Sterile Adipose Tissue Extract Separation Using Dual-Stage Filtration

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Solution Overview

Problem

Current methods for separating and collecting adipose tissue extract and adipose tissue from a fat sample are laborious and lack an adequate filter apparatus for sterile preparation, leading to unpredictable and variable results in soft tissue engineering applications.

Innovation Solution

A filter apparatus comprising two filters with specific pore sizes and materials, such as fiberglass and polyether sulfone, is used to separate adipose tissue extract from adipose tissue, enabling sterile collection and optimizing the properties of the adipose tissue extract for use in soft tissue engineering.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Productivity

If manual separation methods are used for adipose tissue extract and adipose tissue, then the process can be performed with simple equipment, but the process becomes laborious and time-consuming

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveseparation efficiencyVSAvoidfilter apparatus complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
ProductivityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The filter apparatus is divided into multiple functional components: a filter element with porous structure for separation, a housing for containment, and a collection chamber for the extracted tissue. This segmentation allows each component to perform its specific function efficiently while maintaining overall system simplicity.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The filter element acts as an intermediary component between the adipose tissue sample and the collected extract. It mediates the separation process by allowing passive filtration through its porous structure, eliminating the need for complex manual separation techniques while maintaining procedural simplicity.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

2Reliability

If adequate filtering is performed to separate adipose tissue extract and adipose tissue, then sterile preparation is achieved, but the process requires complex filter apparatus

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvesterile preparationVSAvoidfilter apparatus complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The filter element utilizes a porous structure with controlled pore sizes to achieve sterile filtration of the adipose tissue extract. The porous material naturally prevents passage of contaminants while allowing extract to pass through, providing reliable sterile preparation without requiring complex multi-stage filtration systems.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #31Porous materials

3Manufacturing precision

If optimal reuse of adipose tissue and extract is ensured, then the quality and usability are improved, but the filtering process becomes more complex

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvequality controlVSAvoidfiltering process complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
Manufacturing precisionVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The filter apparatus is designed to control critical parameters such as filtration pressure, flow rate, and pore size to optimize the separation process. By maintaining these parameters within specific ranges, the apparatus ensures high-quality separation and usability of both adipose tissue and extract without requiring overly complex process control mechanisms.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #35Parameter changes

Applied Scientific Principles

This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.

Function Achieved in This Case

The apparatus allows for efficient and sterile separation of adipose tissue extract and adipose tissue, improving the quality and usability of both components for transplantation and other applications by controlling the filtering process and ensuring optimal reuse.

Implementation Method 1

a filter element (1) comprising a first filter (2) and a second filter (3), both formed to pass through adipose tissue extract but not pass through adipose tissue

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectFiltration: Filter (physical)

Data Source

PatentEP3596196B1Filter apparatus
Publication Date: 2021.05.05 EVERFILL OY
  • EP3596196B1 patent drawingFigure 1
  • EP3596196B1 patent drawingFigure 2
  • EP3596196B1 patent drawingFigure 3

AI summary

A filter element (1) for separating an adipose tissue extract and adipose tissue from a fat sample, wherein the filter element comprises a first filter (2) and a second filter (3). Both the first filter and the second filter pass through adipose tissue extract but do not pass through adipose tissue. The first filter and the second filter are arranged in the filter element in such a manner that an adipose tissue extract passing through the filter element can be brought into contact with the first filter before it is brought into contact with the second filter.