Valve setup for SMB chromatography

Abstract

The valve control block (10) includes at least one valve cassette block (20) having a plurality of valves (25) controllable via a control surface (24) of the valve cassette block (20); a valve control block (10) having an actuation surface (11) configured to control each of the plurality of valves (25) when the actuation surface (11) is in contact with the control surface (24) of the at least one valve cassette block (20), the valve control block (10) including at least one sliding groove (14) formed in the actuation surface (11); and at least one sliding element (30) movable relative to the valve control block (10) in a sliding direction parallel to the actuation surface (11). and at least one traction bracket (40, 50) configured to embrace the at least one valve cassette block (20) and interact with the at least one sliding part (30) such that sliding movement of the at least one sliding part (30) in the at least one sliding groove (14) causes the traction bracket (40, 50) to pull the at least one valve cassette block (20) with its control surface (24) against an actuation surface (11) of the valve control block (10).

Description

[Background technology]

[0001] The manufacturing of biopharmaceuticals or pharmaceuticals involves the purification of solutions from which active pharmaceutical ingredients (APIs) are extracted. These solutions are also known as feeds and can be produced chemically synthetically or bioorganically. The feeds contain multiple components that need to be separated from each other, for example one or more target components and impurities. Chromatography is the technique used to perform this separation step.

[0002] One embodiment of chromatography for separating two components is the simulated moving bed (SMB). The SMB system includes multiple columns connected in series or parallel, two inlets (one for the feed and one for the buffer), and two outlets (one for each component of the feed). The inlet and outlet positions are moved at regular intervals in a given direction to simulate the movement of the column in the opposite direction. A set of appropriately controlled valves is required to switch the inlet and outlet positions.

[0003] The Sartorius® BioSMB system for SMB chromatography includes a valve setup with two separate blocks: a valve control block that regulates the valve switching, and a valve cassette block that contains multiple valves. The valve cassette block is the only part in contact with the fluid and is conveniently replaced after each use to avoid tedious cleaning steps.

[0004] The connection between the control block and the valve cassette block needs to be airtight. Traditionally, the valve cassette block is pressed onto the control block using multiple screws and washers that are tightened in a predetermined procedure, for example first to 2 Nm and then to 3.5 Nm. This procedure requires a calibrated torque wrench and long installation times (approximately 45 minutes).

[0005] Another conventional method for fixing the valve cassette block to the control block is the use of a pivot door equipped with an arrangement of hydraulic cylinders that apply the necessary sealing pressure. This procedure involves a very complex design and high costs. Summary of the Invention

[0006] According to one embodiment, at least one valve cassette block comprising a plurality of valves controllable via a control surface of the valve cassette block; a valve control block having an actuation surface configured to (selectively) control (e.g. open / close) each of a plurality of valves when the actuation surface is in close contact with a control surface of at least one valve cassette block, the valve control block having at least one sliding groove formed in the actuation surface; at least one sliding part configured to slidably interlock (i.e. engage) with at least one sliding groove such that the at least one sliding part is movable relative to the valve control block in (specifically only one) sliding direction parallel to the actuation surface, the sliding direction being defined as the length direction of the sliding groove; at least one traction bracket configured to embrace the at least one valve cassette block and to interact with the at least one sliding part such that a sliding movement of the at least one sliding part in the at least one sliding groove (relative to the valve control block and the at least one traction bracket in the sliding direction) causes the at least one traction bracket to pull the at least one valve cassette block with its control surface against an actuating surface of the valve control block; A valve setup or assembly is provided comprising:

[0007] The valve control block may also include a plurality of sliding grooves formed in the actuation surface. The assembly may further include a plurality of sliding parts, each configured to slidably interlock with a respective sliding groove (such that each sliding part is movable relative to the valve control block in a (respective) sliding direction parallel to the actuation surface). The sliding parts may all be movable parallel to each other (i.e., in the same sliding direction). In one example, the plurality of sliding grooves may be formed parallel to each other and may even be at least partially equidistant from each other. Furthermore, the assembly may also include a plurality of traction brackets, each configured to embrace at least one valve cassette block and interact with a respective one of the sliding parts, such that a sliding movement of the respective sliding parts (along the respective sliding directions, relative to the valve control block and the traction bracket) in the respective sliding groove causes the respective traction bracket to pull the at least one valve cassette block with its control surface against the actuation surface of the valve control block.

[0008] At least one sliding part may comprise two lateral shoulders as an embodiment of the interlocking structure of the sliding part, the shoulders being adapted to engage with respective undercut recesses formed in respective sliding grooves of the valve control block, or alternatively, other shapes of interlocking structure of the sliding part may be used, as will be further explained below.

[0009] In either case, the sliding part(s) may engage with the sliding groove(s) such that in the engaged state the sliding part(s) is movable relative to the valve control block along a sliding direction. In particular, the engagement may prevent or at least limit movement of the sliding part(s) relative to the valve control block in a direction perpendicular to the actuation surface. The sliding part can thus receive and transmit traction forces between the valve control block and the valve cassette block in a direction perpendicular to the actuation surface, i.e. in the traction direction.

[0010] The towing bracket(s) may be limited in its movement along the sliding direction relative to the valve control block such that a sliding movement of the sliding parts in the sliding groove(s) along the sliding direction results in a relative movement between the sliding parts(s) and the respective towing bracket(s). In the assembled state (i.e. in operation), the sliding parts(s) and the respective towing bracket(s) are movably coupled via a fastening mechanism that implements an interaction that causes the towing bracket to pull at least one valve cassette block towards the valve control block upon sliding movement of the sliding parts. In other words, the fastening mechanism converts the sliding movement of the sliding parts in the sliding direction into a movement of the towing bracket in the towing direction, i.e. in a direction perpendicular to the working surface of the valve control block.

[0011] At least one of the sliding parts may include a ridge, the ridge including a portion of a fastening mechanism that implements the interaction between the sliding part and the traction bracket. In one example, at least one of the traction brackets may include a U-beam configured to at least partially receive the ridge of the respective sliding part and may include a complementary portion of a fastening mechanism that implements the interaction between the sliding part and the traction bracket.

[0012] Furthermore, the fastening mechanism may be implemented such that one of the sliding part and the towing bracket includes a sliding surface inclined with respect to the sliding direction (and the towing direction), and the other of the sliding part and the towing bracket includes or accommodates an abutment element for slidingly abutting against the inclined sliding surface. A relative movement between the sliding part and the towing bracket causes the abutment element to slide along the inclined direction of the sliding surface, such that a traction force is generated between the sliding part and the towing bracket, which pulls the valve cassette block with its control surface against the working surface of the valve control block. In other words, the inclined sliding surface together with the abutment element converts the sliding movement of the sliding part into a movement of the towing bracket perpendicular to the working surface of the valve control block.

[0013] The assembly may further comprise a tension screw for controlling the forced sliding movement of the sliding part relative to the valve control block in the sliding groove when the traction bracket interacts with the sliding part, whereby the actuating surface of the valve control block embraced by the traction bracket is pulled tightly against the control surface of the valve cassette block.

[0014] At least one traction bracket (or each traction bracket of the plurality of traction brackets) may comprise a bridge bar, a plurality of tension bars, and an embracing yoke. The bridge bar may be configured to engage with at least one sliding component. Each of the plurality of tension bars may have a first end connected to the bridge bar, and the plurality of tension bars may extend perpendicular to the bridge bar and substantially parallel to each other. The embracing yoke may be removably attachable to second ends of the plurality of tension bars, thereby connecting the second ends of the tension bars. This allows the valve cassette block to be easily and efficiently embraced between the bridge bar and the embracing yoke, with the bridge bar and the embracing yoke connected and held together by the tension bar. Specifically, during operation, the bridge bar may directly engage (interact) with the respective sliding component such that it is pulled toward the valve control block upon movement of the sliding component. The tension bar may extend from the bridge along a traction direction and transmit a traction force to the embracing yoke. The embracing yoke may embrace and support the valve cassette block on a face opposite the control face, i.e., the retention face, such that the embracing yoke(s) can mechanically support the valve cassette block (at the retention face) while pressing the retention face towards the valve control block. This allows the valve set-up to be easily assembled and disassembled while being reliably held together during operation by appropriately evenly distributed forces acting on the valve cassette blocks.

[0015] The at least one traction bracket may in particular comprise at least three tension bars, and the at least one valve cassette block may comprise at least one embracing through-slot extending through the control surface to the opposite side of the valve cassette block, such that at least one of the at least three tension bars can extend through the embracing through-slot when the traction bracket embraces the valve cassette block, whereby the traction force may be more evenly distributed across the valve cassette block.

[0016] The assembly may further include a displacement prevention structure that prevents the valve cassette block and the valve control block from moving relative to each other at least in the sliding direction (defined by the sliding groove) when the control surface and the actuation surface face each other or contact each other. This may ensure correct relative positioning of the control surface and the actuation surface to each other for reliable actuation of the multiple valves, and may also avoid or reduce lateral forces between the control surface and the actuation surface while moving the sliding parts when fastening the connection between the control surface and the actuation surface. This may not only ensure proper actuation, but also avoid or reduce the risk of damage (e.g., of the sensitive membrane of the control surface). In one example, the displacement prevention structure may include at least one protruding portion formed on one of the valve cassette block and the valve control block, and at least one mating recess formed on the other of the valve cassette block and the valve control block.

[0017] According to another aspect, there is provided a method of assembling a valve setup, the method comprising: - providing at least one valve cassette block comprising a plurality of valves controllable via a control surface of the valve cassette block; - providing a valve control block having an actuation surface, the valve control block being configured to (selectively) control (e.g. open and close) each of a plurality of valves when the actuation surface is in intimate contact with a control surface of at least one valve cassette block; - slidably engaging at least one sliding part with at least one sliding groove formed in an actuation surface of the valve control block such that the at least one sliding part is movable relative to the valve control block in (in particular only one) sliding direction parallel to the actuation surface; - embracing at least one valve cassette block with at least one traction bracket; - engaging at least one traction bracket with at least one sliding part such that a (sliding) movement (relative to the valve control block and the traction bracket) of the at least one sliding part in the at least one sliding groove causes the at least one traction bracket to pull the at least one valve cassette block with its control surface against an actuation surface of the valve control block; - fastening the valve setup by sliding at least one sliding part in at least one sliding groove so that at least one valve cassette block is pulled (biased) with its control surface against an actuation surface of the valve control block; A method comprising: [Brief description of the drawings]

[0018] Detailed description of exemplary embodiments will be given below with reference to the exemplary drawings. Other features will become apparent from the specification, drawings, and claims. However, even if the embodiments are described separately, it should be understood that single features of different embodiments may be combined into further embodiments.

[0019] [Figure 1] 1 shows an example of a valve cassette block. [Diagram 2] 1 shows an example of a valve control block. [Figure 3a] 1 illustrates a portion of an exemplary valve cassette block with valves and channels. [Figure 3b] 1 illustrates the function of an exemplary valve. [Figure 4a] 1 illustrates several exemplary sliding parts. [Figure 4b] 4A-4D show different examples of cross-sectional views of sliding parts and corresponding sliding grooves. [Diagram 5] 1 illustrates several exemplary traction brackets. [Figure 6] 1 illustrates an exemplary valve setup or assembly in an exploded state. [Figure 7] 1 illustrates an exemplary valve setup or assembly in an assembled state. [Figure 8a] 1 illustrates an exemplary valve setup at different stages of assembly and operation. [Figure 8b] 1 illustrates an exemplary valve setup at different stages of assembly and operation. [Figure 8c] 1 illustrates an exemplary valve setup at different stages of assembly and operation. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS

[0020] Detailed Description The examples will now be described in detail with reference to the drawings. It should be understood that the examples may be modified in various ways. Unless otherwise specified, elements of one example may be combined and used in another example to form a new example.

[0021] The following description relates to assemblies that constitute a valve setup for use in SMB chromatographic separation steps, which may illustratively be performed to purify recombinant protein products, monoclonal antibodies, viral vectors, or DNA products.

[0022] The assembly comprises two blocks: a valve cassette block (or "valve cassette") that includes multiple valves, and a valve control block that controls the multiple valves. Figure 1 shows an example of a valve cassette block 20, and Figure 2 shows an example of a valve control block 10.

[0023] The valve cassette block 20 comprises a number of valves 25 (not visible in FIG. 1 but visible in FIG. 3a), e.g. membrane or diaphragm valves. The valves 25 are accessible for being controlled (e.g. switched between open and closed states, or connected and disconnected states, or three or more different valve states per valve) via a control surface 24 of the valve cassette block 20. In the example of FIG. 1, the control surface 24 is on the opposite side to the retaining surface 26 of the valve cassette block 20. The valves may be arranged in a regular array along the control surface 24. Each valve may, for example, be addressed (controlled) separately from the other valves.

[0024] The valve control block 10 comprises a plurality of control elements 15, e.g. a plurality of solenoids, arranged on an actuation surface 11 of the valve control block 10 to control the valves 25 in the valve cassette block 20, each solenoid being configured to control (e.g. open / close) a respective valve 25 when the control surface 24 of the valve cassette block 20 is in intimate contact with the actuation surface 11 of the valve control block 10. Thus, the valve cassette block 20 may comprise n valves 25, and the valve control block 10 may comprise n control elements 15, e.g. including solenoids. The plurality of control elements 15 may be arranged in a regular array corresponding to the regular array of the plurality of valves, such that each control element 15 is arranged next to a corresponding valve 25 and is able to control that valve when the control surface 24 is in intimate contact with the actuation surface 11 in the mounted state of the assembly.

[0025] In the example shown in FIG. 2, the valve control block 10 comprises a plurality of parallel sliding grooves 14 formed in the actuation surface 11. The sliding grooves 14 are configured to interface with respective sliding components as will be further explained below. In particular, the sliding grooves 14 may be recessed with respect to the plane formed by the actuation surface 11 in which the control elements 15 are located. As shown in FIG. 2, the sliding grooves 11 may be (regularly) arranged parallel to one another (e.g. equidistantly) so as to (partially) separate parallel control block banks 16 forming portions of the actuation surface 11 between the plurality of sliding grooves 14.

[0026] The control elements 15 may be implemented in one or more of the control block banks 16, i.e., between the sliding grooves 14. In this regard, each of the control block banks 16, or only a portion (i.e., one or more) of the control block banks 16, may comprise one or more of the control elements 15. These control block banks 16 comprising one or more control elements 15 may each have a surface that forms part of the actuation surface 11, preferably lying in a common plane. Further exemplary details regarding the multiple sliding grooves 14 and the multiple control block banks 16 are described below with reference to Figures 4a and 4b.

[0027] The plurality of valves 25 may be arranged on a substantially flat surface of the valve cassette block 20, e.g., the "hidden" surface in FIG. 1. The arrangement of the valves 25 on the valve cassette block 20 may match the arrangement of the control elements 15 on the valve control block 10, such that when the valve cassette block 20 is placed next to the valve control block 10, each valve 25 can correspond to a respective control element 15. Illustratively, the plurality of valves 25 (and similarly, the control elements 15) may be arranged according to an arrangement along rows and columns.

[0028] The valve cassette block 20 comprises a number of channels that can be connected or disconnected by actuating the valves 25. FIG. 3a shows a cut-away portion of the valve cassette block 20 with a membrane valve 25 and two channels oriented perpendicular to each other. The structure of the valve cassette block 20 may comprise a number of portions as shown in FIG. 3a to provide a manifold of valves 25 and interconnectable passages that form flow paths. The valve cassette block 20 may comprise inlet and outlet connectors for connecting to external components, such as a chromatography column, a membrane device, or a collection vessel. Illustratively, the valve cassette block 20 may be a unitarily formed block made of plastic, such as acrylic.

[0029] 3b illustrates the function of an exemplary membrane valve 25 in the valve cassette block 20 controlled by a corresponding solenoid in the valve control block 10. In particular, the valve control block 10 may further comprise a plurality of air chambers, each associated with a corresponding solenoid, such that the solenoid functions as a pneumatic actuator for the corresponding valve 25. The air chamber may comprise one or more cavities, for example, one cavity on a surface of the valve control block 10 configured to receive the membrane valve. The air chamber may further comprise a cavity having an inlet and an outlet for an air passage.

[0030] For example, the solenoid may be a normally open (NO) solenoid, meaning that the membrane valve is normally closed (left side of FIG. 3b). When the solenoid switches from open to closed, the air pressure on the membrane valve is removed, which opens the membrane valve and connects the passages in the valve cassette block 20 (right side of FIG. 3b). It is also possible to build a valve block that houses a small air or hydraulically actuated plunger (or finger) that applies a mechanical force to the valve membrane to close the valve and releases the force to open the valve (either by media fluid pressure on the cassette side or by the membrane's physical connection to an actuator plunger that pulls the valve open). Alternatively, a plunger designed with an electromagnetic latching solenoid or a piezoelectric actuator may be used.

[0031] In other words, the valve control block 10 and the valve cassette block 20 cooperate to switch the flow paths and thus the connections to the inlets and outlets for the feeds and solvents. The valve control block 10 and the valve cassette block 20 are formed separately and then mechanically joined. One advantage of this configuration is that the valve control block 10 may be a permanent part of the chromatography system and the valve cassette block 20 may be a disposable part.

[0032] The dashed line on the left side of Figure 3b indicates the interface between the valve control block 10 and the valve cassette block 20. To ensure that the valve setup functions correctly, it is desirable that the valve control block 10 and the valve cassette block 20 are in air-tight contact with each other and that the valves 25 of the valve cassette block 20 are precisely positioned to correspond to the control elements (e.g. solenoids and air chambers) in the valve control block 10.

[0033] For this purpose, the valve setup may include a combination of sliding components and towing brackets as described below.

[0034] 4a shows a plurality of exemplary sliding parts 30, which may all be identical. The plurality of sliding parts 30 are configured to slidably interlock with at least some of the plurality of sliding grooves 14 of the valve control block 10, and each sliding part 30 is configured to slidably interlock with a respective sliding groove 14. In other words, each sliding part 30 is configured to engage with a respective sliding groove 14 such that the sliding part 30 can move along a given direction (sliding direction parallel to the actuation surface) but is fixed / guided along other directions.

[0035] In general, the number of sliding elements 30 may be equal to or less than the number of sliding grooves 14. Thus, all sliding elements 30 are accommodated within the sliding grooves 14, but not all sliding grooves 14 accommodate a sliding element 30. In the example shown in FIG. 1 and FIG. 4, the valve control block 10 includes seven sliding grooves 14, and the plurality of sliding elements 30 includes four sliding elements 30. In this case, every other sliding groove 14 may engage a sliding element 30. In other examples, the number of sliding grooves 14 and sliding elements 30 may vary.

[0036] The shapes and dimensions of the sliding elements 30 and the sliding grooves 14 may at least partially correspond to one another, such that each sliding element 30 can interlock with a respective sliding groove 14. In particular, a cross-section of the sliding element 30 in a plane perpendicular to the sliding direction may have a shape and dimensions that at least partially match the corresponding cross-section of the sliding groove 14. Because the sliding grooves 14 are empty spaces (or negative spaces) defined by adjacent control block banks 16, the cross-section of the sliding element 30 may have a shape that is at least partially complementary to the shape of the cross-section of the control block banks 16.

[0037] As shown in the example of Fig. 4a, each sliding element 30 may include a ridge 34 and two lateral shoulders 32 (as an embodiment of the interlocking structure of the sliding elements) which together form a substantially T-shaped cross section perpendicular to the sliding direction (at least over most of its extension along the sliding direction). The shoulders 32 may be adapted to engage with respective undercut recesses 17 formed in the respective sliding grooves 14 (see Fig. 4b).

[0038] Each sliding piece 30 can be considered to include an interlocking portion 32 (such as a lateral shoulder 32) configured to engage the valve control block 10, as described below, while the ridge 34 is configured to engage the towing bracket. In particular, the interlocking portion 32 can have both a shape and dimensions that match (i.e., are substantially identical to) the shape and dimensions of the sliding groove portion it engages, to ensure a stable interlocking. As described in more detail below, the ridge 34, which is also housed within the sliding groove 14, may have different dimensions, and possibly a different shape, relative to the sliding groove.

[0039] Figure 4b shows three different cross-section examples of the sliding element 30 and the control block bank 16. The cross-sections are in a plane perpendicular to the sliding direction. This plane is parallel to the traction direction. These examples are merely illustrative for purposes and are not drawn to scale.

[0040] In example (i), the sliding element 30 has a T-shaped cross-section that matches the T-shaped cross-section of the sliding groove 14 formed by the control block bank 16. Alternative examples (ii) and (iii) are also shown in FIG. 4b. The cross-section shown in FIG. 4b is just one example of an interlocking structure with a corresponding / mating shape. Further examples may include cruciform cross-sections, curved cross-sections, and other additional shapes.

[0041] More generally, each sliding groove 14 and correspondingly each sliding element 30 may have a width that varies along a direction perpendicular to the working surface (the traction direction), and the width may vary in steps or gradually, as in examples (i) to (iii). The variable width may create a "bottleneck" such that when the sliding element 30 is inserted into the sliding groove 14, the sliding element 30 is fixed along the traction direction.

[0042] Therefore, the multiple sliding parts 30 can be slidably interlocked with the multiple sliding grooves 14 of the valve control block 10, so that the sliding parts 30 and the valve control block 10 can be fixed to each other.

[0043] Returning to Fig. 4a, each sliding part 30 may include a ridge 34 as described above. The ridge 34 may include part of a fastening mechanism (such as a first through slot 36 across the width of the ridge) that implements the interaction between the sliding part 30 and the towing bracket (described further below) such that sliding movement of the sliding part 30 in the sliding groove 14 relative to the towing bracket causes the towing bracket (40, 50) to pull the valve cassette block (20) with its control surface (24) against the actuation surface (11) of the valve control block (10).

[0044] In this example, each ridge 34 includes a plurality of first through slots 36 spanning the width of the ridge 34 and a threaded hole 38 having a depth along the sliding direction. The threaded hole 38 is configured to receive tension screws of a plurality of tension screws 75 (e.g., shown in FIG. 7). The threaded hole 38 may be, in particular, a blind hole.

[0045] The first through slots 36 may be angled through slots or mating through slots, as described below. Each first through slot 36 is configured to receive a pin, such as a dowel pin. Illustratively, each ridge 34 may include three first through slots 36. In other examples, each ridge may include two or more first through slots 36.

[0046] The sliding parts 30 are configured to engage with the traction brackets. FIG. 5 shows a plurality of exemplary traction brackets, each composed of a brace part 40 and a holding yoke 50. Illustratively, the traction brackets may all be identical. The traction brackets are configured to hold the valve cassette block 20 in a holding manner such that the valve cassette block 20 and the traction brackets form a rigid body. In other words, the traction brackets may be configured to hold the valve cassette block 20 such that the valve cassette block 20 does not move relative to the traction brackets. The combination of the traction bracket and the valve cassette block 20 may be referred to as a "cassette subassembly."

[0047] The towing brackets and the valve cassette block 20 do not move relative to each other, but rather are configured to interface so as to behave as a single rigid body even under the application of (tractional) forces. This means, for example, that if multiple towing brackets are pulled towards the valve control block, the valve cassette block 20 will be dragged and pulled by substantially the same amount.

[0048] Each traction bracket (specifically its brace part 40) may comprise a bridge bar 41 and a number of tension bars 42 extending perpendicularly to the bridge bar 41. In particular, the tension bars 42 may be connected with their first ends to the bridge bar 41 and may extend perpendicularly to the bridge bar 41 and substantially parallel to each other. They may even be equidistant from each other within one / each traction bracket. In particular, one tension bar 42 (outer tension bar) may be provided at each end of the bridge bar 41, such that the tension bars at both ends of the bridge bar 41 (outer tension bars) may embrace the valve cassette block outside its periphery. For any tension bars (inner tension bars) between these outer tension bars, the valve cassette block may be provided with a respective embracing through slot 28, such that the inner tension bar(s) extend through the valve cassette block.

[0049] In the illustrated example, each traction bracket comprises an embracing yoke 50 removably attachable to the second ends of the plurality of tension bars 42, thereby connecting the second ends of the tension bars 42. For example, each tension bar 42 may comprise an opening 43 (through slot) at its second end configured to receive the respective embracing yoke. Each embracing yoke 50 may comprise a body 53 and a locking element 56. The body 53 may be a straight bar. Each embracing yoke 50 may be configured to be inserted through the opening 43 (of the tension bar 42) of the respective brace component 40 so as to be substantially parallel to the bridge bar 41 of the respective brace component 40. In particular, the shape and dimensions of the embracing yoke 50 may correspond to the shape and dimensions of the opening 43. The locking element 56 may be configured to maintain the embracing yoke 50 in a fixed position once inserted into the opening 43.

[0050] Thus, the brace component 40 and the embracing yoke 50 can be joined by sliding the embracing yoke 50 into the opening 43 in the brace component 40 to form a closed frame for the valve cassette block 20. A plurality of brace components 40 and a plurality of embracing yokes 50 can together form a "rib cage" that can encase the valve cassette block 20. The valve cassette block 20 can thus be sandwiched between the towing component 40 and the embracing yoke 50 in what may be referred to as an "assembled state."

[0051] Illustratively, each embracing yoke 50 may have multiple protrusions 59 on a side configured to face and contact the valve cassette block 20. The position of the multiple protrusions 59 on the enclosing part 50 may be such that, in the assembled state, each protrusion 59 may contact an area of ​​the side of the valve cassette block 20 that corresponds to one of the valves 25 on the other side of the valve cassette block 20. The presence of multiple protrusions 59 may help to distribute forces more evenly.

[0052] In the example where each brace component 40 cooperates with an embracing yoke 50, the plurality of tension bars 42 may include only two tension bars (hereinafter referred to as "outer tension bars") at the ends of the bridge bar 41. Thus, each brace component 40 may have a C-shape.

[0053] Alternatively, the plurality of tension bars 42 may include two outer tension bars and one or more inner tension bars disposed between the outer tension bars. In the example of FIG. 5, each brace component 40 includes one inner tension bar, such that each brace component 40 has an E-shape. In other examples, two or more inner tension bars may be included. The tension bars 42 may be equidistant from one another along the brace component 40, or may have different distances from one another.

[0054] In the case of one or more inner tension bars, the valve cassette block 20 may comprise a number of embracing through-slots 28 (see FIG. 1) for inserting the inner tension bars so that they extend through the valve cassette block in the traction direction. The valve cassette block 20 and the number of traction brackets 40, 50 can thus be joined in particular by passing the inner tension bars through the number of embracing through-slots 28. If each traction bracket 40, 50 comprises n inner tension bars and there are m traction brackets 40, 50 for one valve cassette block, the valve cassette block 20 may comprise at least n×m embracing through-slots 28. The presence of one or more inner tension bars may help to distribute the forces more evenly.

[0055] In summary, the towing brackets 40, 50 and the valve cassette block 20 are configured to be joined together to form a subassembly connectable to the valve control block 10 by means of the sliding parts 30 which are engageable with the towing brackets 40, 50, for example with their respective bridge bars 41. In other examples, the towing brackets may not have a bridge bar and instead a tension bar may be directly engageable with the sliding parts.

[0056] Indeed, as shown in FIG. 5 , the bridge bar 41 of each brace component 40 comprises a U-beam configured to at least partially accommodate the ridge 34 of the respective sliding component 30. Specifically, the U-beam has a slit 44 formed between two side flanges 45. The slit 44 is configured to receive the respective ridge 34 of the sliding component 30. The slit 44 may extend along the entire length of the bridge bar 41. The length of the slit may be substantially the same as or longer than the length of the ridge 34 of the sliding component 30.

[0057] Each towing bracket comprises a part of a fastening mechanism complementary to the part of the fastening mechanism implemented in the respective sliding part 30. This complementary part of the fastening mechanism therefore contributes to implementing an interaction between the sliding part 30 and the towing brackets 40, 50 such that the sliding movement of the sliding part 30 in the sliding groove 14 relative to the towing brackets causes the towing brackets 40, 50 to pull the valve cassette block 20 with its control face 24 against the actuating face 11 of the valve control block 10.

[0058] In this illustrated example, as a complementary part of the fastening mechanism, each side flange 45 comprises across its width (perpendicular to the sliding and pulling directions) a number of second through slots 46, which may be angled through slots or mating through slots, as will be further described below. Each second through slot 46 is configured to receive a pin, such as a dowel pin 60. The number of second through slots 46 in each side flange 45 may be the same as the number of first through slots 36 in the ridge 34.

[0059] The second through slots 46 of one side flange 45 of the towing part 40 are located correspondingly to the second through slots 46 of the other side flange 45. In other words, the second through slots 46 form a facing or opposing pair of holes. Furthermore, the positions of the second through slots 46 on each towing part 40 and the first through slots 36 on each sliding part 30 are such that, when the ridges 34 are inserted into the slits 44, each first through slot 36 at least partially overlaps with two second through slots 46. In other words, the positions of the first and second through slots 36, 46 are such that the first and second through slots 36, 46 can be at least partially aligned with each other.

[0060] The assembled combination of the towing bracket and the sliding part therefore also has a through slot across its width. To complete the embodiment of the fastening mechanism, a number of pins 60 are provided, which are configured to pass through the respective first through slots 36 and the respective second through slots 46, thereby transmitting the interaction between the sliding part 30 and the towing bracket 40, 50. The pins 60 are therefore configured to join the towing bracket 40, 50 and the respective sliding part 30 when inserted into the through slots. In this configuration, either the first through slot 36 or the second through slot 46 is an inclined through slot, such that the sliding part 30 and the towing bracket 40, 50 are still partially movable relative to each other in the sliding direction, i.e. parallel to the ridge 34.

[0061] The mating through slot has a shape and dimensions that substantially correspond to the shape and dimensions of the cross section of the pin 60 in a plane perpendicular to the direction in which the pin 60 is inserted into the through slot. Instead, the oblique through slot is an elongated through slot oriented obliquely to such a plane. Specifically, the oblique through slot has a cross section with a long axis extension and a short axis extension (e.g., in a plane parallel to the pulling direction and parallel to the sliding direction). The long axis extension is larger than the corresponding dimension of the pin 60 so that the pin 60 can move along the long axis extension within the oblique through slot while being guided by the oblique through slot. In one example, the elongated cross section of the oblique through slot can have an aspect ratio (ratio of the long extension to the short extension) of 5 or more. The short axis extension of the oblique through slot can correspond to the thickness of the pin 60.

[0062] The long axis direction of the extension is considered the oblique direction. This oblique direction, i.e., the extension along the long axis of the oblique through slot, subtends an angle (oblique angle) with respect to the sliding direction that is different from zero and different from 90 degrees. In some embodiments, the oblique angle may be at least about 5 degrees, optionally at least about 10 degrees. In further embodiments, the oblique angle may be about 20 degrees or less, optionally about 15 degrees or less.

[0063] 6 shows an exploded view of an exemplary valve setup or assembly including a valve control block 10, sliding components 30, brace components 40, a valve cassette block 20, pins 60, tension screws 75, retaining plates 70, and embracing yokes 50. These components may be assembled according to a variety of installation procedures.

[0064] In one example, the valve cassette block 20 may first be assembled with the towing brackets 40, 50. Then, the sliding components 30 may be joined to the towing brackets 40, 50 with pins 60. After that, all the sliding components 30 may be inserted together into the respective sliding grooves 14 of the valve control block 10. Once the sliding components are fully inserted into the sliding grooves, the fixing plate 70 may be attached to the valve control block.

[0065] One fixing plate 70 may be provided for each sliding piece 30 inserted. Alternatively, one or more fixing plates 70 may be provided, each covering multiple sliding grooves. The fixing plate(s) 70 may be fixed to the valve control block 10. In one example, the fixing plate(s) 70 may be fixed to at least some of the control block banks 16 of the valve control block 10 via fixing screws.

[0066] As one function, the fixing plates 70 may close the sliding grooves and maintain the sliding parts in the sliding grooves. As another function, the fixing plates may stabilize and fix the traction bracket against movement along the sliding direction. To further utilize these functions, fixing plates 70 (or other equivalent structures) may be provided at both ends of each sliding groove. As yet another function, the fixing plates 70 may act as abutment parts for tension screws 75 that may be inserted through respective holes in each fixing plate 70 and engage with respective screw holes in the sliding parts 30.

[0067] In another example of an assembly procedure, the brace part 40 may first be joined to the sliding part 30 by the pin 60, for example without the embracing yoke 50 or the valve cassette block 20. The valve cassette block 20 may then be embraced by the brace part 40 together with the embracing yoke 50. The sliding part 30 may then be interlocked with the valve control block 10 and the fixing plate 70 may be attached. In either case, the tension screw 75 is tightened prior to actuating the assembly, as will be explained further below.

[0068] Particularly preferred, however, is yet another example in which the brace part 40 (without the embracing yoke 50 and without the valve cassette block 20) ​​may first be joined to the sliding part 30 by the pin 60. The sliding part 30 may then be inserted into the sliding groove 14 of the valve control block 10 and fixed with the fixing plate 70. The valve control block 20 may be inserted into the brace part 40 and fixed with the embracing yoke 50 before fastening the tension screw 75. This last example may be particularly relevant if at least the valve cassette block 20 is implemented as a disposable part that can be replaced after use, while the other parts in the assembly are implemented as reusable. In such a case, replacing the valve cassette block 20 does not require a complete dismantling of the entire setup. It may be sufficient to release the tension screw 75 and pull the embracing yoke 50 out of the hole in the tension bar 42.

[0069] 7 shows an assembled state of an exemplary valve setup or assembly. In the assembled state, each sliding part 30 slidably interlocks with the valve control block 10 on one side and movably engages with a respective brace part 40 on the other side. Each brace part 40 movably engages with the sliding part 30 on one side and, together with the embracing yoke 50, holds the valve cassette block 20 stationary. The side of the valve cassette block 20 with the valves 25 (control surface) faces the valve control block 10, i.e., the working surface of the valve control block.

[0070] In particular, the ridge 34 of the sliding part 30 may be inside the bridge bar 41 of the brace part 40. In other words, the ridge 34 may be sandwiched between the side flanges 45 of the slit 44 of the brace part 40. The ridge 34 and the surrounding bridge bar 41 may be located in the sliding groove 14 of the valve control block 10. As mentioned above, the interlocking part 32 of the sliding part 30 may fit into the mating part of the sliding groove such that the sliding part 30 is slidably movable along the sliding direction (the longitudinal extension of the sliding groove) and is fixed relative to the valve control block in other directions. Alternatively or additionally, the width of the ridge 34 plus the width of the side flanges 45 may substantially coincide with the width of the sliding groove 14, so that the movement of the sliding part 30 and the brace part 40 does not occur perpendicular to the sliding direction and the traction direction. Therefore, the movement of the valve cassette block 20 relative to the valve control block at least in the direction perpendicular to the sliding direction and the traction direction can be effectively prevented, and the arrangement of the control elements 15 on the working surface of the valve control block 10 and the valves 25 on the control surface of the valve cassette block can be stably held relative to each other at least in the direction perpendicular to the sliding direction and the traction direction.

[0071] Additionally, the valve cassette block 20 and / or the valve control block 10 may include one or more alignment features configured to keep the cassette subassembly fixed relative to the sliding direction, which may help press the valve cassette block 20 against the valve control block 10, which may further contribute to correctly aligning the valves 25 on the valve cassette block 20 with respect to the control elements 15 on the valve control block 10.

[0072] In one example, the valve cassette block 20 may have at least one protruding portion 22 on the side of the control face, i.e., the side that faces the valve control block 10 when assembled. Illustratively, the at least one protruding portion 22 may span the entire width of the valve cassette block 20. In other examples, it may be shorter and / or discontinuous, for example located only corresponding to the control block bank 16. In the example shown in the figures, the valve cassette block 20 has two protruding portions 22, one on each edge of its face.

[0073] The valve control block 10 may include a groove 12 corresponding to the at least one protruding portion 22. The valve control block 10 may include at least one groove 12 into which the at least one protruding portion 22 is inserted. In other words, each control block bank 16 may include at least one groove 12 configured to receive the at least one protruding portion 22 of the valve cassette block 20. In particular, the dimensions of the groove may match the dimensions of the protruding portion 22. Thus, the insertion of the at least one protruding portion 22 into the at least one groove 12 of each of the control block banks 16 may support correct alignment and prevent the valve cassette block and the valve control block from moving relative to each other at least in the sliding direction in the assembled state. In the example of the figure (e.g., FIG. 2), each control block bank 16 has two grooves 12.

[0074] Figures 8a to 8c show cross-sectional views of an exemplary valve setup in different states during tightening of the tension screw 75. The cross sections correspond to cross sections parallel to the sliding direction (vertical in Figures 8a to 8c) and the pulling direction (horizontal in Figures 8a to 8c).

[0075] Figure 8a shows a cross-sectional view of the valve assembly at the stage when one tension screw 75 extending through the fixed plate 70 begins to be inserted into the threaded hole 38 of the sliding piece 30. This is the fully released position of the tension screw and therefore the fully extended (initial) position of the valve cassette block relative to the valve control block. In this initial position the control surfaces of the valve cassette block and the actuating surfaces of the valve control block are not in contact with each other, or at least are not pressed against each other sufficiently as required for the actuated state of the valve.

[0076] When the tension screws 75 are fastened with their heads in contact with the fixed plate 70, each of the sliding parts 30 moves along the sliding direction relative to the valve control block 10. More specifically, when the tension screws 75 are fastened, the sliding parts 30 are pulled toward the fixed plate 70. As can be seen in the steps of Figures 8a to 8c, the successive actuation of the tension screws 75 causes the sliding parts 30 to continuously slide along the sliding direction relative to the valve control block 10 (upward in the steps of Figures 8a to 8c) from the initial state of Figure 8a through the intermediate state of Figure 8b to the final state of Figure 8c where the tension screws are fully fastened.

[0077] A movement of the sliding part 30 in the sliding direction is also a movement relative to the brace part 40, since the corresponding brace part 40 is also prevented from moving along the sliding direction (vertical in the case of Figs. 8a to 8c). The sliding part 30 and the brace part 40 are movably coupled via a fastening mechanism formed by the first and second through-slots 36, 46 together with the pin 60 (in this example). As already explained, the fastening mechanism (via the oblique through-slots) converts the movement of the sliding part along the sliding direction into a movement towards the brace part 40 and into a movement of the towing bracket together with the embraced valve cassette block in the towing direction. In the sequence of Figs. 8a to 8c, the valve control block moves to the right, whereby the control face of the valve cassette block and the working face of the valve control block approach each other. The principle is the same if the first through-slot 36 is a mating through-slot and the second through-slot 46 is an oblique through-slot.

[0078] In conclusion, it is possible to properly press the valve cassette block 20 onto the valve control block 10 to provide a functioning valve setup.

[0079] The above-described method for installing (i.e., functionally connecting) the valve cassette block 20 to the valve control block 10 is simple, intuitive, and requires minimal effort. In particular, the time taken for assembly, and in particular the replacement of a valve cassette block, is significantly reduced, as compared to the conventional method of directly using screws to fasten the valve cassette block 20 to the valve control block 10. Also, as in the above example, the number of parts is significantly reduced, e.g., from 64 screws to four fasteners or screws (one for each sliding part), and no torque wrench is required. Furthermore, the cost and complexity of the method are significantly reduced, as compared to hydraulic mounting systems. Finally, operator error is virtually eliminated, as any assembly errors are easily detected.

Claims

1. at least one valve cassette block (20) comprising a plurality of valves (25) controllable via a control surface (24) of said valve cassette block (20); a valve control block (10) having an actuation surface (11) configured to control each of said plurality of valves (25) when said actuation surface (11) is in contact with said control surface (24) of said at least one valve cassette block (20), said valve control block (10) comprising at least one sliding groove (14) formed in said actuation surface (11); at least one sliding element (30) configured to slidably cooperate with said at least one sliding groove (14) such that said at least one sliding element (30) is movable relative to said valve control block (10) in a sliding direction parallel to said actuation surface (11); at least one traction bracket (40, 50) configured to embrace said at least one valve cassette block (20) and to interact with said at least one sliding element (30) in such a way that, due to a sliding movement of said at least one sliding element (30) in said at least one sliding groove (14), said traction bracket (40, 50) pulls said at least one valve cassette block (20) with its control surface (24) against said actuation surface (11) of said valve control block (10); An assembly comprising:

2. The valve control block (10) has a plurality of sliding grooves (14) formed on the operating surface (11), - a plurality of sliding elements (30) each configured to slidably cooperate with a respective sliding groove (14); a plurality of traction brackets (40, 50) each configured to embrace said at least one valve cassette block (20) and to interact with a respective one of said sliding parts (30) such that, due to a sliding movement of each sliding part (30) in its respective sliding groove (14), each traction bracket (40, 50) pulls said valve cassette block (20) with its control surface (24) against said actuation surface (11) of said valve control block (10); The assembly of claim 1 comprising:

3. The assembly of claim 2 , wherein the slide grooves of the plurality of slide grooves are formed parallel and equidistant to each other.

4. 4. The assembly according to claim 1, wherein the at least one sliding part (30) comprises two lateral shoulders (32), the shoulders (32) adapted to engage with respective undercut recesses (17) formed in the respective sliding grooves (14) of the valve control block (10).

5. 5. The assembly according to claim 1, wherein the at least one sliding part (30) comprises a ridge (34) that comprises part of a fastening mechanism implementing an interaction between the sliding part (30) and the traction bracket (40, 50) such that a sliding movement of the sliding part (30) in the sliding groove (14) along the sliding direction causes the traction bracket (40, 50) to pull the valve cassette block (20) with its control surface (24) against the actuation surface (11) of the valve control block (10).

6. 6. The assembly of claim 5, wherein the at least one traction bracket comprises a U-beam configured to at least partially accommodate the ridge (34) of the respective sliding part (30) and including a complementary portion of the fastening mechanism implementing the interaction between the sliding part (30) and the traction bracket (40, 50).

7. 7. The assembly of claim 6, wherein the fastening mechanism is implemented such that one of the sliding part and the towing bracket includes a sliding surface inclined with respect to the sliding direction, and the other of the sliding part and the towing bracket includes or accommodates an abutment element (60) for slidingly abutting the inclined sliding surface.

8. 8. The assembly according to claim 7, wherein the sliding surface is formed by at least one transversely elongated hole (36), and the abutment element comprises at least one pin (60) adapted to extend through the at least one elongated hole.

9. 9. An assembly as claimed in any one of claims 1 to 8, further comprising a tension screw (75) for controlling the forced sliding movement of the sliding part relative to the valve control block when the towing bracket interacts with the sliding part, whereby the actuating surface of the valve control block embraced by the towing bracket is pulled tightly against the control surface of the valve cassette block.

10. The at least one traction bracket comprises: - a bridge bar (41) configured to engage with said at least one sliding part; - a number of tension bars (42) whose first ends are connected to said bridge bar (41) and which extend perpendicular to said bridge bar (41) and substantially parallel to each other; - an embracing yoke removably attachable to the second ends of the tension bars, thereby connecting the ends of the tension bars; 10. The assembly of claim 1 , comprising:

11. 11. The assembly of claim 10, wherein the at least one traction bracket comprises at least two tension bars, and the at least one valve cassette block comprises at least one embracing through slot (28) extending through the control surface to an opposite side of the valve cassette block such that at least one of the at least two tension bars extends through the embracing through slot (28) when the traction bracket embraces the valve cassette block.

12. 12. The assembly of claim 1, further comprising an anti-displacement structure that prevents relative movement of the valve cassette block and the valve control block relative to each other, at least in the sliding direction, when the control surface and the actuation surface oppose or contact each other.

13. 1. A method of assembling a valve setup, comprising the steps of: - providing at least one valve cassette block (20) comprising a plurality of valves (25) controllable via a control surface (24) of the valve cassette block (20); - providing a valve control block (10) having an actuation surface (11), said valve control block (10) configured to control each of said plurality of valves (25) when said actuation surface (11) is in intimate contact with said control surface (24) of said at least one valve cassette block (20); - bringing at least one sliding part (30) into sliding engagement with at least one sliding groove (14) formed in said working surface (11) of said valve control block (10) such that at least one sliding part (30) is movable relative to said valve control block (10) in a sliding direction parallel to said working surface (11); - embracing said at least one valve cassette block (20) with at least one traction bracket (40, 50); - engaging said at least one traction bracket (40, 50) with said at least one sliding element (30) such that, due to the movement of said at least one sliding element (30) in said at least one sliding groove (14), said at least one traction bracket (40, 50) pulls said at least one valve cassette block (20) with its control surface (24) against said actuation surface (11) of said valve control block (10); - fastening said valve setup by sliding said at least one sliding part in said at least one sliding groove so that said at least one valve cassette block (20) is pulled with its control surface (24) against said actuation surface (11) of said valve control block (10); A method comprising:

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