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] 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. Feeds contain multiple components that must be separated from one another, such as one or more target components and impurities. Chromatography is a technique used to perform this separation step.

[0002] One embodiment of chromatography for separating two components is the simulated moving bed (SMB). An 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 move at regular intervals in a given direction to simulate column movement in the opposite direction. Switching between the inlet and outlet positions requires a set of appropriately controlled valves.

[0003] The Sartorius® BioSMB system 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 part that comes into 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 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 control block is the use of a swing door equipped with an array 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 aspect, at least one 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 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 element configured to slidably couple (i.e. engage) with at least one sliding groove such that the at least one sliding element 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 element such that a sliding movement of the at least one sliding element 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 actuation 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). All of the sliding parts may be movable parallel to one another (i.e., in the same sliding direction). In one example, the plurality of sliding grooves may be formed parallel to one another and may even be at least partially equidistant from one another. 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 sliding movement of the respective sliding parts in the respective sliding grooves (along the respective sliding directions relative to the valve control block and the traction bracket) causes the respective traction bracket to pull the at least one valve cassette block's control surface against the actuation surface of the valve control block.

[0008] At least one sliding element may have two side shoulders as an embodiment of the sliding element interlocking structure, and the shoulders may be adapted to engage with respective undercut recesses formed in respective sliding grooves of the valve control block. Alternatively, other shapes of sliding element interlocking structures may be used, as will be further described 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) are movable relative to the valve control block along the 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. Thus, the sliding part(s) can 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 their movement along the sliding direction relative to the valve control block such that sliding movement of the sliding parts in the sliding groove(s) along the sliding direction results in relative movement between the sliding part(s) and the respective towing bracket(s). In the assembled state (i.e., in operation), the sliding part(s) and the respective towing bracket(s) are movably coupled via a fastening mechanism that implements an interaction that causes the towing bracket(s) to pull at least one valve cassette block toward the valve control block upon sliding movement of the sliding parts. In other words, the fastening mechanism converts sliding movement of the sliding parts in the sliding direction into movement of the towing bracket(s) in the pulling direction, i.e., in a direction perpendicular to the actuation surface of the valve control block.

[0011] At least one sliding component may include a ridge, the ridge including a portion of a fastening mechanism that implements the interaction between the sliding component and the traction bracket. In one example, at least one traction bracket may include a U-beam configured to at least partially accommodate the ridge of the respective sliding component and that may include a complementary portion of a fastening mechanism that implements the interaction between the sliding component 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 houses an abutment element for slidingly abutting against the inclined sliding surface. Relative movement between the sliding part and the towing bracket causes the abutment element to slide along the inclined direction of the sliding surface so as to generate a traction force between the sliding part and the towing bracket that pulls the valve cassette block's control surface against the operating 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 movement of the towing bracket perpendicular to the operating surface of the valve control block.

[0013] The assembly may further include 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, so that 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 include a bridge bar, a plurality of tension bars, and a holding 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 one another. The holding 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 held between the bridge bar and the holding yoke, with the bridge bar and the holding yoke connected and held together by the tension bar. Specifically, during operation, the bridge bar may directly engage (interact) with each sliding component so as to be pulled toward the valve control block when the sliding component moves. The tension bar may extend from the bridge along a traction direction and transmit a traction force to the holding yoke. The embracing yoke may embrace and support the valve cassette block on a surface opposite the control surface, i.e., a retention surface. This allows the embracing yoke(s) to mechanically support the valve cassette block (on the retention surface) while pressing the retention surface toward the valve control block. This allows the valve setup 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, include at least three tension bars, and the at least one valve cassette block may include at least one embracing through-slot extending through the control surface to the opposite side of the valve cassette block so 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, which may result in more uniform distribution of the traction force across the valve cassette block.

[0016] The assembly may further include a displacement prevention 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 (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 relative to each other for reliable operation of 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 not only ensures proper operation, but may also avoid or reduce the risk of damage (e.g., to 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 control surfaces of the valve cassette block; - providing a valve control block having an actuation surface, the valve control block configured to (selectively) control (e.g., open or 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 associating at least one sliding element with at least one sliding groove formed in an actuation surface of the valve control block, such that the at least one sliding element is movable relative to the valve control block in (particularly only one) sliding direction parallel to the actuation surface; - holding at least one valve cassette block with at least one traction bracket; - engaging at least one traction bracket with at least one sliding element such that a (sliding) movement of the at least one sliding element in the at least one sliding groove (relative to the valve control block and the traction bracket) 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 the actuation surface of the valve control block; A method comprising: [Brief explanation of the drawings]

[0018]

[0013] The details of exemplary embodiments are described 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.

[0019] [Figure 1] 1 shows an example of a valve cassette block. [Figure 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 components. [Figure 4b] 10A-10C show different examples of cross-sectional views of sliding components and corresponding sliding grooves. [Figure 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 INVENTION

[0020] Detailed Description The examples are described in detail below with reference to the drawings. It should be understood that various modifications may be made to the examples. Unless otherwise specified, elements of one example may be combined and used in other examples to form new examples.

[0021] The following description relates to assemblies that comprise 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 includes 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 includes a plurality 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 control (e.g., switching between open and closed states, or between 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 from the retaining surface 26 of the valve cassette block 20. The plurality of 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 includes a plurality of control elements 15, e.g., a plurality of solenoids, arranged on the 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 (e.g., open or 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. 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 when the control surface 24 is in close contact with the actuation surface 11 in the installed state of the assembly, each control element 15 is arranged adjacent to a corresponding valve 25 and can control that valve.

[0025] In the example shown in Figure 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 relative to the plane formed by the actuation surface 11 in which the control elements 15 are located. As shown in Figure 2, the sliding grooves 11 may be arranged (regularly) parallel to one another (e.g., equidistantly) so as to (partially) separate parallel control block banks 16 that form 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, each comprising one or more control elements 15, may have a surface, preferably lying in a common plane, that forms part of the actuation surface 11. 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 includes multiple channels that can be connected or disconnected by actuating valves 25. FIG. 3A shows a cutaway portion of the valve cassette block 20, including a membrane valve 25 and two channels oriented perpendicular to each other. The structure of the valve cassette block 20 may include multiple sections, 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 also include inlet and outlet connectors for connecting to external components, such as a chromatography column, a membrane device, or a collection container. Illustratively, the valve cassette block 20 may be a unitarily formed block made of plastic, such as acrylic resin.

[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 include multiple air chambers, each associated with a corresponding solenoid, such that the solenoids function as pneumatic actuators for the corresponding valves 25. The air chambers may include 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 chambers may further include cavities having inlets and outlets for air passages.

[0030] For example, the solenoid may be a normally open (NO) solenoid, meaning the membrane valve is normally closed (left side of Figure 3b). When the solenoid switches from open to closed, air pressure on the membrane valve is removed, opening it and connecting the passages within the valve cassette block 20 (right side of Figure 3b). It is also possible to construct 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 using an electromagnetic latching solenoid or piezoelectric actuator may be used.

[0031] In other words, the valve control block 10 and the valve cassette block 20 work together to switch the flow paths, and thus 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. One advantage of this configuration is that the valve control block 10 can be a permanent part of the chromatography system, while the valve cassette block 20 can 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 be in airtight contact with each other and that the valves 25 of the valve cassette block 20 be precisely positioned relative 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 traction brackets as described below.

[0034] 4a shows a plurality of exemplary sliding parts 30, all of which may 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 (a 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 in sliding grooves 14, but not all sliding grooves 14 accommodate a sliding element 30. In the example shown in FIGS. 1 and 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 with 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 each other, so that each sliding element 30 can interlock with its respective sliding groove 14. In particular, the 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 groove 14 is an empty space (or negative space) defined by the 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 bank 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 element) that 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 element 30 can be considered to include an interlocking portion 32 (such as a lateral shoulder 32) configured to engage with the valve control block 10, as described below, while the ridge 34 is configured to engage with the towing bracket. In particular, the interlocking portion 32 can have both a shape and size that matches (i.e., is substantially identical to) the shape and size of the sliding groove portion with which it engages to ensure stable interlocking. As described in more detail below, the ridge 34, which is also housed within the sliding groove 14, may have different sizes, and even a different shape, relative to the sliding groove.

[0039] Figure 4b shows three different cross-sectional 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 for illustrative purposes only 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 pulling direction), and the width may vary in steps or gradually, as in examples (i) to (iii). The variable width may create a "bottleneck" so that when the sliding element 30 is inserted into the sliding groove 14, the sliding element 30 becomes fixed along the pulling direction.

[0042] Therefore, the sliding components 30 can be slidably interlocked with the sliding grooves 14 of the valve control block 10, thereby fixing the sliding components 30 and the valve control block 10 to each other.

[0043] 4a, each sliding element 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 spanning the width of the ridge) that implements the interaction between the sliding element 30 and the towing bracket (described further below) such that sliding movement of the sliding element 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 holes 38 are configured to receive tension screws of a plurality of tension screws 75 (e.g., shown in FIG. 7). The threaded holes 38 may, in particular, be blind holes.

[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 plurality of sliding components 30 are configured to engage with the plurality of traction brackets. FIG. 5 shows a plurality of exemplary traction brackets, each composed of a brace component 40 and a holding yoke 50. Illustratively, the traction brackets may all be identical. The plurality of traction brackets are configured to hold and hold the valve cassette block 20 such that the valve cassette block 20 and the plurality of traction brackets form a rigid body. In other words, the plurality of traction brackets may be configured to hold the valve cassette block 20 so that the valve cassette block 20 does not move relative to the plurality of 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 are configured to not move relative to each other, but rather to join together so that they behave as a single rigid body even under the application of (traction) 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 component 40) may include a bridge bar 41 and multiple tension bars 42 extending perpendicular to the bridge bar 41. In particular, the tension bars 42 may have first ends connected to the bridge bar 41 and may extend perpendicular to the bridge bar 41 and substantially parallel to one another. They may even be equidistant from one another within one traction bracket. In particular, one tension bar 42 (outer tension bar) may be provided at each end of the bridge bar 41 so that the tension bars at both ends of the bridge bar 41 (outer tension bars) can 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 so that the inner tension bar(s) extend through the valve cassette block.

[0049] In the illustrated example, each traction bracket includes a support yoke 50 removably attachable to the second ends of the tension bars 42, thereby connecting the second ends of the tension bars 42. For example, each tension bar 42 may include an opening 43 (through slot) at its second end configured to receive a respective support yoke. Each support yoke 50 may include a body 53 and a locking element 56. The body 53 may be a straight bar. Each support 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 support yoke 50 may match the shape and dimensions of the opening 43. The locking element 56 may be configured to maintain the support 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. Multiple brace components 40 and multiple embracing yokes 50 can together form a "rib cage" that can encase the valve cassette block 20. In this manner, the valve cassette block 20 can 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 holding yoke 50 may have multiple protrusions 59 on a side configured to face and contact the valve cassette block 20. The multiple protrusions 59 on the enclosing part 50 may be positioned such that, in the assembled state, each protrusion 59 may contact an area on 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, thereby forming an E-shape. In other examples, two or more inner tension bars may be provided. The tension bars 42 may be equidistant from one another along the brace component 40, or may have unequal distances from one another.

[0054] In the case of one or more inner tension bars, the valve cassette block 20 may include a plurality 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. Thus, the valve cassette block 20 and a plurality of traction brackets 40, 50 may be joined by passing the inner tension bars through the plurality of embracing through-slots 28. If each traction bracket 40, 50 includes n inner tension bars and there are m traction brackets 40, 50 for one valve cassette block, the valve cassette block 20 may include at least n × m embracing through-slots 28. The presence of one or more inner tension bars may help distribute forces more evenly.

[0055] In summary, the traction 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 elements 30, which are engageable with the traction brackets 40, 50, for example, by respective bridge bars 41. In other examples, the traction brackets may not have bridge bars, and instead a tension bar may be directly engageable with the sliding elements.

[0056] Indeed, as shown in FIG. 5 , the bridge bar 41 of each brace element 40 comprises a U-beam configured to at least partially accommodate the ridge 34 of the respective sliding element 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 element 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 element 30.

[0057] Each traction bracket comprises a portion of a fastening mechanism complementary to the portion of the fastening mechanism implemented on the respective sliding element 30. This complementary portion of the fastening mechanism therefore contributes to implementing the interaction between the sliding element 30 and the traction brackets 40, 50 such that sliding movement of the sliding element 30 in the sliding groove 14 relative to the traction brackets causes the traction brackets 40, 50 to pull the valve cassette block 20 with its control face 24 against the actuation 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 includes a plurality of second through slots 46 across its width (perpendicular to the sliding and pulling directions), which may be angled or mating through slots, as described further 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 component 40 are positioned corresponding 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 second through slots 46 on each towing component 40 and the first through slots 36 on each sliding component 30 are positioned such that, when the protuberances 34 are inserted into the slits 44, each first through slot 36 at least partially overlaps two second through slots 46. In other words, the first and second through slots 36, 46 are positioned such that the first and second through slots 36, 46 can be at least partially aligned with each other.

[0060] Thus, the assembled combination of the towing bracket and the sliding element also has a through-slot across its width. To complete the embodiment of the fastening mechanism, a plurality 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 element 30 and the towing bracket 40, 50. Thus, the pins 60 are configured to join the towing bracket 40, 50 and the respective sliding element 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 so that the sliding element 30 and the towing bracket 40, 50 can still partially move 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 match the cross-sectional shape and dimensions 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 having a major axis extension and a minor axis extension (e.g., in a plane parallel to the pulling direction and parallel to the sliding direction). The major axis extension is larger than the corresponding dimension of the pin 60 so that the pin 60 can move within the oblique through slot along the major axis extension 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 (the ratio of the long extension to the short extension) of 5 or greater. The minor axis extension of the oblique through slot can correspond to the thickness of the pin 60.

[0062] The longitudinal direction of the extension is considered the oblique direction. This oblique direction, i.e., the extension along the longitudinal 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, a plurality of sliding components 30, a plurality of brace components 40, a valve cassette block 20, a plurality of pins 60, a plurality of tension screws 75, a plurality of retaining plates 70, and a plurality of embracing yokes 50. These components may be assembled according to various installation procedures.

[0064] In one example, the valve cassette block 20 may first be assembled with the towing brackets 40, 50. Next, the sliding elements 30 may be joined to the towing brackets 40, 50 with pins 60. After that, all of the sliding elements 30 may be inserted together into their respective sliding grooves 14 of the valve control block 10. Once the sliding elements 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 inserted sliding element 30. 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 components in the sliding grooves. As another function, the fixing plates may stabilize and fix the traction brackets 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 serve as abutment components 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 components 30.

[0067] In another example of an assembly procedure, the brace element 40 may first be joined to the sliding element 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 element 40 together with the embracing yoke 50. The sliding element 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 before actuating the assembly, as described further below.

[0068] However, in yet another particularly desirable example, the brace element 40 (without the holding yoke 50 or the valve cassette block 20) ​​may first be joined to the sliding element 30 by the pin 60. The sliding element 30 may then be inserted into the sliding groove 14 of the valve control block 10 and secured with the fixing plate 70. The valve control block 20 may then be inserted into the brace element 40 and secured with the holding yoke 50 before tightening the tension screw 75. This last example may be particularly relevant when at least the valve cassette block 20 is implemented as a disposable element that can be replaced after use, while the other elements in the assembly are implemented as reusable elements. In such a case, replacing the valve cassette block 20 avoids the need to completely disassemble the entire setup. It may be sufficient to release the tension screw 75 and pull the holding yoke 50 out of the hole in the tension bar 42.

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

[0070] In particular, the ridge 34 of the sliding element 30 may be located inside the bridge bar 41 of the brace element 40. In other words, the ridge 34 may be sandwiched between the side flanges 45 of the slit 44 of the brace element 40. The ridge 34 and the surrounding bridge bar 41 may be located within the sliding groove 14 of the valve control block 10. As described above, the interlocking portion 32 of the sliding element 30 may fit into the mating portion of the sliding groove so that the sliding element 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 match the width of the sliding groove 14, so that movement of the sliding element 30 and the brace element 40 does not occur perpendicular to the sliding direction and the traction direction. Therefore, movement of the valve cassette block 20 relative to the valve control block can be effectively prevented at least in directions perpendicular to the sliding and pulling directions, and the arrangement of the control elements 15 on the actuation surface of the valve control block 10 and the valves 25 on the control surface of the valve cassette block can be stably maintained relative to each other at least in directions perpendicular to the sliding and pulling directions.

[0071] Additionally, the valve cassette block 20 and / or the valve control block 10 may include one or more alignment features configured to maintain the cassette subassembly fixed relative to the sliding direction, which may help press the valve cassette block 20 against the valve control block 10, and may further contribute to properly aligning the valves 25 on the valve cassette block 20 relative 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 its control face side, 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 corresponding only to the control block bank 16. In the example shown, 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. Therefore, inserting the at least one protruding portion 22 into the at least one groove 12 of each control block bank 16 may support correct alignment and prevent movement of the valve cassette block and the valve control block relative to each other, at least in the sliding direction, in the assembled state. In the example shown in FIG. 2, each control block bank 16 has two grooves 12.

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

[0075] 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 element 30. This is the fully released position of the tension screw, which results in 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 tightened with their heads abutting against the fixed plate 70, each sliding element 30 moves along the sliding direction relative to the valve control block 10. More specifically, when the tension screws 75 are tightened, the sliding elements 30 are pulled toward the fixed plate 70. As can be seen in the steps of Figures 8a to 8c, with the continuous operation of the tension screws 75, the sliding elements 30 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 tightened.

[0077] Since the corresponding brace element 40 is also prevented from moving along the sliding direction (vertical in the case of Figures 8a to 8c), movement of the sliding element 30 in the sliding direction is also relative to the brace element 40. The sliding element 30 and the brace element 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 inclined through-slots) converts the movement of the sliding element along the sliding direction into movement towards the brace element 40 and, therefore, into movement of the towing bracket together with the embraced valve cassette block in the towing direction. In the sequence of Figures 8a to 8c, the valve control block moves to the right, which brings the control surface of the valve cassette block and the actuating surface of the valve control block closer to each other. The principle is the same when the first through-slot 36 is a mating through-slot and the second through-slot 46 is an inclined 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, compared to conventional methods that directly use screws to secure the valve cassette block 20 to the valve control block 10, the time required for assembly, and particularly for replacing the valve cassette block, is significantly reduced. Also, as in the above example, the number of parts is significantly reduced—for example, from 64 screws to just four fasteners or screws (one for each sliding component)—and torque wrenches are not required. Furthermore, the cost and complexity of this method are significantly reduced compared to hydraulic mounting systems. Finally, any assembly errors are easily detected, virtually eliminating operator error.

Claims

1. - at least one 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) configured to control each of the plurality of valves (25) when said actuation surface (11) is in close 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 interlock 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) such that sliding movement of said at least one sliding element (30) in said at least one sliding groove (14) causes said traction bracket (40, 50) to pull 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 slide 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 the at least one valve cassette block (20) and to interact with a respective one of the sliding elements (30) so that, upon sliding movement of the respective sliding element (30) in the respective sliding groove (14), the respective traction bracket (40, 50) pulls the valve cassette block (20) with its control surface (24) against the actuation surface (11) of the valve control block (10); The assembly of claim 1 , comprising:

3. The assembly according to claim 2 , wherein the sliding grooves of the plurality of sliding grooves are formed parallel and equidistant from one another.

4. 2. The assembly according to claim 1, wherein the at least one sliding element (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. 2. The assembly of claim 1, wherein the at least one sliding element (30) comprises a ridge (34), the ridge (34) comprising part of a fastening mechanism implementing an interaction between the sliding element (30) and the traction bracket (40, 50) such that sliding movement of the sliding element (30) in the sliding groove (14) along the sliding direction causes the traction bracket (40, 50) to pull the valve cassette block (20) by 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 protrusion (34) of the respective sliding element (30) and including a complementary portion of the fastening mechanism implementing the interaction between the sliding element (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 that is inclined relative to the sliding direction, and the other of the sliding part and the towing bracket includes or houses 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. 2. The assembly of claim 1, further comprising a tension screw (75) for controlling forced sliding movement of the sliding part relative to the valve control block when the traction bracket interacts with the sliding part, whereby the actuation surface of the valve control block embraced by the traction 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 plurality 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 one another; an embracing yoke removably attachable to second ends of said plurality of tension bars, thereby connecting said ends of said tension bars; The assembly of claim 1 , comprising:

11. 11. The assembly of claim 10, wherein the at least one traction bracket includes at least two tension bars, and the at least one valve cassette block includes 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. 2. The assembly of claim 1, further comprising a displacement prevention structure that prevents relative movement of the valve cassette block and the valve control block relative to each other in at least 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: - providing at least one valve cassette block (20) comprising a plurality of valves (25) controllable via control surfaces (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); - slidably associating at least one sliding element (30) with at least one sliding groove (14) formed in the actuation surface (11) of the valve control block (10) so that the at least one sliding element (30) is movable relative to the valve control block (10) in a sliding direction parallel to the actuation surface (11); - Embracing said at least one valve cassette block (20) with at least one traction bracket (40, 50); - engaging the at least one traction bracket (40, 50) with the at least one sliding element (30) so that the movement of the at least one sliding element (30) in the at least one sliding groove (14) causes the at least one traction bracket (40, 50) to pull the at least one valve cassette block (20) with its control surface (24) against the actuation surface (11) of the valve control block (10); - fastening the valve setup by sliding the at least one sliding element in the at least one sliding groove so that the at least one valve cassette block (20) with its control surface (24) against the actuation surface (11) of the valve control block (10); A method comprising:

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