Amniotic Fluid Filtration Chamber for Sterile Low-Clog Cell Recovery
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing filtering techniques for amniotic fluid are ineffective due to clogging, inadequate handling of variable particulate matter sizes, and the need for complex and non-sterile processes, which compromises the quality of amniotic cell samples.
Innovation Solution
A filtering apparatus and method that includes a sealed chamber with a filter, inlet and outlet connectors, and optional pumps to ensure aseptic handling and minimize clogging, allowing for effective filtration of amniotic fluid with varying particulate sizes, maintaining high cell quality.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Productivity
If larger filtration units are used to filter larger amounts of TAF, then filtering capacity is improved, but clogging risk increases which impedes filtering capacity
Solution Approach 1:
The filter is divided into multiple filtration layers with different pore sizes. A pre-filter layer with larger pores (10-100 μm) captures large particulate matter first, while a main filter layer with smaller pores (1-10 μm) captures smaller particles. This segmentation prevents clogging of the main filter by distributing the filtration load across layers with progressively smaller pores.
Solution Approach 2:
The pre-filter layer performs preliminary filtration of large particulate matter (hair, vernix) before the fluid reaches the main filter layer. This preliminary action removes the bulk of contaminants that would otherwise clog the main filter, enabling sustained high-capacity filtration without clogging.
2Productivity
If complex filtering solutions are used to handle variable particulate matter sizes, then filtering effectiveness is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The filter comprises a pre-filter layer with larger pores (10-100 μm) for capturing large particulate matter and a main filter layer with smaller pores (1-10 μm) for capturing smaller particles. This segmented multi-layer structure effectively handles the variable size range of particulate matter in amniotic fluid without requiring complex external filtration systems.
3Productivity
If previous filtering techniques are used to remove particulate matter, then some filtration is achieved, but cell loss increases due to clogged pores
Solution Approach 1:
The segmented multi-layer filter structure with progressive pore size reduction (10-100 μm pre-filter, then 1-10 μm main filter) allows efficient particulate matter removal while maintaining open pores for cell passage. The pre-filter captures large contaminants that would otherwise clog the main filter and trap cells, thereby reducing cell loss while achieving effective filtration.
Solution Approach 2:
Different regions of the filter have different pore sizes optimized for different functions: the pre-filter layer has larger pores suited for capturing large particulate matter, while the main filter layer has smaller pores for capturing finer particles. This local quality variation ensures effective filtration across different particle size ranges while maintaining cell viability.
4Device complexity
If non-sterile filtering processes are used to simplify the apparatus, then device complexity is reduced, but sample quality deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The filter apparatus is designed as a disposable sterile unit that is pre-packaged and ready-to-use. This eliminates the need for complex sterilization procedures and repeated sterilization cycles, simplifying the overall process while ensuring sample quality. The disposable nature guarantees sterility without adding operational complexity.
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 provides efficient, sterile filtration with reduced clogging risk, enabling the recovery of a higher fraction of amniotic cells with improved quality, suitable for pharmaceutical applications.
Implementation Method 1
a filter for filtering the particulate matter from the amniotic fluid... in use, the amniotic fluid pass the filter when flowing from the fluid inlet to the fluid outlet, whereby particulate matter is deposited on the filter
Implementation Method 2
an inlet connector arranged to form a sealing connection between the fluid inlet and an amniotic fluid sample source
Data Source
AI summary
An apparatus for filtering amniotic fluid containing particulate matter and amniotic cells is disclosed, comprising a filter for filtering the particulate matter from the amniotic fluid, a chamber enclosing the filter, wherein the chamber comprises a fluid inlet and a fluid outlet, and an inlet connector arranged to form a sealing connection between the fluid inlet and an amniotic fluid sample source, wherein, in use, the amniotic fluid pass the filter when flowing from the fluid inlet to the fluid outlet, whereby particulate matter is deposited on the filter and the amniotic fluid flows through the fluid outlet containing amniotic cells.