Multi-Tube Pinch Valve Assembly

Abstract

The multiple tube pinch valve assembly has a receiving space defined between the pinch protrusion and the tube contact. The multiple tube pinch valve assembly is movable between a retracted state and an extended state. In the extended state, multiple tubes disposed within the receiving space are pinched to restrict flow through the tubes. In the retracted state, multiple tubes can be loaded into and / or removed from the receiving space.

Description

[Technical field]

[0001] CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED PATENT APPLICATIONS This application claims priority to U.S. Patent Application No. 18 / 113,173, filed February 23, 2023, and the benefit of U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 63 / 314,931, filed February 28, 2022, the disclosure of which is incorporated by reference in its entirety herein.

[0002] FIELD OF THE DISCLOSURE The present disclosure relates generally to pinch valves, and more particularly to pinch valves for selectively controlling flow through a plurality of tubes. [Background technology]

[0003] Generally, internal and / or external valves have been used to selectively control the flow of fluids (e.g., gases, liquids, etc., and / or combinations thereof) through tubes or other conduits. These valves can be operated to completely or partially block the flow of fluid. Internal valves are disposed at least partially within the lumen of the tube, while external valves provide fluid flow control from outside the tube. In particular, external valves apply a force against the exterior surface of a tube or flexible conduit, allowing the lumen of the tube to be transformed from an unoccluded state to an occluded or partially occluded state.

[0004] External valves (e.g., pinch valves, etc.) can control fluid flow in tubing without requiring the installation of costly and complicated internal valves. A typical pinch valve controls fluid flow in a tube by squeezing the outer portion of the tube to occlude the lumen of the inner portion of the tube. As can be appreciated, pinch valves provide a sterile fluid flow control without the components of the pinch valve coming into direct contact with the fluid inside the tube. Summary of the Invention [Problem to be solved by the invention]

[0005] In some embodiments, the tubing configuration or tubing system design requires that two or more tubes or two or more tubing sections be occluded at the same time or at different times. In conventional systems, a pinch valve is placed in each separate area where fluid flow control is desired. Each pinch valve is independently operated by a respective actuator. In this conventional approach, as the number of separate fluid flow control areas increases, the number of pinch valves required to make the system operational also increases. Because each pinch valve includes its own actuator, the cost and complexity of this conventional approach necessarily increases. Furthermore, the number of components required to perform fluid control operations under the conventional approach increases the likelihood of failure and the time required for regular routine maintenance. [Means for solving the problem]

[0006] The embodiments presented herein are directed to these and other problems. Among other things, the present disclosure provides a multiple tube or multiple tube pinch valve assembly capable of pinching more than one tube or more than one tube section with a single actuator. In some examples, the multiple tube pinch valve assembly may be configured to pinch more than one tube or multiple tube sections simultaneously. Additionally or alternatively, the multiple tube pinch valve assembly may pinch a first tube set at a first time and pinch a second tube set at a different second time. In one example, the multiple tube pinch valve assembly may allow flow through the first tube set while pinching (e.g., impeding flow) the second tube set, or vice versa.

[0007] In one example, the multi-tube pinch valve assembly may comprise a miniature valve array capable of sequentially opening and closing the flow paths to each bioreactor in a multi-bioreactor system. The multi-tube pinch valve assembly may comprise a valve mechanism that may be integrated into the bioreactor rocker assembly. This design significantly simplifies disposable sets (e.g., tube sets, etc.) used in cell growth systems, sterile fluid management systems, any suitable system that uses a multi-tube valve mechanism for sterile fluid pathway management, among others. Additionally or alternatively, the multi-tube pinch valve assembly may be integrated into the soft cassette of the disposable set.

[0008] In some examples, the multi-tube pinch valve assembly may correspond to a cam-actuated valve array that provides a compact way to open and close multiple parallel tubes in a set sequence. This approach allows a multi-bioreactor cell growth system to implement a "time-shared" or "duty cycle" method that allows the valve array to serve multiple bioreactors located on a bioreactor rocker rather than on a fixed cassette. As can be appreciated, the multi-tube pinch valve assembly is not limited to use in a multi-bioreactor system. For example, the mechanism of the multi-tube pinch valve assembly can be adapted to any situation where it is required to fix the position of multiple valves relative to other valves.

[0009] In the cam actuation approach, the multi-tube pinch valve assembly may utilize a finger pump type mechanism with the tube and finger operating configuration rotated 90 degrees relative to the cam. Rather than pumping a single tube, the multi-tube pinch valve assembly can valve many tubes simultaneously. This multi-tube pinch valve assembly design can be combined with a soft cassette such that the fingers act in a direction perpendicular to the plane of the soft cassette. The multi-tube pinch valve assembly allows for tight control of the occlusion depth, thereby allowing for intentional partial occlusion of tubes (e.g., partial restriction of fluid flow, etc.). Other advantages of the examples described herein include the compact size and simplified electronics of the multi-tube pinch valve assembly. Among other features, these features allow the valve unit to be mounted on a bioreactor rocker, which in some cases can simplify the disposable set used in the cell expansion system, for example, by reducing the number of tubes that must extend from the bioreactor to the stationary cassette. Additionally, the multi-tube pinch valve assembly allows for the valve positions to be positively locked together to ensure correct flow. For example, one of the tubes in a time-sharing model is guaranteed to always be open to prevent pressure build-up, or two tubes are always either open or closed relative to each other to ensure a complete fluid path.

[0010] In some examples, the multi-tube pinch valve assembly may be driven by a motor operatively connected to a camshaft with two cam profiles. The first anvil assembly is disposed adjacent to a first one of the two cam profiles, and the second anvil assembly is disposed adjacent to a second one of the two cam profiles. When the motor rotates the camshaft, the two cam profiles rotate relative to the first and second anvil assemblies. At a particular rotation angle, at least one cam lobe, i.e., a protrusion, disposed on the cam profile contacts the first and second anvil assemblies. For example, a first cam lobe associated with the first cam profile may contact the first anvil assembly at a first rotation angle of the camshaft. When the first cam lobe contacts the first anvil assembly, the shape of the first cam lobe causes the first anvil assembly to move away from the camshaft toward the pinch plate. The first portion of the tube is disposed within a first space between the first anvil and the pinch plate. In this configuration, as the first anvil assembly moves toward the pinch plate, the first anvil of the first anvil assembly contacts and deforms the first portion of the tube such that the lumen of the first portion of the tube closes. The first portion of the tube remains occluded while the first cam lobe is at or within a predetermined angular range (e.g., 1-5 degrees) of the maximum travel point of the first cam lobe, and the first anvil maintains the first portion of the tube in an occluded state.

[0011] The multi-tube pinch valve assembly may be configured as an array of independently actuated multi-tube pinch valves. For example, the multi-tube pinch valve assembly may include a five-valve array of independently actuated four-tube pinch valves. At least one advantage of this independently actuated configuration includes, but is by no means limited to, operating the multi-tube pinch valve assembly in any combination of open or closed states.

[0012] In this disclosure, among other things, a multi-tube pinch valve assembly is described that includes an array (e.g., an array of five four-tube pinch valves) that is divided into individual multi-tube valves, where each multi-tube valve in the array can be driven by a small linear actuator (e.g., a solenoid, a piezoelectric actuator, a screw actuator, a pneumatic cylinder, a hydraulic cylinder, and / or a stepper motor linear actuator, etc.). This approach allows for any combination of valve states during a protocol (e.g., system operation, etc.). For example, in a cell growth system, all valves may be open during loading of disposables (e.g., tube sets, etc.), valves may be continuously cycled with a 10 second duty cycle during cell feeding, and valves may be continuously open for longer durations during tasks such as cell harvesting.

[0013] In some examples, the pinching jaws of each multi-tube valve (e.g., a four-tube valve, etc.) of the multi-tube pinch valve assembly may be slightly offset from one another. Among other things, this configuration may reduce the pinch force from the actuator required to occlude the tube and increase the jaw gap range that results in occlusion. Such increased jaw gap improves cycle life and tube integrity over time compared to designs with smaller jaw gaps. In one example, a set of opposing jaws can pinch four tubes at once. Additionally or alternatively, being able to operate each valve of the multi-tube valve independently allows for optimization and simplification of the disposable design when compared to designs requiring different valves.

[0014] The above is a simplified summary of the present disclosure to provide an understanding of some aspects of the disclosure. This summary is neither a detailed nor comprehensive summary of the present disclosure and its various aspects, embodiments, and configurations. It is not intended to identify key or critical elements of the disclosure, nor to delineate the scope of the disclosure, but rather to provide selected concepts of the disclosure in a simplified form as a prelude to the more detailed description provided below. As can be appreciated, other aspects, embodiments, and configurations of the present disclosure can be envisioned that utilize, alone or in combination, one or more of the features set forth above or described in detail below.

[0015] Numerous additional features and advantages are described herein, or will become apparent to those of ordinary skill in the art upon consideration of the following detailed description, and upon consideration of the drawings.

[0016] The accompanying drawings are incorporated in and constitute a part of this specification to illustrate several examples of the present disclosure. These drawings, together with the detailed description, explain the principles of the present disclosure. The drawings merely illustrate preferred and alternative examples of how the present disclosure can be made and used, and should not be construed as limiting the present disclosure to only the examples shown and described. Further features and advantages will become apparent from the following more detailed description of various aspects, embodiments and configurations of the present disclosure, as illustrated by the drawings referenced below. [Brief description of the drawings]

[0017] [Figure 1A] FIG. 1A is a first perspective view of a multi-tube pinch valve assembly according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 1B] FIG. 1B is a first front view of the multi-tube pinch valve assembly shown in FIG. 1A. [Figure 1C] FIG. 1C is a second perspective view of the multi-tube pinch valve shown in FIG. 1A. [Figure 1D]FIG. 1D is a partially exploded perspective view of the multi-tube pinch valve assembly shown in FIG. 1A. [Figure 2A] FIG. 2A is a schematic cross-sectional view of the multi-tube pinch valve assembly taken along line 2-2 shown in FIG. 1D. [Figure 2B] FIG. 2B is a perspective view of an anvil assembly according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 3A] FIG. 3A is a schematic cross-sectional view of an anvil assembly and a cam of a multi-tube pinch valve assembly in a first rotational position according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 3B] FIG. 3B is a schematic cross-sectional view of an anvil assembly and a cam of a multi-tube pinch valve assembly in a second rotational position according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 3C] FIG. 3C is a schematic cross-sectional view of an anvil assembly and a cam of a multi-tube pinch valve assembly in a third rotational position according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 4A] FIG. 4A is a first perspective view of a multi-tube pinch valve assembly according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 4B] FIG. 4B is a top view of the multi-tube pinch valve assembly shown in FIG. 4A. [Figure 5A] FIG. 5A is a schematic top view of the multi-tube pinch valve assembly shown in FIG. 4A in a closed, tube-occluded state, according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 5B] FIG. 5B is a schematic top view of the multi-tube pinch valve assembly shown in FIG. 4A in a partially closed, tube-partially occluded state, according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 5C] FIG. 5C is a schematic top view of the multi-tube pinch valve assembly shown in FIG. 4A in an open, tube-open state, according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 6A] FIG. 6A is a first perspective view of a multi-tube pinch valve assembly in an array configuration according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 6B] FIG. 6B is a second perspective view of a multi-tube pinch valve assembly in an array configuration according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 7] FIG. 7 is a perspective view of a multi-tube pinch valve assembly in an array configuration for a multi-bioreactor system. [Figure 8] FIG. 8 is a schematic block diagram of a hydraulic layout for a cell growth system having a single bioreactor, according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 9] FIG. 9 is a schematic block diagram of a hydraulic layout for a cell growth system having multiple bioreactors and multiple tubing pinch valve assemblies, according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 10] FIG. 10 is a perspective view of another exemplary multi-tube pinch valve assembly according to the present disclosure. [Figure 11] FIG. 11 is a perspective view of the multi-tube pinch valve assembly of FIG. 10 with the cover removed. [Figure 12] 12 is a perspective view of an exemplary actuation member of the multi-tube pinch valve assembly of FIG. [Figure 13] FIG. 13 is a perspective view of a bioreactor support frame configured for the multi-tube pinch valve assembly of FIG. [Figure 14] FIG. 14 is a perspective view of yet another exemplary multi-tube pinch valve assembly according to the present disclosure. [Figure 15] FIG. 15 is a perspective view of the multi-tube pinch valve assembly of FIG. 14 with the bioreactor support frame removed. [Figure 16] FIG. 16 is a perspective view of the multi-tube pinch valve assembly of FIG. 14 with the cover removed. [Figure 17] 17 is a cross-sectional view of the multi-tube pinch valve assembly of FIG. [Figure 18]FIG. 18 is a perspective view of a bioreactor support frame configured for the multi-tube pinch valve assembly of FIG. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS

[0018] Before describing any embodiment of the present disclosure in detail, it should be understood that the present disclosure is not limited in its application to the details of construction and arrangement of components set forth in the following description or illustrated in the drawings. The present disclosure is capable of other embodiments and can be practiced or carried out in various ways. It should also be understood that the phraseology and terminology used herein are for the purpose of description and should not be considered limiting. The use of "including," "comprising," or "having," and variations thereof, herein means to encompass the items listed thereafter and their equivalents, as well as additional items. Furthermore, the present disclosure may use examples to illustrate one or more aspects. Unless otherwise specified, the use or recitation of one or more examples (which may be indicated by "for example," "for example," "eg," "etc.", or similar phraseology) is not intended to limit the scope of the present disclosure and does not limit the scope of the present disclosure.

[0019] The following description provides examples and is not intended to limit the scope, applicability, or configuration of the claims. Rather, the following description provides those skilled in the art with an enabling description for implementing the described embodiments. It should be understood that various changes can be made in the function and arrangement of elements without departing from the spirit and scope of the appended claims.

[0020] Various aspects of the present disclosure are described herein with reference to drawings that are schematic illustrations of idealized configurations.

[0021] Conventional external valve methods generally utilize a single pinch valve to control fluid flow in a single tube. If fluid flow control is required for multiple tubes, a pinch valve is used for each of the multiple tubes. As can be appreciated, this conventional configuration increases the number of components required for multi-tube fluid flow control. The increased number of components increases the complexity of multi-tube fluid flow control. Additionally or alternatively, if each tube has its own pinch valve, control of each pinch valve in the multi-tube fluid flow control requires complex valve control, timing, wiring, and programming. In any case, using one pinch valve for every tube or tube section that is to be pinched, as in the conventional approach, increases maintenance time, failures, and system complexity.

[0022] It is with respect to these and other problems that the embodiments presented herein are directed.

[0023] 1A-1D, a multi-tube pinch valve assembly 100 is shown in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure. The multi-tube pinch valve assembly 100 includes a base 104 (e.g., a base plate, frame, support structure, etc.), a camshaft 108, at least one cam 112 attached to the camshaft 108, at least one anvil assembly 150, and a tube platen 120. In some examples, the tube platen 120 includes a plurality of tube receiving openings 128 disposed along a length of the tube platen 120. Each of the plurality of tube receiving openings 128 is configured to receive a tube or tube section therein. The plurality of tube receiving openings 128 extend in a direction perpendicular to a longitudinal axis 110 of the camshaft 108.

[0024] Features of the multi-tube pinch valve assembly 100 are described in relation to a coordinate system 102. The coordinate system 102 has three dimensions, with an X-axis, a Y-axis, and a Z-axis, as shown in the figures. Additionally or alternatively, the coordinate system 102 may be used to define planes of the multi-tube pinch valve assembly 100 (e.g., an XY plane, an XZ plane, and a YZ plane). These planes are disposed orthogonally, i.e., at 90 degrees to one another. The origin of the coordinate system 102 may be located at any point on or near a component of the multi-tube pinch valve assembly 100, but for purposes of description, the axes of the coordinate system 102 are always disposed along the same direction in each of the figures. In some examples, dimensions, angles, directions, relative positions, and / or movements associated with one or more components of the multi-tube pinch valve assembly 100 are referenced with respect to the coordinate system 102. For example, the width of the multi-tube pinch valve assembly 100 is defined as the dimension along the X-axis of the coordinate system 102, the height of the multi-tube pinch valve assembly 100 is defined as the dimension along the Y-axis of the coordinate system 102, and the depth of the multi-tube pinch valve assembly 100 is defined as the dimension along the Z-axis of the coordinate system 102. Additionally or alternatively, the width of the tube platen 120 is defined as the dimension along the X-axis of the coordinate system 102, the height of the tube platen 120 is defined as the dimension along the Y-axis of the coordinate system 102, and the depth of the tube platen 120 is defined as the dimension along the Z-axis of the coordinate system 102.

[0025] The multi-tube pinch valve assembly 100 may include a motor 132 having an output shaft 134, a driver 136, and a cam driver 140. As the output shaft 134 of the motor 132 rotates, power is transferred from the driver 136 to the cam driver 140. In one example, the driver 136 and the cam driver 140 may be configured as respective gears in meshing contact with one another. In one example, the driver 136 and the cam driver 140 may correspond to pulleys (e.g., timing belt pulleys, V-pulleys, etc.). In this example, power is transferred from the driver 136 to the cam driver 140 via a drive belt 138. The drive belt 138 may correspond to a timing belt, a V-belt, a ribbed V-belt, a link V-belt, etc., and / or any other continuous belt. In any of these examples, as the output shaft 134 of the motor 132 rotates, the cam shaft 108 rotates about the longitudinal axis 110. Rotation of the camshaft 108 causes a cam 112 having at least one cam profile shape to rotate about the longitudinal axis 110. The cam 112 may be keyed to the camshaft 108 (e.g., via a key and keyway, splines, etc.) and / or fixed to and / or formed from and / or otherwise attached to the camshaft 108. The cam 112 may rotate 360 ​​degrees. At various degrees of rotation, different portions of the cam profile shape of the cam 112 are directed relative to the anvil assembly 150. For example, when a protruding portion of the cam 112 contacts the anvil assembly 150, the anvil assembly 150 rises (e.g., moves in the positive direction of the Y-axis) toward the tube platen 120, and when a recessed or heel portion of the cam 112 contacts the anvil assembly 150, the anvil assembly 150 falls (e.g., moves in the negative direction of the Y-axis) away from the tube platen 120. In this manner, rotation of the camshaft 108 causes the anvil assembly 150 to pinch the multiple tubes 124 within the tube receiving openings 128 of the multi-tube pinch valve assembly 100 .

[0026] In some examples, the multi-tube pinch valve assembly 100 includes a bioreactor support frame 144. The bioreactor support frame 144 may include a plurality of recesses 142 configured to receive and / or hold bioreactors (e.g., hollow fiber bioreactors, cell growth system bioreactors, etc.). In some examples, the plurality of tubes 124 disposed within the tube receiving openings 128 are interconnected to a plurality of bioreactors held or supported by the bioreactor support frame 144. Varying the timing of opening and closing the plurality of tubes 124 associated with each bioreactor simultaneously or at different times can be beneficial in controlling fluid flow to the multiple bioreactors.

[0027] As shown in the front view of FIG. 1B, the multi-tube pinch valve assembly 100 is configured with valve arrays 148A-148E, i.e., arrays of valves, including a first multi-tube valve 148A, a second multi-tube valve 148B, a third multi-tube valve 148C, a fourth multi-tube valve 148D, and / or a fifth multi-tube valve 148E. Each multi-tube valve of the valve arrays 148A-148E may be associated with a particular set of bioreactor tubes. For example, the first multi-tube valve 148A controls the fluid flow of the plurality of tubes 124 received in the tube receiving opening 128 associated with the first multi-tube valve 148A. In turn, the second multi-tube valve 148B controls the fluid flow of the plurality of tubes 124 received in the tube receiving opening 128 associated with the second multi-tube valve 148B, and so on. Each of the multi-tube valves of the valve arrays 148A-148E includes an anvil assembly 150 and a cam 112. Thus, the cam 112 is positioned on the camshaft 108 such that a multi-tube valve of one of the valve arrays 148A-148E can operate at different, i.e., independent, times relative to other multi-tube valves of the valve arrays 148A-148E. In other words, the cam 112 of a multi-tube valve of one of the valve arrays 148A-148E is rotationally positioned out of phase with at least one other multi-tube valve of the valve arrays 148A-148E. In this example, as the camshaft 108 rotates, the valves of the valve arrays 148A-148E can open and close simultaneously or at different times. In some examples, the valve arrays 148A-148E are positioned along the length of the longitudinal axis 110 of the camshaft 108 (e.g., in the X-axis direction). Although shown with five valves 148A-148E, the multi-tube pinch valve assembly 100 can include any number of valves. In some examples, the number of valves may be configured to match the number of bioreactors or sets of multiple tubes 124 requiring fluid flow control.As can be appreciated, the valve array of the multi-tube pinch valve assembly 100 can include 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, or more valves.

[0028] FIG. 1D shows a partially exploded perspective view of the multiple tube pinch valve assembly 100 with the anvil grid plate 116 exposed. The anvil grid plate 116 includes a plurality of openings therethrough. The openings are disposed along the X-axis of the anvil grid plate 116. Each opening is sized to receive a portion of the anvil assembly 150. As the camshaft 108 rotates, the cam 112 contacts the anvil assembly 150 and moves a portion of the anvil assembly 150 into and out of the opening. The anvil grid plate 116 includes an upper surface that is disposed at a distance from the tube platen contacting surface of the tube platen 120. This distance provides a space in which the plurality of tubes 124 are disposed. As can be appreciated, when a portion of the anvil assembly 150 enters the space, the plurality of tubes 124 are occluded (e.g., pinched), and when the portion of the anvil assembly 150 exits the space, the plurality of tubes 124 are released. Further details regarding this cam-actuated pinching and fluid flow control of multiple tubes are described with reference to Figures 2A-3C.

[0029] FIG 2A illustrates a schematic cross-sectional view of the multiple tube pinch valve assembly taken along line 2-2 as shown in FIG ID. The diagram illustrates the cam 112 of the camshaft 108 in a rotational position in which the anvil assembly 150 pinches the multiple tubes 124 disposed within the tube receiving opening 128 (e.g., in the space between the anvil grid plate 116 and the tube platen 120). In this position, the anvil assembly 150 is in contact with a cam lobe of the cam 112, illustrating the multiple tubes 124 in a pinched state. Fluid flow through the multiple tubes 124 is restricted in the pinched state in which the anvil assembly 150 contacts the multiple tubes 124.

[0030] The anvil assembly 150, shown in detail in FIG. 2B, includes an anvil 200 including an anvil body 204 and a pinch edge 208 extending from a first end 212A to a second end 212B of the anvil assembly 150. The anvil 200 includes a protrusion extending in a Y-axis direction from at least one stop ledge 216 of the anvil body 204. The protrusion is sized to engage (e.g., with a slip fit, a clearance fit, and / or the like) with an opening or receptacle in the anvil grid plate 116. The protrusion terminates in a pinch edge 208. In some examples, the pinch edge 208 may be flat, rounded, or pointed. The pinch edge 208 may include a tapered portion that slopes from the pinch edge 208 toward the stop ledge 216. In some instances, the tapered portion allows the pinched portion of the plurality of tubes 124 to flex and move around the pinching edge 208. This shape can, among other things, reduce stress on the plurality of tubes 124 during pinching.

[0031] The anvil assembly 150 may include at least one cam contact disposed on a lower portion of the anvil body 204. The at least one cam contact extends beyond the anvil body 204. In any event, the at least one cam contact provides an interface between the anvil body 204 and the cam 112 of the multi-tube pinch valve assembly 100. In some examples, the at least one cam contact may correspond to a cam follower 210 or other bearing. The cam follower 210 may be fabricated to include hardened steel wheels and bearings (e.g., roller bearings, ball bearings, etc.) in some cases. The lower portion of the anvil body 204 may include tapered surfaces 220 disposed on either side of a plane (e.g., along the XY plane) that passes through the center of the anvil body 204. The tapered surfaces 220 may provide clearance for portions of the cam 112 and the cam profile shape as the cam 112 moves relative to the anvil body 204 and the anvil assembly 150.

[0032] 3A-3C show schematic cross-sectional views of the anvil assembly 150 as the cam 112 rotates about the longitudinal axis 110. A rotational position line 302 is shown on the cam 112 to indicate a position from a first angular reference (e.g., shown as a 0 degree line). The cam 112 has a cam profile shape (e.g., disposed on the periphery of the cam 112) including a cam heel 308 (e.g., a bottom point), a cam lobe 316 (e.g., an apex), and a cam transition section 312 disposed between the cam heel 308 and the cam lobe 316. The cam heel 308 may correspond to a first point on the cam profile shape. At this first point, the distance from the periphery of the cam 112 to the center of the cam 112 (e.g., the longitudinal axis 110 of the camshaft 108) is closer than to other points on the cam profile shape. Additionally or alternatively, the cam lobe 316 may correspond to a second point on the cam profile shape. At this second point, the distance from the outer periphery of the cam 112 to the center of the cam 112 (e.g., the longitudinal axis 110 of the camshaft 108) is greater than at other points in the cam profile shape. As can be seen, the distance from the outer periphery of the cam 112 to the center of the cam 112 at the cam transition portion 312 is the distance between the distances measured at the first point and the second point.

[0033] In Figures 3A-3C, the plurality of tubes 124 are disposed in a space between the anvil grid plate 116 and the tube platen 120. In some examples, this space corresponds to the tube receiving openings 128 described above. Figure 3A corresponds to the anvil assembly 150 in a first rotational position of the cam 112, Figure 3B corresponds to the anvil assembly 150 in a second rotational position of the cam 112, and Figure 3C corresponds to the anvil assembly 150 in a third rotational position of the cam 112. In the first rotational position of the cam 112, the plurality of tubes 124 are in a fluid flow open state. In this position, fluid is allowed to flow through each tube of the plurality of tubes 124. In the second rotational position of the cam 112, the plurality of tubes 124 are in a partially occluded, fluid flow restricted state. In this position, fluid is allowed to flow through each tube of the plurality of tubes 124, but is restricted to a partially closed state. For example, the flow rate of fluid through the plurality of tubes 124 is reduced in the second rotational position as compared to the first rotational position. In a third rotational position of the cam 112, the plurality of tubes 124 are in a closed state. In this position, fluid is restricted from flowing through each tube of the plurality of tubes 124. This third rotational position corresponds to a fully occluded tube state, also referred to herein as a pinched or pinched occlusion state of the plurality of tubes 124.

[0034] In FIG. 3A , the anvil assembly 150 is in a bottom-most position with the protruding portion of the anvil 200 positioned within the anvil opening 304 of the anvil grid plate 116. In particular, the cam follower 210 of the anvil assembly 150 is positioned in contact with the cam heel 308 of the cam 112. In this bottom-most position, the pinching edge 208 is positioned adjacent to the plurality of tubes 124. In FIG. 3A , the plurality of tubes 124 are not pinched by the anvil 200, allowing fluid to flow through the plurality of tubes 124 from the left side of the figure to the right side of the figure, or vice versa.

[0035] When the camshaft 108 is rotated a first rotation 320A (e.g., shown as a first clockwise rotation), the cam 112 rotates from a zero degree reference position to an angular position α1 (e.g., including a non-zero angle measured from the zero degree reference position) as shown in FIG. 3B. In the figure, at angular position α1, the cam follower 210 of the anvil assembly 150 contacts the cam transition portion 312 of the cam 112. Because the distance of the cam transition portion 312 from the outer circumference of the cam 112 is greater than the distance of the cam heel 308 from the outer circumference of the cam 112, the anvil assembly 150 rises, i.e., moves upward, placing the pinch edge 208 in the space between the anvil grid plate 116 and the tube platen 120. More specifically, the pinch edge 208 contacts the plurality of tubes 124 disposed within the tube receiving opening 128 and deforms the plurality of tubes 124 to restrict flow therethrough. In the rotated position shown in FIG. 3B, the anvil assembly 150 deforms the plurality of tubes 124 resulting in a partially occluded flow passage 324 at least along the pinching edge 208 (eg, extending into the distance in the figure).

[0036] 3B, the camshaft 108 is rotated a second rotation 320B (e.g., shown as a subsequent second clockwise rotation) to further rotate the cam 112 from angular position α1 to angular position α2. In the illustration, at angular position α2, the cam follower 210 of the anvil assembly 150 is in contact with the cam lobe 316 of the cam 112. Because the distance of the cam lobe 316 from the outer periphery of the cam 112 is greater than the distance of the cam transition portion 312 from the outer periphery of the cam 112, the anvil assembly 150 is further elevated or upwardly positioned, positioning the pinch edge 208 deeper into the space between the anvil grid plate 116 and the tube platen 120. In this elevated position, the pinch edge 208 deforms the plurality of tubes 124 disposed within the tube receiving opening 128, completely restricting flow therethrough. In the rotated position shown in FIG. 3C, the anvil assembly 150 deforms the plurality of tubes 124 resulting in pinched tube points 328 at least along the pinching edges 208 (eg, extending into the figure).

[0037] The cam 112 may also be configured to provide a "full open" condition in which all of the tubes 124 are open and not clamped by the anvil assembly 150. Such an "full open" condition improves loading of the bioreactor support frame 144. The cam 112 may also be configured to be removable from the assembly 100 to allow for all of the bioreactors to be opened simultaneously.

[0038] Although described as rotating in a clockwise direction, it should be understood that the camshaft 108 may be rotated in a counterclockwise direction, a clockwise direction, and / or combinations thereof. In some examples, the motor 132 may rotate in any rotational direction to cause such rotation of the camshaft 108. Additionally or alternatively, although described as having a cam heel 308, a cam transition 312, and a cam lobe 316, it should be understood that the cam 112 may include more or less protrusions, shapes, cam flats, lobes, and recesses than are shown and described in FIGS. 1A-3C.

[0039] 4A and 4B show various views of a multi-tube pinch valve assembly 400 according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. The multi-tube pinch valve assembly 400 provides an array of pinch valves utilizing an independently controllable hinged clamping mechanism. In some examples, the multi-tube pinch valve assembly 400 can include at least one base 404, a hinge plate 416, and a clamp platen 420. The multiple tubes 124 are disposed between the hinge plate 416 and the clamp platen 420. In one example, the multiple tubes 124 are disposed within the tube receiving openings 128 associated with each valve. The hinge plate 416 is pivotally connected to a hinge support block 424 via a pivot axis at a first point. An actuator, for example, a linear actuator 410, is attached to a second point of the hinge plate 416. The linear actuator 410 can correspond to a solenoid, a screw actuator, and / or a stepper motor actuated screw actuator.

[0040] The linear actuator 410 is attached to a mount body 408 that is fixed relative to the base 404 of the multiple tube pinch valve assembly 400. When the linear actuator 410 is actuated, the translation rod 412 can move between a retracted state and an extended state, or vice versa. Extending the translation rod 412 can move the hinge plate 416 toward the clamp platen 420. In the extended position, the multiple tubes 124 disposed within the tube receiving opening 128 are pinched by one or more features of the hinge plate 416 and the clamp platen 420.

[0041] The clamp platen 420 is fixed relative to the base 404. When the linear actuator 410 is actuated, the translation rod 412 can move the hinge plate 416 from an open state to a closed state or vice versa. In the open state, at least a portion of the hinge plate 416 is spaced further away from the clamp platen 420 than when in the closed state. When in the open state, the tubes 124 can be loaded and / or removed from the tube receiving opening 128. In other words, when in the open state, the tubes 124 are not clamped or pinched. However, when in the closed state, the tubes 124 are pinched between the hinge plate 416 and the clamp platen 420. Further details regarding the structure of the hinge plate 416 and the clamp platen 420 and the fluid flow control (e.g., pinching) configurations are described with reference to FIGS. 5A-5C.

[0042] In some examples, the multi-tube pinch valve assembly 400 may include an array of valves disposed adjacent to one another. In the plan view of FIG. 4B, four valves are shown, each configured to pinch the multiple tubes 124 associated therewith. Each valve of the multi-tube pinch valve assembly 400 includes a linear actuator 410, a translation rod 412, and a hinge plate 416. Although shown in FIGS. 4A and 4B as having separate clamping platens 420, it should be understood that different valves may share one clamping platen 420. For example, as shown in FIGS. 6A and 6B, a dual clamping platen 620 is used by two or more valves. In the array of valves of the multi-tube pinch valve assembly 400 shown in FIG. 4B, a first row includes two valves with linear actuators 410 configured to extend from right to left, and a second row includes two valves with linear actuators 410 configured to extend from left to right. Although shown with four valves, the multi-tube pinch valve assembly 400 can include any number of valves. In some examples, the number of valves is configured to match the number of bioreactors or sets of multiple tubes 124 that require fluid flow control. As can be appreciated, the valve array of the multi-tube pinch valve assembly 400 can include 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, or more valves.

[0043] 5A-5C show schematic top views of the above-described multi-tube pinch valve assembly 400 operating between a closed state and an open state. In the figures, a linear actuator 410 is attached to a mount body 408 secured to a base 404. In the figures, a hinge plate 416 is pivotally attached to a hinge support block 424 secured to the base 404. A clamp platen 420 may be secured to the base 404 or other portions of the multi-tube pinch valve assembly 400. The hinge plate 416 includes a hinge pinch protrusion 516 extending from a surface of the hinge plate 416 in a direction toward the clamp platen 420. In some examples, the clamp platen 420 includes a tube contact portion configured to contact the multiple tubes 124 disposed within the tube receiving opening 128. In some examples, the tube contact portion may correspond to a flat plate surface and / or a platen pinch protrusion 520 extending from a surface of the clamp platen 420 (eg, in the direction of the hinge plate 416).

[0044] The linear actuator 410 may be attached to a mount body 408. The mount body 408 may be fixed relative to the base 404. The linear actuator 410 includes a translation rod 412 that moves relative to the mount body 408 (e.g., toward or away from the mount body 408). The translation rod 412 includes a clevis pin 504 that engages with a clevis portion of a hinge plate 416. In some examples, the hinge plate 416 includes a clevis slot 508 into which the clevis pin 504 may be positioned.

[0045] 5A shows a schematic top view of a multiple tube pinch valve assembly 400 in a closed, tube occlusion state according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. In this state, the translation rod 412 of the linear actuator 410 is extended by a first translation vector 502A. The clevis pin 504 moving within the clevis slot 508 of the hinge plate 416 causes the hinge plate 416 to pivot about the hinge pin 512 (e.g., pivot axis) and move the hinge pinch protrusion 516 into contact with the multiple tubes 124, in which the multiple tubes 124 are pinched between the hinge pinch protrusion 516 of the hinge plate 416 and the platen pinch protrusion 520 of the clamp platen 420. Thus, as the translation rod 412 is extended, fluid flow through the multiple tubes 124 is completely occluded at the pinched tube point 328.

[0046] 5B shows a schematic top view of the multiple tube pinch valve assembly 400 in a partially closed or partially open tube partially occluded state according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. In this tube partially occluded state, the translation rod 412 of the linear actuator 410 is retracted by a second translation vector 502B from the position shown in FIG. 5A. As the translation rod 412 is retracted, the clevis pin 504 moves within the clevis slot 508 of the hinge plate 416, causing the hinge plate 416 to pivot about the hinge pin 512 (e.g., pivot axis) at a first hinge plate rotation 506A. In this position, the hinge pinch protrusion 516 contacts the multiple tubes 124, partially deforming the multiple tubes 124 and their respective fluid flow lumens. More specifically, the plurality of tubes 124 are captured between the hinge pinch protrusions 516 of the hinge plate 416 and the platen pinch protrusions 520 of the clamp platen 420, resulting in a partially blocked flow path 324 in the plurality of tubes 124. In the partially blocked tube state, the flow rate of fluid through the plurality of tubes 124 disposed within the tube receiving openings 128 is reduced compared to the open tube state.

[0047] 5C shows a schematic top view of the multiple tube pinch valve assembly 400 in an open, tube-open state, according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. In this tube-open state, the translation rod 412 of the linear actuator 410 is retracted by a third translation vector 502C from the position shown in FIGS. 5A and 5B. As the translation rod 412 is retracted, the clevis pin 504 moves within the clevis slot 508 of the hinge plate 416, causing the hinge plate 416 to pivot about the hinge pin 512 (e.g., pivot axis) at a second hinge plate rotation 506B. In this open position, the hinge pinch protrusion 516 is released from deformation contact with the plurality of tubes 124. In some examples, in this state, the plurality of tubes 124 returns to an undeformed state and the fluid flow lumens of each of the plurality of tubes 124 are open. When the multi-tube pinch valve assembly 400 is in the tube open state, multiple tubes 124 can be removed from or loaded into the clamp platen 420. Although described as moving from a closed state to an open state, it should be understood that the multi-tube pinch valve assembly 400 can be moved from an open state to a closed state by reversing the order and movements described above.

[0048] 6A and 6B show perspective views of a multi-tube pinch valve assembly 400 in an array configuration, according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. As described above, the array of valves includes a plurality of linear actuators 410 and a hinge plate 616 similar, but not identical, to the hinge plate 416 described above. In FIGS. 6A and 6B, the multi-tube pinch valve assembly 400 and array includes two immediately adjacent valves sharing a dual clamp platen 620. The dual clamp platen 620 includes a first platen pinch protrusion 520 extending from a first surface toward the first hinge plate 616 and a second platen pinch protrusion 520 extending from an opposite second surface toward the second hinge plate 616. Notably, this arrangement allows for a more compact arrangement of valves in the array of valves that make up the multi-tube pinch valve assembly 400.

[0049] FIG. 7 shows a perspective view of a multi-tube pinch valve assembly 700 in an array configuration, for example, in a multi-bioreactor system. In some examples, the multi-tube pinch valve assembly 700 may correspond to the multi-tube pinch valve assembly 400 described in FIGS. 4A-6B. In FIG. 7, a bioreactor support frame 744 includes a plurality of recesses 142 configured to receive and hold bioreactors 704A-704E. As shown in FIG. 7, the multi-tube pinch valve assembly 700 includes five bioreactors 704A-704E. In this example, the multi-tube pinch valve assembly 700 has an array of valves including a total of five valves, one valve for each bioreactor of the bioreactors 704A-704E. Each valve in the array of valves of the multi-tube pinch valve assembly 700 is configured to pinch a plurality of tubes 124 of each bioreactor 704A-704E. For example, each bioreactor 704A-704E includes at least four tubes. A first pair of these four tubes may be associated with the capillary inner loop of the respective bioreactor 704A-704E, and a second pair of these four tubes may be associated with the capillary outer loop of the respective bioreactor 704A-704E. In particular, the multi-tube pinch valve assembly 700 may enable independent opening and closing of the multiple tubes 124 of each bioreactor 704A-704E.

[0050] FIG. 8 is a schematic block diagram of a hydraulic layout for a cell growth system having a single bioreactor 704A, according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. As shown, the bioreactor of FIG. 8 includes a capillary inner circulation (IC) loop 810 and a capillary outer circulation (EC) loop 812. In a single bioreactor, these loops are opened and closed by one or more valves. The attachment point for the cell inlet bag is 820. The cell inlet line extends through a cell inlet valve 822 to an IC inlet pump 824. From the pump 824, the line extends to an air removal chamber / level detection 826. From the air removal chamber / level detection 826, the line branches to waste 828 and an IC circulation valve 830. From the valve 830, the line extends into the bioreactor 704A. From the bioreactor 704A, the line branches to waste 828, an IC circulation pump 832, and a harvest 836. Harvest valve 892 controls the flow to harvest 836. From pump 832, a line goes to IC inlet pressure sensor 834 and then to IC circulation valve 830.

[0051] The reagent attachment point is 838. The reagent lines run through reagent valves 840 to the cell inlet lines. The IC media attachment point is 842. The IC media lines run through IC media valves 844 to the reagent lines.

[0052] EC medium attachment point 850. From EC medium attachment point 850, an EC line extends through EC medium valve 852. Wash attachment point 854 and wash valve 856. A distribution valve is along the line connecting EC loop 812 and IC loop 810. EC loop 812 includes an EC inlet pump 870 downstream of an EC fluid detector 872. EC loop 812 further includes a GTM chamber 880, an EC inlet pressure sensor 882, an EC circulation pump 884, and an EC outlet pressure sensor 886. EC waste valve 888 is on the EC waste line extending to waste 828. IC waste valve 890 and IC outlet pressure sensor 894 are upstream of waste 828 on the IC side.

[0053] 9 is a schematic block diagram 900 of a hydraulic layout for a cell growth system having multiple bioreactors and multiple-tube pinch valve assemblies 100, 400, 700, according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. As shown in schematic block diagram 900, the tubing associated with the IC and EC loops of each of the five bioreactors is controlled by valves in a valve array. These valves may correspond to any of the valves shown in the multiple-tube pinch valve assemblies 100, 400, 700 described herein. In some examples, the valve array shown in schematic block diagram 900 may correspond to valve arrays 148A-148E described with reference to FIGS. 1A-3C. In one example, each valve in the valve array shown in schematic block diagram 900 may correspond to hinge plate 416 and clamp platen 420 of multiple-tube pinch valve assembly 400 described with reference to FIGS. 4A-5C, and / or hinge plate 616 and dual clamp platen 620 shown in FIGS. 6A and 6B.

[0054] 10-13 illustrate a multi-tube pinch valve assembly 1100 in accordance with the present disclosure. The assembly 1100 generally includes a base 1110 and a bioreactor support frame 1310. With particular reference to FIGS. 11 and 12, the base 1110 includes a plurality of hinge plates 1112A-1112E. Any suitable number of hinge plates may be included. In the illustrated example, five hinge plates 1112A, 1112B, 1112C, 1112D, and 1112E are included. Each of the hinge plates 1112A-1112E has a hinge pinch protrusion 1114. The hinge plates 1112A-1112E are each individually actuated by any suitable actuation mechanism. In the illustrated example, each of the hinge plates 1112A-1112E is actuated by a different actuation mechanism 1120A, 1120B, 1120C, 1120D, 1120E, respectively. Each of the actuation mechanisms 1120A-1120E may include any suitable linear actuator, such as, for example, any suitable solenoid, linear stepper motor, pneumatic actuator, etc.

[0055] The base 1110 further includes a plurality of support posts 1150. The support posts 1150 are configured to cooperate with the bioreactor support frame 1310 to support the bioreactor support frame 1310 above the hinge plates 1112A-1112E on the base 1110, as described below. Straps 1152 are included to hold the bioreactor support frame 1310 on the base 1110.

[0056] The multi-tube pinch valve assembly 1100 further includes a rocker assembly 1160. The rocker assembly 1160 includes a rocker rod 1162 that cooperates with the base 1110 at an opening 1164 defined by the base 1110. The rocker assembly 1160 includes a motor configured to rotate the rocker rod 1162. The rocker rod 1162 is attached to the base 1110 in any suitable manner such that rotation of the rocker rod 1162 rocks the base 1110 and the bioreactors 704A-704E attached to the base 1110. In some configurations, the rocker assembly 1160 may be configured to invert the bioreactors 704A-704E.

[0057] With particular reference to FIG. 13, the bioreactor support frame 1310 is configured to support five bioreactors 704A, 704B, 704C, 704D, 704E, or any other suitable number of bioreactors. The number of bioreactors included in the bioreactor support frame 1310 is typically equal to or less than the number of hinge plates 1112A-E. The support frame 1310 includes a tube platen 1320. The tube platen 1320 includes a number of tube receiving openings 1322 configured to secure the tubes 124 of the bioreactors 704A-E to the tube platen 1320. The tubes 124 extend generally parallel to the length of the bioreactors 704A-E. In some applications, the tubes 124 may extend perpendicular to the bioreactors 704A-E, or at any other suitable angle.

[0058] The bioreactor support frame 1310 further includes a plurality of receptacles 1340, each of which is configured to cooperate with a support post 1150 of the base 1110. The support post 1150 supports the bioreactor support frame 1310 on the base 1110 and positions the support frame 1310 such that the tubes 124 are disposed opposite the hinge pinch protrusions 1114 of the hinge plates 1112A-1112E and extend perpendicularly across the hinge pinch protrusions. In a manner similar to that shown in Figures 5A, 5B, and 5C illustrating the multi-tube pinch valve assembly 400, actuation of the different hinge plates 1112A-1112E causes the hinge pinch protrusions 1114 to move toward the tubes, pinching the tubes 124 and restricting the flow of fluid through the tubes 124 to the bioreactors 704A-704E. When actuated upward, the hinge pinch protrusions 1114 contact the tube 124 on either side of either opening of the receiving opening 1322, bending the tube 124 closed. Bending the tube 124 closed reduces the amount of pinching force required from the actuation mechanisms 1120A-1120E compared to when the pinch protrusions 1114 directly contact the opposing platen pinch protrusions. In some applications, the tube platen 1320 may include platen pinch protrusions aligned with the hinge pinch protrusions 1114.

[0059] 14-18 illustrate yet another multi-tube pinch valve assembly 1500 in accordance with the present disclosure. The assembly 1500 generally includes a base 1510 and a bioreactor support frame 1710. With particular reference to FIGS. 14 and 15, the base 1510 includes a latch 1512 that is rotatable between a closed position and an open position. In the open position, a rail 1520 on the base 1510 is accessible. The rail 1520 extends the entire length of the base 1510 and is configured to cooperate with the bioreactor support frame 1710 as described herein. The rail 1520 can include a flat underside or a pinch protrusion similar to the platen pinch protrusion 1330.

[0060] A plurality of actuation plates 1540A, 1540B, 1540C, 1540D, 1540E are seated within the housing 1530 opposite the rail 1520. In the illustrated example, five actuation plates 1540A-1540E are included. However, the base 1510 may include any suitable number of actuation plates. Each of the actuation plates 1540A-1540E includes a pinch protrusion 1542.

[0061] The actuation plates 1540A-1540E can be individually actuated by any suitable actuation mechanism. In the illustrated example, each of the actuation plates 1540A-1540E is actuated by a different actuation mechanism 1550A, 1550B, 1550C, 1550D, 1550E, respectively. The actuation mechanisms 1550A-1550E can include any suitable linear actuator, such as any suitable solenoid, linear stepper motor, pneumatic actuator, etc. The actuation mechanisms 1550A-1550E are individually actuated to control the flow of fluid through the tubes 124 of the bioreactors 704A-704E.

[0062] 18, the bioreactor support frame 1710 includes a tube platen 1730. The tube platen 1730 has a plurality of tube receiving openings 1732 formed therein that are configured to secure the tubes 124 of the bioreactors 704A-704E to the tube platen 1730. The tube receiving openings 1732 are configured to support the tubes 124 such that the tubes 124 extend parallel to the length of the bioreactors 704A-704E.

[0063] The tube platen 1730 further defines a central channel 1740 configured to receive the rails 1520 therein. At the rear of the central channel 1740 is a rear opening 1742. The central channel 1740 extends perpendicular to the length of the bioreactors 704A-E and perpendicular to the tubes 124 supported by the tube receiving openings 1732. At the rear end of the tube platen 1730 is a rear tab 1750. At the front end of the tube platen 1730 is a front tab 1752.

[0064] To connect the bioreactor support frame 1710 to the base 1510, the latches 1512 are folded down and the tube platen 1730 is positioned so that the rails 1520 pass through the rear opening 1742. The tube platen 1730 is then slid over the rails 1520 so that the rails 1520 extend along the central channel 1740. The tube platen 1730 is slid along the rails 1520 until the rear tabs 1750 seat within the rear opening 1560 of the base 1510. The latches 1512 are then closed over the front tabs 1752, causing the front tabs 1752 to seat within the recesses 1562 formed in the inner surface of the latches 1512, locking the tube platen 1730 in place. The rear tabs 1750 and front tabs 1752 improve alignment of the tubes 124 relative to the pinch protrusions 1542 and prevent loading the bioreactor backwards. Also, if the assembly 1500 includes a rocker, the tabs 1750, 1752 keep the bioreactors 704A-E and tubes 124 in the correct position relative to the rods 1520. The tube platen 1730 is positioned so that the pinch protrusions 1542 are perpendicular to the tubes 124. Actuation of the different actuation plates 1540A-E moves the pinch protrusions 1542 toward and into the central channel 1740, pinching the tubes 124 between the pinch protrusions 1542 and the rails 1520 and restricting fluid flow through the tubes 124 in substantially the same manner as shown in FIGS. 5A, 5B, and 5C illustrating the multi-tube pinch valve assembly 400. In some applications, material may be present between the tubes 124 and the rails 1520. The actuation plates 1540A-1540E can be individually actuated by actuation mechanisms 1550A-1550E to selectively pinch the tubes 124, thereby selectively controlling flow through different tubes 124 and through different bioreactors 704A-704E.

[0065] While the above operations and steps have been described and illustrated with reference to a particular sequence of events, it should be understood that modifications, additions, and omissions to this sequence can be made without substantially affecting the operation of the disclosed embodiments, configurations, and aspects.

[0066] Exemplary systems and methods of the present disclosure are described in connection with pinch valves and multiple tube systems. However, to avoid unnecessarily obscuring the present disclosure, the above description omits certain known structures and devices. This omission should not be construed as limiting the scope of the disclosure as set forth in the claims. Specific details are set forth to provide an understanding of the present disclosure. However, it should be understood that the present disclosure may be practiced in a variety of ways other than the specific details set forth herein.

[0067] Many variations and modifications of the present disclosure may be used: some features of the present disclosure may be provided without other features.

[0068] References herein to "one embodiment," "an embodiment," "an exemplary embodiment," "some embodiments," and the like, mean that the described embodiment may include a particular feature, a particular structure, or a particular characteristic, but not all embodiments necessarily include that particular feature, that particular structure, or that particular characteristic. Moreover, such phrases do not necessarily refer to the same embodiment. Furthermore, it should be noted that if a particular feature, a particular structure, or a particular characteristic is described in conjunction with one embodiment, the description of such feature, structure, or characteristic may apply to any other embodiment, unless otherwise noted and / or would be readily apparent to one of ordinary skill in the art from the detailed description. The present disclosure in its various embodiments, configurations, and aspects includes the components, methods, processes, systems, and / or apparatus substantially as illustrated and described herein, including various embodiments, subcombinations, and / or subsets thereof. Those skilled in the art will understand how to make and use the systems and methods disclosed herein after understanding the present disclosure. In various embodiments, configurations and / or aspects, the present disclosure includes providing apparatus and processes in the absence of items not shown and / or described herein or in its various embodiments, configurations and / or aspects, including the absence of items that may have been used in previous apparatus or processes, e.g., to improve performance, obtain ease, and / or reduce implementation costs.

[0069] The foregoing description of the disclosure has been provided for purposes of illustration and description. The foregoing description is not intended to limit the disclosure to the form or forms disclosed herein. For example, in the foregoing detailed description, various features of the disclosure have been grouped together in one or more embodiments, configurations, and / or aspects for the purpose of streamlining the disclosure. Features of the embodiments, configurations, or aspects of the disclosure may be combined in alternative embodiments, configurations, or aspects other than those described above. This method of disclosure should not be interpreted as reflecting an intention that the claimed disclosure requires more features than are expressly recited in each claim. Rather, as the following claims reflect, inventive aspects lie in less than all features of a single foregoing disclosed embodiment, configuration, or aspect. Thus, the following claims are hereby incorporated into this detailed description, with each claim standing on its own as a separate preferred embodiment of the disclosure.

[0070] Furthermore, although the description of the disclosure includes a description of one or more embodiments, configurations, or aspects, as well as certain variations and modifications, other variations, combinations, and modifications are within the scope of the disclosure, e.g., within the skill and knowledge of one of ordinary skill in the art after appreciating the disclosure, and it is intended to entitle, to the extent permitted, the inclusion of other embodiments, configurations, and / or aspects that include substitute and / or equivalent structures, functions, ranges, or steps in place of those set forth in the claims, whether or not those substitute and / or equivalent structures, functions, ranges, or steps are disclosed herein, and without the intention of providing any patentable subject matter to the public.

[0071] An exemplary embodiment is a multiple tube pinch valve assembly including a camshaft, a platen, and an anvil assembly, the camshaft extending a length along a longitudinal axis of the camshaft, the camshaft including at least one cam disposed on the length, the at least one cam including a cam profile shape formed about the longitudinal axis and on an outer periphery of the camshaft, the platen being oriented such that a space capable of receiving multiple fluid flow tubes is at least partially defined. and an anvil assembly having a cam contact portion disposed on a first side of the anvil assembly and a pinch edge disposed on a second side of the anvil assembly, the anvil assembly being movable between a retracted state in which the pinch edge is disposed outside the space and an extended state in which the pinch edge is disposed inside the space adjacent the platen, the anvil assembly moving between the retracted state and the extended state by rotation of the cam shaft and the at least one cam.

[0072] In any one or more of the above aspects, the cam profile shape comprises at least one cam lobe and at least one cam heel, the anvil assembly being in the extended state when the cam lobe is disposed in contact with the cam contact and the anvil assembly being in the retracted state when the cam heel is disposed in contact with the cam contact. In any one or more of the above aspects, the cam contact comprises at least one cam follower. In any one or more of the above aspects, the space comprises a plurality of tube receiving openings arranged side by side along a direction parallel to the longitudinal axis of the camshaft. In any one or more of the above aspects, each tube receiving opening of the plurality of tube receiving openings extends in a direction perpendicular to the longitudinal axis of the camshaft. Any one or more of the above aspects further include a plurality of tubes releasably engaged with the plurality of tube receiving openings such that a portion of each of the plurality of tubes is disposed within the space adjacent to the platen, and in the retracted state, a lumen of each of the plurality of tubes is open at the portion of each of the plurality of tubes, and in the extended state, the lumen of each of the plurality of tubes is closed at a location at the portion of each of the plurality of tubes. Any one or more of the above aspects further include a motor having an output shaft, a driver attached to the output shaft of the motor, and a cam driver attached to the cam shaft, wherein rotation of the output shaft of the motor transmits power from the driver to the cam driver to rotate the cam shaft relative to the anvil assembly. Any one or more of the above aspects further include a support frame having a plurality of recesses, each recess of the plurality of recesses configured to hold a bioreactor, and each tube of the plurality of tubes associated with the bioreactor.In any one or more of the above aspects, the anvil assembly translates along a plane perpendicular to a plane along which the plurality of tubes run as it moves between the retracted and extended states, and in the extended state, the pinching edge of the anvil assembly contacts and occludes each tube of the plurality of tubes. Any one or more of the above aspects further include an array of valves disposed along a length of the longitudinal axis of the camshaft, each valve in the array of valves having a plurality of tube receiving openings, each valve in the array of valves comprising an anvil assembly capable of moving between the retracted and extended states by rotation of the camshaft and the at least one cam. In any one or more of the above aspects, the anvil assembly of each valve in the array of valves is capable of moving between the retracted and extended states based on a position of the cam connected to the camshaft. In any one or more of the above aspects, a first valve in the array of valves occludes a tube received in a first set of tube receiving openings associated with the first valve at the same time or at a different time as a second valve in the array of valves occludes a tube received in a second set of tube receiving openings associated with the second valve. In any one or more of the above aspects, at a first time when the camshaft rotates, a first valve in the array of valves occludes a tube received in a first set of tube receiving openings associated with the first valve, and at a second time when the camshaft rotates, a second valve in the array of valves occludes a tube received in a second set of tube receiving openings associated with the second valve.In any one or more of the above aspects, at a third time when the camshaft rotates, a third valve in the array of valves occludes a tube included in a third set of tube receiving openings associated with the third valve, at a fourth time when the camshaft rotates, a fourth valve in the array of valves occludes a tube included in a fourth set of tube receiving openings associated with the fourth valve, and at a fifth time when the camshaft rotates, a fifth valve in the array of valves occludes a tube included in a fifth set of tube receiving openings associated with the fifth valve. In any one or more of the above aspects, the first set of tube receiving openings, the second set of tube receiving openings, the third set of tube receiving openings, the fourth set of tube receiving openings, and the fifth set of tube receiving openings each comprise four tube receiving openings.

[0073] An exemplary aspect is a multiple tube pinch valve assembly including a motor, a driver, a camshaft, a cam driver, a platen, and an anvil assembly, the motor having an output shaft, the driver attached to the output shaft of the motor, the camshaft extending a length along a longitudinal axis of the camshaft, the camshaft including at least one cam disposed on said length, the at least one cam including a cam profile shape formed about the longitudinal axis and on an outer periphery of the camshaft, the cam driver attached to the camshaft, the platen having a space at least partially configured to receive a plurality of fluid flow tubes. and the anvil assembly is offset a distance from the longitudinal axis so as to form a pinch edge extending from the anvil assembly to the platen, the anvil assembly comprising at least one cam follower disposed on a first side of the anvil assembly and a pinch edge disposed on a second side of the anvil assembly, wherein rotation of the output shaft of the motor transfers power from the driver to the cam driver to rotate the cam shaft relative to the anvil assembly and move the anvil assembly between a retracted state in which the pinch edge is disposed outside the space and an extended state in which the pinch edge is disposed inside the space adjacent the platen, and the anvil assembly moves between the retracted state and the extended state by rotation of the cam shaft and the at least one cam.

[0074] An exemplary embodiment is a multiple tube pinch valve assembly comprising a hinge plate, a platen, and an actuator, the hinge plate extending a length from a first point to a second point, the hinge plate having a pivot axis disposed adjacent the first point of the hinge plate, and a pinch protrusion disposed between the first point and the second point and extending from a surface of the hinge plate, the platen having a body offset a distance from the hinge plate, and a pinch protrusion disposed on the surface of the platen. and a tube contact portion disposed adjacent the second point, the actuator operatively connected to the hinge plates adjacent the second point, the actuator movable between a retracted state and an extended state, in which the hinge plates are pivoted about the pivot axis such that the second point of the hinge plates is spaced a first distance from the platen, and in which the hinge plates are pivoted about the pivot axis such that the second point of the hinge plates is spaced a second distance from the platen, the first distance being greater than the second distance.

[0075] In any one or more of the above aspects, in the extended state, the pinch protrusions of the hinge plates are adjacent to the tube contact portions of the platen, and in the retracted state, the pinch protrusions of the hinge plates are offset from the tube contact portions of the platen to form a receiving space between the hinge plates and the platen. In any one or more of the above aspects, in the retracted state, the pinch protrusions of the hinge plates are offset from the tube contact portions of the platen by a first distance to form a receiving space capable of receiving a plurality of tubes. In any one or more of the above aspects, in the extended state, the pinch protrusions of the hinge plates are offset from the tube contact portions of the platen by a second distance to form a pinch receiving space sized to pinch the plurality of tubes disposed between the hinge plates and the platen. In any one or more of the above aspects, the multiple tube pinch valve assembly further comprises a plurality of tubes disposed between the hinge plate and the platen, wherein in the retracted state, the plurality of tubes provide a fluid flow path, and in the extended state, the fluid flow path is restricted by the pinch protrusions of the hinge plate and the tube contacting portions of the platen. In any one or more of the above aspects, in the extended state, the pinch protrusions of the hinge plate and the tube contacting portions of the platen completely restrict fluid flow in the plurality of tubes. In any one or more of the above aspects, the multiple tube pinch valve assembly further comprises a clevis portion disposed adjacent the second point of the hinge plate, and a clevis pin engaged with the clevis portion, the clevis pin being connected to an end of a translation rod of the actuator. In any one or more of the above aspects, the tube contacting portion comprises a platen pinch protrusion extending from a surface of the platen, the surface of the platen facing the hinge plate. In any one or more of the above aspects, the pivot axis is defined by a hinge pin engaged with the hinge plate and a hinge support block.In any one or more of the above aspects, the actuator is one of a solenoid, a screw actuator, and a stepper motor actuated screw. In any one or more of the above aspects, the clevis pin engages with a slot in the clevis portion.

[0076] An exemplary embodiment is a multiple tube pinch valve assembly comprising an array of valves disposed adjacent one another, each valve in the array of valves comprising a hinge plate, a tube contact, and an actuator, the hinge plate extending a length from a first point to a second point, the hinge plate having a pivot axis disposed adjacent the first point of the hinge plate, and a pinch protrusion disposed between the first point and the second point and extending from a surface of the hinge plate, the tube contact being in contact with the hinge plate. a second point of the hinge plate being offset a distance from the tube contact portion, the actuator being operably connected to the hinge plate adjacent the second point, the actuator being movable between a retracted state and an extended state, in which the hinge plate is pivoted about the pivot axis such that the second point of the hinge plate is spaced a first distance from the tube contact portion, and in which the hinge plate is pivoted about the pivot axis such that the second point of the hinge plate is spaced a second distance from the tube contact portion, the first distance being greater than the second distance.

[0077] In any one or more of the above aspects, in the extended state, the pinch protrusion of the hinge plate is adjacent to the tube contact portion, and in the retracted state, the pinch protrusion of the hinge plate is offset from the tube contact portion to form a receiving space between the hinge plate and the tube contact portion. In any one or more of the above aspects, each valve in the array of valves is configured to receive a plurality of tubes in the receiving space. In any one or more of the above aspects, each valve in the array of valves is configured to pinch the plurality of tubes in the receiving space in the extended state of the actuator. In any one or more of the above aspects, each valve in the array of valves is independently operable such that the hinge plate of the valve is independently movable between the retracted state and the extended state. In any one or more of the above aspects, a first valve in the array of valves is operable together and / or individually with a second valve in the array of valves. Any one or more of the above aspects may further include a support frame having a plurality of recesses, each recess of the plurality of recesses configured to hold a bioreactor, and each tube of the plurality of tubes associated with the bioreactor.

[0078] An exemplary embodiment relates to a multi-bioreactor assembly comprising the multi-tubing pinch valve assembly of any of the above embodiments.

[0079] Any one or more of the above aspects / embodiments substantially as disclosed herein.

[0080] Any one or more of the above aspects / embodiments substantially disclosed herein may be optionally combined with any one or more of the other aspects / embodiments substantially disclosed herein.

[0081] One or more means configured to carry out any one or more of the above aspects / embodiments substantially as disclosed herein.

[0082] Any one or more of the above features disclosed herein.

[0083] Any one or more of the preceding features substantially as disclosed herein.

[0084] Any one or more of the features substantially as disclosed herein may be combined with any one or more of the other features substantially as disclosed herein.

[0085] Combinations of any one of the above aspects / features / embodiments with any one or more of the other aspects / features / embodiments.

[0086] Use of any one or more of the above aspects or features disclosed herein.

[0087] It should be understood that any feature described herein may be claimed in combination with any other feature(s) described herein, regardless of whether the features are from the same described embodiment.

[0088] As used herein, the singular forms "a," "an," and "the" are intended to include the plural forms unless the context clearly dictates otherwise. It will be further understood that as used herein, the terms "include," "including," "includes," "comprise," "comprises," and / or "comprising" specify the presence of stated features, integers, steps, operations, elements, and / or components, but do not exclude the presence or addition of one or more other features, integers, steps, operations, elements, components, and / or groups thereof. The term "and / or" includes any and all combinations of one or more of the associated listed items.

[0089] The term "a" or "an" + entity refers to one or more of that entity. Thus, the terms "a" (or "an"), "one or more" and "at least one" can be used interchangeably herein. It should also be noted that the terms "comprising," "including," and "having" can be used interchangeably.

[0090] The terms "at least one," "one or more," and "and / or" are open ended expressions that are both conjunctive and disjunctive in operation. For example, each of the phrases "at least one of A, B, and C," "at least one of A, B, or C," "one or more of A, B, and C," "one or more of A, B, or C," and "A, B, and / or C" means A only, B only, C only, both A and B, both A and C, both B and C, or all of A, B, and C. Where A, B, and C in the above expressions each refer to an element such as X, Y, and Z, or a class of elements such as X1-Xn, Y1-Ym, and Z1-Zo, the expression is intended to refer to an element selected from X, Y, and Z, or a combination of elements selected from the same class (e.g., X1 and X2), as well as a combination of elements selected from two or more classes (e.g., Y1 and Zo).

[0091] As used herein, the term "automatic" and variations thereof refer to any process or operation that is performed (usually continuous or semi-continuous) without material human input as the process or operation is performed. However, a process or operation may be automatic even if the performance of the process or operation uses material or immaterial human input, if that input is received prior to the performance of the process or operation. Human input is considered material if such input affects how the process or operation is performed. Human input implying consent to the performance of the process or operation is not considered to be "material."

[0092] As used herein, the terms "determining," "calculating," and "computing," and variations thereof, are used interchangeably and include any type of methodology, process, mathematical operation, or technique.

[0093] Unless otherwise defined, all terms (including technical and scientific terms) used herein have the same meaning as commonly understood by one of ordinary skill in the art to which this disclosure belongs. It will also be understood that terms as defined in commonly used dictionaries should be interpreted as having a meaning consistent with the meaning in the context of the relevant art and this disclosure.

[0094] It is to be understood that every maximum numerical limitation given throughout this disclosure is to be deemed to include, in the alternative, every lower numerical limitation, as if such lower numerical limitations were expressly written herein. Every minimum numerical limitation given throughout this disclosure is to be deemed to include, in the alternative, every higher numerical limitation, as if such higher numerical limitations were expressly written herein. Every numerical range given throughout this disclosure is to be deemed to include, in the alternative, every narrower numerical range that falls within such broader numerical range, as if such narrower numerical ranges were all expressly written herein.

Claims

1. 1. A multiple tube pinch valve assembly, comprising: a frame configured to hold a plurality of bioreactors and tubing connected to the bioreactors; a base configured to support the frame and having a plurality of pinch protrusions; a plurality of actuators attached to the base; Equipped with Each of the plurality of actuators is connected to each of the plurality of pinch protrusions and moves each of the plurality of pinch protrusions; the frame and the base are configured to cooperate to hold the frame on the base and to position the frame such that the pinch protrusions face and are perpendicular to the tubes connected to the bioreactor; the actuators are configured to move the pinch protrusions, individually, between a retracted position and an extended position, in which the pinch protrusions are spaced from the tube, and in which the pinch protrusions pinch the tube to restrict fluid flow through the tube; Multi-tube pinch valve assembly.

2. 2. The multiple tube pinch valve assembly of claim 1, the plurality of actuators are linear actuators; Multi-tube pinch valve assembly.

3. 2. The multiple tube pinch valve assembly of claim 1, the multi-tube pinch valve assembly further comprises a rocker assembly for rocking the frame and the plurality of bioreactors; Multi-tube pinch valve assembly.

4. 2. The multiple tube pinch valve assembly of claim 1, In the retracted position, the pinch projection is within the base housing, and in the extended position, the pinch projection protrudes from within the housing. Multi-tube pinch valve assembly.

5. 2. The multiple tube pinch valve assembly of claim 1, each of the plurality of actuators is configured to move each of the plurality of pinching protrusions to an intermediate position between the retracted position and the extended position, in which the pinching protrusions pinch the tube to a lesser extent than in the extended position; Multi-tube pinch valve assembly.

6. 2. The multiple tube pinch valve assembly of claim 1, the frame is configured to hold the tubes such that the tubes extend parallel to the length of the plurality of bioreactors across the frame; Multi-tube pinch valve assembly.

7. 2. The multi-tube pinch valve assembly of claim 1, further comprising a plurality of hinge plates, each hinge plate of the plurality of hinge plates having one of the plurality of pinch protrusions; each of the plurality of actuators is connected to a first end of a respective one of the plurality of hinge plates, and movement of the plurality of hinge plates by the plurality of actuators causes the plurality of hinge plates to pivot about an axis of rotation at a second end of the plurality of hinge plates; Multi-tube pinch valve assembly.

8. 2. The multiple tube pinch valve assembly of claim 1, the frame has a platen pinch protrusion that opposes the pinch protrusion and that pinches the tube against the platen pinch protrusion in the extended position; Multi-tube pinch valve assembly.

9. 2. The multiple tube pinch valve assembly of claim 1, the pinch protrusions are positioned such that in the extended position, the pinch protrusions bend the tube. Multi-tube pinch valve assembly.

10. 2. The multiple tube pinch valve assembly of claim 1, The base further includes a rail suspended above the pinch protrusion, In the extended position, the pinching protrusion pinches the tube against the rail. Multi-tube pinch valve assembly.

11. 11. The multi-tube pinch valve assembly of claim 10, the frame is configured to slide on the rail, the frame having a channel formed therein configured to receive the rail therein; Multi-tube pinch valve assembly.

12. 1. A multi-tube pinch valve assembly configured to cooperate with a frame holding a plurality of bioreactors and tubing connected to the bioreactors, the multi-tube pinch valve assembly comprising: a plurality of hinge plates each having a hinge pinch protrusion; a plurality of actuators connected to each of the plurality of hinge plates and configured to move each of the plurality of hinge plates; a mounting portion configured to cooperate with the frame to support and position the frame such that the tube faces the hinge pinch protrusion and extends perpendicular to the hinge pinch protrusion; Equipped with the actuators are configured to move the hinge plates, independently of one another, between a retracted position and an extended position, wherein in the retracted position the hinge pinch protrusion is spaced from the tube and in the extended position the hinge pinch protrusion pinches the tube to restrict fluid flow through the tube; Multi-tube pinch valve assembly.

13. 13. The multi-tube pinch valve assembly of claim 12, the mounting portion having a mounting post configured to cooperate with a receiving portion of the frame; Multi-tube pinch valve assembly.

14. 13. The multi-tube pinch valve assembly of claim 12, further comprising a rocker assembly configured to rock the frame when the frame is brought into cooperation with the mounting portion. Multi-tube pinch valve assembly.

15. 13. The multi-tube pinch valve assembly of claim 12, further comprising a housing that contains the plurality of hinge plates and the plurality of actuators; In the retracted position, the hinge pinch protrusion is within the housing, and in the extended position, the hinge pinch protrusion protrudes from within the housing. Multi-tube pinch valve assembly.

16. 1. A multi-tube pinch valve assembly configured to cooperate with a frame holding a plurality of bioreactors and tubing connected to the bioreactors, the multi-tube pinch valve assembly comprising: A plurality of pinch protrusions; a plurality of actuators connected to each of the plurality of pinching protrusions and configured to move each of the plurality of pinching protrusions; a rail suspended above the pinch protrusion, the rail configured to cooperate with the frame to support the frame above the pinch protrusion and to position the frame such that the tube faces the pinch protrusion and extends perpendicular to the pinch protrusion; Equipped with the actuators are configured to move the pinch protrusions, individually, between a retracted position and an extended position, in which the pinch protrusions are spaced from the tube, and in which the pinch protrusions pinch the tube against the rail to restrict fluid flow through the tube; Multi-tube pinch valve assembly.

17. 17. The multi-tube pinch valve assembly of claim 16, further comprising a housing that houses the plurality of pinch protrusions and the plurality of actuators; In the retracted position, the pinch protrusion is within the housing, and in the extended position, the pinch protrusion protrudes from within the housing. Multi-tube pinch valve assembly.

18. 17. The multi-tube pinch valve assembly of claim 16, further comprising the frame, the frame having a channel configured to cooperate with the rail. Multi-tube pinch valve assembly.

19. 17. The multiple tube pinch valve assembly of claim 16, further comprising a latch positionable between an open position and a closed position, wherein in the open position, the rail is accessible and the frame can be slid on the rail, and in the closed position, the frame is locked onto the rail. Multi-tube pinch valve assembly.

20. 17. The multi-tube pinch valve assembly of claim 16, the plurality of actuators are linear actuators; Multi-tube pinch valve assembly.

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