Valve setup for SMB chromatography

Abstract

An assembly is provided, the assembly comprising: a 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 when the actuation surface (11) is in an actuated position in contact with the control surface (24) of the valve cassette block (20); and at least one pivot door (30), wherein an open state of the pivot door (30) enables the valve cassette block (20) to be pivoted with the control surface (24) of the valve cassette block (20) disposed against the actuation surface (11) of the valve control block. at least one pivoting door (30) hinged to the valve control block (20) such that the pivoting door (30) can be positioned in an operative position while the closed position of the pivoting door (30) is configured to hold the valve cassette block (20) in the operative position with an inner surface of the pivoting door (30) abutting a rear surface (26) of the valve cassette block (20) opposite the control surface (24) of the valve cassette block (20); and at least one flexible pressurization tube (45) disposed on an inner surface of the pivoting door (30) such that when pressure in the pressurization tube (45) increases, the pressurization tube presses against the rear surface (26) of the valve cassette block (20).

Description

[Technical Field]

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

[0002] One embodiment of chromatography for separating two components is the simulated moving bed (SMB) system. The SMB system comprises multiple columns connected to a valve switching system. The valve system controls fluid delivery to the multiple columns through corresponding column inlets and outlets.

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

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

[0005] Another conventional method for securing the valve cassette block to the valve control block is the use of hydraulically pressurized doors to apply the necessary sealing pressure. Hydraulically pressurized doors are very heavy, bulky, and have numerous components. Therefore, this procedure involves a very complex design and high costs. Summary of the Invention

[0006] According to one aspect, there is provided a valve setup or assembly, the assembly comprising: a valve cassette block comprising a plurality of valves controllable via control surfaces of the valve cassette block; a valve control block having an actuation surface configured to (selectively) control (e.g., open and close) each of a plurality of valves when the actuation surface is in in-actuated position and in in-contact with a control surface of the valve cassette block; at least one pivoting door hinged to the valve control block such that an open position of the pivoting door allows the valve cassette block to be placed in an operating position with a control face of the valve cassette block positioned against an operating face of the valve control block, while a closed position of the pivoting door holds the valve cassette block in the operating position with an inner surface of the pivoting door abutting a rear face of the valve cassette block opposite the control face of the valve cassette block; and at least one flexible pressurized tube disposed on an inner surface of the pivoting door such that when pressure in the pressurized tube increases, the pressurized tube presses against a rear surface of the valve cassette block.

[0007] In one example, the valve cassette block may include a plurality of fluid connectors arranged along its periphery (in a view perpendicular to the control face and rear face), and the fluid connectors may be adapted to connect external fluid conduits. The plurality of fluid connectors may include both inlet and outlet connectors. When the assembly is in an operational state, i.e., when the valve cassette block is in an operational position, the at least one pivoting door may be hinged to the valve control block via a hinge arranged in a portion of the periphery of the valve control block that does not overlap any of the plurality of fluid connectors (or the linear extensions of the fluid connectors along their connection directions to which external conduits may be connected) in a view / projection perpendicular to the operational face. This allows for very convenient installation of the valve cassette block, since the fluid connectors or any conduits connected thereto will not collide with the hinge when the valve cassette block is installed on the valve control block. Specifically, with this configuration, when the at least one pivoting door is open, the periphery of the valve control block can be kept free in the portion where the fluid connectors of the valve cassette block are arranged.

[0008] In some examples, the at least one pivot door may comprise at least a pair of pivot doors symmetrically hinged to the valve control block, for example, with either rotational symmetry and / or mirror symmetry.

[0009] In some examples, the peripheral edges of the valve control block (and optionally also the valve cassette block) may each define a rectangular shape. The at least one pivoting door may include two pivoting doors (i.e., a pair of pivoting doors) hinged to the valve control block via respective hinges located on either side of the peripheral edge adjacent to diagonally opposite corners, such as the left and right edges, respectively, with one hinge located adjacent to the lower corner of each edge and the other adjacent to the upper corner of each edge. Each of these hinges extends along the respective edge (e.g., the left or right edge) for no more than half of the respective edge (i.e., not beyond the center of the respective edge). The pivot axis may be parallel to these edges (i.e., parallel to the respective sides of the rectangle). When installed, each of the pivoting doors of the pair of pivoting doors may cover approximately half of the rear face of the valve cassette block, e.g., the upper and lower halves, respectively. The vertical pivot axis allows the pivot door to pivot horizontally, which allows it to remain in any position (without requiring additional fastening) during installation of the valve cassette block, making it much easier to handle. Furthermore, this arrangement leaves both the bottom and top edges of the assembly, as well as half of each of the left and right edges, free for the valve cassette block fluid connectors.

[0010] In some examples, the peripheries of the valve control block (and optionally also the valve cassette block) may each define a rectangular shape. The at least one pivot door may comprise two pivot doors (i.e., a pair of pivot doors) hinged to the valve control block via respective hinges located at two (e.g., adjacent) corners of the periphery, such as the lower left and lower right corners or the upper left and upper right corners. The pivot axis may be at a 45° angle relative to the edge between the two adjacent corners (of the rectangle), which may be the bottom edge in one example. Such corner pivot doors leave most of the periphery of the assembly free for the valve cassette block's fluid connectors. Because corner pivot doors do not pivot horizontally but may also pivot at least partially due to a vertical component, a counterbalance (gas) spring may support the pivoting motion against gravity.

[0011] In some examples, at least one pivot door may be lockable in a closed position by a latch mechanism located at an end of the pivot door opposite the end where the pivot door is hinged to the valve control block, which supports the pivot door to remain reliably closed even when pressure is applied via the pressurized tube, while being easy to handle.

[0012] In some examples, the inner surface of the at least one pivoting door may include at least one tube-receiving channel formed as a recess for receiving at least one pressurized tube. In some examples, the at least one pressurized tube may include multiple parallel (e.g., equidistantly spaced) pressurized tubes. In some examples, the at least one pressurized tube may be adapted to be pressurized with air. However, any gas or liquid may be possible.

[0013] According to another aspect, there is provided a method for assembling a valve setup or assembly, the method comprising: - providing a valve cassette block comprising a plurality of valves controllable via control surfaces of the valve cassette block; providing a valve control block having an actuation surface configured to (selectively) control (e.g., open and close) each of a plurality of valves when the actuation surface is in an actuation position and in intimate contact with a control surface of a valve cassette block, the valve control block comprising at least one second positioning component and a pair of hinge arms; providing at least one pivoting door hinged to the valve control block such that an open position of the pivoting door allows the valve cassette block to be placed in an operating position with a control face of the valve cassette block positioned against an operating face of the valve control block, while a closed position of the pivoting door holds the valve cassette block in the operating position with an inner surface of the pivoting door abutting a rear face of the valve cassette block opposite the control face of the valve cassette block; - providing at least one flexible pressurization tube, the at least one flexible pressurization tube being arranged on an inner surface of the pivoting door such that when pressure in the pressurization tube increases, the pressurization tube presses against a rear face of the valve cassette block; - mounting the valve cassette block in an operating position with at least one pivot door open; - locking at least one pivot door closed with the valve cassette block in the operating position; - pressurizing at least one pressurizing tube to press against a rear face of the valve cassette block, thereby pressing the valve cassette block with its control face against the actuation face of the valve control block.

[0014] In one example, pressurizing the at least one pressurized tube may include filling the at least one pressurized tube with compressed air, although any gas or liquid may be possible. [Brief explanation of the drawings]

[0015] Detailed descriptions of exemplary embodiments are provided below with reference to the exemplary drawings. Other features will become apparent from the description, 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.

[0016] [Figure 1] FIG. 1 illustrates an example of a valve cassette block. [Figure 2a] FIG. 2 illustrates an example of a valve control block. [Figure 2b] FIG. 2 illustrates an example of a valve control block. [Figure 3a] 1 illustrates a portion of an exemplary valve cassette block including valves and channels. [Figure 3b] FIG. 1 illustrates the function of an exemplary valve. [Figure 4a] FIG. 1 is a diagram showing an example of a pivoting door. [Figure 4b] FIG. 1 is a diagram showing an example of a pivoting door. [Figure 5a] FIG. 1 shows an example of a pressurized tube array. [Figure 5b] FIG. 1 shows an example of a pressurized tube array. [Figure 6a] FIG. 10 shows an example of a combination of a pivoting door and a pressurized tube array. [Figure 6b] FIG. 10 shows an example of a combination of a pivoting door and a pressurized tube array. [Figure 7a] FIG. 1 illustrates an example of a partially assembled valve setup. [Figure 7b] FIG. 1 illustrates an example of a partially assembled valve setup. [Figure 8a] FIG. 1 shows an example of a nearly fully assembled valve setup. [Figure 8b] FIG. 1 shows an example of a nearly fully assembled valve setup. [Figure 9a]1A-1C show an exemplary cross section of a valve setup. [Figure 9b] 1A-1C show an exemplary cross section of a valve setup. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0017] Detailed Description In the following, the embodiments will be described in detail with reference to the drawings. It should be understood that various modifications can be made to the embodiments. Unless otherwise specified, elements of one embodiment can be combined and used in other embodiments to form new embodiments.

[0018] The following description relates to assemblies that constitute a valve setup for use in SMB chromatographic separation processes, which may illustratively be performed to purify recombinant protein products, or monoclonal antibodies, or viral vectors, or DNA products.

[0019] The assembly comprises two blocks: a valve cassette block containing a plurality of valves, and a valve control block that controls the plurality of valves. Figure 1 shows an example of a valve cassette block 20, and Figures 2a and 2b show an example of a valve control block 10.

[0020] Valve cassette block 20 includes a plurality of valves 25 (not shown in FIG. 1 ), e.g., membrane or diaphragm valves. Valves 25 are accessible for control (e.g., switching between open and closed states, or between connected and disconnected states) via a control surface 24 of valve cassette block 20. In the example of FIG. 1 , control surface 24 is on a side opposite, and remote from, rear surface 26 of valve cassette block 20. The plurality of valves may be arranged in a regular array along control surface 24. Each valve may, for example, be addressed (controlled) separately from the other valves.

[0021] The valve control block 10 includes 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, with each solenoid configured to control (open / close) a respective valve 25 when the control surface 24 of the valve cassette block 20 is in close contact with the actuation surface 11 of the valve control block 10. Thus, the valve cassette block 20 may include n valves 25, and the valve control block 10 may include n control elements 15, e.g., including solenoids.

[0022] The control surface 24 may be a substantially flat surface of the valve cassette block 20. Similarly, the actuation surface 11 may be a substantially flat surface of the valve control block 10. The arrangement of the valves 25 on the valve cassette block 20 may match the arrangement of the control elements 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 its respective control element 15. Illustratively, the multiple valves 25 (and similarly the control elements 15) may be arranged according to a grid including rows and columns. However, one skilled in the art will readily appreciate that alternative arrangements are also possible.

[0023] Valve cassette block 20 includes multiple channels that can be connected or disconnected by actuating valves 25. Figure 3a shows a cutaway portion of valve cassette block 20 with membrane valves 25 and two channels oriented perpendicular to each other. The structure of valve cassette block 20 can include multiple sections as shown in Figure 3a to provide a manifold of valves 25 and interconnectable conduits that form flow paths.

[0024] 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 include multiple air chambers, each associated with a corresponding solenoid, such that the solenoid functions as a pneumatic actuator for the corresponding valve 25. The air chambers may include one or more cavities, such as one cavity on a surface of the valve control block 10 configured to receive a membrane valve. The air chambers may further include cavities that function as inlets and outlets for air passages.

[0025] For example, the solenoid may be a normally open (NO) solenoid, meaning that the membrane valve is normally closed (left side of Figure 3b). When the solenoid switches from open to closed, the air pressure on the membrane valve is removed, which causes the membrane valve to open and connect the conduits in the valve cassette block 20 (right side of Figure 3b).

[0026] In other words, the valve control block 10 and the valve cassette block 20 cooperate to switch the flow paths, and therefore the connections to the inlets and outlets, for the feed and solvent. The valve control block 10 and the valve cassette block 20 are formed separately and then mechanically joined to form the working position. One advantage of this configuration is that the valve control block 10 can be a permanent (i.e., reusable) component of the chromatography system, and the valve cassette block 20 can be a disposable component.

[0027] 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 correct functioning of the valve setup, the valve control block 10 and the valve cassette block 20 must be in airtight contact with each other. For this purpose, a combination of a pivoting door and a pressurized tube array can be used, as described below.

[0028] 1, the valve cassette block 20 may further include at least one first positioning component 22. Illustratively, the valve cassette block 20 may include two first positioning components 22. Further details regarding the at least one first positioning component 22 will be described below.

[0029] The valve cassette block 20 can include inlet and outlet connectors 28 for connecting to external components, such as a chromatography column or membrane device or collection vessel. In particular, the valve cassette block may include two sets of inlets and outlets. One set of inlets and outlets can provide fluid connections for buffer and feed streams, elution and / or wash fractions. Another set of inlet and outlet connectors can connect the valve cassette block to the inlet and outlet ports of the chromatography column / membrane adsorber. Illustratively, the valve cassette block 20 can include an integrally formed central body (e.g., made of plastic, such as acrylic) in which the valves 25 are disposed, and one or more components connected to the central body, such as at least one first positioning element 22 and inlet / outlet connectors 28 (fluidic connectors).

[0030] In particular, the inlet and outlet connectors 28 may be arranged transversely to the valve, for example on the side surfaces of the central body. For example, the central body may have a substantially rectangular parallelepiped shape, in which the pair of opposite faces with the greatest extension comprises the rear face 26 and the control face on which the valve 25 is arranged. The inlet / outlet connectors 28 may be located on one or more of the remaining (four) side surfaces.

[0031] Illustratively, if the valves 25 are arranged in a grid having x columns and y rows, there may be one inlet / outlet connector 28 for each row and one inlet / outlet connector 28 for each column. Thus, each side extending parallel to the rows may have x inlet / outlet connectors 28 corresponding to the column positions, while each side extending parallel to the columns may have a total of y inlet / outlet connectors 28 corresponding to the row positions.

[0032] The valve cassette block 20 may further comprise a pair of handles arranged on two opposite sides, for example along a second direction B relative to the central body, the second direction B being perpendicular to the first direction A. The handles allow for comfortable and safe handling during transport and installation of the valve cassette block 20 in the valve control block 10.

[0033] 2a and 2b, the valve control block 10 may include at least one second positioning component 12 and a pair of hinge arms 16. The at least one second positioning component 12 may be configured to cooperate with at least one first positioning component 22 to couple the valve cassette block 20 to the valve control block 10. In particular, the interaction between the at least one second positioning component 12 and the at least one first positioning component 22 enables accurate positioning of the valve cassette block 20 relative to the valve control block 10. Specifically, the valves 25 are positioned corresponding to the control elements 15.

[0034] Thus, by engaging at least one first positioning component 22 with at least one second positioning component 12, valve cassette block 20 can be positioned adjacent to valve control block 10. In particular, a substantially flat surface, i.e., actuation surface 24, of valve cassette block 20 on which valve 25 is disposed is in contact with a substantially flat surface of valve control block 10 on which control element 15 is disposed.

[0035] The at least one first positioning component 22 and the at least one second positioning component 12 may have complementary features that allow the valve cassette block 20 to be securely but removably connected to the valve control block 10. Illustratively, the features (e.g., shape) and / or location of the at least one first positioning component 22 and the at least one second positioning component 12 may be such that gravity holds the valve cassette block 20 in a certain position relative to the valve control block 10. Alternatively or additionally, the at least one first positioning component 22 and the at least one second positioning component 12 may interlock with one another to form a stable connection.

[0036] As mentioned above, the valve control block 10 may further include a pair of hinge arms 16. The hinge arms 16 may be integrally formed with or attached to the valve control block 10. Each hinge arm 16 is configured to provide a means for movably connecting a respective pivoting door to the valve control block 10.

[0037] In fact, the assembly may further comprise a pair (i.e., two) pivoting doors 30, each hinged to the valve control block 10 at a respective hinge, i.e., via a hinge arm 16. Figures 4a and 4b show examples of pivoting doors 30. The pivoting door 30 of Figure 4a may be configured to be connected to the hinge arm 16 of Figure 2a (first example), and the pivoting door 30 of Figure 4b may be configured to be connected to the hinge arm 16 of Figure 2b (second example).

[0038] The hinged connections allow each of the pivoting doors 30 to pivot about a respective hinge axis and open and close. Any suitable pivot mechanism may be employed for the hinges. Each hinge may have a respective hinge pin 17 connecting a block knuckle 18 formed on a respective hinge arm of the valve control block with a respective door knuckle 38 of the pivoting door 30 and defining a hinge axis.

[0039] Each pivoting door 30 is hinged to the valve control block 20 such that an open position of the pivoting door 30 allows the valve cassette block 20 to be placed in an operating position with its control surface 24 positioned against the operating surface 11 of the valve control block. When the pivoting door 30 is in its closed position, the pivoting door 30 holds the valve cassette block 20 in an operating position with the inner surface of the pivoting door 30 abutting the rear face 26 of the valve cassette block 20. Thus, as shown in more detail with reference to FIGS. 8a and 8b, the valve cassette block 20 may be sandwiched between the pivoting door 30 and the valve control block 20. When the pivoting doors are closed, they (together) may cover at least 50%, or at least 75%, or even at least 90% of the rear face 26 of the valve cassette block. In some instances, they may even cover substantially the entire rear face 26. Thus, pressure may be applied across most or all of the valve cassette block 20.

[0040] Each pivoting door 30 can include at least one tube-receiving channel 35 configured to receive at least a portion of a pressurized tube array 40, examples of which are shown in Figures 5a and 5b. The pivoting door 30 of Figure 4a can be configured to receive the pressurized tube array 40 of Figure 5a (first example), while the pivoting door 30 of Figure 4b can be configured to receive the pressurized tube array 40 of Figure 5b (second example).

[0041] The pressure tube array 40 may include a plurality of pressure tubes 45 and at least one supply conduit 43 that connects the pressure tubes 45 to one another and is adapted to supply fluid pressure to the pressure tubes 45. Specifically, the supply conduit 43 may be configured to be connected to an external pressurized air supply and to introduce pressurized air into the pressure tubes 45. The pressure tubes 45 are tubes that expand when pressurized air flows into them. In particular, the pressure tubes 45 may be configured to expand in their thickness direction or change their shape from a contracted shape to an expanded shape when pressurized.

[0042] Illustratively, as shown in Figures 5a and 5b, the pressure tube 45 may include a braided tube wall, for example made of metal or plastic, and a filler material, for example made of an open-cell foam such as polyurethane foam 44. The air pressure for inflating the pressure tube 45 may be about 4 bar to about 10 bar, preferably about 5 bar to about 8 bar, and more preferably about 6 bar. For example, the number of pressure tubes 45 may be equal to the number of rows in the grid of valves 25.

[0043] The tube-receiving channel 35 may comprise at least one recess in the pivoting door 30, and in particular, the one or more recesses may be located on the inner surface of the pivoting door 30. In other words, there may be one or more indentations on the inner surface. The pressurizing tube array 40 is at least partially inserted into the tube-receiving channel 35 of each pivoting door 30. In particular, the tube-receiving channel 35 has at least a plurality of pressurizing tubes 45 inserted therein.

[0044] Taking the level of the inner major surface as a reference, the tube receiving channels 35 can have a depth equivalent to 1.5 times the thickness of the deflated pressurized tubes 45, so that when the deflated pressurized tubes 45 are inserted into the tube receiving channels 35, they are substantially flush with the inner major surface of the pivoting door 30. Conversely, when the pressurized tubes 45 are inflated by pressurized air, they protrude above the level of the inner major surface.

[0045] The combination of each pivot door 30 and its respective embedded pressurized tube array 40 may be referred to as a "pressurized door." Figures 6a and 6b show examples of pressurized doors.

[0046] 7a and 7b show an example of a partially assembled valve setup comprising the elements described above, with the pressurized door in an open position. Illustratively, the valve cassette block 20 may be joined to the valve control block 10 in this open configuration.

[0047] As can be seen, the valve cassette block 20 in this example may include a plurality of fluid connectors 28 (specifically shown in FIG. 1) arranged along its periphery (in a view perpendicular to the control face 24 and rear face 26), the fluid connectors 28 adapted to connect external fluid conduits. The plurality of fluid connectors 28 includes both inlet and outlet connectors. In both the examples of FIGS. 7a and 7b, two (symmetrically arranged) pivoting doors 30 are used.

[0048] In the example of Fig. 7a, the height of each pivot door 30 is approximately half the height of the valve cassette block 20. In particular, the two pivot doors 30 according to this first example are horizontally adjacent to each other in the closed state. In the example of Fig. 7b, the width of each pivot door 30 is approximately half the width of the valve cassette block 20. In particular, the two pivot doors 30 according to this second example are vertically adjacent to each other in the closed state.

[0049] In both examples, the pivoting doors 30 are hinged to the valve control block 10 via respective hinges located on portions of the periphery of the valve control block 10 that do not overlap any of the multiple fluid connectors (or the linear extensions of the fluid connectors along their connection directions to which external conduits may be connected) in a view / projection perpendicular to the operating plane when the assembly is in an operating state, i.e., when the valve cassette block is in its operating position. This allows for very convenient installation of the valve cassette block, since the fluid connectors or any conduits connected thereto do not collide with the hinges when the valve cassette block is installed on the valve control block. Specifically, with this configuration, when at least one pivoting door is open, the periphery of the valve control block can be kept free in the portion where the fluid connectors of the valve cassette block are located.

[0050] In both examples, the pivoting door is hinged symmetrically to the valve control block, for example, either rotationally symmetric (first example) and / or mirror-symmetric (second example).

[0051] More specifically, the periphery of the valve control block (and valve cassette block) in at least these two examples defines a rectangular shape. In the first example, hinges are located on both sides of the periphery adjacent to diagonally opposite corners, i.e., on the left side adjacent to the bottom corner and on the right side adjacent to the top corner. Each of these hinges extends along its respective edge for less than half of the edge (i.e., not beyond the center of the edge). The pivot axis is parallel to these edges and is therefore vertical within the assembly. When closed, each of the pivoting doors 30 covers approximately half of the rear face of the valve cassette block, i.e., the top and bottom halves, respectively. With a vertical pivot axis, the pivoting doors pivot horizontally, which allows them to remain in any position (without requiring additional fastening) during installation of the valve cassette block, making them much easier to handle. Additionally, this arrangement leaves both the bottom and top edges of the assembly, as well as half of each of the left and right edges, free for the fluid connectors of the valve cassette block.

[0052] In a second example, the hinges are located at the two lower corners of the periphery, or optionally at the two upper corners of the periphery. The pivot axis is oriented at approximately 45° to the lower edge and therefore approximately 45° to the horizontal. Such corner pivot doors leave most of the assembly's periphery free for the valve cassette block's fluid connectors. Corner pivot doors cause the door to not pivot horizontally, but also pivot at least partially due to a vertical component, allowing a counterbalance (gas) spring to support the pivoting motion against gravity.

[0053] To press the valve cassette block 20 against the valve control block 10, the pivoting door 30 is closed so that the pressurized tube(s) contact the rear surface of the valve cassette block 20. FIGS. 8a and 8b show an example of a nearly fully assembled valve setup with the pivoting door 30 closed. The valve cassette block 20 is sandwiched between the valve control block 10 on one side and a pair of pressurized doors on the other side. Illustratively, the entire control surface of the valve cassette block 20, including the valves 25, may be adjacent to the actuation surface of the valve control block 10, including the control elements 25. Similarly, the entire rear surface of the valve cassette block 20 may be adjacent to the inner surface of the pivoting door 30 and the pressurized tube 45 inserted therein.

[0054] Once the valve cassette block 20 is surrounded by the pivoting doors 30, each pivoting door 30 may be locked by a latch mechanism, so that the door remains securely closed while the tube is pressurized. This prevents the pivoting doors 30 from separating, particularly when the pressurization tube 45 is inflated. Accordingly, the valve control block 10 may include multiple block-side bolt holes 13, and each pivoting door 30 may include at least one door-side bolt hole 33, each of which may be configured to fasten to a respective one of the multiple block-side bolt holes 13. Exemplarily, each door-side bolt hole 33 may be fastened to the block-side bolt hole 13 by a latch bolt 14. Accordingly, the fully assembled valve setup may also include multiple latch bolts 14.

[0055] Those skilled in the art will readily be able to identify alternative designs for fastening and locking the valve cassette to the control block that include different block hole arrangements. As just another example, it is possible to have a door fastening design similar to the bolting arrangement described below in "Alternative Example" (related to Figures 2b, 4b, and 5b). This design may use four block-side bolt holes and four pivot door-side bolt holes similar to 13.

[0056] In another example (e.g., as in Figures 2b, 4b, and 8b), the valve control block 10 can include a plurality of block-side bolt holes 13 (e.g., four), and each pivoting door 30 can include a plurality of door-side bolt holes 33 (e.g., four). Each block-side bolt hole 13 can include a hole in the surface of the valve control block 10 (having the control element 15 thereon), and each door-side bolt hole 33 can include a hole in the pivoting door 30. The assembly can further include a plurality of latch bolts 14 (e.g., four).

[0057] Two of the block bolt holes 13 may be located at the upper corners of the valve control block 10, the third block bolt hole 13 may be located at the midpoint between the first two block bolt holes 13, and the fourth block bolt hole 13 may be located vertically in line with the third block bolt hole 13 but at the bottom of the valve control block 10. In other words, the fourth block bolt hole 13 may be located at the midpoint between two hinge arms 16. In other examples (not shown), the number and location of the block bolt holes 13 may be different.

[0058] As can be seen in the figures, in these examples, the latch mechanism is at least partially located on the end of the swing door opposite the end where the swing door is hinged to the valve control block. This latch mechanism supports the swing door and ensures that it remains closed even when pressure is applied via the pressure tube, while being easy to handle. Additionally, the exterior surface of the swing door 30 includes a plurality of ridges to provide rigidity and stability to the swing door 30.

[0059] When the valve setup is assembled, a pair of pressurized tube arrays 40 are filled with pressurized air at the point where the valve cassette block 20 is located between the valve control block 10 and the pivot door 30, pressing the valve cassette block 20 against the valve control block 10. Specifically, the pressurized tubes 45 of the pressurized tube array 40 can be expanded to press the valve cassette block 20 against the valve control block 10. FIGS. 9a and 9b show an exemplary cross-section of an assembled valve setup. As described, the pressurized tubes 45 are configured to expand when pressurized air enters, applying pressure to the valve cassette block 20 and thereby bringing the valve cassette block 20 into the required airtight contact with the valve control block 10. Thus, the valve cassette block 20 can be appropriately pressed against the valve control block 10 to provide a functioning valve setup. During operation, all of the tubes 45 can be compressed substantially flat, as shown schematically in FIGS. 9a and 9b. This increases the pressurized contact surface and therefore ensures uniformity of the applied force. In one possible implementation, when the door is closed, it compresses / squeezes the tube so that its initial round shape changes to an oval shape. Alternatively, a custom tube can be used that is already in the desired oval shape as shown.

[0060] The above-described pneumatic method for installing the valve cassette block 20 (i.e., operatively connecting the valve cassette block 20 to the valve control block 10) is simple, intuitive, and requires minimal effort. Assembly time is significantly reduced, particularly compared to conventional methods in which screws are used directly to secure the valve cassette block 20 to the valve control block 10. Furthermore, the cost and complexity of the method are significantly reduced compared to hydraulic mounting systems.

Claims

1. a valve cassette block (20) comprising a plurality of valves (25) controllable via control surfaces (24) of said valve cassette block (20); a valve control block (10) having an actuation surface (11), the valve control block (10) configured to control each of the plurality of valves when the actuation surface (11) is in intimate contact with the control surface (24) of the valve cassette block (20) in an actuated position; at least one pivoting door (30) hinged to the valve control block (20) such that an open state of the pivoting door (30) allows the valve cassette block (20) to be placed in the operating position with the control surface (24) of the valve cassette block (20) positioned against the operating surface (11) of the valve control block, while a closed position of the pivoting door (30) holds the valve cassette block (20) in the operating position with an inner surface of the pivoting door (30) abutting against a rear surface (26) of the valve cassette block (20) opposite the control surface (24) of the valve cassette block (20); at least one flexible pressurized tube (45) disposed on the inner surface of the pivoting door (30) such that when pressure in the pressurized tube (45) increases, the pressurized tube presses against the rear surface (26) of the valve cassette block (20); The assembly, wherein the at least one pivot door (30) comprises at least a pair of pivot doors (30) symmetrically hinged to the valve control block (10).

2. 2. The assembly of claim 1, wherein the valve cassette block (20) comprises a plurality of fluid connectors (28) arranged along the periphery of the valve cassette block (20), and the at least one pivoting door (30) is hinged to the valve control block (10) via a hinge arranged on a portion of the periphery of the valve control block (10) that does not overlap any of the plurality of fluid connectors (28) within a field of view perpendicular to the operating surface (11).

3. 2. The assembly of claim 1, wherein the periphery of the valve control block (10) defines a rectangular shape, and the at least one pivoting door (30) comprises two pivoting doors (30) hinged to the valve control block (10) via respective hinges located on either side of the periphery adjacent diagonally opposite corners, each hinge extending along a respective edge for no more than half of the edge and with a pivot axis parallel to the edges.

4. 2. The assembly of claim 1, wherein the periphery of the valve control block (10) defines a rectangular shape, and the at least one pivoting door (30) comprises two pivoting doors (30) hinged to the valve control block (10) via respective hinges located at two adjacent corners of the periphery, the pivot axis being at 45° relative to the edge between the two adjacent corners.

5. 2. The assembly of claim 1, wherein the at least one pivoting door (30) is lockable in the closed position by a latch mechanism located at an end of the pivoting door (30) opposite the end at which the pivoting door (30) is hinged to the valve control block (10).

6. 2. The assembly of claim 1, wherein the inner surface of the at least one pivoting door includes at least one tube receiving channel formed as a recess for receiving the at least one pressurized tube.

7. The assembly of claim 1, wherein the at least one pressurizing tube (45) comprises a plurality of parallel pressurizing tubes (45).

8. 2. The assembly of claim 1, wherein said at least one pressurized tube (45) is adapted to be pressurized with air.

9. 10. The assembly of claim 1, wherein said at least one pressurized tube (45) includes a filler made of open-cell polyurethane foam.

10. 1. A method for assembling a valve setup, said method comprising: providing a valve cassette block (20) having a plurality of valves (25) controllable via control surfaces (24) of said valve cassette block (20); providing a valve control block (10) having an actuation surface (11), the valve control block (10) configured to control each of the plurality of valves when the actuation surface (11) is in intimate contact with the control surface (24) of the valve cassette block (20) in an actuated position, the valve control block including at least one second positioning component and a pair of hinge arms; providing at least one pivoting door (30) hinged to the valve control block (20) such that an open state of the pivoting door (30) allows the valve cassette block (20) to be placed in the operating position with the control surface (24) of the valve cassette block (20) positioned against the operating surface (11) of the valve control block, while a closed position of the pivoting door (30) holds the valve cassette block (20) in the operating position with an inner surface of the pivoting door (30) abutting against a rear surface (26) of the valve cassette block (20) opposite the control surface (24) of the valve cassette block (20); providing at least one flexible pressurized tube (45) disposed on the inner surface of the pivoting door (30) such that when pressure in the pressurized tube (45) increases, the pressurized tube presses against the rear surface (26) of the valve cassette block (20); mounting the valve cassette block in the operating position with the at least one pivot door (30) in an open position; locking the at least one pivoting door (30) in the closed position with the valve cassette block in the operating position; pressurizing the at least one pressurizing tube (45) so that the at least one pressurizing tube (45) presses against the rear face (26) of the valve cassette block (20), thereby causing the control face (24) of the valve cassette block (20) to press the valve cassette block against the actuation face (11) of the valve control block (10); The method, wherein the at least one pivot door (30) comprises at least a pair of pivot doors (30) symmetrically hinged to the valve control block (10).

11. 11. The method of claim 10, wherein pressurizing the at least one pressurization tube (45) comprises filling the at least one pressurization tube (45) with compressed air.

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