / or established, whose adapter electronics are configured to receive signals from and / or send signals to the field equipment.

[0014] The communication electronics in the communication section are electrically connected to the motor head electronics so as to receive signals from field devices, particularly through the adapter section, and transmit them to the motor head electronics, and / or receive signals from the motor head electronics and transmit them, particularly through the adapter section, to field devices. Therefore, the motor head electronics can receive signals from individual field devices and / or transmit signals to them.

[0015] Signal converters are designed to convert signals. Preferably, the signal converter can be configured as part of an adapter electronics and / or a communication electronics, and / or the adapter electronics and the communication electronics can each include a signal converter.

[0016] Preferably, the analog signal from the field device is first converted to a standardized signal (e.g., 0V to 4.095V), and then converted to a digital signal (e.g., 0 to 4095V). This conversion or transformation preferably occurs in the communication unit, particularly in the adapter electronics and / or communication electronics. Preferably, the adapter electronics can be configured to receive signals from the communication electronics, convert or transform the signals via a signal converter, and then transmit them to the adapter electronics. The signal conversion or transformation can, for example, be performed entirely in the adapter electronics. The signal conversion or transformation can also be performed entirely in the communication electronics. Alternatively, the signal conversion or transformation can be performed partially in the adapter electronics and partially in the communication electronics. For example, the analog signal from the field device can be converted to an analog standardized signal in the adapter electronics, and the analog standardized signal can be converted to a digital signal in the communication electronics.

[0017] By configuring different adapters corresponding to the on-site equipment, bioreactors can be individually adapted to customer needs. Particularly preferably, bioreactors can be individually built to meet specific customer requirements.

[0018] This implementation method allows for a particularly advantageous construction of the bioreactor. In particular, it reduces the amount of wiring on the bioreactor. This generally makes the laboratory work area neater and the bioreactor easier to operate.

[0019] Alternatively, a technical solution can be chosen whereby a common communication unit is provided for two or more field devices, each with its own adapter. In this implementation, the communication unit, particularly the communication electronics, is preferably configured to communicate with the adapter electronics of the two or more adapters.

[0020] Preferably, the drive unit may include drive electronics configured to communicate with motor head electronics. The drive electronics and motor head electronics may preferably be electrically connected to each other wirelessly, particularly via radio or via cable. Specifically, the power supply may be contact-based, preferably wired or wireless, particularly inductive. The preferred inductive power supply may be fed by an induction source in the motor head.

[0021] Preferably, the driving electronics are configured as a control drive unit. The driving electronics can preferably be spatially separated from the drive unit. For example, the driving electronics can be arranged together with an analysis unit and / or a control unit.

[0022] The motor head can be connected to the drive unit, for example, via an energy technology, to supply power to the drive unit. The drive unit can also be powered independently of the motor head.

[0023] The agitator includes an agitator shaft that passes through an end plate and is introduced into an internal space, and has agitating elements. The agitator shaft is connected to a drive unit arranged on the end plate. Preferably, the drive unit can act on the upper end of the agitator shaft. Preferably, the agitator shaft can be rotatably supported in a bearing about a rotation axis. In particular, the agitating elements can be torsionally secured to the agitator shaft.

[0024] Preferably, the stirring shaft can be arranged substantially vertically and form a stirrer together with the stirring elements. The stirring elements can preferably move separately in a horizontal plane. Particularly preferably, the stirring elements can have an inclination relative to the vertical line, especially relative to the stirring shaft. Preferably, the stirring elements can have different inclinations relative to the vertical line, especially relative to the stirring shaft. Preferably, the bioreactor can also have two or more stirrers.

[0025] Preferably, the container can be made of plastic or glass. Particularly preferably, the container can be constructed to be shape-stable. Preferably, the container can have a bottom and walls surrounding the bottom. With this embodiment, the container can be cleaned and sterilized so that it can be reused.

[0026] Preferably, the bioreactor can also be configured as a disposable bioreactor. The container can be configured, in particular, as flexible, and preferably as a bag. With this implementation, costly sterilization and cleaning processes are no longer necessary. Furthermore, the risk of distorted or unusable results due to incomplete sterilization and resulting process disturbances can be reduced, and in particular avoided.

[0027] Preferably, the container may have an input device for supplying raw materials and an extraction opening for extracting the final product and / or sample. Preferably, the input device may be arranged in the upper region of the container, and the extraction opening may be arranged in the lower region of the container.

[0028] Particularly preferably, the analysis unit can be configured as a reactor controller. Preferably, the reactor controller can collect data from field devices, preferably visualize it, and preferably store it. Preferably, this data can also be stored together with process data in a central database. Thus, the data can be used specifically for process development within the reactor controller, and can preferably be used for control and / or process management. In particular, this data can be analyzed and used to manipulate actuators based on the acquired data.

[0029] For other advantages, implementation variations and implementation details of the first aspect, as well as possible improvements, please refer to the following descriptions of the corresponding features and improvements for the second and third aspects.

[0030] According to the second aspect, the aforementioned objective is achieved through an end plate for enclosing a bioreactor, the end plate comprising: an inner side and an outer side opposite to the inner side; a stirrer connection device configured to guide a stirring shaft through the end plate and connect to a drive unit capable of being coupled to the stirring shaft; at least one field device connection device configured to connect a field device to the inner side; and a data transmission unit disposed on the outer side. The data transmission unit has: a motor head capable of being signal-technically coupled to an analysis unit and energy-technically coupled to a drive unit capable of being disposed on the end plate of the bioreactor, and including motor head electronics; and at least one communication unit signal-technically coupled to the motor head. The communication unit includes: an adapter having adapter electronics capable of electrically connecting to field device electronics of a field device; and a communication unit electrically connected to the adapter electronics and the motor head electronics, wherein the adapter electronics are designed to exchange signals between the field device electronics and the communication electronics, these signals carrying field device information as well as measurement information and / or control information; wherein the communication electronics are designed to exchange signals between the adapter electronics and the motor head electronics; wherein the data transmission unit further includes a signal converter, which is preferably configured as part of the adapter electronics and / or the communication electronics, wherein the adapter and the communication unit are configured as separate, interconnectable components, and wherein the motor head is configured as a separate component capable of connecting to the communication unit.

[0031] Preferably, an end plate for enclosing a bioreactor is provided, comprising: an inner side and an outer side opposite to the inner side; a stirrer connection device configured to guide a stirring shaft through the end plate and connect to a drive unit capable of being coupled to the stirring shaft; at least two field device connection devices configured to connect each of the field devices to the inner side; and a data transmission unit disposed on the outer side. The data transmission unit has: a motor head capable of being signal-technically coupled to an analysis unit and energy-technically coupled to a drive unit disposed on the end plate of the bioreactor, and including motor head electronics; and at least two communication units respectively signal-technically coupled to the motor head. The communication unit includes: an adapter having adapter electronics capable of electrically connecting to field device electronics of one of the field devices; and a communication unit electrically connected to the adapter electronics and the motor head electronics, wherein the adapter electronics is designed to exchange signals between the field device electronics and the communication electronics, these signals carrying field device information as well as measurement information and / or control information; wherein the communication electronics is designed to exchange signals between the adapter electronics and the motor head electronics; wherein the adapter and the communication unit are constructed as separate, interconnectable components; wherein the data transmission unit further includes a signal converter, which is preferably constructed as part of the adapter electronics and / or part of the communication electronics, wherein the motor head is constructed as a separate component capable of connecting to the communication unit.

[0032] The technical solution described herein provides an end plate for enclosing a bioreactor and a data transmission unit disposed on the outside of the end plate. The data transmission unit allows signal transmission between one or more connectable field devices and an analytical unit that can be coupled using signal technology. This end plate has an inner side and an outer side. Preferably, the end plate can be mounted and secured to the container of the bioreactor such that the inner side faces and defines the internal space of the container. Preferably, the outer side can be constructed opposite to the inner side and, in particular, facing away from the internal space of the container. The end plate also includes a stirrer connection device for securing a stirrer with a stirring shaft to the end plate and connecting a drive unit to the stirring shaft. Furthermore, the end plate has multiple field device connection devices for connecting one or more field devices, particularly sensors and / or actuators, thereto.

[0033] Preferably, the field device connection device can be any device used for fastening the field device. In particular, the field device can be fastened to these field device connections in a form-fit and / or force-fit manner.

[0034] Preferably, the field device connection device may have a membrane for sealing, preferably enclosing, the internal space. This membrane can be configured to allow the field device to pass through the membrane from outside the bioreactor and be introduced into the internal space. By providing this sterility through the membrane, the field device can be equipped and / or upgraded and / or modified for the bioreactor as needed with particular ease. Furthermore, this allows for particularly simple replacement of the field device in the event of a failure.

[0035] For other advantages, implementation variations and implementation details of the second aspect, as well as possible improvements, please refer to the following description of the corresponding features and improvements of the third aspect, and the previous description of the corresponding features and improvements of the first aspect.

[0036] According to the third aspect, the aforementioned objective is achieved through a data transmission unit for an endplate of a bioreactor, the data transmission unit comprising: a motor head capable of being signal-technically connected to an analysis unit and energy-technically connected to a drive unit capable of being disposed on the endplate of the bioreactor, and including motor head electronics; and at least one communication unit signal-technically connected to the motor head. The communication unit comprises: an adapter having adapter electronics capable of being electrically connected to field device electronics of a field device; and a communication unit having communication electronics electrically connected to the adapter electronics and the motor head electronics; wherein the adapter electronics are designed to exchange signals between the field device electronics and the communication electronics, these signals carrying field device information as well as measurement information and / or control information; wherein the communication electronics are designed to exchange signals between the adapter electronics and the motor head electronics; wherein the data transmission unit further comprises a signal converter, which is preferably configured as part of the adapter electronics and / or part of the communication electronics; wherein the adapter and the communication unit are configured as separate, interconnectable components, and wherein the motor head is configured as a separate component capable of being connected to the communication unit.

[0037] Preferably, the data transmission unit for the endplate of the bioreactor is configured with: a motor head, which is signal-technically connected to the analysis unit and energy-technically connected to a drive unit that can be arranged on the endplate of the bioreactor, and includes motor head electronics; and at least two communication units respectively signal-technically connected to the motor head. Each communication unit includes: an adapter having adapter electronics capable of electrically connecting to one of the field devices' field devices; and a communication unit electrically connected to the adapter electronics and the motor head electronics, wherein the adapter electronics are designed to exchange signals between the field device electronics and the communication electronics, these signals carrying field device information as well as measurement information and / or control information; wherein the communication electronics are designed to exchange signals between the adapter electronics and the motor head electronics; wherein the signal converter is preferably configured as part of the adapter electronics and / or the communication electronics; wherein the adapter and the communication unit are configured as separate, interconnectable components; and wherein the motor head is configured as a separate component capable of connecting to the communication unit.

[0038] This invention is based in particular on the understanding that signals from field devices, especially sensor signals, are generally susceptible to interference. Most field devices are configured to transmit and / or receive analog signals. Analog signals are particularly vulnerable to interference. For this reason, it may be disadvantageous to transmit these signals using long cables, especially at least 100 cm long.

[0039] This invention is also based on the understanding that, in known technical solutions, each field device is typically connected to the analysis unit individually via a cable for signal transmission. If more than one individual field device is used, the wiring of each field device can lead to ambiguity and negatively impact operability, particularly the operability of the data transmission unit, especially within the installation frame and / or during use. Furthermore, the direct connection between the field device and the analysis unit necessitates the development of suitable modules or corresponding analytical electronics for each field device to receive and analyze signals from different field devices and / or send signals to different field devices. Therefore, in known technical solutions to date, when using new field devices, corresponding analytical electronics or matching modules must be developed. This typically results in a longer waiting time before using new field devices.

[0040] The technical solution described herein provides a data transmission unit having a motor head and at least one communication unit, preferably having at least two communication units. The communication unit includes an adapter and a communication unit. Through signal technology connections between the motor head and the analysis unit, and between each adapter and the field device, robust signal transmission can be achieved between the field device and the analysis unit using the data transmission unit.

[0041] Depending on the field devices to be used, it is preferable to select and / or establish a specially configured adapter for each field device. These adapters each include an adapter electronics device configured to receive signals from and / or transmit signals to the corresponding field device.

[0042] Different field devices are typically configured to transmit different signals carrying field device information and measurement information, and / or receive different signals carrying control information. For example, field devices can transmit and / or receive digital or analog signals. In particular, field devices can transmit and / or generate analog signals within a specific frequency range or within a DC range. Therefore, it is advantageous to use appropriately configured adapters to convert these signals and transmit them to the communication unit and / or receive these signals from the communication unit, convert them, and transmit them to the field devices.

[0043] By sending signals carrying field device information and measurement information, measurement data collected by the field device and data preferably used by the field device (e.g., information about which field device was used to collect the measurement data) can be transmitted to the communication unit. Preferably, the field device information can convey the field device type to the communication electronics.

[0044] By conveying the type of field device, the characteristics of the field device can be transmitted. These characteristics may include sensor type and / or actuator type, and whether the signal is transmitted digitally or analogly.

[0045] Field devices can be manipulated by receiving signals carrying control information and sending those signals to the field devices. In particular, field devices can be activated and / or deactivated and / or set and / or calibrated.

[0046] Unlike the adapter section, the communication section can preferably be constructed identically for each communication unit. Therefore, the communication sections can preferably be uniformly configured. The communication electronics of each communication section are electrically connected to the motor head electronics to receive signals from field devices via the adapter section and transmit them to the motor head electronics, and / or receive signals from the motor head electronics and transmit them to field devices via the adapter section. Thus, the motor head electronics can receive signals from individual field devices and / or transmit signals to individual field devices.

[0047] The motor head is at least signal-connected to the analysis unit. Specifically, the motor head electronics can be electrically connected to the analysis electronics of the analysis unit. Preferably, the motor head can be configured to be power-connected to the analysis unit. Thus, the analysis unit can preferably supply power to the motor head electronics.

[0048] The motor head is at least technically connected to the drive unit and is configured to supply power to the drive unit. Specifically, the motor head electronics may be electrically connected to the drive electronics of the drive unit. Preferably, the motor head may be technically connected to the drive unit.

[0049] The signal and / or energy technology connection between the two components can preferably be understood as the corresponding electronics of these components being electrically connected to each other and preferably configured to transmit signals and / or energy. The transmission of signals and / or energy can preferably be understood as the sending and / or receiving of signals and / or energy.

[0050] The motor head, adapter, and communication unit are all independent components that can be interconnected. Preferably, each communication unit can be combined with the adapter.

[0051] By configuring different adapters according to the field equipment, the data transmission unit can be individually adapted to customer needs.

[0052] The proposed technical solution eliminates the need for separate analytical electronics for each field device. By transmitting a preferably standardized signal carrying measurement and field device information, it is particularly advantageous to utilize a single analytical electronics device to analyze signals transmitted through different communication units and motor heads.

[0053] The proposed technical solution with a matching adapter only requires the design of an adapter with the appropriate configuration in terms of hardware, thus significantly reducing the hardware cost of integrating new field devices into the system.

[0054] By using adapters close to the field equipment, and especially by converting signals directly at the point of occurrence into more robust analog and / or digital signals, signal processing can be made more robust.

[0055] This technical solution also has the advantage of enabling standardization through the adapter, which simplifies signal processing. Furthermore, it reduces the number of components required for signal processing.

[0056] Preferably, the motor head can be electrically connected to, or can be electrically connected to, the feed cable. In addition to the existing core wires for power supply to the drive unit, the feed cable preferably comprises four core wires: two for power supply, particularly to the motor head electronics, and two for data transmission. The core wires for data transmission can conform to, for example, the RS485 standard. This enables particularly robust communication that is not easily affected by errors.

[0057] The motor head electronics can preferably be configured to send signals to or receive signals from the analysis unit via, for example, Modbus. The motor head electronics can also be configured to operate in a bridge-betrieb mode between the field device and the analysis unit or control unit, and additionally serve as a hub for the field device on the bioreactor.

[0058] Particularly preferably, the data transmission unit may include an analysis unit, wherein the analysis unit is technically connected to the motor head signal.

[0059] The analysis unit can preferably be configured to receive signals from the data transmission unit and analyze the signals. Furthermore, the analysis unit can be configured to generate signals and send them to the data transmission unit. Preferably, these signals can be used to control and / or calibrate field equipment. Particularly preferably, the analysis unit can receive signals from the data transmission unit, analyze these signals, generate signals based on these signals, and send them to the data transmission unit.

[0060] Preferably, the analysis unit may have an operator interface that allows an operator to manipulate the data transmission unit. Thus, it is preferable that field devices can be manually operated and / or data can be read. It is also preferable that the drive unit can be operated by an operator.

[0061] Preferably, the data transmission unit for the endplate of the bioreactor may have a motor head and a communication unit that is only signal-technically connected to the motor head; the motor head is signal-technically connected to the analysis unit and energy-technically connected to the drive unit that can be arranged on the endplate of the bioreactor, and includes motor head electronics; the communication unit includes an adapter part with adapter electronics and a communication part with communication electronics, the adapter electronics being electrically connected to the field device electronics of the field device, and the communication electronics being electrically connected to the adapter electronics and the motor head electronics; wherein the adapter electronics includes a signal converter and is designed to exchange signals between the field device electronics and the communication electronics, these signals carrying field device information as well as measurement information and / or control information; wherein the adapter electronics is designed to exchange signals between the adapter electronics and the motor head electronics; wherein the adapter part and the communication part are constructed as separate, interconnectable components; wherein the motor head is constructed as a separate component that can be connected to the communication unit.

[0062] According to a preferred expansion scheme of the data transmission unit, the adapter includes a field device interface and a communicator interface, wherein the adapter electronics are connected between the field device interface and the communicator interface, and can be electrically connected to the field device electronics through the field device interface, and electrically connected to the communication electronics through the communicator interface; and the communication unit includes an adapter interface and a motor head interface, wherein the communication electronics are connected between the adapter interface and the motor head interface, and can be electrically connected to the adapter electronics through the adapter interface, and electrically connected to the motor head electronics through the motor head interface.

[0063] The adapter electronics can preferably be configured to transmit and / or receive signals via a field device interface and / or a communicator interface. Specifically, the adapter electronics can be configured to convert signals from the field device interface into signals from the communicator interface. Furthermore, the adapter electronics can be specifically configured to convert signals from the communicator interface into signals from the field device interface.

[0064] The communication electronics can preferably be configured to transmit and / or receive signals via an adapter interface and / or a motor head interface. Specifically, the communication electronics can be configured to convert signals from the adapter interface into signals from the motor head interface. Furthermore, the communication electronics can be specifically configured to convert signals from the motor head interface into signals from the adapter interface.

[0065] Preferably, the field device interface and / or communicator interface and / or adapter interface and / or motor head interface can be a hardware interface designed to interconnect physical systems in electrical and electronic technologies. Thus, preferably, individual components, particularly electronic devices of individual components, can be electrically interconnected.

[0066] Preferably, the field device interface and / or communicator interface and / or adapter interface and / or motor head interface can be configured as analog and / or digital interfaces. Specifically, the field device interface and / or communicator interface and / or adapter interface and / or motor head interface can be configured as USB, FireWire, EIA-232, PCI-Express, SPI, I2C, RS232, RS485, DMX, Serial ATA, or Profibus. Particularly preferably, the field device interface and / or communicator interface and / or adapter interface and / or motor head interface can be configured as an RS485 interface.

[0067] Preferably, the adapter electronics can be mounted on a printed circuit board. Preferably, the printed circuit board can have pins. Preferably, the circuit board can have at least two pins configured to enable electrical connections between the adapter electronics and field device electronics, wherein these pins are preferably designed as outputs and / or inputs. Furthermore, the printed circuit board preferably has two pins designed for power supply. The printed circuit board may particularly have two spring contacts that enable electrical connections between the adapter electronics and communication electronics.

[0068] The other configured pins can be fixedly encoded on the printed circuit board of the adapter electronics and forward the corresponding binary pattern (bitmuster) to the communication electronics. Alternatively or additionally, this forwarding can also be performed via a corresponding protocol, preferably where the digital signal already exists in the adapter electronics.

[0069] More preferably, communication electronics can be mounted on a printed circuit board, and / or motor head electronics can be mounted on a printed circuit board.

[0070] Particularly preferably, the data transmission unit includes at least a first group of first adapters and a second group of second adapters; wherein the adapter electronics of the first adapter are configured to exchange signals between the field device electronics and the communication electronics of the first field device; wherein the adapter electronics of the second adapter are configured to exchange signals between the field device electronics and the communication electronics of the second field device; wherein, according to the field device to be connected, an adapter is selected for each communication unit from at least the first group of first adapters and the second group of second adapters.

[0071] According to this preferred embodiment, a modular system is provided. The system preferably includes different groups of adapters, which are preferably configured according to different field devices. Specifically, the adapter can be selected and connected to the field device based on the field device. This allows the use of different field devices.

[0072] The communication units can preferably be substantially identical and are configured to be connected to each adapter unit.

[0073] In particular, this allows for the provision of data transmission units tailored to individual customer needs. Furthermore, it is advantageous to be able to modify and / or upgrade the data processing units.

[0074] According to another preferred embodiment, the adapter includes a field device connector configured to mechanically, preferably detachably, connect the field device to the adapter. Particularly preferably, the adapter can be screwed onto the field device.

[0075] Preferably, the field device connector can be configured on the field device interface. Particularly preferably, the field device can thus be electrically connected to or mechanically connected to the adapter.

[0076] This allows the adapter to be connected to field devices very easily. Furthermore, the mechanical connections of these components enable a particularly compact field device-adapter-unit design, facilitating simple operation.

[0077] This detachable connection between the adapter and the field equipment preferably allows for the replacement of the field equipment and / or the adapter.

[0078] Furthermore, preferably, the communication unit includes an adapter connector configured to mechanically, preferably detachably, connect the adapter to the communication unit.

[0079] The adapter connector can preferably be constructed on the adapter interface. Particularly preferably, this allows the communication unit to be connected to the adapter unit both electrically and mechanically.

[0080] Therefore, the communication unit can be connected to the adapter unit very easily. Furthermore, the mechanical connection of these components enables a particularly compact communication unit-adapter unit-unit configuration, which facilitates simple operation.

[0081] Preferably, the detachable connection between the communication unit and the adapter unit allows for the replacement of the communication unit and / or the adapter unit.

[0082] Particularly preferably, the adapter includes a field device connector configured to mechanically, preferably detachably, connect a field device to the adapter, and / or the communication unit includes an adapter connector configured to mechanically, preferably detachably, connect the adapter to the communication unit.

[0083] Particularly preferably, the field device connector can be configured to connect the field device to the adapter via a bayonet connection, threaded connection, or snap-fit ​​connection. Preferably, the field device connector can be configured on the adapter housing. In particular, the field device may include an adapter connector configured to engage with the field device connector.

[0084] Particularly preferably, the adapter connector can be configured to connect the communication unit and the adapter unit via a bayonet connection, threaded connection, or snap-fit ​​connection. Preferably, the adapter connector can be configured on the housing of the communication unit. Preferably, the adapter unit can have a communicator connector configured to engage with the adapter connector.

[0085] According to another preferred embodiment, the signal converter is an analog-to-digital converter. Furthermore, the adapter electronics and / or communication electronics and / or signal converter are preferably designed to receive analog signals, convert them into standardized analog signals, convert the standardized analog signals into digital signals, and transmit digital signals, and / or vice versa.

[0086] In this implementation variation, the analog signal preferably generated by the field device electronics and sent to the adapter electronics is converted into a digital signal in the adapter electronics and / or communication electronics. Digital signals are generally less susceptible to interference during transmission because the signal level remains correct within a certain tolerance. In particular, differential digital signals are especially robust to external interference.

[0087] Preferably, the communication electronics may include a repeater and / or a signal processor and are configured to receive digital signals, process the digital signals via the repeater and / or signal processor, and transmit the processed digital signals. This allows for error correction when necessary, particularly the removal of unwanted noise. Advantageously, by processing the digital signals in the communication electronics, preferably only valid signals can continue to be transmitted to the motor head electronics.

[0088] In particular, the motor head electronics may also include repeaters and / or signal processors for processing digital signals received from the communications unit.

[0089] By converting analog signals into digital signals, more robust signal transmission can be achieved.

[0090] Preferably, the signal converter may further include a repeater and / or a signal processor designed to process digital signals. This variant is particularly advantageous when the adapter is designed to receive digital signals from field devices and / or receive digital signals from a communication unit and transmit them to field devices.

[0091] Preferably, for analog transmission, current signals can be used, particularly 0mA-20mA or with a zero offset of 4mA-20mA, or voltage signals can be used, particularly <0V-5V, 0V-10V, with a zero offset of 1V-5V, with a zero offset of 2V-10V, or with or without a zero offset of -10V-10V.

[0092] Particularly preferred is that the current signal can be used as a standardized signal. Such a signal is particularly insensitive to electromagnetic interference and voltage drop.

[0093] Specifically, analog sensor signals from field devices can be converted into standardized signals (e.g., 0V to 4.095V) and further transmitted as converted digital signals (e.g., 0-4095).

[0094] More preferably, the communication electronics and / or motor head electronics are designed to receive signals contactlessly or contact-based, preferably wired, convert the signals into radio signals and transmit them radioly or wiredly, and / or vice versa. Thus, signal transmission between the communication electronics and the motor head electronics can be wireless. This implementation reduces or eliminates wiring on the data transmission unit. It also particularly simplifies the operation of the data transmission unit, especially its installation, particularly on the endplates of the bioreactor.

[0095] According to this implementation variation, the communication unit and / or motor head may have an antenna configured to transmit and / or receive radio signals. The antenna is preferably flexible. This allows for the best possible field closure between the motor head and the communication unit.

[0096] The conversion into a radio signal can be done, for example, by modulation. In particular, the original signal or information from the original signal can be recovered through demodulation and forwarded and / or further processed if necessary.

[0097] This implementation variation eliminates the need to lay cables between the communication unit and the motor head.

[0098] More preferably, the adapter electronics are designed to receive signals contactlessly or in contact, preferably wired, convert the signals into radio signals and transmit them radioly or wiredly, and / or vice versa. Thus, signal transmission between the adapter electronics and the communication electronics can be wireless. This implementation reduces or eliminates wiring on the data transmission unit. It also significantly simplifies the operation of the data transmission unit, particularly its installation, especially on the endplates of the bioreactor.

[0099] According to this embodiment, the communication unit and / or adapter unit may include an antenna designed to transmit and / or receive radio signals. The antenna is preferably flexible. This allows for the best possible field closure between the adapter unit and the communication unit. Another possible form is an integrated antenna on the printed circuit board of the communication electronics and / or on the printed circuit board of the adapter electronics.

[0100] The conversion into a radio signal can be done, for example, by modulation. In particular, the original signal or information from the original signal can be recovered through demodulation and forwarded and / or further processed if necessary.

[0101] This implementation variation eliminates the need to lay cables between the communications unit and the adapter unit.

[0102] To convert signals, preferably digital signals, into radio signals and / or vice versa, a modem can be used. Preferably, communication electronics and / or adapter electronics may have a modem configured to convert digital signals into radio signals and / or vice versa.

[0103] More preferably, the adapter electronics and / or communication electronics can be configured to receive radio signals, convert the radio signals into raw digital signals, and transmit the raw digital signals.

[0104] Preferably, the signal can be transmitted between the adapter electronics and the communication electronics via contact, preferably wired, or wireless transmission, and / or vice versa. Particularly preferably, the signal can be transmitted between the communication electronics and the motor head electronics via contact, preferably wired, or wireless transmission, and / or vice versa.

[0105] Typically, radio signals are preferably based on the Bluetooth protocol or a modified version thereof, particularly Bluetooth Low Energy, ZigBee, 6LoWPAN, and / or (different) wireless protocols. In particular, radio connections with very short ranges and therefore very low transmit power can be established.

[0106] Generally, wired connections are preferably achieved using very short, particularly semi-flexible cables. Specifically, cables can be fastened to the communicator via a plug, preferably a screw-on type. For example, the opposite side of the cable can be connected to the motor head or to an adapter, preferably via, for example, a wedge-shaped tapered plug and / or spring contacts. Preferably, the connection between the cable and the motor head is detachably secured, for example, by a locking connection and / or a magnetic connection. This ensures both quick and easy connection and manual release of the locking mechanism.

[0107] According to a particularly preferred embodiment, the data transmission unit may have a motor head and at least two communication units respectively signal-technically connected to the motor head; the motor head is signal-technically connected to an analysis unit and energy-technically connected to a drive unit that can be arranged on an endplate of a bioreactor, and includes motor head electronics; the communication unit includes an adapter section with adapter electronics and a communication section with communication electronics, wherein the adapter electronics are electrically connected to field device electronics in one of the field devices, and wherein the communication electronics are electrically connected to the adapter electronics and the motor head electronics; wherein the adapter electronics include an analog-to-digital converter and are designed to receive analog signals, convert them into digital signals, and transmit digital signals, and / or vice versa, to exchange signals between the field device electronics and the communication electronics, these signals carrying field device information and measurement and / or control information; wherein the communication electronics are designed to exchange signals between the adapter electronics and the motor head electronics; wherein the adapter section and the communication section are constructed as separate, interconnectable components; wherein the motor head is constructed as a separate component that can be connected to the communication unit.

[0108] This implementation allows field devices to generate analog, particularly susceptible, signals and send them to the adapter. The adapter can then be connected to conventional field devices that cannot generate digital signals.

[0109] By converting the signal at the point of occurrence, particularly robust signal transmission can be achieved. Digital signals are clearer and more precisely defined than analog signals. Therefore, they are easier to reconstruct, have high immunity to interference, and allow for flexible further processing.

[0110] According to an alternative, particularly preferred embodiment, the data transmission unit may have a motor head and at least two communication units respectively signal-technically connected to the motor head; the motor head is signal-technically connected to an analysis unit and energy-technically connected to a drive unit that can be arranged on an endplate of a bioreactor, and includes motor head electronics; the communication units respectively include an adapter unit with adapter electronics and a communication unit with communication electronics, the adapter electronics being electrically connected to field device electronics of a field device, and the communication electronics being electrically connected to the adapter electronics and the motor head electronics; wherein the adapter electronics include an analog-to-digital converter and are designed to receive analog signals, convert analog signals into standardized signals and transmit the standardized signals, and / or conversely, to exchange signals between the field device electronics and the communication electronics, these signals carrying field device information as well as measurement information and / or control information; wherein the communication electronics are designed to exchange signals between the adapter electronics and the motor head electronics; wherein the adapter unit and the communication unit are constructed as separate, interconnectable components; wherein the motor head is constructed as a separate component capable of being connected to the communication units.

[0111] This implementation allows field devices to generate analog, particularly susceptible, signals and send them to the adapter. The adapter can then be connected to conventional field devices that cannot generate digital signals.

[0112] By converting the signals from field devices into standard signals (Einheitssignale), they can be forwarded and processed. Furthermore, due to standardization, standardized communication units can be used, enabling communication with different adapters.

[0113] Particularly preferred is the use of a current signal as the normalized signal. This signal is particularly insensitive to electromagnetic interference and voltage drops, thus enabling more robust signal transmission. Furthermore, it allows for the permanent supply of power to the analog-to-digital converter.

[0114] According to an alternative, particularly preferred, implementation, the data transmission unit may have a motor head and at least two communication units respectively signal-technically connected to the motor head; the motor head is signal-technically connected to the analysis unit and energy-technically connected to a drive unit that can be arranged on an endplate of the bioreactor, and includes motor head electronics; the communication units respectively include an adapter unit with adapter electronics and a communication unit with communication electronics, the adapter electronics being electrically connected to field device electronics of field equipment, and the communication electronics being electrically connected to the adapter electronics and the motor head electronics; wherein the adapter electronics include a signal converter, preferably an analog-to-digital converter. The converter, designed to exchange signals between field device electronics and communication electronics, is preferably used to receive analog signals, convert them into standardized signals, and transmit the standardized signals, and / or vice versa, these signals carrying field device information as well as measurement information and / or control information; wherein the communication electronics include an analog-to-digital converter and are designed to receive analog signals, convert them into digital signals, and transmit the digital signals, and / or vice versa, so as to exchange signals between adapter electronics and motor head electronics; wherein the adapter and communication units are constructed as separate, interconnectable components; wherein the motor head is constructed as a separate component capable of being connected to the communication unit.

[0115] The aforementioned preferred embodiments ensure more robust signal transmission. Robust signal transmission and, correspondingly, accurate information transmission are of paramount importance for bioprocessing technologies. When culturing microorganisms and / or cell cultures, each individual parameter is crucial. Therefore, for example, the pH and temperature of the culture medium are particularly important. Even small fluctuations can affect the growth curve. Furthermore, the consumption of nutrients by the microorganisms and / or cell cultures must be considered. Therefore, it is preferable to monitor nutrient concentrations accurately in real time to allow for adjustment of nutrient supply. In addition, microorganisms and / or cell cultures may cause varying degrees of foam formation due to metabolism. In particular, to avoid excessive foam formation, which can lead to bioreactor overflow, foam formation must be monitored in real time to control it by adjusting other parameters.

[0116] According to an alternative, particularly preferred embodiment, the data transmission unit may have a motor head and at least two communication units respectively signal-technically connected to the motor head, the motor head being signal-technically connected to an analysis unit and energy-technically connected to a drive unit that can be arranged on an endplate of a bioreactor, and including motor head electronics; the communication units respectively include an adapter section with adapter electronics and a communication section with communication electronics, the adapter electronics being electrically connected to field device electronics of a field device, and the communication electronics being electrically connected to the adapter electronics and the motor head electronics; wherein the adapter electronics include a signal converter and are designed to exchange signals between the field device electronics and the communication electronics, these signals carrying field device information as well as measurement information and / or control information; wherein the communication electronics are designed to receive signals in a contact manner, preferably wired, convert the signals into radio signals and transmit them radioly, and / or conversely, to exchange signals between the adapter electronics and the motor head electronics; wherein the adapter section and the communication section are constructed as separate, interconnectable components; wherein the motor head is constructed as a separate component capable of being connected to the communication units.

[0117] According to this preferred embodiment, the signal converter can preferably be an analog-to-digital converter, a repeater, and / or a signal conditioner. Particularly when the adapter can be connected to an analog sensor, the signal converter can be configured as an analog-to-digital converter. Particularly when the adapter can be connected to a digital sensor, the signal converter can be configured as a repeater and / or a signal conditioner.

[0118] Alternatively, the signal converter can be, for example, an analog-to-digital converter. Here, the communication electronics may include an analog-to-digital converter and are designed to receive standardized analog signals, convert them into digital signals, and convert the digital signals into radio signals.

[0119] This preferred embodiment combines the advantages of the different implementations of the signal converter described above with the advantages of radio transmission. In particular, it reduces or eliminates wiring on the data transmission unit. This also significantly simplifies the operation of the data transmission unit, especially its installation, particularly on the end plates of the bioreactor.

[0120] According to another preferred embodiment, the field device interface and / or communicator interface and / or adapter interface and / or motor head interface are configured as connectors on cables, wherein the cables preferably have a maximum length of 20 cm.

[0121] The connector can be specially constructed as a plug that is arranged on the cable.

[0122] Preferably, the cable can have a maximum length of 50cm, 20cm, 15cm, 10cm, 8cm, 6cm, 5cm, or 4cm. The maximum length of the cable preferably depends on the size of the bioreactor.

[0123] Using exceptionally short cables improves operability by eliminating unnecessary lengths and reducing wiring. This also contributes to a cleaner appearance. Furthermore, it improves signal transmission.

[0124] Particularly preferably, the motor head is electrically connected to the communication unit, wherein the motor head electronics are designed to supply energy, particularly current, to the communication electronics and / or to electrically connect the communication unit to the adapter unit, wherein the communication electronics are designed to supply energy, particularly current, to the adapter electronics and / or to electrically connect the adapter unit to the field device, wherein the adapter electronics are designed to supply energy, particularly current, to the field device electronics, wherein the current is preferably transmitted in a contact manner, preferably wired and / or inductively.

[0125] This preferred inductive energy supply can preferably be powered by an inductive source in the motor head.

[0126] Preferably, the motor head electronics and / or communication electronics and / or adapter electronics may include power supply electronics. The motor head can be specifically designed as a current distributor to power all communication electronics electrically connected to the motor head electronics. This ensures a particularly simple construction for the data transmission unit. In particular, the individual components, preferably the adapter and / or communication units, can be designed in a particularly simple manner. This also eliminates the need to electrically connect individual components to power lines or to incorporate other energy sources within the components.

[0127] This implementation method can, for example, supply energy to field equipment.

[0128] According to another preferred embodiment, the motor head includes a communication interface and a power supply interface. The communication interface is electrically connected to communication electronics, and a power supply cable is electrically connected to the power supply interface, wherein the power supply interface is electrically connected to the analytical electronics of the analysis unit. The motor head electronics are connected between the communication interface and the power supply interface, and are designed to exchange signals between the communication electronics electrically connected to the communication interface and the analytical electronics electrically connected to the power supply interface. The power supply interface is particularly used for the connection between the analysis unit, particularly its analytical electronics, and the motor head, particularly its motor head electronics, preferably via a power supply cable.

[0129] The motor head electronics can preferably be configured to transmit and / or receive signals via a communication interface and / or a power supply interface. Specifically, the motor head electronics can be configured to convert signals from the communication interface into signals from the power supply interface. Furthermore, the adapter electronics can be specifically configured to convert signals from the power supply interface into signals from the communication interface.

[0130] Preferably, the motor head electronics are designed to send or receive signals from the communication electronics of the communication unit via one or more bus systems based on a bus protocol. In this implementation, all communication units can be electrically connected to the motor head via the bus. Thus, the motor head can receive signals from the communication units and / or send signals to the communication units via the bus. Preferably, signals can be transmitted simultaneously via the bus. Two or more buses, particularly two or more different bus systems, can also be provided.

[0131] In one variant, the motor head can be designed to be connected to the analysis unit via bus signal technology.

[0132] In one variant, the motor head can be signal-connected to the drive unit and configured as a control drive unit.

[0133] Preferably, the adapter and / or communication unit and / or motor head may have a storage unit configured to store signals.

[0134] According to a preferred embodiment, the adapter may include a polymer, plastic, glass fiber reinforced nylon, glass fiber reinforced acetyl, aluminum or aluminum alloy, or may be made of a polymer, plastic, glass fiber reinforced nylon, glass fiber reinforced acetyl, aluminum or aluminum alloy.

[0135] Preferably, the communication unit may include a polymer, plastic, glass fiber reinforced nylon, glass fiber reinforced acetyl, aluminum or aluminum alloy, or may be made of a polymer, plastic, glass fiber reinforced nylon, glass fiber reinforced acetyl, aluminum or aluminum alloy.

[0136] Preferably, the motor head may include a polymer, plastic, glass fiber reinforced nylon, glass fiber reinforced acetyl, anodized metal, aluminum or aluminum alloy, or may be made of a polymer, plastic, glass fiber reinforced nylon, glass fiber reinforced acetyl, anodized metal, aluminum or aluminum alloy.

[0137] Particularly preferably, the communication unit may include field devices, wherein the adapter electronics are electrically connected to the field device electronics of the field devices.

[0138] For other advantages, implementation variations and implementation details of the third aspect above, as well as possible improvements, please refer to the previous descriptions of the corresponding features and improvements of the first and second aspects.

[0139] According to another aspect of the invention, the aforementioned objective is achieved through the application of the data transmission unit to endplates and / or bioreactors.

[0140] According to another aspect of the invention, the aforementioned objective is achieved by a method for providing a data transmission unit, the method comprising the steps of: providing a motor head that is signal-technically connectable to an analysis unit and energy-technically connectable to a drive unit that can be disposed on an endplate of a bioreactor, and including motor head electronics; assembling a communication unit, comprising: selecting adapters having adapter electronics according to field devices to be connected to the adapters; providing communication units having communication electronics; connecting the adapters to a communication unit and electrically connecting the adapter electronics to the communication electronics; and electrically connecting the communication electronics to the motor head electronics.

[0141] A modular system allows for the selection and connection of adapters to field devices. The system preferably includes different groups of adapters, which are configured according to different field devices.

[0142] The communication units can preferably be substantially identical and are configured to be connected to each adapter unit.

[0143] In particular, this allows for the provision of data transmission units tailored to individual customer needs. Similarly, the data processing unit can also be modified and / or upgraded.

[0144] For further advantages, implementation variations and implementation details, and possible improvements of the other aspects, refer also to the previous descriptions of the corresponding features and improvements for the first, second and third aspects. Attached Figure Description

[0145] The preferred embodiments are described below with reference to the accompanying drawings. Wherein:

[0146] Figure 1 As part of a bioreactor;

[0147] Figure 2 A data transmission unit with a communication unit;

[0148] Figure 3 It includes an adapter that can connect to field devices and a portion of the field devices; and

[0149] Figure 4These are exemplary method steps for providing a data transmission unit. Detailed Implementation

[0150] In the accompanying drawings, elements that have the same or similar basic functions are indicated by the same reference numerals.

[0151] Figure 1 A portion of bioreactor 1 is shown, including a container 13 and an end plate 11 that encloses the container 13. The container 13, or its walls and end plate 11, enclose an internal space 14. The internal space 14 defines the reaction chamber of bioreactor 1.

[0152] The bioreactor 1 also includes a stirring shaft 12, which is guided into the internal space 14 and connected to a drive unit 15 arranged on the end plate 11. With the help of the drive unit 15, the stirring shaft 12, and thus the agitator of the bioreactor 1, can be rotated to mix the contents, preferably the reaction medium.

[0153] Figure 1 The bioreactor 1 shown also includes two field devices 50a and 50b, which are connected to the communication unit. The communication unit is a component of the data transmission unit.

[0154] Implementations with only one field device and one communication unit, or with more than two field devices and correspondingly more than two communication units, are also feasible. Furthermore, a possible implementation is that two or more field devices are each connected to a shared communication unit via an adapter.

[0155] The data transmission unit includes a motor head 40, which is mounted on and at least electrically connected to the drive unit 15. Therefore, the motor head 40 is configured to supply energy to the drive unit 15. Specifically, the motor head electronics can be electrically connected to the drive electronics of the drive unit 40. Preferably, the motor head 40 can be configured to be signal-connected to the drive unit 15. Thus, the motor head electronics can also preferably control the drive unit.

[0156] A power supply cable 43 is connected to the motor head 40. The power supply cable 43 preferably comprises at least four core wires: two for power supply and two for data transmission. The motor head 40 can be electrically connected to the analysis unit via the power supply cable 43. Data transmission can be implemented, for example, according to the EIA485 / RS485 standard. By using differential-based transmission technology, particularly robust communication that is not easily affected by errors can be achieved.

[0157] The motor head electronics can preferably be configured to send signals to or receive signals from the analysis unit via, for example, Modbus. The motor head electronics can also be configured to operate in a bridging mode between the field device and the analysis unit or control unit, and additionally serve as a hub for the field device on the bioreactor.

[0158] The analysis unit can preferably be configured to receive signals from the data transmission unit and analyze the signals. Furthermore, the analysis unit can be configured to generate signals and send them to the data transmission unit. Preferably, these signals can be used to control and / or calibrate field devices 50a, 50b. Particularly preferably, the analysis unit can receive signals from the data transmission unit, analyze these signals, and generate signals based on these signals and send them to the data transmission unit.

[0159] The communication unit includes an adapter section 20a, 20b and a communication section 30a, 30b. The adapter sections 20a, 20b include adapter electronics that are electrically connected to the field device electronics of one of the field devices 50a, 50b. The communication sections 20a, 20b include communication electronics that are electrically connected to the adapter electronics and the motor head electronics of the motor head 40.

[0160] Figure 1 The motor head 40 shown is wiredly connected to communication units 30a and 30b. For this purpose, the motor head 40 has a socket 42, which is configured as a communication interface. The motor head interfaces 31a and 31b of the communication units 30a and 30b are configured as connectors on cables 32, wherein the cables 32 can be fixedly or detachably mounted on the motor head interfaces 31a and 31b. Here, the connector is configured as a plug, designed to connect to the contacts of the socket 42 located on the motor head 40.

[0161] With this implementation, signals can be exchanged between field devices 50a, 50b and adapters 20a, 20b, between adapters 20a, 20b and communication units 30a, 30b, and between communication units 30a, 30b and motor head 40. Figure 1 The adapter electronics (not shown) include a signal converter for converting signals from field devices 50a and 50b into preferred standardized signals and transmitting these signals to the communication electronics of communication units 30a and 30b. Preferably, the adapter electronics can be configured to receive signals from the communication electronics, convert the signals via the signal converter, and transmit them to the field device electronics.

[0162] Field devices 50a, 50b, adapters 20a, 20b, communication units 30a, 30b, and motor head 40 are separate, interconnected components.

[0163] By connecting the motor head 40 to the analysis unit via signal technology, and connecting the adapters 20a and 20b to the field devices 50a and 50b via signal technology, signal transmission can be achieved between at least two field devices 50a and 50b and the analysis unit via the data transmission unit.

[0164] Different field devices 50a and 50b are typically designed to transmit different signals carrying field device information and measurement information and / or receive different signals carrying control information. For example, field devices 50a and 50b can transmit and / or receive digital or analog signals. In particular, field devices 50a and 50b can generate analog signals. For this purpose, it is necessary to use appropriately configured adapters 20a and 20b to convert these signals and transmit them to communication units 30a and 30b, and / or to receive, convert, and transmit these signals from communication units 30a and 30b to field devices 50a and 50b.

[0165] Unlike the adapters 20a and 20b, the communication units 30a and 30b can preferably have the same structure for each communication unit. Therefore, the communication units 30a and 30b can preferably be uniformly configured. The communication electronics of each communication unit 30a and 30b are electrically connected to the motor head electronics to receive signals from field devices 50a and 50b via the adapters 20a and 20b and transmit these signals to the motor head electronics, and / or receive signals from the motor head electronics and transmit them to the field devices 50a and 50b via the adapters 20a and 20b. Thus, the motor head electronics can receive signals from individual field devices 50a and 50b and / or transmit signals to them.

[0166] By configuring different adapters 20a and 20b according to the field devices 50a and 50b, the bioreactor 1, especially the data transmission unit, can be individually adapted to customer needs. As a result, only the correspondingly configured adapters 20a and 20b need to be designed in terms of hardware, thus significantly reducing the cost of integrating new field devices 50a and 50b into the bioreactor 1.

[0167] Figure 2 The left side shows a communication unit connected to field device 50, which has an adapter 20 and a communication unit 30. According to the exemplary embodiment shown here, the adapter 20 is directly mounted on and electrically connected to field device 50. Similarly, the communication unit 30 is directly mounted on and connected to adapter 20. The communication unit 30 has a motor head interface 31, which is configured as a connector on a cable. Here, this connector is configured as a plug, designed to connect to the contacts 44 of a socket 42 located on the motor head. The socket 42 is constructed on the housing 41 of the motor head.

[0168] Figure 3 A field device 50 with a connection interface 51 is shown, which can be connected to a field device interface 22 of an adapter 20. The connection interface 51 and the field device interface 22 enable coupling of the field device 50 to the adapter 20. Figure 3 The adapter electronics, not shown, are mounted on the printed circuit board (PCBA) 24.

[0169] The adapter 20 has a field device interface 22, which is configured as pins 23 on a printed circuit board 24. The printed circuit board, according to the example shown herein, has a total of six pin pairs. At least two pins, for example, can be configured to enable electrical connection between the adapter electronics and the field device electronics, wherein these pins 23 are preferably designed as outputs and / or inputs. Furthermore, the printed circuit board 24 may preferably have two pins 23 designed for power supply. The printed circuit board may specifically have two spring contacts that enable electrical connection between the adapter electronics and the communication electronics. The printed circuit board may, for example, have the following layout: +24V, GND, RS485+, RS485-, Analog1, Analog2.

[0170] Pin 23 may preferably have local metallization of the contact surface, particularly gold plating.

[0171] Figure 4 Exemplary method steps for providing a data transmission unit are shown. Here, in step 110, a motor head is selected or provided, which is signal-technically connected to an analysis unit and energy-technically connected to a drive unit that can be arranged on an endplate of a bioreactor, and includes motor head electronics. In the next step 120, a communication unit is assembled. Step 120 of assembling the communication unit further includes: step 121, selecting adapters having adapter electronics according to the field devices to be connected to the adapter; step 122, providing communication units having communication electronics; step 123, connecting the adapter to a corresponding communication unit; and step 124, electrically connecting the adapter electronics to the communication electronics. Furthermore, in step 130, the communication electronics are electrically connected to the motor head electronics.

[0172] List of reference numerals

[0173] 1. Bioreactor

[0174] 11 end plates

[0175] 12 stirring shafts

[0176] 13 Containers

[0177] 14. Internal space of the container

[0178] 15 drive units

[0179] 20 Adaptation Department

[0180] 20a First adapter

[0181] 20b Second adapter

[0182] 21 Printed Circuit Boards / PCBAs

[0183] 22 Field device interfaces

[0184] 23 pins

[0185] 24 Printed Circuit Boards / PCBAs

[0186] 30 Ministry of Communications

[0187] 30a First Communications Department

[0188] 30b Second Communications Department

[0189] 31 Motor head interface

[0190] 31a Motor head interface

[0191] 31b Motor head interface

[0192] 32 Cable

[0193] 40 Motor head

[0194] 41. Housing of the motor head

[0195] 42. Socket on the motor head

[0196] 43 Feeder cable

[0197] 44. Contacts on the socket

[0198] 50 Field devices / sensors / actuators

[0199] 50a First Field Device / First Sensor / First Actuator

[0200] 50b Second Field Device / Second Sensor / Second Actuator

[0201] 51 Connection Interface

[0202] 110 Select motor head

[0203] 120 Assembled Communication Unit

[0204] 121 Select Adaptor

[0205] 122 Provides Communications Department

[0206] 123 Connection Adapter

[0207] 124 Electrical connection for compatible electronic and communication electronic devices

[0208] 130 The communication electronic devices are electrically connected to the motor head electronic devices.

Claims

1. A bioreactor (1) for culturing microorganisms and / or cell cultures, comprising: - Container (13). - End plate (11), which is configured to close the container (13). - A mixer, featuring: The agitator (12) is guided through the end plate (11) into the internal space (14) of the container (13) and into the internal space (14). o A stirring element connected to the stirring shaft (12) in the internal space (14) of the container (13), - Drive unit (15), arranged on the end plate (11), connected to the stirring shaft (12), and - At least one field device (50, 50a, 50b) arranged in the internal space (14), having field device electronics, in, The end plate (11) includes: -Inner side and outer side opposite to the inner side, -Agitator connection device, which is configured such that, o allows the stirring shaft (12) to pass through the end plate (11), and o connects to the drive unit (15). - At least one field device connection device configured to connect the field devices (50, 50a, 50b) to the inner side, and - The data transmission unit arranged on the outer side has: o motor head (40), the motor head being signal-technically connected to the analysis unit and energy-technically connected to the drive unit (15), and including motor head electronics, and o At least one communication unit connected to the motor head (40) via signal technology, including: An adapter section (20, 20a, 20b) having an adapter electronic component, the adapter electronic component being electrically connected to the field device electronics of the field device (50, 50a, 50b), and A communication unit (30, 30a, 30b) having communication electronics, wherein the communication electronics are electrically connected to the adapter electronics and the motor head electronics. The adapter electronics are designed to exchange signals between the field device electronics and the communication electronics, wherein the signals carry field device information, as well as measurement information and / or control information. The communication electronics are designed to exchange signals between the adapter electronics and the motor head electronics. The data transmission unit further includes a signal converter, which is configured as part of the adapter electronics and / or the communication electronics. The adapters (20, 20a, 20b) and the communication units (30, 30a, 30b) are configured as separate, interconnectable components. The motor head (40) is constructed as a separate component that can be connected to the communication unit.

2. An end plate (11) for a closed bioreactor (1), comprising: -Inner side and outer side opposite to the inner side, -Agitator connection device, which is configured such that, o guides the stirring shaft (12) through the end plate (11), and o connects to a drive unit (15) that can be connected to the stirring shaft (12). - At least one field device connection device configured to connect field devices (50, 50a, 50b) to the inner side. - The data transmission unit arranged on the outer side has: o motor head (40), the motor head being signal-technically connected to the analysis unit and energy-technically connected to the drive unit (15) arranged on the end plate (11) of the bioreactor (1), and including motor head electronics, and o At least one communication unit connected to the motor head (40) via signal technology, including: The device includes adapter parts (20, 20a, 20b) with adapter electronics that are electrically connected to the field device electronics of the field devices (50, 50a, 50b). A communication unit (30, 30a, 30b) having communication electronics, wherein the communication electronics are electrically connected to the adapter electronics and the motor head electronics. The adapter electronics are designed to exchange signals between the field device electronics and the communication electronics, wherein the signals carry field device information, as well as measurement information and / or control information. The communication electronics are designed to exchange signals between the adapter electronics and the motor head electronics. The data transmission unit further includes a signal converter, which is configured as part of the adapter electronics and / or the communication electronics. The adapters (20, 20a, 20b) and the communication units (30, 30a, 30b) are configured as separate, interconnectable components. The motor head (40) is constructed as a separate component that can be connected to the communication unit.

3. A data transmission unit for an end plate (11) of a bioreactor (1), comprising: - Motor head (40), which is signal-technically connected to the analysis unit and energy-technically connected to the drive unit (15) arranged on the end plate (11) of the bioreactor (1), and includes motor head electronics, and - At least one communication unit that is technically connected to the motor head (40), comprising: o has an adapter section (20, 20a, 20b) for adapting electronic devices, which are electrically connected to the field device electronics of the field devices (50, 50a, 50b). o A communication unit (30, 30a, 30b) having communication electronics, wherein the communication electronics are electrically connected to the adapter electronics and the motor head electronics. The adapter electronics are designed to exchange signals between the field device electronics and the communication electronics, wherein the signals carry field device information, as well as measurement information and / or control information. The communication electronics are designed to exchange signals between the adapter electronics and the motor head electronics. The data transmission unit further includes a signal converter, which is configured as part of the adapter electronics and / or the communication electronics. The adapters (20, 20a, 20b) and the communication units (30, 30a, 30b) are configured as separate, interconnectable components. The motor head (40) is constructed as a separate component that can be connected to the communication unit.

4. The data transmission unit according to at least claim 3, wherein, - The adapter (20, 20a, 20b) includes a field device interface and a communicator interface, wherein the adapter electronics o connects between the field device interface and the communicator interface. o can be electrically connected to the electronic components of the field device through the field device interface, and o is electrically connected to the communication electronic device through the communicator interface, and The communication unit (30, 30a, 30b) includes an adapter interface and a motor head interface, wherein the communication electronics... o connects between the adapter interface and the motor head interface. o is electrically connected to the adapter electronics via the adapter interface, and o is electrically connected to the motor head electronics via the motor head interface.

5. The data transmission unit according to claim 3 or 4, comprising at least a first set of first adapters and a second set of second adapters. in, The adapter electronics of the first adapter (20a) are configured to exchange signals between the field device electronics of the first field device (50a) and the communication electronics. The adapter electronics of the second adapter (20b) are configured to exchange signals between the field device electronics of the second field device (50b) and the communication electronics. Among them, the adapter (20, 20a, 20b) of each communication unit is selected from at least the first adapter (50a) of the first group and the second adapter (50b) of the second group according to the field device (50, 50a, 50b) to be connected.

6. The data transmission unit according to claim 3 or 4, wherein, - The adapter (20, 20a, 20b) includes a field device connector configured to mechanically and detachably connect the field device (50, 50a, 50b) to the adapter (20, 20a, 20b), and / or - The communication unit (30, 30a, 30b) includes an adapter connector configured to mechanically and detachably connect the adapter unit (20, 20a, 20b) to the communication unit (30, 30a, 30b).

7. The data transmission unit according to claim 3 or 4, - Wherein, the signal converter is an analog-to-digital converter, and / or -in, The adapter electronics and / or the communication electronics and / or the signal converter are designed to receive analog signals, convert the received analog signals into standardized analog signals, convert the standardized analog signals into digital signals, and transmit the digital signals, and / or vice versa.

8. The data transmission unit according to claim 3 or 4, wherein, The communication electronics and / or the motor head electronics are designed to receive signals contactlessly or in contact, convert the signals into radio signals and transmit them radioly or wiredly, and / or vice versa.

9. The data transmission unit according to claim 8, wherein, The communication electronics and / or the motor head electronics are designed to receive signals in a wired manner.

10. The data transmission unit according to claim 3 or 4, wherein, The adapter electronics are designed to receive signals contactlessly or in contact, convert the signals into radio signals and transmit them radioly or wiredly, and / or vice versa.

11. The data transmission unit according to claim 10, wherein, The adapter electronics are designed to receive signals in a wired manner.

12. The data transmission unit according to claim 4, wherein, The field device interface and / or the communicator interface and / or the adapter interface and / or the motor head interface are configured as connectors on a cable.

13. The data transmission unit according to claim 12, wherein, The cable has a maximum length of 50 cm.

14. The data transmission unit according to claim 3 or 4, wherein, - The motor head (40) is electrically connected to the communication unit (30, 30a, 30b), wherein the motor head electronics are designed to supply current to the communication electronics, and / or The communication units (30, 30a, 30b) are electrically connected to the adapter units (20, 20a, 20b), wherein the communication electronics are designed to supply current to the adapter electronics, and / or - The adapters (20, 20a, 20b) are electrically connected to the field devices (50, 50a, 50b), wherein the adapter electronics are designed to supply current to the field device electronics. Among them, current contact and / or inductive transmission.

15. The data transmission unit according to claim 14, wherein, Current is transmitted via wires.

16. The data transmission unit according to claim 3 or 4, wherein, The motor head (40) includes: - A communication interface, which is electrically connected to the communication electronics, and - A power supply interface, on which a power supply cable can be electrically connected, wherein the power supply interface can be electrically connected to the analytical electronics of the analysis unit. The motor head electronics are connected between the communication interface and the power supply interface. The motor head electronics are designed to exchange signals between communication electronics electrically connected to the communication interface and analysis electronics electrically connected to the power supply interface.

17. The data transmission unit according to claim 3 or 4, wherein, The motor head electronics are designed to transmit or receive signals based on a bus protocol to or from the communication electronics of the communication unit (30, 30a, 30b) via one or more bus systems.

18. An application of a data transmission unit according to any one of claims 3 to 17, for use in the end plate (11) according to claim 2, and / or in the bioreactor (1) according to claim 1.

19. A method for providing a data transmission unit, comprising the following steps: - Provides a motor head, which is signal-technically connected to an analysis unit and energy-technically connected to a drive unit disposed on an endplate of a bioreactor, and includes motor head electronics, and - Assemble at least one communication unit, including the following steps: Select an adapter with compatible electronics based on the field equipment to be connected to the adapter. o Provides a communication unit with communication electronic devices, The adapter is connected to the communication unit, and the adapter electronics are electrically connected to the communication electronics. - Connect the communication electronics to the motor head electronics.

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