BIOPROCESS TECHNOLOGY FILTRATION EXPERIMENTAL SYSTEM

Description

[0001] The invention relates to an arrangement according to the preamble of claim 1 and a method according to the preamble of claim 18.

[0002] A bioprocess engineering filtration test system is generally understood to be a system used to conduct small-scale filtration experiments with a liquid test medium, for example, a biological or, in particular, a biopharmaceutical medium. Various objectives are conceivable. A filtration test system can be used, in general, to determine the flow rate as a function of pressure, to measure the behavior with different wetting media as pretreatment, to determine the service life (time until clogging), or for similar purposes. A filtration test system can also be used to identify suitable filters for larger-scale filtration, for example, for the industrial production of biopharmaceuticals.For example, in a filtration test, test data, namely sensor data from, for example, pressure sensors, are collected for at least one filter or at least one combination of filter and wetting medium. Based on this data, the filter and / or the wetting medium of a target system can be selected and / or dimensioned according to predetermined scaling criteria. In particular, such a filtration test system can be used to select the optimal filter size or filter surface area for a specific filtration process, possibly with an optimal wetting medium.

[0003] In a corresponding filtration test, a predetermined quantity of the test medium is filtered through a filter of a specified size, optionally using a specific wetting agent. The pressure and volumetric flow rate of the test medium as it passes through the filtration test section are measured and documented. For example, one parameter, such as the pressure, is kept constant while the other parameter, such as the volumetric flow rate, is measured.

[0004] In known filtration test systems, the user must mechanically and fluidically connect a large number of components, particularly sensors and filters. The sensors must also be electrically connected to a suitable data receiver. Furthermore, a drive for the liquid test medium, such as a pump or a supply line for compressed air, especially in conjunction with a pneumatic pressure regulator, must be connected fluidically and, if necessary, electrically. Optionally, a drive for air to empty the fluid lines of the filtration test system may also be required, such as a pump or a supply line for compressed air, also especially with a pneumatic pressure regulator, which likewise requires a fluidic and, if necessary, electrical connection.The term "pump" is to be understood broadly in this context and includes not only machines for conveying liquids (hydraulic pumps, e.g., peristaltic pumps) but also gases (pneumatic pumps, e.g., compressors). Further prior art can be found, for example, in US 2012 / 0178097 A1, DE 10 2014 012 784 A1, and US 2020 / 0353414 A1.

[0005] The individual mechanical, electrical and fluidic connections are made by hand for each filtration test.

[0006] The invention is based on the problem of designing and further developing the known bioprocess engineering filtration test system in such a way that its handling is simplified.

[0007] The above problem is solved in a bioprocess engineering, in particular biopharmaceutical, filtration test system according to the preamble of claim 1 by the features of the characterizing part of claim 1.

[0008] The fundamental consideration is to reduce the number of steps required by the user during system planning and setup by pre-assembling at least some components of the filtration test system. This can be achieved through pre-assembly of programming and / or circuitry, i.e., pre-assembly of the software and / or electrical circuitry required for a specific filtration test, particularly integrated circuits. Additionally or alternatively, pre-assembly of fluid components, such as filters, valves, and / or pipe sections through which the test medium flows, can also be provided. Additionally or alternatively, pre-assembly of the sensors of the filtration test system can also be provided.

[0009] Pre-assembly means that several of the aforementioned components, such as filters, valves, sensors, fluid lines, or the like, are already selected and pre-assembled into a unit, specifically for a particular filtration test, and often by the manufacturer. Such a pre-assembled unit is also referred to as an assembly module. Regarding the software and / or electrical circuitry, pre-assembly means that the software or electrical circuitry is provided specifically for a particular filtration test. This significantly simplifies the planning and setup of the filtration test system.

[0010] Specifically, it is proposed that the filtration test system be at least partially pre-configured in terms of programming and / or circuitry.

[0011] Claim 2 defines particularly preferred components and parts of the filtration test system, and in particular the filtration test section. The filtration test section is defined here as the section of the filtration test system through which the test medium flows, starting with the feed tank and ending at the outlet. Particularly preferred components are, in particular, a valve arrangement, a sensor arrangement, a filter arrangement, a fluid piping network, a data receiving instrument, and / or a weighing arrangement. Accordingly, particularly preferred parts are valves, sensors, filters, and pipe sections.

[0012] The particularly preferred embodiments according to claims 3 to 6 relate to the pre-assembly of at least one data receiving instrument. A data receiving instrument is a device that is configured to receive sensor data from the sensor arrangement. This includes, for example, data from one or more pressure sensors, volumetric flow sensors, conductivity sensors, optical sensors (e.g., turbidity sensors, UV sensors, infrared and / or Raman sensors), temperature sensors, etc. The data receiving instrument can also be configured to process the sensor data and / or, as a control unit, to control a pump and / or a pneumatic pressure regulator of the filtration test system or one or more valves of the valve arrangement. Such control is carried out, in particular, based on control data that is generated, at least in part, by processing the sensor data.The respective control is then based on the sensor data. Regarding the aforementioned reception of sensor data, the processing of the sensor data, and / or the control of the pump and / or the pneumatic pressure regulator and / or the respective valve, the respective data receiving instrument is pre-configured, particularly in terms of programming and / or circuitry. The respective software and / or electrical circuitry of the data receiving instrument is thus tailored to or prepared for a specific filtration test type (e.g., "constant pressure" or "constant flow") or even a specific filtration test.

[0013] It should be emphasized again that the term "pump" is to be understood broadly here and throughout, encompassing not only machines for conveying liquids, hereinafter referred to as "hydraulic pumps" (e.g., peristaltic pumps), but also gases, hereinafter referred to as "pneumatic pumps" (e.g., compressors). Thus, in the proposed filtration test system, a pump can be used to drive the liquid test medium and / or to drive air, for example, to empty the fluid lines of the proposed filtration test system. However, the drive for the liquid test medium and / or the drive for air can also be an external compressed air source, in particular an external compressed air network, an external compressed air cylinder, or the like, possibly with the fluidic interposition of a pneumatic pressure regulator to control the external compressed air source.

[0014] Claim 7 defines preferred pre-assemblies of the filtration test system.

[0015] One particularly preferred embodiment involves the pre-assembly of the filtration test system, in that the measuring principle, specifications, and / or installation position of at least one sensor are tailored to or prepared for a specific filtration test. Such pre-assembly is sensor-related pre-assembly.

[0016] Another particularly preferred embodiment relates to the pre-assembly of the filtration test system, in that the operating principle, specifications and / or installation position of at least one filter is / are adapted to or prepared for a specific filtration test. Such pre-assembly is fluid-technical pre-assembly.

[0017] Another particularly preferred embodiment concerns the pre-assembly of the filtration test system, in that the actuation method, specifications, and / or installation position of at least one valve are adapted to or prepared for a specific filtration test. Such pre-assembly is also a fluid-technical pre-assembly.

[0018] Another particularly preferred embodiment concerns the pre-assembly of the filtration test system, in that the specifications and / or the installation position of at least one pipe section are tailored to or prepared for a specific filtration test. Such pre-assembly is also a fluid-technical pre-assembly.

[0019] According to the particularly preferred embodiments of claims 8 to 13, fluid-technical and / or sensor-technical pre-assembly is achieved by means of one or more assembly modules, i.e., pre-assembled units of components of the filtration test system, in particular the filtration test section. The use of such assembly modules simplifies assembly and thus commissioning, as well as disassembly, for example, for transport. Each assembly module comprises at least one or more pipe sections of the fluid piping network and at least one additional component: sensor, filter, and valve. An assembly module is also conceivable that, in addition to one of the components—sensor, filter, valve, and pipe section—includes a reservoir. The selection of the components pre-assembled in the assembly module is then tailored to a specific filtration test.It is conceivable that a single assembly module could already constitute the filtration test section. However, it is also conceivable that the single assembly module could be combined with another of the components "sensor", "filter", "valve", and "pipe section", and preferably with another assembly module as defined above, to then form the filtration test section.

[0020] A mounting module can be formed by connecting one of the components "sensor," "filter," "valve," and "reservoir" to a section of the fluid piping network as intended. "As intended" here and in the following refers to a connection that is completed in accordance with the intended application. Particularly preferably, such a mounting module comprises, in addition to the aforementioned piping section, at least two of the components "sensor," "filter," "valve," and "reservoir," such that, for example, a reservoir and a sensor and / or two sensors are each connected to each other as intended via a piping section.

[0021] In one variant, the components, which are connected as intended, are fixed to each other solely by a section of tubing, without the use of a separate support structure to which each component is attached. In this case, the respective assembly module is preferably a single-use component, i.e., a disposable component. With the corresponding replacement of the single-use components, the need for cleaning the components is eliminated, and there is no risk of contamination in two consecutive filtration tests with different test media.

[0022] According to another variant, it is also conceivable to fix several of the components "sensor", "filter", "valve" and "cable section" of an assembly module to one another via a common support structure in the form of a housing, in particular a plastic, resin, glass, ceramic and / or metal housing (claim 9). In this case as well, it is conceivable to design one or more of these components as single-use components, in particular the filter(s).

[0023] The described assembly modules, both those without a support structure and those with a housing, are designed in particular such that several assembly modules with identical structures and / or assembly modules with different structures can be mechanically, pneumatically, hydraulically, and / or electrically connected to one another via at least one corresponding interface. In the case that the assembly modules have a support structure or a housing, they can be stacked vertically on top of each other (claim 12).

[0024] According to the particularly preferred embodiments according to claims 14 to 16, the filtration test system has a support on which the respective feed container and / or one or more sensors, valves and / or mounting modules can be fixed or are fixed.

[0025] The support can be a tripod, in particular a rod-shaped or plate-shaped tripod, with a holder that is particularly height-adjustable. However, it is also conceivable that the support is a mounting plate, in particular attached to a tripod, for example a rod-shaped or plate-shaped tripod, to which the respective dispensing container and / or the respective sensor and / or the respective mounting module can be fixed or is fixed.

[0026] In the latter case, magnetic fixation is particularly preferred. For magnetic fixation, the respective component, for example, the respective storage container and / or the respective sensor, preferably has a mounting section with a magnet, wherein the mounting plate is magnetic, particularly made of metal, at least at the points intended for attaching the respective sensor or entirely. It is also conceivable that a magnet is provided on the mounting plate at least at the points intended for attaching the respective sensor, in which case the sensor has a magnetic mounting section, particularly made of metal. Additionally or alternatively, a positive-locking and / or force-locking fixation can also be provided. Such a fixation can be achieved, for example, by a clamping or plug-in connection between the respective sensor and the mounting plate.

[0027] The mounting plate is preferably part of a housing of a data receiving instrument as defined above, in particular the data receiving instrument, which is configured to process the sensor data, bundle the sensor data into data packets and transmit the data packets and / or convert analog sensor data into digital sensor data and / or, in particular before conversion, amplify the analog sensor signals (claim 16). By bundling the sensor data into data packets, fewer data cables, preferably only a single data cable, are required to transmit sensor data to the control unit, which simplifies the handling of the filtration test system.

[0028] Claim 17 defines that the respective support and / or the respective stand can be mechanically connected to the housing of a scale of the weighing arrangement.

[0029] According to a further teaching as claimed in claim 18, which has independent significance, a method for the operation of a bioprocess engineering, in particular biopharmaceutical, filtration test system is claimed in accordance with the preamble of claim 18.

[0030] A further teaching, which is not the subject of the invention, relates to the use of a packaged filtration test set made from pre-assembled system components for the construction of a proposed bioprocess engineering, in particular biopharmaceutical, filtration test system. Reference may be made in this respect to the descriptions of the proposed bioprocess engineering filtration test system.

[0031] Essentially, the filtration test kit in its packaging comprises at least one assembly module consisting of at least one section of the fluid piping network, which is connected as intended to at least one sensor of the sensor assembly, at least one filter of the filter assembly, and / or at least one valve of the valve assembly. A reservoir, preferably fluidically connected to the piping section, may also be included as part of the assembly module. For the assembly of the bioprocess filtration test system, the filtration test kit is unpacked and mechanically, fluidically, and / or electrically connected to other system components.

[0032] The invention will now be explained in more detail with reference to a drawing that merely illustrates exemplary embodiments. The drawing shows Fig. 1 shows a proposed bioprocess filtration test system according to a first embodiment in a schematic perspective view, Fig. 2 shows a proposed bioprocess filtration test system according to a second embodiment in a schematic perspective view, Fig. 3 shows a proposed bioprocess filtration test system according to a third embodiment in a schematic perspective view, and Fig. 4 shows the filtration test system according to Fig. 3 in a schematic sectional view in the assembled state (left) and during assembly (right).

[0033] It should be noted in advance that the drawing only shows those components of the proposed bioprocess engineering, in particular biopharmaceutical, filtration test system 1 that are necessary for explaining the concepts. Accordingly, for the sake of clarity, the depiction of numerous additional compressed air sources, power supplies, valves, sensors, or the like has been omitted.

[0034] The in the Fig. 1 bis 4 The filtration test systems 1 shown in each case serve to filter a liquid, here for example biological, test medium M in a filtration test section 2 of the filtration test system 1.

[0035] Filtration test section 2 leads from a feed tank 3, which receives the test medium M to be filtered, to a fluid outlet 4a, from which the filtered test medium F (filtrate) flows into a collection tank 5. The collection tank 5 is not considered part of filtration test section 2 in this context. Filtration test section 2 begins at the feed tank 3, extends downstream, and ends at the fluid outlet 4a. Filtration test system 1 is configured to acquire sensor data as test data for at least one filter 6 of filtration test section 2 during a filtration test. Based on this test data, a corresponding filter of a target system can then be selected and / or dimensioned for the respective filter 6 of filtration test section 2 for which the test data were acquired, according to predetermined scaling criteria.

[0036] It is essential that the filtration test system 1 is at least partially pre-configured in terms of programming and / or circuitry, at least partially in terms of fluid technology, and / or at least partially in terms of sensors. "Pre-configured in terms of programming and / or circuitry" means that the software and / or electrical circuitry, in particular the integrated circuit, provided in the filtration test system 1 is designed specifically for the test. "Pre-configured in terms of fluid technology" means that a unit of components of the filtration test system 1, in particular the filtration test section 2, through which fluids can flow, is designed specifically for the test. "Pre-configured in terms of sensors" means that the sensors of the filtration test system 1 are designed specifically for the test.

[0037] The filtration test systems 1 described here as examples, in particular the filtration test sections 2, preferably comprise a valve arrangement 7 with one or more valves 8, a sensor arrangement 9 with one or more sensors 10, in particular one or more pressure sensors 11, volumetric flow sensors 12 (also called flow or flow sensors) and / or temperature sensors, a filter arrangement 13 with one or more filters 6, for example flat filters, in particular liquid filters 14 and / or air filters 15, for example a vent valve, and / or a fluid line network 16 with several line sections 17 through which the test medium M reaches the respective filter 6, 14. The liquid filters 14 are the filters for which the test data are determined, whereas the air filters 15, if present, serve only as an aid for wetting the respective liquid filter 14.

[0038] In the embodiment according to Fig. 1 The sensors 10, 11, 12, the filters 6, 14, 15 and the line sections 17 are preferably single-use components. The same preferably applies at least to the filters 6, 14 in the embodiment according to Fig. 2 and the embodiment according to Fig. 3 and 4 In a variant not shown here, the valves 8 can also be designed as single-use components. In the embodiment according to Fig. 2 Furthermore, the conductor sections 17 are also designed as single-use components, and preferably, conductor sections 17 between sensor 9 and filter 6 can also be omitted. Finally, at least in the embodiment according to Fig. 1 , also the template container(s), preferably single-use components.

[0039] Additionally or alternatively, the filtration test system 1 here and preferably, as in the exemplary embodiments of the Fig. 1 bis 4 shown, at least one data receiving instrument 18 for receiving sensor data from the sensor arrangement 9.

[0040] Additionally or alternatively, the filtration test system 1 here and preferably, as in the exemplary embodiments of the Fig. 2 bis 4 A weighing arrangement 19 with a scale 20 is shown.

[0041] Different types of data receiving instruments 18 are provided in the embodiments.

[0042] Thus, the data receiving instrument 18 in the exemplary embodiment in Fig. 1 A device 21, which, in addition to receiving sensor data, also allows the acquisition of sensor data, i.e., the recording of sensor data, is provided. Neither a user interface nor the possibility of controlling valves, a pump, or a pneumatic pressure regulator is provided. The data receiving instrument 18, in the form of device 21, is configured here, and preferably, to automatically detect the start of a filtration experiment and automatically start the recording of the sensor data, and / or to automatically detect the end of a filtration experiment and automatically stop the recording of the sensor data. For example, the test medium M is set in motion by pressurization, which activates the volumetric flow sensor 12, in particular a measuring wheel (impeller) of the volumetric flow sensor 12 begins to rotate, and the data receiving instrument 18 recognizes the start of the experiment based on the corresponding sensor data.Conversely, the volume flow sensor 12 is deactivated, or the measuring wheel of the volume flow sensor 12 stops rotating, as soon as no more test medium M flows through it, whereby the data receiving instrument 18 then recognizes the end of the test based on the corresponding sensor data or a lack of further sensor data.

[0043] In order to direct the test medium M under pressure through the filtration test section 2, the following is done in the exemplary embodiment according to Fig. 1 , but also in the other embodiments, for example compressed air, preferably provided via an external compressed air source, in particular via an external compressed air network, an external compressed air cylinder or the like (not shown here), optionally with a pneumatic pressure regulator R interposed between the compressed air source and the storage container 3. Instead of compressed air, a hydraulic pump, e.g. a peristaltic pump, can also be provided for transporting the test medium M.

[0044] The respective data receiving instrument 18, in the form of device 21, is preferably configured to allow the received sensor data, which are raw data, to be read out as test data by a separate data processing and / or evaluation device, for example, an external computer (not shown here). For example, the data receiving instrument 18 can, according to Fig. 1 After recording sensor data from one or more filtration tests, and optionally after preprocessing, for example by smoothing and / or averaging some or all of the sensor data, the user sends the data to the manufacturer of the filtration test system 1 for evaluation. For this purpose, a data cable (not shown here) can be connected to the device 21, which connects the device 21 to the data processing and / or evaluation unit or computer. The data processing and / or evaluation unit or computer then recognizes the device 21, in particular as a drive that allows the stored sensor data to be copied, moved, and / or deleted. Using the data processing and / or evaluation unit or computer, a corresponding filter of a target system can then be selected and / or dimensioned for the respective filter 6, 14 of the filtration test section 2, according to predetermined scaling criteria.

[0045] In the exemplary embodiment in Fig. 2 The filtration experimental system 1 has two different data receiving instruments 18.

[0046] One data receiving instrument 18 is a control unit 22 which, in addition to receiving and optionally acquiring sensor data, also allows processing of the sensor data, specifically and preferably such that a pneumatic pressure regulator R between the compressed air source and the storage tank 3 can be controlled based on the sensor data. In another embodiment, not shown here, a pump can also be controlled based on the sensor data. In this case, the processing of the sensor data includes comparing the sensor data with at least one setpoint or setpoint range, in particular for pressure sensor data and / or volumetric flow sensor data.The compressed air pressure is then regulated via the pneumatic pressure regulator R such that a predetermined, constant or varying pressure or volume flow rate of the test medium M and / or the compressed air and / or a wetting fluid B and / or a rinsing fluid is established in the filtration test system 1, particularly in the filtration test section 2. In another embodiment, not shown here, the pump can also be regulated such that a predetermined, constant or varying pressure or volume flow rate of the test medium M and / or the compressed air and / or a wetting fluid B and / or a rinsing fluid is established in the filtration test system 1, particularly in the filtration test section 2.

[0047] Preferably, the pneumatic pressure regulator R, which can be integrated into the control unit 22, can be used to operate, for example, the "constant pressure" and "constant flow" test types. In the "constant pressure" test type, the pressure of the test medium M is maintained at a constant value during the filtration test. In the "constant flow" test type, the volumetric flow rate of the test medium M is maintained at a constant value during the filtration test. Alternatively, this can also be achieved via a pneumatic pump, optionally integrated into the control unit 22, or a hydraulic pump (not shown here) connected between the supply tank 3 and the filtration test section 2. In principle, test types with varying pressure and volumetric flow rates of the test medium M are also conceivable.Filtration experiments are also conceivable, in which the "constant pressure" test type is carried out first and then the "constant flow" test type, or vice versa.

[0048] The data receiving instrument 18, in the form of the control unit 22, can also be configured to automatically detect the start of a filtration experiment and automatically start the control, and / or to automatically detect the end of a filtration experiment and automatically end the control. However, preferably, an external computer 26 is provided, which is connected to the data receiving instrument 18 or control unit 22 via a data cable 27 or a wireless connection, and through which the user can determine the start and / or end of the experiment.

[0049] The control unit 22 is spatially separated from the filtration test section 2 and the scale 20, and in particular also from a support 42 or stand 43 described below, and preferably can also be positioned independently of them. "Spatially separated" means that a vertical and / or horizontal distance is provided to the components of the filtration test section 2, to the scale 20, and in particular also to the support 42 or stand 43.

[0050] The other data receiving instrument 18 in Fig. 2 is a device 23 which, in addition to acquiring sensor data, also enables the processing of sensor data, wherein the processing of sensor data here includes bundling sensor data into data packets and sending the data packets and / or converting analog sensor data into digital sensor data and / or, in particular before conversion, amplifying the analog sensor signals.

[0051] The data receiving instrument 18 in the form of the device 23 is here and preferably also configured to automatically detect the configuration of the sensor arrangement 9, in particular the number of sensors 10, 11, 12 and / or the position of the sensors 10, 11, 12 on the device 23 and / or in the filtration section and / or the measuring principle of the sensors 10, 11, 12, and preferably to carry out the above processing of the sensor data depending thereon.

[0052] The sensor data processed by device 23 is then forwarded to control unit 22.

[0053] The device 23 is arranged here, preferably adjacent to and along the filtration test section 2, and is in mechanical contact with the sensors 10, and thus not spatially separated from the filtration test section 2. The device 23 is also in mechanical contact with the stand 43, and thus not spatially separated from the stand 43. Therefore, the device 23 cannot be positioned independently of the filtration test section 2 and / or the stand 43.

[0054] In the exemplary embodiment in Fig. 3 and 4A data receiving instrument 18 in the form of the previously described control unit 22 is also provided, which, in addition to receiving and, if necessary, acquiring sensor data, also enables the processing of the sensor data for controlling a pneumatic pressure regulator R, particularly one internal to the device. Additionally or alternatively, the data receiving instrument 18 or control unit 22 can also enable the processing of the sensor data for controlling valves 8 of the valve arrangement 7 and / or a pump, particularly one external to the device, for example, a hydraulic pump for conveying the test medium M and / or a pneumatic pump 24 that generates compressed air for emptying and cleaning the fluid line network 16 of the filtration test section 2. The terms "external to the device" and "internal to the device" always refer to the control unit 22.

[0055] Preferably, in the embodiment according to Fig. 3 and 4the control unit 22 the valves 8 of the valve arrangement 7 and / or the pump, for example hydraulic pump and / or pneumatic pump 24, via a control cable 25 which is connected to the control unit 22.

[0056] The respective data receiving instrument 18, in the form of the control unit 22, is preferably configured to transmit the received sensor data, which may be raw or already processed sensor data, and / or the sensor data processed by the control unit 22 itself, as test data to a separate data processing and / or evaluation device, for example, an external computer 26. A data cable 27 or a wireless connection is provided for this purpose, which can connect the control unit 22 to the data processing and / or evaluation device or computer 26. Via the data processing and / or evaluation device or computer 26, a corresponding filter of a target system can then be selected and / or dimensioned for the respective filter 6, 14 of the filtration test section 2 according to predetermined scaling criteria.

[0057] As previously described, the proposed filtration test system 1 offers one or more possibilities for pre-assembly, namely pre-assembly in terms of programming and / or circuitry, fluid technology, and / or sensor technology. These pre-assembly possibilities will be explained in more detail below.

[0058] Thus, here and preferably all data receiving instruments 18 relating to the reception of sensor data from the sensor arrangement 9 are pre-configured in terms of programming and / or circuitry. Here and preferably the data receiving instrument 18 is in the form of the in Fig. 1 The device 21 shown is also pre-configured in terms of programming and / or circuitry with regard to the acquisition of sensor data from the sensor arrangement 9. The data receiving instrument 18 in the form of the one shown in the Fig. 2 and 3The control unit 22 shown is pre-configured in terms of programming and / or circuitry for processing sensor data from the sensor arrangement 9, preferably such that the processing of the sensor data includes comparing the sensor data with at least one setpoint or setpoint range. The data receiving instrument 18, in the form of device 23, is also pre-configured in terms of programming and / or circuitry for processing sensor data from the sensor arrangement 9, preferably such that the processing of the sensor data includes bundling sensor data into data packets and sending the data packets to the control unit 22, and / or, if, for example, analog sensors 10, 11, 12 are involved, converting analog sensor data into digital sensor data and / or, particularly before conversion, amplifying the analog sensor signals.

[0059] The in the Fig. 2 and 3The data receiving instrument 18 shown, in the form of the control unit 22, is pre-configured in terms of programming and / or circuitry, both here and preferably also with regard to the control of the pneumatic pressure regulator R and / or the pump. In the embodiment according to Fig. 2 The data receiving instrument 18 or control unit 22 is pre-configured in terms of programming and / or circuitry for the control of the pneumatic pressure regulator R integrated into the control unit 22. Additionally or alternatively, as in the embodiment shown in the Fig. 3 and 4 , the data receiving instrument 18 or control unit 22 relating to the control of a pump, here for example the pneumatic pump 24, which is provided downstream of the control unit 22, must be pre-configured in terms of programming and / or circuitry.

[0060] This pre-assembly allows the pneumatic pressure regulator R and / or the pump, if present, to be controlled here and preferably as follows. Thus, a predetermined, constant or varying pressure or volume flow rate of the test medium M in the filtration test section 2 and / or, in the embodiment according to Fig. 3 and 4 A defined, constant or varying pressure or volume flow rate of a wetting fluid B can also be generated in the filtration test section 2, particularly during an automatic filter wetting process. Additionally or alternatively, it is conceivable that a defined, constant or varying pressure or volume flow rate of the compressed air and / or a rinsing fluid generated by the pump 24 can be generated in the filtration test section 2, particularly during an automatic emptying and / or rinsing process.

[0061] Furthermore, the data receiving instrument 18 is preferably in the form of the control unit 22 according to the exemplary embodiment in Fig. 3 Regarding the control of one or more valves 8 of the valve arrangement 7, the programming and / or circuitry is pre-configured. This pre-configuration is specifically intended for controlling the respective valve 8 during a filter wetting process, a filter venting process, a filtration test with the test medium M, and / or a draining and / or rinsing process.

[0062] The respective data receiving instrument 18 is preferably equipped with a power supply 28 and / or at least one data interface 29, at least for receiving (data input 29a), and optionally also for reading or outputting (data output 29b) sensor data. The data receiving instrument 18 in the form of the in Fig. 1 The device 21 shown, if it is capable of recording sensor data, is furthermore equipped, in particular, with a memory 30 for storing raw sensor data and / or processed sensor data. Such a memory 30 is also optionally available in the data receiving instrument 18 in the form of the [unclear text]. Fig. 2 and 3 The control unit 22 shown is provided for. Fig. 2 and 3 The data receiving instrument 18 shown, in the form of the control unit 22, further comprises a pneumatic inlet 31 and at least one pneumatic outlet 32. As previously explained, a pneumatic pressure regulator R is also integrated into the control unit 22, which connects the inlet 31 to the outlet 32 ​​and preferably generates a constant pressure or a pressure that causes a constant volume flow in order to direct either the test medium M or the wetting fluid B through the filtration test section 2.

[0063] For all embodiments, it should be noted that the respective data receiving instrument 18 is preferably free of hydraulic connections. In particular, the respective data receiving instrument 18 can also be arranged spatially separated from the filtration test section 2 and, at least in the case of the device 21 and / or the control unit 22, spatially separated from the scale 20 and, in particular, also spatially separated from a support 42 or stand 43 described below.

[0064] The following section will briefly discuss the possibilities of sensor-related and fluid-related pre-assembly of the filtration test system.

[0065] Sensor pre-assembly is provided here, preferably with regard to the measuring principle, specifications, and / or installation position of at least one sensor 10 of the sensor arrangement 9. Sensors are classified according to their measuring principle, for example, as pressure sensors, volumetric flow sensors, and temperature sensors. "Specifications" refers to the technical and functional aspects, including in particular the dimensions, of the respective sensor 10. For a sensor 10, the specifications also include, for example, the maximum measurement deviation, the standard measurement error, the temperature dependence, etc. The "installation position" refers to the respective position of the sensor 10 within the filtration test system 1, in particular within the filtration test section 2.Examples of the installation position are, for example, a location upstream or downstream of a specific other component of the filtration test section 2, or, in the case of a volume flow sensor or pressure sensor, a location upstream of a filter 6, in particular a filter 6 for which the test data are determined.

[0066] Fluidic pre-assembly is provided here, preferably with regard to the operating principle, specifications, and / or installation position of at least one filter 6, 14, 15 of the filter arrangement 13. Based on their operating principle, filters are classified, for example, as liquid filters and air filters and / or as surface filters, depth filters, precoat filters, etc. "Specifications" refers to the technical and functional aspects, including in particular the dimensions, of the respective filter 6, 14, 15. For a filter 6, 14, 15, the specifications also include, for example, the filter medium (fabric, paper, nonwoven, fibers, granules), the initial pressure drop, etc. "Installation position" refers to the respective position of the filter 6, 14, 15 within the filtration test system 1, in particular within the filtration test section 2.Examples of the installation position include, for example, a location upstream or downstream of a specific other component of the filtration test section 2, for example, a location downstream of a sensor 10.

[0067] Alternatively or additionally, fluidic pre-assembly is provided here, preferably with regard to the actuation method, specifications, and / or installation position of at least one valve 8 of the valve arrangement 7. Valves are classified according to their actuation method, for example, as manually operated, motor-operated, magnetically operated, etc. "Specifications" refers to the technical and functional aspects, including in particular the dimensions, of the respective valve 8. For a valve 8, the specifications also include, for example, the type of sealing material (hard / soft sealing), the position of the seal (on the piston / in the housing), the seal design, etc. The "installation position" refers to the respective position of the valve 8 within the filtration test system 1, in particular within the filtration test section 2.Examples of installation positions include, for example, a location upstream or downstream of a specific other component of the filtration test section 2, such as a location upstream or downstream of a filter 6.

[0068] Alternatively or additionally, fluid-technical pre-assembly is provided here, preferably with regard to the specifications and / or the installation position of at least one pipe section 17 of the fluid pipe network 16. "Specifications" refers to the technical and functional aspects, including in particular the dimensions, of the respective pipe section 17. For a pipe section 17, the specifications also include, for example, the type of material, the stiffness, the light transmission, etc. The "installation position" refers to the respective position of the pipe section 17 within the filtration test system 1, in particular within the filtration test section 2. Examples of the installation position are, for example, a location upstream or downstream of a specific other component of the filtration test section 2, such as a location upstream or downstream of a filter 6.

[0069] A particularly preferred form of pre-assembly can be achieved by providing assembly modules 33, i.e., by means of units pre-assembled, in particular by the manufacturer, with several components connected to one another as intended, in particular selected from the group comprising the components "sensor", "filter", "valve" and "pipe section". Further components of an assembly module 33 can be a reservoir 3 and / or a pump, in particular a hydraulic pump and / or a pneumatic pump 24, and / or, in particular in a housing 34, a circuit board 35.

[0070] Various assembly modules 33, which are located in the Fig. 1 and 4 The examples shown are only outlined by dashed borders and are described below.

[0071] In principle, it is conceivable that at least one storage container 3, at least one sensor 10 of the sensor arrangement 9 and / or at least one valve 8 of the valve arrangement 7 together with at least one pipe section 17 of the fluid pipe network 16 form a fluid-technically and / or sensor-technically pre-assembled assembly module 33. Here, and preferably, one assembly module 33 or several such assembly modules 33 form the filtration test section 2.

[0072] As previously described, the respective assembly module 33 can also include the reservoir 3 for the test medium M and / or a reservoir 3 for wetting fluid (B) and / or rinsing fluid.

[0073] In Fig. 1 As an example, an assembly module 33 is shown, consisting of a reservoir 3 for the medium M, a flow sensor 10, 12, and a cable section 17. Also shown, according to another example, the entire assembly module 33 can consist of the reservoir 3, flow sensor 10, 12, pressure sensor 10, 11, and corresponding cable sections 17. The respective sensor 10, 11, 12 can also be connected to its associated data cable, which then also forms part of the respective assembly module 33.

[0074] According to Fig. 1 The individual assembly modules 33 do not have an additional supporting structure. In contrast, in Fig. 4 Each mounting module has a supporting structure in the form of a housing 34 of the respective mounting module 33, here and preferably in the form of a plastic, resin, glass, ceramic and / or metal housing.

[0075] The housing 34 serves to accommodate at least one sensor 10 of the sensor arrangement 9, at least one filter 6, 14, 15 of the filter arrangement 13, at least one valve 8 of the valve arrangement 7 and / or at least one line section 17 of the fluid line network 16. The mounting module 33 then forms a block, namely either a so-called connection block, or a so-called extension block or a so-called base block.

[0076] A connection block is, here, preferably a structural unit with a housing 34 in or on which several components necessary for the construction of a filtration test section 2, e.g., one or more valves 8 and / or pipe sections 17, are functionally installed, whereby this unit does not have a connection option for a filter 6, 14 for which test data are to be determined. In the installed state, i.e., when the filtration test section is ready for operation, this unit serves solely for the connection of one or more pneumatic, hydraulic, and / or electrical lines for the corresponding fluid supply of all blocks downstream with respect to the flow direction of the test medium M.In its installed state, the connection block is used to introduce the test medium M, and optionally a wetting fluid B and / or rinsing fluid and / or compressed air for emptying filters 6, 14 and pipe sections 17, into all blocks and / or to electrically connect all blocks. "Electrically connected" here means that a power supply and / or data transmission is enabled. Via appropriate interfaces, the connection block, in its installed state, is mechanically, pneumatically, hydraulically, and / or electrically connected to the next block, namely the base block or an extension block, in order to introduce the test medium M, optionally the wetting fluid B and / or rinsing fluid and / or compressed air, into this next block, which then contains a filter 6, 14 for which test data are to be determined, and / or to electrically connect this next block.

[0077] The block(s) downstream of the connection block in terms of fluid technology, i.e. at least the base block and optionally at least one extension block, preferably do not have such connection options through which the test medium M, optionally the wetting fluid B and / or rinsing fluid and / or the compressed air for emptying, can be introduced into the entirety of all blocks and / or the entirety of all blocks can be electrically connected.

[0078] A base block is, preferably, a structural unit which, in its installed state, is fluidically arranged at the end of the assembly of all blocks, and in particular at the end of the filtration test section 2, with respect to the flow direction of the test medium M. Accordingly, it has a fluid outlet 4a for discharging the filtered test medium F and / or the wetting fluid B and / or the rinsing fluid from the assembly of all blocks. Here, and preferably, the base block also has a further fluid outlet 4b, which serves to discharge residual fluid during the venting, wetting, and / or emptying of the filters 6, 14 and pipe sections 17. However, such a further fluid outlet 4b can also be omitted, in which case the fluid outlet 4a takes over its function during venting, wetting, and / or emptying (not shown here).A base block is, preferably, a structural unit with a housing 34 in or on which several components necessary for setting up a filtration test section 2, e.g., one or more valves 8, sensors 10, and / or pipe sections 17, are functionally installed, and to which an additionally replaceable filter 6, 14, for which test data are to be determined, can be fluidically connected. Via appropriate interfaces, the base block, in its installed state, is mechanically, pneumatically, hydraulically, and / or electrically connected to the upstream block (i.e., the connection block or an extension block) with respect to the flow direction of the test medium M, in order to receive the test medium M, optionally the wetting fluid B and / or rinsing fluid and / or the compressed air, from this upstream block and / or to electrically connect the base block.

[0079] The base block is preferably a block, in particular the only block, that can be fixed to a support 42, in particular a stand 43, which will be described below, in order to hold the entire assembly of blocks in the installed state. Preferably, in the installed state, all blocks are stacked vertically on top of each other, with the base block forming the lower end of the stack and supporting the other blocks. In another embodiment, not shown here, one or more other blocks, in particular the connecting block and / or at least one extension block, can additionally or alternatively be fixed to the support 42, in particular the stand 43.

[0080] An extension block is, here and preferably, a structural unit whose function is essentially equivalent to a base block, with the difference that the extension block is not fluidically located at the end of the assembly of all blocks with respect to the flow direction of the test medium M, but always in a region between a connection block and a base block, and also does not have a fluid outlet 4a for discharging the filtered test medium F and / or the wetting fluid B and / or the rinsing fluid from the assembly of all blocks, and in particular also does not have a fluid outlet 4b for discharging residual fluid during venting, wetting and / or emptying. An extension block is, here and preferably, a structural unit with a housing 34 in or on which several components necessary for the construction of a filtration test section 2 are also located, e.g.one or more valves 8, sensors 10 and / or pipe sections 17 are installed in a functional manner and to which a replaceable filter 6, 14, for which test data are to be determined, can also be connected fluidically.

[0081] Such an expansion block is designed so that, if necessary to extend the filtration test section 2, i.e., if test data are to be obtained for more than one filter 6, 14, several units or "blocks" that can be equipped with a filter can be mechanically, pneumatically, hydraulically, and / or electrically connected to each other via at least one corresponding interface. In its installed state, an expansion block is mechanically, pneumatically, hydraulically, and / or electrically connected via these interfaces to the block upstream and downstream of it, respectively, with respect to the flow direction of the test medium M. This allows the test medium M, and optionally the wetting fluid B and / or rinsing fluid and / or compressed air, to be supplied to the expansion block from the upstream block and / or the expansion block to be electrically connected.Furthermore, the test medium M and, if applicable, the wetting fluid B and / or rinsing fluid and / or the compressed air can be routed from the extension block to the downstream fluid-technical block and / or the downstream fluid-technical block can be electrically connected.

[0082] In principle, a filtration test section 2 can have one or more extension blocks. In the embodiment shown below... Fig. 3 and 4 Two extension blocks are provided as examples. The entire assembly, consisting of one or more extension blocks, is generally enclosed by the other two block types. Thus, with respect to the flow direction of the test medium M, a connection block is fluidically connected upstream of the assembly of one or more extension blocks, and a base block is fluidically connected downstream. However, a filtration test section 2 can also be set up without an extension block.

[0083] In the embodiment according to Fig. 3 and 4 In the two middle mounting modules 33 (expansion blocks), at least one sensor 10, valve 8, and / or pipe section 17 is arranged inside the housing 34, and / or at least one filter 6, 14, in particular a removable one, is arranged outside the housing 34. The filter 6, 14 is thus accessible without disassembling the housing 34 or the expansion block. In particular, a filter replacement can be carried out without assembling and disassembling the entire system.

[0084] In the exemplary embodiment in Fig. 3 and 4Furthermore, a mounting module 33 (base block), which is located at the very bottom, has no further interfaces and / or outlets downstream, i.e., downwards, with the exception of fluid outlet 4a for discharging the filtered test medium F and / or the wetting fluid B and / or the rinsing fluid, and with the exception of fluid outlet 4b, also provided here, for draining residual fluid during venting, wetting, and / or emptying. Moreover, the base block preferably has the same structure as an extension block.

[0085] Furthermore, in this embodiment, a mounting module 33, which is arranged at the very top, is free of filters (connection block). The connection block differs from the other two block types here, and preferably also, in that it contains a pump, here a pneumatic pump 24, with which the compressed air for emptying the blocks can be generated.

[0086] Furthermore, all assembly modules 33, particularly those in housing 34, feature electronics with at least one circuit board 35, especially a circuit board 35 with an integrated circuit, which serves to receive sensor data and / or to control at least one of the valves 8 and / or the respective pump, especially the hydraulic pump and / or pneumatic pump 24. The control electronics formed by the electronics or circuit boards 35 and, optionally, the control unit 22, preferably constitute a logical abstraction level for the filtration test system 1, so that, for example, several valves 8 do not appear or need to be addressed as individual actuators in the system, but can be addressed together as a unit. From the control unit 22, for example, a command "Empty base block" can then be sent. The electronics or circuit board 35 in the base block executes the command and controls the necessary valves 8 in its own block.

[0087] Furthermore, the electronics of a block contain, in particular, the power electronics necessary for the valves 8 of this block.

[0088] In particular, the respective electrical circuit board 35 can also be used to convert analog sensor data into digital data and / or, especially before conversion, to amplify the analog sensor signals.

[0089] Here, and preferably, is how Fig. 4 shows, further provided that each mounting module 33 on which a filter 6, 14 can be arranged or is arranged, in particular each housing 34 on which or in which a filter 6, 14 can be attached or is attached, is assigned exactly one filter 6, 14.

[0090] Here, and preferably, the respective mounting module 33, in particular the housing 34, has at least one pneumatic interface 36, at least one hydraulic interface 37 and / or at least one electrical interface 38. Preferably, two mounting modules 33, in particular two housings 34, are directly mechanically connectable or connected to each other and, in particular, vertically stackable or stacked on top of each other.

[0091] By mechanically connecting, in particular directly mechanically connecting, two assembly modules 33 to each other, at least one pneumatic connection 39, at least one hydraulic connection 40 and / or at least one electrical connection 41 is formed between the assembly modules 33 by connecting two corresponding interfaces 36, 37, 38.

[0092] The following section will use the exemplary embodiment in Fig. 3 and 4The various phases with corresponding valve switching positions are briefly described. These phases are carried out fully automatically by the data receiving instrument 18 in the form of the control unit 22 during a filtration experiment, after the filter(s) 6, 14, for which test data are to be generated, have been installed and connected. Automation of the process ensures consistent quality and comparable timing during filter preparation.

[0093] Basically, all filters 6, 14 of the individual blocks are vented and wetted, one after the other, vertically from top to bottom, starting with filter 6, 14 on the upper extension block, followed by filter 6, 14 on the lower extension block, up to filter 6, 14 on the base block. They are then emptied and filled with the test medium M, after which they are vented again. The actual filtration test then takes place. Finally, the pipe sections 17, through which the test medium M had previously flowed, are emptied again to prevent any liquid from escaping the respective block during a filter change.

[0094] The steps mentioned above will now be described in detail using the upper extension block as an example. These steps will be carried out analogously for the remaining blocks.

[0095] This refers to the in Fig. 4 Reference is made to the valves 8 designated "a" to "e", which are designed here as 3-way valves, namely: the valve 8 of the connection block designated "a", which has a connection for a pipe section leading to a reservoir 3 containing the test medium M, a connection for a pipe section leading to reservoir 3 containing the wetting fluid B, here water, and a connection for a pipe section leading to the valve 8 designated "b", the valve 8 of the connection block designated "b", which has a connection for the pipe section leading to the valve "a", a connection for a pipe section leading to a compressed air source, here pneumatic pump 24, and a connection for a pipe section leading to the next filter 6, 14 of the upper expansion block, serving as the supply line for the test medium M, the valve 8 of the upper expansion block designated "c", which has a connection for a pipe section leading away from the filter 6, 14, serving for venting,a connection for a pipe section of a drain line leading to fluid outlet 4a and / or fluid outlet 4b and serving to drain residual liquid during venting, wetting and / or emptying, and a connection for a pipe section that is non-functional here and can be connected to another pipe section of the drain line in an upstream expansion block not provided here, the valve 8 of the upper expansion block designated "d", which has a connection for a pipe section leading away from filter 6, 14 and serving to drain the test medium M, a connection for a pipe section leading to the compressed air source and a connection for a pipe section leading to valve 8 designated "e", and the valve 8 of the upper expansion block designated "e", which has a connection for the pipe section leading to valve "d", a connection for a pipe section leading to the next filter 6,14 of the lower extension block has a line section leading to the supply of the test medium M and a connection for a line section leading to the drain line.

[0096] The valves 8 designated "c" to "e" are functionally identical in the extension blocks and in the base block, but in the base block a line section to the fluid outlet 4a is provided instead of a line section to a further filter 6, 14.

[0097] The fully automatic process described here is now illustrated using the upper extension block as an example, whereby this process is essentially the same for the lower extension block and the base block.

[0098] Specifically, filters 6 and 14 of the upper expansion block are first filled with the wetting fluid B, for example, water, and vented. For this purpose, valve "a" is closed towards reservoir 3 containing the test medium M, open towards reservoir 3 containing the wetting fluid B, and open towards valve "b". Furthermore, valve "b" is open towards valve "a", closed towards the compressed air source, and open towards the next filter 6, 14 of the upper expansion block. Furthermore, valve "c" is open towards filter 6, 14 of the upper expansion block, open towards fluid outlet 4a and / or fluid outlet 4b, and closed towards the section of the drain line that is not used here. Furthermore, valve "d" is open towards filter 6, 14, closed towards the compressed air source, and open towards valve "e".Finally, valve "e" is open towards valve "d", closed towards the next filter 6, 14 of the lower extension block, and open towards the drain line and, via that, towards fluid outlet 4a and / or fluid outlet 4b. Now, wetting fluid B is pumped through filter 6, 14 and the corresponding pipe sections and discharged via the drain line through the respective fluid outlet, in this case fluid outlet 4b, without passing through the next filter 6, 14. Valve "e" of the base block is closed towards fluid outlet 4a and valve "d".

[0099] Then, after all filters 6 and 14 have been vented, they are wetted, also with water. For this, valve "a" is closed towards reservoir 3 containing the test medium M, open towards reservoir 3 containing the wetting fluid B, and open towards valve "b". Valve "b" is then open towards valve "a", closed towards the compressed air source, and open towards the next filter 6 or 14 of the upper expansion block. Valve "c" is also closed towards filter 6 or 14 of the upper expansion block. Valve "d" is then open towards filter 6 or 14, closed towards the compressed air source, and open towards valve "e". Finally, valve "e" is open towards valve "d", closed towards the next filter 6 or 14 of the lower expansion block, and open towards the drain line and / or fluid outlet 4a and / or fluid outlet 4b.Now, wetting fluid B is pumped through filters 6 and 14 and the corresponding pipe sections and discharged via the drain line through the respective fluid outlet, here fluid outlet 4b, without being routed through the next filter 6 or 14. Valve "e" of the base block is closed, specifically towards fluid outlet 4a and valve "d".

[0100] Then, after wetting has been carried out for all filters 6, 14 of the upper expansion block, the filter 6, 14 of the upper expansion block is emptied. This also empties the pipe sections 17 of the fluid line network 16 through which the test medium M will later flow, in order to prevent dilution of the test medium M. For this purpose, valve "a" is closed towards the reservoir 3 containing the test medium M and towards the reservoir 3 containing the wetting fluid B. Valve "b" is open towards the compressed air source and towards the next filter 6, 14 of the upper expansion block. Valve "c" is open towards the filter 6, 14 of the upper expansion block, open towards fluid outlet 4a and / or fluid outlet 4b, and closed towards the section of the drain line that is not currently in use. Valve "d" is open towards the filter 6, 14, closed towards the compressed air source, and open towards valve "e".Finally, valve "e" is open towards valve "d", open towards the next filter 6, 14 of the lower extension block, and closed towards the drain line and / or fluid outlet 4a and / or fluid outlet 4b. Compressed air is then transported via the compressed air source through filter 6, 14 and the corresponding pipe sections, and any remaining wetting fluid B is discharged via the drain line through the respective fluid outlet, in this case fluid outlet 4b. Valve "e" of the base block is closed towards fluid outlet 4a and valve "d".

[0101] The "draining" procedure is then carried out in the same way, first for filter 6, 14 of the lower extension block and then for filter 6, 14 of the base block. Again, in each case, for the block whose filter 6, 14 is being drained, valve "c" is open towards filter 6, 14, open towards fluid outlet 4a and / or fluid outlet 4b, and closed towards the section of the drain line leading to the respective upstream block. Furthermore, in each upstream block, valve "d" is closed towards filter 6, 14, open towards the compressed air source, and open towards valve "e". Finally, in each case, for the block whose filter 6, 14 is being drained, valve "d" is open towards filter 6, 14, closed towards the compressed air source, and open towards valve "e". Finally, in each block whose filter 6, 14 is now being emptied, the valve "e" is opened towards the valve "d".In the case of the lower extension block, valve "e" is also open towards the next filter 6, 14 of the base block and closed towards the drain line or, via that, towards fluid outlet 4a and / or fluid outlet 4b. In the case of the base block, valve "e" is open towards fluid outlet 4b and specifically closed towards fluid outlet 4a.

[0102] Then, after all filters 6, 14 and line sections 17 have been emptied, the filter 6, 14 of the upper expansion block is filled with the test medium M and vented. For this purpose, valve "a" is open towards reservoir 3 containing the test medium M, closed towards reservoir 3 containing the wetting fluid B, and open towards valve "b". Furthermore, valve "b" is open towards valve "a", closed towards the compressed air source, and open towards the next filter 6, 14 of the upper expansion block. Furthermore, valve "c" is open towards filter 6, 14 of the upper expansion block, open towards fluid outlet 4a and / or fluid outlet 4b, and closed towards the currently non-functional section of the drain line. Furthermore, valve "d" is open towards filter 6, 14, closed towards the compressed air source, and open towards valve "e".Finally, valve "e" is open towards valve "d", closed towards the next filter 6, 14 of the lower extension block, and open towards the drain line and, via that, towards fluid outlet 4a and / or fluid outlet 4b. Test medium M is then pumped through filter 6, 14 and the corresponding pipe sections and discharged via the drain line through the respective fluid outlet, in this case fluid outlet 4b, without passing through the next filter 6, 14. Valve "e" of the base block is closed towards fluid outlet 4a and valve "d".

[0103] Then, after filter 6, 14 of the upper expansion block has been filled with the test medium M and vented, valve "c" to filter 6, 14 of the upper expansion block is closed. Test medium M continues to be pumped through filter 6, 14 and the corresponding pipe sections and discharged via the drain line through the respective fluid outlet, in this case fluid outlet 4b. Afterwards, valve "e" to filter 6, 14 of the lower expansion block is opened and closed to the drain line and / or fluid outlet 4a and / or fluid outlet 4b to fill and vent this filter 6, 14. After this has been vented, the valve "c" in the lower expansion block is also closed towards filter 6, 14, whereby test medium M continues to be pumped through filter 6, 14 and the corresponding pipe sections and is discharged via the drain line through the respective fluid outlet, here fluid outlet 4b.The "filling and venting" procedure is then carried out in the same way for the base block. Here too, valve "c" is closed towards filter 6, 14, whereby test medium M continues to be pumped through filter 6, 14 and the corresponding pipe sections and discharged via the drain line through the respective fluid outlet, in this case fluid outlet 4b. Valve "e" of the base block is closed, specifically towards fluid outlet 4a.

[0104] The actual filtration test now takes place. For this, valve "a" is open towards reservoir 3 containing the test medium M, closed towards reservoir 3 containing the wetting fluid B, and open towards valve "b". Valve "b" is then open towards valve "a", closed towards the compressed air source, and open towards the next filter 6, 14 of the upper expansion block. Valve "c" is then closed towards filter 6, 14 of the upper expansion block. Valve "d" is then open towards filter 6, 14, closed towards the compressed air source, and open towards valve "e". Finally, valve "e" is open towards valve "d", open towards the next filter 6, 14 of the lower expansion block, and closed towards the drain line and / or fluid outlet 4a and / or fluid outlet 4b. Valves "c" to "e", which are functionally identical, are in the same switching position in the lower expansion block and the base block.Test medium M is now pumped through filters 6 and 14 and the corresponding pipe sections and discharged through fluid outlet 4a. Valve "e" of the base block is closed here towards fluid outlet 4b.

[0105] After the filtration test is complete, filters 6 and 14 of the upper expansion block are emptied, followed by the remaining filters 6 and 14 individually. To empty filters 6 and 14 of the upper expansion block, valve "a" is closed to reservoir 3 containing the test medium M and reservoir 3 containing the wetting fluid B. Valve "b" is open to the compressed air source and to the next filter 6 and 14 of the upper expansion block. Valve "c" is open to filters 6 and 14 of the upper expansion block, to fluid outlet 4a and / or fluid outlet 4b, and closed to the currently non-functional section of the drain line. Valve "d" is open to filters 6 and 14, closed to the compressed air source, and open to valve "e".Finally, valve "e" is open towards valve "d", open towards the next filter 6, 14 of the lower extension block, and closed towards the drain line and / or fluid outlet 4a and / or fluid outlet 4b. Compressed air is then transported from the compressed air source through filter 6, 14 and the corresponding pipe sections, and any remaining test medium M is discharged via the drain line through the respective fluid outlet, in this case fluid outlet 4b. Valve "e" of the base block is closed, specifically towards fluid outlet 4a.

[0106] The "emptying" procedure is then carried out, as previously described for emptying after wetting, first for filters 6 and 14 of the lower extension block and then for filters 6 and 14 of the base block. After emptying has been performed for all filters 6 and 14, they can be removed.

[0107] Subsequently, with new filters 6 and 14, the above process can be repeated in the same way.

[0108] Alternatively, filtration test section 2 can be cleaned. For this purpose, empty tubes are inserted in place of filters 6 and 14. In principle, the same steps as for venting and subsequent wetting can then be carried out in a configuration not shown here, but with a cleaning fluid instead of the wetting fluid B. Here, and preferably, however, unlike the previously described venting process, the valve "d" towards the compressed air source is not closed, but open, and in particular, the valve "d" towards filters 6 and 14 is not open, but closed.

[0109] Here, and preferably, it is further provided that the filtration test system 1 has at least one support 42. Such a support can be used in different ways. According to Fig. 1 Only the feed container 3, in particular the feed container 3 for the test medium M, can be fixed to or is fixed to the carrier 42. According to Fig. 2 On a plate-shaped, first support 42, only one or more sensors 10, 11, 12 of the sensor arrangement 9 can be fixed, and on a beam-shaped, further support 42, the storage container 3, in particular the storage container 3 for the test medium M, can be fixed. According to Fig. 3 and 4 One or more mounting modules 33 and two storage containers 3, in particular the storage container 3 for the test medium M and the storage container 3 for the wetting fluid B and / or rinsing fluid, can each be fixed or are fixed to the common carrier 42.

[0110] The support 42 is, for example, a tripod 43 with a holder 44, in particular a height-adjustable one, as in the embodiments of the Fig. 1 as well as the Fig. 3 and 4 depicted.

[0111] But it is also, as in Fig. 2 As shown, it is conceivable that the carrier 42 is a mounting plate 45, preferably made of metal, attached in particular to a stand 43, on which several sensors 10, 11, 12 of the sensor arrangement 9 are each, in particular detachably, fixable, or fixed. Preferably, the sensors 10, 11, 12 are fixed to the mounting plate 45 magnetically, positively, and / or frictionally. Particularly preferably, the sensors 10, which are pressure sensors 11 in this case, have a mounting section 46, which preferably includes a magnet 47. Alternatively or additionally, the mounting section 46 can also have a plug-in or clamping element that interacts positively and / or frictionally with a corresponding counterpart on the mounting plate 45.

[0112] This design has the advantage that the unit consisting of mounting plate 45 and the attached components of the filtration test section 2 can be mounted and adjusted in height independently of the respective feed container 3. This allows the height of the filtration test system 1 to be minimized.

[0113] The sensors 10, 11, 12 are preferably assembled here as prefabricated modules for mounting on the mounting plate 45. These modules include, in addition to the mounting section 46, a flow channel for the test medium M, which here serves for pressure measurement, and a holder for the filter(s) 6, 14. In the assembled state, a filter 6, 14 is held between each pair of sensors 10, 11, 12 fixed to the mounting plate 45. It should be noted that, in another embodiment not shown here, volumetric flow sensors 12 can also be provided on such a mounting plate 45 in the same manner.

[0114] The mounting plate 45 is preferably part of the housing of a data receiving instrument 18, 23 (sensor hub), in particular the data receiving instrument 18, 23, which is configured to process the sensor data by bundling the sensor data into data packets and transmitting the data packets and / or converting analog sensor data into digital sensor data and / or, especially before conversion, amplifying the analog sensor signals. By bundling the sensor data into data packets, preferably only a single data cable 27 is required to transmit the sensor data to the control unit 22. A further advantage is that, in the case of analog sensors 10, 11, 12, the data cables from the sensor 10, 11, 12 to the digitizing circuit can be short and therefore less susceptible to interference.

[0115] Furthermore, several data inputs 29a for the sensors 10, 11, 12 and at least one data output 29b for the data cable 27 for transmitting the sensor data to the control unit 22 at the sensor hub 23 are provided here, preferably as data interfaces 29. Preferably, the number of data outputs 29b is less than the number of data inputs 29a. Here, and preferably, only a single data output 29b is provided.

[0116] As in Fig. 2 As shown, the data inputs 29a on the mounting plate 45 or the housing of the sensor hub 23 can be arranged in a row, here vertically from top to bottom. Preferably, this also determines the sequence of the connected sensors 10, 11, 12 in the filtration test section 2. For example, a sensor 10, 11, 12 connected to a higher data input 29a must be positioned further forward in the filtration test section 2. The sensor hub 23 can, in particular, label the sensor data with the position of the data input 29a, so that the control unit 22 can process and / or record the received sensor data in the correct sequence.

[0117] The sensor hub 23 is specifically designed so that the exclusive data flow direction from the sensors 10, 11, 12 runs via the sensor hub 23 to the control unit 22.

[0118] In the exemplary embodiments of the Fig. 2 bis 4 Furthermore, the respective support 42 and / or the respective stand 43 is mechanically connected to the housing of a scale 20 of the weighing arrangement 19. Using the scale 20, the weight of the filtrate F in the collection container 5 can be determined over time during a filtration experiment, and from this, the volume flow rate in the filtration test section 2 can be determined. In principle, however, it is also possible to proceed as described in Fig. 1A volumetric flow sensor 10, 12 can be used, eliminating the need for a scale. An advantage of such a scale 20 is its relatively heavy weight, providing a stable base for the support 42 and / or the stand 43. This reduces the number of components and the overall weight of the filtration test system 1 to be transported when a scale 20 is used. A scale 20 also has the advantage of functioning as a volumetric flow sensor largely independent of the liquid's viscosity. "True" volumetric flow sensors are typically sensitive to viscosity or only allow operation with aqueous solutions.

[0119] A further teaching, which is not the subject of the invention, relates to a data receiving instrument 18, 21, 22, 23 for use in a bioprocess engineering, in particular biopharmaceutical, filtration test system 1 for filtering a liquid test medium M in the context of a filtration test in a filtration test section 2 of the filtration test system 1, which leads from a feed container 3 for receiving the test medium M to be filtered to a fluid outlet 4 for the filtered test medium F, wherein the data receiving instrument 18, 21, 22, 23 is configured to receive sensor data generated in the context of the filtration test from a sensor arrangement 9 as test data for at least one filter 6, in particular also to record and / or process, on the basis of which the filter of a target system can be selected and / or dimensioned according to predetermined scaling criteria.Reference may be made in this respect to the explanations regarding the proposed bioprocess engineering filtration test system.

[0120] It is essential that the data receiving instrument 18, 21, 22, 23 is pre-configured in terms of programming and / or circuitry for the reception of sensor data from the sensor arrangement 9.

[0121] A further teaching, which is not the subject of the invention, relates to the use of a packaged filtration test set made from pre-assembled system components for the construction of a proposed bioprocess engineering, in particular biopharmaceutical, filtration test system 1. In this respect, reference may be made to the explanations relating to the proposed bioprocess engineering filtration test system.

[0122] It is essential that the filtration test set in the packaging comprises at least one assembly module 33 consisting of at least one line section 17 of the fluid line network 16, which is connected as intended to at least one sensor 10, 11, 12 of the sensor arrangement 9 and / or at least one valve 8 of the valve arrangement 7. In an embodiment not shown here, at least one filter 6, 14, 15 of the filter arrangement 13 may also be included in the packaging. A reservoir 3, which is preferably fluidically connected to the line section 17, may also be provided as part of the assembly module 33.

Claims

1. Arrangement comprising a bioprocessing, in particular biopharmaceutical, filtration experiment system for filtering a liquid test medium (M) as part of a filtration experiment in a filtration experiment section (2) of the filtration experiment system (1), which filtration experiment section runs from a receptacle (3) for holding the test medium (M) to be filtered to a fluid outlet (4) for the filtered test medium (F), wherein the filtration experiment system (1) is designed to ascertain, as part of the filtration experiment, sensor data as experiment data for at least one filter (6), on the basis of which the filter of a target system is selected and / or dimensioned according to predetermined scaling criteria, characterized in that the filtration experiment system (1) is preassembled on an at least partially programming-related and / or circuit-related basis and comprises at least one data receiving instrument (18, 21, 22, 23) for receiving sensor data from the sensor arrangement (9), which data receiving instrument is preassembled on a programming-related and / or circuit-related basis concerning the reception and / or capture and / or processing of sensor data from the sensor arrangement (9) and thus is provided in a manner specific to the experiment, in that the data receiving instrument (18, 21, 22, 23) is designed to record the sensor data, and in that the arrangement comprises a data processing and / or evaluation device which is designed to select and / or dimension a suitable filter of a target system according to predetermined scaling criteria for the respective filter (6, 14) of the filtration experiment section (2).

2. Arrangement according to claim 1, characterized in that the filtration experiment system (1), in particular the filtration experiment section (2), comprises a valve arrangement (7) containing one or more valves (8), a sensor arrangement (9) containing one or more sensors (10, 11, 12), in particular one or more pressure sensors (11), volume flow sensors (12) and / or temperature sensors, a filter arrangement (13) containing one or more filters (6, 14, 15), in particular one or more liquid filters (14) and / or air filters (15), and / or a fluid line network (16) containing multiple line sections (17) via which the test medium (M) reaches the respective filter (6, 14, 15), and / or in that the filtration experiment system (1) comprises a weighing arrangement (19) containing a balance (20).

3. Arrangement according to claim 1 or 2, characterized in that the processing of the sensor data includes comparing sensor data with at least one setpoint value or setpoint value range and / or bundling sensor data to form data packets and sending the data packets and / or converting analog sensor data into digital sensor data and / or, in particular prior to the conversion, amplifying the analog sensor signals.

4. Arrangement according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the filtration experiment system (1) comprises at least one pump, in particular a hydraulic pump and / or pneumatic pump (24), and / or at least one pneumatic pressure regulator (R), and in that at least one data receiving instrument (18, 22) is preassembled on a programming-related and / or circuit-related basis concerning the control of the pump and / or of the pneumatic pressure regulator (R), preferably in that the pump and / or the pneumatic pressure regulator (R) is controllable in such a way that it is possible to produce a predefined, constant or varying, pressure or volume flow of the test medium (M) in the filtration experiment section (2) and / or a defined, constant or varying, pressure or volume flow of a wetting liquid (B), in particular in the case of an automatic filter wetting process, in the filtration experiment section (2) and / or a defined, constant or varying, pressure or volume flow of the compressed air and / or of a flushing liquid, in particular in the case of an automatic draining and / or flushing process, in the filtration experiment section (2).

5. Arrangement according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that at least one data receiving instrument (18, 22) is preassembled on a programming-related and / or circuit-related basis concerning the control of at least one valve (8) of the valve arrangement (7), in particular concerning the control for a filter wetting process, for a filter venting process, for a filtration experiment with the test medium (M) and / or for a draining and / or flushing process.

6. Arrangement according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the at least one data receiving instrument (18, 21, 22, 23) comprises a power supply (28), at least one data interface (29), a memory (30) for storing raw sensor data and / or processed sensor data, a pneumatic inlet (31), at least one pneumatic outlet (32), a pneumatic pressure regulator (R) and / or at least one pneumatic pump (24), preferably in that the respective data receiving instrument (18, 21, 22, 23) is free of hydraulic connections and is in particular arrangeable or arranged at a physical distance from the filtration experiment section (2).

7. Arrangement according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the filtration experiment system (1), in particular the filtration experiment section (2) and / or the sensor arrangement (9), is preassembled on a sensor-related basis concerning the measurement principle, the specifications and / or the installation position of at least one sensor (10, 11, 12) of the sensor arrangement (9), and / or in that the filtration experiment system (1), in particular the filtration experiment section (2) and / or the filter arrangement (13), is preassembled on a fluidics-related basis concerning the operating principle, the specifications and / or the installation position of at least one filter (6, 14, 15) of the filter arrangement (13), and / or in that the filtration experiment system (1), in particular the filtration experiment section (2) and / or the valve arrangement (7), is preassembled on a fluidics-related basis concerning the type of actuation, the specifications and / or the installation position of at least one valve (8) of the valve arrangement (7), and / or in that the filtration experiment system (1), in particular the filtration experiment section (2) and / or the fluid line network (16), is preassembled on a fluidics-related basis concerning the specifications and / or the installation position of at least one line section (17) of the fluid line network (16).

8. Arrangement according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that at least one sensor (10, 11, 12) of the sensor arrangement (9), at least one filter (6, 14, 15) of the filter arrangement (13), at least one valve (8) of the valve arrangement (7) and / or at least one receptacle (3) together with at least one line section (17) of the fluid line network (16) form an assembly module (33) preassembled on a fluidics-related and / or sensor-related basis, the assembly module (33) or multiple such assembly modules (33) in particular forming the filtration experiment section (2), preferably in that the respective assembly module (33) comprises the receptacle (3) for the test medium (M) and / or a receptacle (3) for wetting liquid (B) and / or flushing liquid, and / or in that at least one assembly module (33) comprises a fluid outlet (4) for discharging the filtered test medium (F) into a collecting container (5) of the filtration experiment system (1).

9. Arrangement according to claim 8, characterized in that the respective assembly module (33) comprises a housing (34), in particular a plastic, resin, glass, ceramic and / or metal housing, for holding at least one sensor (10, 11, 12) of the sensor arrangement (9), at least one filter of the filter arrangement (13), at least one valve (8) of the valve arrangement (7) and / or at least one line section (17) of the fluid line network (16), preferably in that at least one sensor (10, 11, 12), valve (8) and / or line section (17) is arranged or arrangeable inside the housing (34) and / or at least one filter (6, 14, 15) is arranged or arrangeable, in particular detachably, outside the housing (34).

10. Arrangement according to any one of claims 8 or 9, characterized in that an assembly module (33) is free of filters and / or comprises electronics having at least one electrical circuit board (35), in particular having an integrated circuit, for receiving sensor data and / or for controlling at least one valve (8) and / or for controlling a pump, in particular a hydraulic pump and / or pneumatic pump (24), and / or in that an assembly module (33) comprises a pump, in particular a hydraulic pump and / or pneumatic pump (24), preferably in that the electronics and / or electrical circuit board (35) and / or the pump is arranged in or on the housing (34) of the assembly module (33).

11. Arrangement according to any one of claims 8 to 10, characterized in that every assembly module (33) on which a filter (6, 14, 15) is arrangeable or arranged, in particular every housing (34) to or in which a filter (6, 14, 15) is attachable or attached, has precisely one associated filter (6, 14, 15).

12. Arrangement according to any one of claims 8 to 11, characterized in that the respective assembly module (33), in particular the housing (34), comprises at least one pneumatic interface (36), at least one hydraulic interface (37) and / or at least one electrical interface (38), preferably in that in each case two assembly modules (33), in particular in each case two housings (34), are directly mechanically connectable or connected to one another and are in particular vertically stackable or stacked above one another.

13. Arrangement according to any one of claims 8 to 12, characterized in that a mechanical connection, in particular direct mechanical connection, of two assembly modules (33) to one another forms at least one pneumatic connection (39), at least one hydraulic connection (40) and / or at least one electrical connection (41) between the assembly modules (33) by way of in each case two mutually corresponding interfaces (36, 37, 38) .

14. Arrangement according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the filtration experiment system (1) has a support (42), and in that only one receptacle (3), in particular only the receptacle (3) for the test medium (M) and / or only the receptacle (3) for wetting liquid (B) and / or flushing liquid, is fixable or fixed to the support (42) and / or only one or more sensors (10, 11, 12) of the sensor arrangement (9) are each fixable or fixed to the common support (42) and / or only one or more assembly modules (33) are each fixable or fixed to the common support (42), preferably in that the support (42) is a stand (43) having a, in particular adjustable-height, holder (44), or in that the support (42) is a mounting plate (45), in particular attached to a stand (43), to which one or more sensors (10, 11, 12) of the sensor arrangement (9), the receptacle (3) and / or one or more assembly modules (33) are each, in particular detachably, fixable or fixed, preferably in that the respective sensor (10, 11, 12), receptacle (3) and / or assembly module (33) is fixed to the mounting plate (45) magnetically, with a form-fit and / or with a force-fit.

15. Arrangement according to claim 14, characterized in that, in the mounted state, a filter (6, 14, 15) is arranged between each two sensors (10, 11, 12) fixed to the mounting plate (45), which filter is itself not fixed to the mounting plate (45).

16. Arrangement according to any one of claims 14 or 15, characterized in that the mounting plate (45) is part of a housing of a data receiving instrument (18, 23), in particular the data receiving instrument (18, 23) that is designed to carry out bundling of the sensor data to form data packets and sending of the data packets and / or conversion of analog sensor data into digital sensor data and / or, in particular prior to the conversion, amplification of the analog sensor signals as processing of the sensor data.

17. Arrangement according to any one of claims 14 to 16, characterized in that the respective support (42) and / or the respective stand (43) is mechanically connected to the housing of a balance (20) of the weighing arrangement (19).

18. Method for operating a bioprocessing, in particular biopharmaceutical, filtration experiment system for filtering a liquid test medium (M) as part of a filtration experiment in a filtration experiment section (2) of the filtration experiment system (1), which filtration experiment section runs from a receptacle (3) for holding the test medium (M) to be filtered to a fluid outlet (4) for the filtered test medium (F), wherein, by means of the filtration experiment system (1), as part of the filtration experiment, sensor data are ascertained as experiment data for at least one filter (6), on the basis of which the filter of a target system is selected and / or dimensioned according to predetermined scaling criteria, characterized in that the filtration experiment system (1) is preassembled on an at least partially programming-related and / or circuit-related basis, and at least one data receiving instrument (18, 21, 22, 23) is preassembled on a programming-related and / or circuit-related basis concerning the reception of sensor data from the sensor arrangement (9), in that, by means of the data receiving instrument, the received sensor data are transmitted as experiment data to a data processing and / or evaluation device, and in that, by means of a data processing and / or evaluation device, a suitable filter of a target system is selected and / or dimensioned according to predetermined scaling criteria for the respective filter (6, 14) of the filtration experiment section (2).