Reserviceable probe device

Abstract

The present invention relates to a probe device (20) and its use, the probe device comprising: - a gasket (21a) separating the probe device (20) into a contaminated region (22) and a sterile region (23) and sealing the contaminated region (22) from the sterile region (23); - a probe (24) with a probing tip(31); - a probing chamber (29) having a probing inlet (30) where the probing tip (31) of the probe (24) is fixedly placed; wherein: - the probe device further comprises a switch part (25) movable relative the probing chamber (29) and having a fluid inlet (80) and having two positions: a first position (27) and a second position (28); - the switch part (25) is configured to close the probing inlet (30) of the probing chamber (29) in its first position (27), and open the probing inlet (30) in its second position (28) so that the probing inlet (30) of the probing chamber (29) is fluidly connected to the fluid inlet (80); and - the sterile region (23) houses the probing chamber (29) and the switch part (25).

Description

DescriptionTitle: Reserviceable probe deviceTechnical Field

[0001] This disclosure pertains to the field of reserviceable probe device allowing multiple use in sterile condition, and a method using this probe device.Background Art

[0002] Probe devices are known in the art and can take a variety of forms. Some probe devices are specifically designed for certain purposes and need some kind of servicing such as cleaning or calibrating. For example, electrochemical sensor devices are designed for measuring various electrochemical parameters, examples of which are pH sensor devices designed for measuring the pH of a medium, redox sensor devices designed for measuring redox potentials of a system, pCO2.sensor devices designed for measuring concentration of CO2 in a medium. Some of these sensor devices are known to require calibration. Disposable sensor devices are, thus, configured to allow such calibration only once. Reusable sensor devices are configured to allow such calibration more than once, but the number of calibrations is limited as discussed more in detail below illustrated by a pH sensor device. Other examples of probe devices include sampling devices designed for extracting a fraction volume of a medium, and in some cases the sampling must be made in an aseptic environment such as in bioprocesses for example through a sterile barrier (filtration material). Usually, they can be used more than once without requiring any servicing. However, in some cases, they comprise a filter to filter out unwanted particles, such as biological material, for examples cells, bacteria, viruses or biological contaminants. In these cases, the filter can become clogged at some point and further use thereof is no longer possible without servicing, i.e. cleaning or unclogging the filter. However, some of the sensor devices may also benefit from the possibility of cleaning the sensor.

[0003] As a way of illustration, the background art for an example of probe devices is discussed hereafter. The chosen example relates to pH sensor devices, which as mentioned above are well-known in the art and can be calibrated.

[0004] Figures 1 to 4 show an example of such pH sensor device. Such pH sensor device 1 comprises a tubular part 3, a movable tubular electrode holder 2 for receiving an electrode and translatable in and along the tubular part 3 between a calibration position and a measure position.

[0005] The tubular part 3 comprises a bag port 4 at one end thereof to be attached to a bag containing a solution, the pH of which is to be measured.

[0006] The electrode holder 2 comprises a measure chamber 12 at one of its end (tip end), an inlet 5 opening into the measure chamber 12 and through which a calibration solution can be provided, and an outlet 6 to flush this solution out of the measure chamber 12 once the electrode 7 is calibrated. When the electrode holder 2 is in its calibration position, it does not protrude out of the tubular part 3 into the bag and the measure chamber is closed by the wall of the tubular part 3. When the electrode holder 2is in its measure position, it protrudes out of the tubular part 3 by the length of the measure chamber and the measure chamber 12 is exposed to content of the bag.

[0007] Three gaskets are provided on the outer surface of the electrode holder 2: a first gasket 10 is configured to prevent content of the bag from penetrating the space between the electrode holder and the tubular part when the electrode holder is in its calibration position and is located at the tip end of the electrode holder 2; a second gasket 9 is configured to prevent content of the bag from penetrating the space between the electrode holder and the tubular part when the electrode holder is in its measure position and is located at the other end of the measure chamber; and a third gasket 8 is configured to prevent contaminants of the outside environment of the pH sensor device from penetrating the space between the electrode holder and the tubular part and thus preserving sterility of the content of the bag and is located between the second gasket 9 and the other end of the electrode holder further away from the bag.

[0008] The sequence illustrated by figures 1 to 4 shows the spread of the contaminated area after two calibrations.

[0009] Figure 1 shows the pH sensor device 1 as provided unused in the calibration position. In this position, the three gaskets separate the inner surface of the tubular part 3 into three portions: an outside portion farthest away from the bag port, an intermediate portion, and an inside portion closest to the bag port. The third gasket 8 separates the pH sensor device into a contaminated part and a sterile part and in particular a contaminated area 11 between the tubular part and the electrode holder which is in direct contact with ambient air. In this case, the contaminated area 11 contains the outside portion of the tubular part 3. The pH sensor device 1 can be attached to a bag through its bag port. In this calibration position, the pH sensor device 1 can be calibrated before the pH of the solution contained in the bag can be measured. To do so, rinsing liquid is injected into the closed measure chamber through the inlet and subsequently pushed out thereof through the outlet by using a buffer solution. Once the measure chamber is filled with the buffer solution, calibration may occur. The first gasket 10 prevents the content of the bag to enter the measure chamber.

[0010] When it is desired to measure the pH of the content of the reactor, the electrode holder is pushed to its measure position represented in figure 2. The contaminated area 11 is limited by the third gasket 8 but since the electrode holder is pushed towards the bag so is the third gasket 8 and consequently, the size of the contaminated area 11 becomes larger: the intermediate portion of the tubular part 3 becomes contaminated.

[0011] At some point during use of the pH sensor device 1 , it may be wished to recalibrate the device. To do so, the electrode holder is brought back to its calibration position as represented in figure 3. As the electrode holder is brought back to this position, the second gasket 9 contacts the contaminated intermediate portion of the tubular part 3 and becomes itself contaminated. Also, in this position, the portion of the outer surface of the electrode holder faces the contaminated intermediate portion so thatthis portion of the electrode holder also becomes contaminated. The contaminated area now extends up to the second gasket 10.

[0012] After calibration, the electrode holder 2 is pushed again into its measure position as illustrated in figure 4. The second gasket 9 contacts the inside portion of the tubular part 3 and contaminates it: the contaminated area 11 has increased up to the inside portion of the inner surface of the tubular part 3.

[0013] If another calibration was wished and were the electrode holder 2 brought back to its calibration position, then the first gasket 10 would contact the inside portion and become itself contaminated. Also, the portion of the outer surface of the electrode holder between the first and second gaskets would become contaminated. If then the electrode holder 2 were brought to its measure position, both the contaminated first gasket and the portion of the outer surface of the electrode holder between the first and second gaskets would contact the content of the bag and contaminate it.

[0014] Thus, as explained above, such pH sensor device 1 only allows two calibrations without contaminating the content of the bag due to the movements of the gaskets.

[0015] The same issue of contamination holds true for other types of probe devices such as sample devices. Indeed, in the above example, the pH sensor can be swapped with a sample probe. In such case, the calibration position is a service position (which can also be the position in which the sample is recovered inside the probe device), e.g. for cleaning, and the measure position is a sampling position where the sample probe is plunged into the liquid to be sampled. Similarly to multiple calibration, multiple sampling would require the probe device to be brought back to the service position leading to contamination of the first gasket as well as the contamination of the outer surface of the probe device between the first and second gaskets. If then the probe device were brought to its sampling position, both the contaminated first gasket and the portion of the outer surface of the probe device between the first and second gaskets would contact the content of the bag and contaminate it.Summary

[0016] This disclosure improves the situation.

[0017] The present invention relates to a reusable probe device comprising:- a gasket separating the probe device into a contaminated region and a sterile region and sealing the contaminated region from the sterile region;- a probe with a probing tip;- a probing chamber having a probing inlet where the probing tip of the probe is fixedly placed; characterized in that:- the probe device further comprises a switch part movable relative the probing chamber and having a fluid inlet and having a first position and a second position;- the switch part is configured to close the probing inlet of the probing chamber in its first position, and open the probing inlet in its second position so that the probing inlet of the probing chamber is fluidlyconnected to the fluid inlet; and- the sterile region houses the probing chamber and the switch part.

[0018] Such probe device allows to use the probe device more than twice without contaminating the content of the bag. And thus, there is no risk for the user to contaminate the content of the bag by misused or error. The operating time of this probe device is no more limited to two uses, it can handle multiple uses.

[0019] In the case of a pH sensor device, such recalibratable pH sensor device allows to calibrate more than twice the electrode without contaminating the content of the bag. And thus, there is no risk for the user to contaminate the content of the bag by misused or error. The operating time of this pH sensor device is no more limited to two calibrations.

[0020] The switch part may be configured so that in its second position, an aperture of the switch part may face the probing inlet of the probing chamber, and that in its first position, a wall of the switch part may face the probing inlet of the probing chamber.

[0021] The probe device may comprise a guiding part configured to switch the switch part between its first and second positions.

[0022] Thanks to the guiding part, no gasket is needed to delimit the contamination region and prevent it from expanding, ensuring that the first and second positions stay in the sterile region.

[0023] The guiding part may be configured to transform a rotational movement into a translational movement, notably a rotational movement of the guiding part relative to the switch part into a translational movement of the switch part.

[0024] The guiding part may have an inner ramp and the switch part may have an outer companion piece cooperating with the ramp so that a rotation of the guiding part relative to the switch part may be converted into a relative translation of the switch part and the guiding part so that the switch part may be moved between its first position and its second position.

[0025] The motion of the ramp relatively to the outer companion provides a secure motion in the sterile region between the first position and the second position.

[0026] The companion piece may comprise two parallel ribs placed away from one another in the longitudinal direction of the switch part, thereby forming a gap having the same dimension as the width of the ramp.

[0027] Such companion piece is easy to realize and allows a cost reduction of the probe device.

[0028] The guiding part may have an inner companion piece and the switch part may have an outer ramp cooperating with the companion piece so that a rotation of the guiding part relative to the switch part may be converted into a relative translation of the switch part and the guiding part so that the switch part may be moved between its first position and its second position.

[0029] The motion of the ramp relatively to the outer companion provides a secure motion in the sterile region between the first position and the second position.

[0030] The guiding part may comprise two parallel ribs placed away from one another in the longitudinal direction of the guiding part, thereby forming a gap having the same dimension as the width of the ramp.

[0031] The combination of the two parallel ribs with the ramp is an efficient and easy way to transform a translation movement into a rotation movement.

[0032] The guiding part may have a bag port for the fixation of the probe device to a bag, the bag port being a collar extending radially outwards.

[0033] The switch part may have a general tubular shape with a first end portion free from apertures, a second middle portion comprising one or more apertures, and a third end portion free from apertures, the ramps or the companion pieces being provided in the third end portion.

[0034] The probe device may comprise a feeding part in which the probing chamber may be formed and having the probing inlet, a service inlet and a service outlet.

[0035] The service inlet and service outlet of the feeding part allows to provide a service fluid, such as a cleaning fluid, a flushing fluid, a wetting fluid, a priming fluid, a protecting fluid, a calibrating fluid, an activating fluid, or a deactivating fluid, in a secure way.

[0036] The feeding part may have a first end portion with a general tubular shape with the probing chamber and the probing inlet, and a second end portion with a general frustoconical shape with the apex of the corresponding cone in the probing chamber and its base in the contaminated region.

[0037] The probe device may comprise a probe holder comprising the feeding part and a probe housing part configured to support the probe so that its tip may be fixedly placed in the probing chamber, the feeding part and the probe housing part being two different parts or a single piece.

[0038] The present invention relates to a method of use of the probe device of the above-mentioned type, this method comprising the steps, while the switch part may be in its first position:- providing a service fluid;- injecting the service fluid through the service inlet while the probing inlet is closed;- immersing the tip of the probe in the service fluid;- flushing the service fluid through the service outlet.

[0039] This method allows to use n times, n being an integer of 2 or more, the probe device. It is easy to operate.

[0040] The present invention relates to a use of the probe device of the above-mentioned type, wherein use of the probe device may be carried out more than twice.Brief Description of Drawings

[0041] Other features, details and advantages will be shown in the following detailed description and on the figures, on which:

[0042] Fig. 1 to Fig. 4 are schematic views of a pH sensor device according to the prior art and show the contaminated area during operation up to two calibrations.

[0043] Fig. 5 is a 3D exploded view of an example of pH sensor device according to the present invention.

[0044] Fig. 6 is a solid view of the assembled pH sensor device of Fig. 5.

[0045] Fig. 7 is a bottom solid view of the pH sensor device of Fig. 6.

[0046] Fig. 8 is a 3D cut view of the pH sensor device of Fig. 6 when the switch part is in its calibration position.

[0047] Fig. 9 is a 3D cut view of the pH sensor device of Fig. 6 when the switch part is in its measure position.

[0048] Fig. 10 is a 3D cut view of the electrode housing part and the electrode of the pH sensor device of Fig. 6.

[0049] Fig. 11 is a solid view of the electrode housing part of Fig. 10.

[0050] Fig. 12 is another solid view of the electrode housing part of Fig. 10.

[0051] Fig. 13 is a solid view of the feeding part of the pH sensor device of Fig. 6.

[0052] Fig. 14 is a 3D cut view of the feeding part of Fig. 13.

[0053] Fig. 15 is another solid view of the feeding part of Fig. 13.

[0054] Fig. 16 is a solid view of the guiding part of the pH sensor device of Fig. 6.

[0055] Fig. 17 is a 3D cut view of the guiding part of Fig. 16.

[0056] Fig. 18 is a solid view of the guiding part of Fig. 16 with the feeding part of Fig.13.

[0057] Fig. 19 is a solid view of the switch part of the pH sensor device of Fig. 6.

[0058] Fig. 20 is a side solid view of the switch part of the pH sensor device of Fig. 6.

[0059] Fig. 21 is another solid view of the switch part of the pH sensor device of Fig. 6.

[0060] Fig. 22 is a solid view of the outer retaining part of the pH sensor device of Fig. 6.

[0061] Fig. 23 is a 3D cut view of the outer retaining part with the guiding part of the pH sensor device of Fig. 6.

[0062] Fig. 24 is another solid view of the outer retaining part of the pH sensor device of Fig. 6.

[0063] Fig. 25 is a solid view of the outer retaining part with the guiding part and the feeding part together.

[0064] Fig. 26 is another solid view of the electrode housing part with the electrode of Fig. 10.

[0065] Fig. 27 is a 3D exploded view of the electrode housing part with the electrode.

[0066] Fig. 28 is another solid view of the electrode housing part with the electrode of Fig. 10.

[0067] Fig. 29 is a 3D exploded view of the electrode housing part with the electrode and the seal.

[0068] Fig. 30 and 31 are schematic view of two exemplified sampling probe device according to the invention.Description of Embodiments

[0069] In the following, the word “service” and its derivative relate to an action performed on the probe inside the probe device to put it in a suitable condition for use. Such action can range from cleaning, flushing, wetting, priming, protecting, calibrating, activating, to deactivating the probe and more. They can be provided by one or more service fluids; for example, cleaning fluids, flushing fluids, wetting fluids, priming fluids, protecting fluids, calibrating fluids, activating fluids, and deactivating fluids. Each of the service fluids may be a service solution or a service gas.

[0070] In the following, the words “outward”, “inward” and their derivates are combined with “radially” and “longitudinally”. With “radially”, the point of reference is the longitudinal axis of the probe device with “outward” and its derivates meaning “away from the longitudinal axis” and “inward” and its derivates meaning “towards the longitudinal axis”. With “longitudinally”, the point of reference is the bag port, with “outward” and its derivates meaning “away from the bag port” and “inward” and its derivates meaning “towards the bag port”.

[0071] In the following, when it is referred to a “service fluid”, a “calibration fluid”, etc., this does not mean that the service fluid only comprises one active agent but can comprise a mixture of active agents. It is sometimes referred to the injection of a service fluid only; however, this also encompasses the case when more than one service fluids are sequentially injected.

[0072] Referring to figures 5 to 29, the present invention relates to a serviceable probe device 20 comprising:- a gasket 21 separating the probe device 20 into a contaminated region 22 and a sterile region 23 and sealing the contaminated region 22 from the sterile region 23;- a probe 24 with a probing tip 31 ;- a probing chamber 29 having a probing inlet 30 where the probing tip 31 of the probe 24 is fixedly placed.

[0073] The probe device 20 further comprises a switch part 25 movable relative the probing chamber 29 and having a fluid inlet 80 and having a first position 27 and a second position 28. The switch part 25 is configured to close the probing inlet 30 of the probing chamber 29 in its first position 27, and open the probing inlet 30 in its second position 28 so that the probing inlet 30 of the probing chamber 29 is fluidly connected to the fluid inlet 80. The sterile region 23 houses the probing chamber 29 and the switch part 25.

[0074] The contaminated region 22 refers to a non-aseptic region in contact with ambient air. By contrast, the sterile region 23 refers to an aseptic region with inside surfaces having no contact withambient air. Due to the fact that any moving parts are provided in the sterile region 23, the extend of the contaminated region 22 does not increase.

[0075] The probe 24 has a longitudinal axis X corresponding to the longitudinal axis of the probe device 20. The probe 24 preferably has a cylindrical body 244. The probe 24 may be received by a probe holder of the probe device 20, which is configured to received and maintained the probe 24 so that its tip 31 remains in the probing chamber 29. The probe holder may comprise a housing space, the shape of which is complementary to at least part of the probe 24. For example, when the probe 24 has a cylindrical body 244, the housing space is cylindrical in shape.

[0076] The probe device 20 may be sterilized using gamma rays.

[0077] The probe 24 may comprise a probe service inlet so that a service fluid can be injected directly inside the probe 24. In such case, the probe 24 may further comprise a probe service outlet, notably at the tip thereof so that the service fluid may be evacuated through the probe service outlet into the probing chamber 29 and to the service outlet 62.

[0078] The switch part 25, represented in figure 16, may have a general tubular shape having a wall 81 with an aperture 80. The switch part 25 may be configured so that in its second position 28, the aperture 80 may face the probing inlet 30 of the probing chamber 29; and in its first position 27, the wall may face the probing inlet 30 of the probing chamber 29.

[0079] The probing chamber 29 may have n probing inlets (not represented), n being an integer equal to 2 or more, and the switch part 25 may have n apertures (not represented). The probing inlets and apertures are placed at corresponding locations so that all apertures face their corresponding probing inlets in the second position of the switch part and so that all probing inlets face corresponding wall portions of the switch part. The probing inlets may be angularly spaced from one another, for example by (360 / n)°; and the apertures may likewise be angularly spaced from one another, for example by (360 / n)°.

[0080] The switch part 25 may have a general tubular shape with a first end portion 82 free from apertures, a second middle portion 83 comprising one or more apertures, and a third end portion 84 free from apertures.

[0081] Preferably, the switch part 25 and the probe 24 are configured to be angularly fixed to one another. A slight play may however exist between these parts.

[0082] The probing chamber 29 may be formed in the probe holder. The probe holder may be divided into a feeding part 60 and a probe housing part 70. The probing chamber 29 may be typically formed in the feeding part 60 which has the probing inlet 30, a service inlet 61 and a service outlet 62.

[0083] The feeding part 60, represented in figures 13 to 15, may have a first end portion 63 with a general tubular shape with the probing chamber 29 and the probing inlet 30, and a second end portion 64 with a general frustoconical shape with the apex of the corresponding cone in the probing chamber 29 and its base in the contaminated region 22. The angle at the apex of the general conical shape may be 20° to 30°, preferably 25°. The service inlet 61 of the feeding part 60 may be a tube (inlet tube)extending along the side wall of the general conical shape. The inlet tube may have one end opening into the probing chamber 29 and the other end having a tube connector. The service outlet 62 of the feeding part may be a tube (outlet tube) extending along the side wall of the general conical shape. The outlet tube may have one end opening into the probing chamber 29 and the other end having a tube connector. The inlet tube and the outlet tube may face radially each other.

[0084] The feeding part 60 may have a flange 65 at its end farther away from the probing chamber 29 extending radially outwards. The flange 65 may have a cruciform cross section. In some cases, two superimposed flanges 65 may be provided. The flange 65 may act as a handle for actuating the probe device 1 .

[0085] The feeding part 60 may comprise a coupler 66 configured to guide in translation the switch part 25. The same coupler 66 may be configured to prevent rotation of the switch part 25 relative to the feeding part 66 so that the switch part 25 and the probe 24 are angularly fixed to each other. In such case, the switch part 25 also comprise a corresponding coupler 86. The coupler 66 may be one or more sliders, for example a first slider 67a and a second slider 67b, while the switch part 25 may comprise corresponding rails 86 receiving the sliders 67a, 67b. The number of sliders may be more than 2. In such case, they may be radially spaced apart from one another, preferably at equal angular distances. Each slider may be a protrusion. An example of such protrusion comprises a first portion 68a radially outwardly extending from a lateral wall of the feeding part 60, a second portion 68b longitudinally inwardly extending from the first portion 68a and a stop element 68c extending between the outer wall of the feeding part 60 and the second portion 68b. Each rail of the switch part 25 may longitudinally extend on the inner wall of the switch part 25 for example from the third end portion 84 to the second middle portion 83. This rail 86 may be a groove with a thickness extending radially outwards from the outer surface of the lateral wall of the switch part 25.

[0086] The feeding part 60 and the probe housing part 70 may be configured to enable mounting of the probe housing part 70 on the feeding part 60 through insertion of the probe housing part 70 inside the feeding part 60 along the longitudinal axis of the probe device 20. The feeding part 60 may comprise an opening 69 to fasten the probe housing part 70, thereby preventing movement of the probe housing part 70 in a direction opposite the insertion direction. Thus, the probe housing part 70 may comprise a corresponding fastener 73, for example in the shape of one or more hooks.

[0087] The opening 69 of the feeding part 60 and the fastener 73 of the probe housing part 70 may form a snap-fit joint. For example, the opening 69 of the feeding part 60 may be an opening in the lateral wall of the feeding part 60 and the fastener 73 of the probe housing part 70 may be a hook configured to be snap-fitted into the opening. The opening 69 may be located in the upper part of the feeding part 60 and the hook in a corresponding location on the probe housing part 70. This opening 69 may have a general rectangular shape.

[0088] The probe housing part 70 may comprise a radially outwardly extending plate 72. When a hook or hooks are provided, the hook or hooks 73 may be attached to said plate 72 through a beam 71 extending longitudinally inward. The probe housing part 70 may comprise an annular housing 241 tohold a seal 242 between the probe 24 and the feeding part 60. The seal 242 may have a shape which is a solid of revolution. The seal 242 ensures that the contaminated region 22 does not spread until the tip of the probe 31 . The probe 24 may comprise an anti-rotation system 243 capable of blocking rotation of said probe 24 around its longitudinal axis. This anti-rotation system 243 may be of a shape complementary type or a snap-fit type. For example, the anti-rotation system 243 may comprise one or more flat spots on the otherwise cylindrical outer surface of the probe 24. A corresponding anti-rotation system is then provided on the probe housing part 70, for example a hole with a shape which is complementary to the shape of the cross-section of the probing 24 where the one or more flat spots are. In another example, the anti-rotation system 243 may have snap-fitting flanges extending from the outer surface of the probe 24 at a sharp angle and extending longitudinally outwards. The probe 24 may comprise a plurality of guide elements configured to facilitate insertion of said probe 24 into the probe housing part 70.

[0089] The feeding part 60 and the probe housing part 70 may be two different parts or a single piece.

[0090] The probe device 20 may comprise a guiding part 50 configured to switch the switch part 25 between its measure position and calibration position. The guiding part 50 may be configured to transform a rotational movement into a translational movement, notably a rotational movement of the guiding part 50 relative to the switch part into a translational movement of the switch part 25.

[0091] The guiding part 50 may have an inner ramp 53 and the switch part 25 may have an outer companion piece 540 cooperating with the ramp 53 so that a rotation of the guiding part 50 relative to the switch part 25 is converted into a relative translation of the switch part 25 and the guiding part 50 so that the switch part 25 may be moved between its first position 27 and its second position 28. In general, the ramp 53 may be configured to allow the switch part 25 to translate over a distance of 10 mm to 30 mm, preferably 14 mm to 19 mm, more preferably 18,5 mm, while it is rotated by an angle of 20° to 180°, preferably an angle of 60° to 120°. The inner ramp 53 may be helix-shaped like a thread. For example, the inner ramp 53 is a rib formed on the inner surface of the guiding part 50 and the companion piece may be two protrusions on the outer surface of the switch part 50 and spaced apart to form a gap 57 and so that they are placed closely to and on both side of the rib. The companion piece 540 may comprise two parallel ribs 550, 560 placed away from one another in the longitudinal direction of the switch part 25, thereby forming a gap 57 having the same dimension as the width of the ramp 53.

[0092] Alternatively, the inner ramp 53 may be a groove formed on the inner surface of the guiding part 50 and the companion piece 550, 560 is a protrusion on the outer surface of the switch part 50 and which is received in the groove.

[0093] The number of ramps and companion piece is not limited to 1 . When the number is more than one, the ramps and companion pieces are preferably angularly spaced apart from one another, preferably still regularly spaced. For example, the guiding part 50 may have n ramps 53, n being two or more, and the switch part 25 may have n outer companion pieces 540, wherein the ramps 53 may be angularly spaced from one another by (360 / n)° and the companion pieces 540 may be angularly spaced from one another by (360 / n)°.

[0094] The locations of ramp(s) and companion piece(s) may be swapped between the guiding part 50 and the switch part 25.

[0095] The guiding part 50 may have a bag port 51 for the fixation of the probe device 20 to a bag. The bag port 51 may be a collar 52 extending radially outwards.

[0096] The probe device 20 may comprise a limiter 54 to limit the rotation of the probe holder when the probe holder is made to be angularly fixed to the switch part 25. The limiter 54 may be provided on the guiding part 50. This limiter 54 typically has two stops 541 , 542 and a track 543 therebetween. The track may be a notch in the upper part 58 of the guiding part 50, more particularly at the radially outer end of the guiding part 50. However, the track may also be provided in a different form such as a groove. The guiding part 50 may comprise two limiters 54. The guiding part may comprise n stroke limiters 54, n being an integer egal to 2 or more. The stroke limiters 54 may be angularly spaced from one another, for example by 360 / n°.

[0097] To cooperate with the limiter 54, the probe device 20 may have a slider 55. The slider may be formed on the feeding part 60, for example to move in the track 543 between both stops 541 , 542. In operation, when the probe holder rotates, the slider 55 of the probe holder slides along the limiter 54. Therefore, the rotation of the probe holder is limited between two angles corresponding to the positions of the slider 55 against each one of the stops 541 , 542. The pH sensor device 20 may comprise an outer retaining part 40. The outer retaining part 40 maintain the feeding part 60 and the guiding part 50 together, notably fixed to one another. The outer retaining part 40 preferably has a general cylindrical shape. The retaining part 40 may comprise an inward stop for preventing the guiding part 50 from separating from the feeding part 60 in the longitudinally inward direction. For example, the inward stop 41 is a sill provided on the inner surface thereof. In such case, the guiding part 50 may comprise a supporting surface 56 configured to rest against the sills 41 of the outer retaining part 40. This supporting surface 56 may be an annular bulge, for example with a triangular cross section, resting on the sills 41 , for example with a triangular cross section.

[0098] The outer retaining part 40 may further comprise an outward stop 42 for preventing the feeding part 60 from separating from the guiding part 50 in the longitudinally outward direction. For example, the outward stop 42 is a snap-fit hook, preferably an annular snap-fit hook at one end of the outer retaining part with a general cylindrical shape. The snap-fit hook may cooperate with a supporting surface of the feeding part 60. In one embodiment, this support surface may be a surface 551 of the slider 55. As illustrated in figure 25, the outer retaining part 40 may rest on an edge surface 551 of the slider 55 to maintain functional clearance. A gap may be provided between the edge surface 551 of the slider 55 and the snap-fit hook of the outer retaining part 40. Thus, the slider 55 may have two functions: to delimit rotation and to prevent translation by retaining and preventing the feeding part 60 from separating from the guiding part 50.

[0099] The outward stop 42 may also cooperate with the upper part 58 of the guiding part 50 on one or both sides of the limiter 54 to hold the guiding part 50 fixed to the outer retaining part 40.

[0100] Referring to figures 8 and 9, the gasket 21a separating the probe device 20 into a contaminated region 22 and a sterile region 23 called the first gasket 21 may be located between the guiding part 50 and the probe housing part 70 so that contaminant cannot enter the sterile region through the space between these parts 50, 70.

[0101] A second gasket 21 b may be provided adjacent to the first gasket 21a but closer to the bag port 51. The second gasket 21 b acts as a security gasket to strengthen sealed separation of the contaminated region and the sterile region.

[0102] Two gaskets 21 c, 21 d may be provided to fluidly isolate the probing chamber 29 from content of the bag when the probe device 20 is in its first position. They are typically positioned at both ends of the probing chamber 29 in the longitudinal direction.

[0103] When the probe holder is formed in two separate parts, one or two gaskets 21e, 21f may be provided to prevent contaminant from entering and liquid from leaking out of the probing chamber 29 through the space between these two parts.

[0104] The sequence illustrated by figures 8 and 9 shows the non-spread of the contaminated area after services.

[0105] Figure 8 shows the probe device 20 in the first position 27. In this position, the wall of the switch part faces the probing inlet 30 of the probing chamber 29, thus, the content of the bag cannot enter the probing chamber 29, which is ready for receiving the service fluid. Also, in this position, the contaminated part is limited by the first gasket 21 .

[0106] Figure 9 shows the probe device 20 in the second position 28. In this position, the aperture 80 faces the probing inlet 30 of the probing chamber 29, thus, enabling the content of the bag to enter into the probing chamber 29. Like in the first position, the contaminated part is limited by the first gasket 21 .

[0107] To move from the first position 27 to the second position 28, the user actuates the flange 65 of the probe holder (by rotating the latter) while holding the outer retaining part 40 thereby rotating and translating the switch part 25 relative to the guiding part 50. Since the probe holder is fixed in rotation with the switch part 25, the switch part 25 follows the probe holder in rotation. The rotation of the probe holder is limited by the limiter 54. During rotation, the inner ramp 53 of the guiding part 50 forces the companion piece 540 of the switch part 25 in the longitudinal direction toward the bag port 51 thereby forcing the switch part 25 in translation. The translation of the switch part 25 is guided by the translation guide 86 of the switch part 25. At the same time, the aperture 80 of the switch part 25 aligns with the probing inlet 30. Thus, the content of the bag may flow into the probing chamber 29. Also, during the rotation, there is no part of the probe device 20 which moves from the contaminated region 22 to the sterile region 23, thus keeping these two regions separated: contamination does not spread down to the sterile region 23.

[0108] When it is desired to proceed to the service of the probe device 20 (e.g. calibration or cleaning), the user actuates the flange 65 of the probe holder (by rotating the latter but this time in the opposite angular direction) while holding the outer retaining part 40 resulting in a rotation and a translation of theswitch part 25 relative to the guiding part 50. Since the probe holder is fixed in rotation with the switch part 25, the switch part 25 follows the probe holder in rotation. The rotation of the probe holder is again limited by the limiter 54. During rotation, the inner ramp 53 of the guiding part 50 forces the companion piece 540 of the switch part 25 in the longitudinal direction away from the bag port 51 thereby forcing the switch part 25 in translation. At the same time, the probing inlet 30 is closed by the wall of the switch part 25, thus isolating the probing chambre 29 from the content of the bag. Again, during the rotation, no part of the probe device 20 moves from the sterile region 23 to the contaminated region 22 and from the contaminated region 22 to the sterile region 23, thus keeping these two regions separated: again contamination does not spread down to the sterile region 23.

[0109] One example of such probe device 20 is a pH sensor device. In such case, the invention makes it possible to calibrate more than once the pH sensor device with a calibration solution as a service fluid. More concretely, the above description is then to be read with the following changes: the probe 24 is an electrode, the measuring tip is an electrode tip, the probing chamber 29 is a measure chamber (i.e. where the pH measurement is performed), the probing inlet 30 is a measure inlet (i.e. it is the aperture through which the solution contained in the bag enters the measure chamber), the first position is a calibration position (the electrode tip is in a position enabling calibration thereof), the second position is a measure position (the electrode tip is in a position enabling pH measure within the measure chamber), the service inlet 61 is a calibration inlet (e.g. through which the calibration solution enters the feeding part), the service outlet 62 is a calibration outlet (e.g. through which the calibration solution exits the feeding part), the probe holder is an electrode holder (e.g. it holds the electrode in place), and the probe housing part 70 is an electrode housing part (e.g. it houses the electrode). Preferably the electrode 24 has a body 244 of a cylindrical shape.

[0110] Another example of such probe device 20 is a sampling device. In such case, the invention makes it possible to sample the content of the bag more than once by allowing cleaning of the sampling probe with a cleaning solution as the service fluid. More concretely, the above description is then to be read with the following changes: the probe 24 is a sampling probe, the measuring tip is a sampling tip, the probing chamber 29 is a sampling chamber (i.e. where sampling is performed), the probing inlet 30 is a sampling inlet (i.e. it is the aperture through which the solution contained in the bag enters the sampling chamber), the first position is a cleaning position (the sampling tip is in a position enabling cleaning thereof), the second position is a sampling position (the sampling tip is in a position enabling sampling of the content of the bag), the service inlet 61 is a cleaning inlet (e.g. through which the cleaning solution enters the feeding part), the service outlet 62 is a cleaning outlet (e.g. through which the cleaning solution exits the feeding part), the probe holder holds the sampling probe 24 in place, and the probe housing part 70 houses the sampling probe 24.

[0111] One example of sampling probe 24 is illustrated in figure 30. The sampling probe 24 typically comprises a cylindrical hollow body 244 with a sampling tip to receive the sampled fluid. The sampling probe 24 also comprises a sample outlet fluidly connected to the inside of the cylindrical hollow body 244 through which the sampled fluid can be recovered, for example by batches or continuously.

[0112] The sampling tip may comprise a filter portion 245. The filter portion 245 may be configured to filter out unwanted particles, such as biological material, for examples cells, bacteria, viruses or biological contaminants. The filter portion 245 may be made of a variety of inert materials such as porous ceramics, porous polymers, sintered metals, sintered glass, etc. Preferably, the pores of the filter portion 245 have a diameter of no more than 1 pm, preferably still of 0.1 to 0.5 pm. The material may be provided as a filter membrane.

[0113] The filter portion 245 preferably has a cylindrical shape with a longitudinal axis. The liquid to be sampled enters the inside of the cylinder perpendicularly to the longitudinal axis. The area of the filter portion 245 may be 500 to 2000 mm2, preferably 100 to 1500 mm2.

[0114] The cylindrical hollow body 244 may comprise a shaft 246 so that the end of the sampling tip sits deeper inside the bag in operation. The shaft 246 is preferably cylindrical in shape, preferably with the same diameter as the filter portion 245. For example, the diameter is 5 to 20 mm, preferably 7.5 to 10 mm. The shaft 246 is preferably made of an inert material. The length of the shaft 246 may be up to 1000 mm, preferably 100 to 500 mm. In this case, the collecting chamber may extends to at least part of the shaft 246.

[0115] The invention is not limited to a pH sensor device or a sampling device as described above but can be adapted to various kinds of sensor devices such as electrochemical sensor devices designed for measuring various electrochemical parameters, examples of which include pH sensor devices designed for measuring the pH of a medium, redox sensor devices designed for measuring redox potentials of a system, pCO2.sensor devices designed for measuring concentration of CO2 in a medium. Other probe devices include optical probe devices, optochemical sensor devices, enzymatic probe devices and electrical probe devices.

[0116] The present invention concerns a method of servicing the probe device described above. This method comprises the steps, while the switch part 25 is in its first position:- providing a service fluid;- injecting the service fluid through the service inlet 61 while the probing inlet 30 is closed thus immersing the tip of the probe 24 in the service fluid;- flushing the service fluid through the service outlet 62.

[0117] In case of a pH sensor device 20 as described above, this method comprises the steps, while the switch part 25 is in its calibration position:- providing a calibration solution;- injecting the calibration solution through the calibration inlet 61 while the measure inlet 30 is closed thus immersing the tip of the electrode 24 in the calibration solution;- proceed to the calibration of the pH sensor device 20;- flushing the calibration solution through the calibration outlet 62.

[0118] The switch part 25 may be already in its calibration position (which is generally the case when the pH sensor device is new) or brought into this position for example by actuating the feeding part.

[0119] The present invention relates to a use of the pH sensor device of the above-mentioned type wherein calibration of the pH sensor device is carried out more than twice.

[0120] In case of a sampling device 20 as described above, this method comprises the steps, while the switch part 25 is in its cleaning position:- providing a cleaning solution;- injecting the cleaning solution through the cleaning inlet 61 while the sampling inlet 30 is closed thus immersing the tip of the sampling probe 24 in the cleaning solution;- flushing the cleaning solution through the cleaning outlet 62.

[0121] Flushing the cleaning solution may be performed concurrently with injecting the cleaning solution, thus obtaining a rinsing effect. Alternatively, flushing the cleaning solution may be performed after a waiting period following injecting the cleaning solution, thus achieving a bathing effect.

[0122] The switch part 25 may be already in its cleaning position or brought into this position for example by actuating the feeding part. In the case of the sampling device, cleaning is not necessarily carried out before each consecutive samples, but rather once the filter portion 245 has become clogged.

[0123] In case of an optical probe device, with an optical probe having an optical window, this method comprises the steps, while the switch part is in its first position:- providing a cleaning solution;- injecting the cleaning solution through the service inlet while the measure inlet is closed thus immersing the tip of the optical probe in the cleaning solution;- flushing the cleaning solution through the service outlet; thereby cleaning the optical window.

[0124] In case of an optochemical sensor device with an optochemical probe comprising a transducer and a surface coated with a dye, this method comprises the steps, while the switch part is in its first position:- providing a priming solution;- injecting the priming solution through the service inlet while the measure inlet is closed thus immersing the tip of the probe in the priming solution, thereby priming / wetting the probe;- flushing the priming solution through the service outlet.

[0125] In case of an enzymatic probe device (for example enzymatic glucose measurement using glucose oxidase), this method comprises the steps, while the switch part is in its first position:- providing a activating solution;- injecting the activating solution through the service inlet while the measure inlet is closed thus immersing the tip of the probe in the activating solution, thereby activating the enzyme;- flushing the activating solution through the service outlet.

[0126] The method may alternatively or additionally comprise the steps, while the switch part is in its first position:- providing a calibration solution;- injecting the calibration solution through the service inlet while the measure inlet 30 is closed thus immersing the tip of the probe in the calibration solution;- proceeding to the calibration of the probe;- flushing the activating solution through the service outlet.

[0127] These activation and calibration methods of the enzymatic probe device is notably needed after a gamma treatment of the probe.

[0128] In case of an electrical probe device (such as impedance probe device, conductivity probe device, etc.), this method comprises the steps, while the switch part is in its first position:- providing a cleaning solution; - injecting the cleaning solution through the service inlet while the measure inlet is closed thus immersing the tip of the probe in the cleaning solution;- flushing the cleaning solution through the service outlet; thereby cleaning the probe.

Claims

Claims

1. A probe device (20) comprising:- a gasket (21 a) separating the probe device (20) into a contaminated region (22) and a sterile region (23) and sealing the contaminated region (22) from the sterile region (23);- a probe (24) with a probing tip(31);- a probing chamber (29) having a probing inlet (30) where the probing tip (31) of the probe (24) is fixedly placed; characterized in that:- the probe device further comprises a switch part (25) movable relative the probing chamber (29) and having a fluid inlet (80) and having two positions: a first position (27) and a second position (28);- the switch part (25) is configured to close the probing inlet (30) of the probing chamber (29) in its first position (27), and open the probing inlet (30) in its second position (28) so that the probing inlet (30) of the probing chamber (29) is fluidly connected to the fluid inlet (80); and- the sterile region (23) houses the probing chamber (29) and the switch part (25).

2. The probe device according to claim 1 , wherein the switch part (25) is configured so that in its second position (28), an aperture (80) of the switch part (25) faces the probing inlet (30) of the probing chamber (29), and that in its first position (27), a wall (81) of the switch part faces the probing inlet (30) of the probing chamber (29).

3. The probe device according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the probe device comprises a guiding part (50) configured to switch the switch part (25) between its first and second positions (27, 28).

4. The probe device according to claim 3, wherein the guiding part (50) is configured to transform a rotational movement into a translational movement, notably a rotational movement of the guiding part (50) relative to the switch part into a translational movement of the switch part (25).

5. The probe device according to claim 3 or claim 4, wherein the guiding part (50) has an inner ramp (53) and the switch part (25) has an outer companion piece (540) cooperating with the ramp (53) so that a rotation of the guiding part (50) relative to the switch part is converted into a relative translation of the switch part (25) and the guiding part so that the switch part is moved between its second position (28) and its first position (27).

6. The probe device according to claim 5, wherein the companion piece (540) comprises two parallel ribs (550,560) placed away from one another in the longitudinal direction of the switch part (25), thereby forming a gap (57) having the same dimension as the width of the ramp (53).

7. The probe device according to claim 3 or claim 4, wherein the guiding part (50) has an inner companion piece and the switch part (25) has an outer ramp cooperating with the companion piece so that a rotation of the guiding part (50) relative to the switch part is converted into a relative translation of the switch part (25) and the guiding part so that the switch part is moved between its second position (28) and its first position (27).

8. The probe device according to claim 7, wherein the guiding part (50) comprises two parallel ribs placed away from one another in the longitudinal direction of the guiding part (50), thereby forming a gap having the same dimension as the width of the ramp.

9. The probe device according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the guiding part (50) has a bag port (51) for the fixation of the probe holder to a bag, the bag port (51) being a collar (52) extending radially outwards.

10. The probe device according to one of the claims 5 to 8, wherein the switch part (25) has a general tubular shape with a first end portion (82) free from apertures, a second middle portion (83) comprising one or more apertures, and a third end portion (84) free from apertures, the ramps or the companion pieces (540) being provided in the third end portion (84).

11. The probe device according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the probe device comprises a feeding part (60) in which the probing chamber (29) is formed and having the probing inlet, a service inlet (61) and a service outlet (62).

12. The probe device according to claim 10, wherein the feeding part (60) has a first end portion (63) with a general tubular shape with the probing chamber (29) and the probing inlet (30), and a second end portion (64) with a general frustoconical shape with the apex of the corresponding cone in the probing chamber (29) and its base in the contaminated region (22).

13. The probe device according to claim 10 or 11 , wherein the probe device comprises a probe hub comprising the feeding part and a probe housing part configured to support the probe so that its tip (31) is fixedly placed in the probing chamber (29), the feeding part and the probe housing part being two different parts or a single piece.

14. The prove device according to claim any one of claims 1 to 13, wherein the probe comprises a service inlet.

15. The probe device according to any claims 1 to 14, wherein the probe device is a pH sensor device and the probe is an electrode.

16. The probe device according to any claims 1 to 14, wherein the probe device is a sampling device and the probe is a sampling probe.

17. The probe device of claim 16, wherein the sampling probe comprises a sample outlet.

18. Method of use of the probe device according to one of claims 1 to 17, this method comprising the steps, while the switch part (25) is in its first position:- providing a service fluid;- injecting the service fluid through the service inlet (61) or one of the service inlets while the probing inlet (30) is closed;- immersing the tip of the probe in the service fluid thereby servicing the probe tip;- flushing the service fluid through the service outlet.

19. Method of calibration of the probe device of claim 15, wherein the service fluid is a calibration solution, further comprising after immersing the probe tip in the calibration solution: proceeding to the calibration of the pH sensor device.

20. Method of cleaning the probe device of claim 16 or claim 17, wherein the service fluid is a cleaning solution.

21. Use of the probe device according to claims 1 to 17, wherein servicing the probe device having a probe is carried out more than twice.

22. Use of the probe device according to claim 15, wherein calibration of the pH sensor device is carried out more than twice.

23. Use of the probe device according to claim 16 or claim 17, wherein cleaning of the sampling device is carried out more than twice.

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