Biocontainer Assembly With Angled Capacitive Fill-Level Sensing
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional buffer management systems using weigh scales for liquid level detection in biocontainer bags are imprecise due to variations in liquid specific gravity and costly for multiple volume measurements.
Innovation Solution
A biocontainer assembly with a capacitive fill level sensor mounted on an angled support surface, detecting liquid volume in biocontainer bags through capacitive sensing, eliminating the need for weigh scales.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If weigh scales (load cells) are used for liquid level detection, then liquid volume can be measured, but measurement precision deteriorates due to variations in liquid specific gravity
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces the mechanical weigh scale system with a capacitive sensor system that directly measures liquid level. The capacitive sensor detects changes in capacitance caused by the liquid's dielectric properties, providing direct volume measurement without relying on weight-to-volume conversion that is affected by specific gravity variations.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent changes the measurement parameter from weight (mass) to electrical capacitance. By measuring capacitance changes that correlate directly with liquid volume and level, the system eliminates the need for specific gravity-based conversions and achieves more precise and reliable volume detection.
2Measurement precision
If weigh scales are used for multiple volume measurements, then liquid level can be detected, but device cost increases significantly
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces expensive mechanical load cells with cost-effective capacitive sensors. The capacitive sensing system uses electrical fields rather than mechanical components, significantly reducing hardware costs while maintaining or improving measurement capabilities across multiple measurement points.
Solution Approach 2:
The capacitive sensor system can serve multiple measurement functions with a single type of sensor, whereas weigh scales would require multiple separate measurement systems. The capacitive sensors can be deployed at various positions along the biocontainer to provide multiple volume measurements simultaneously, reducing overall system cost.
3Quantity of substance
If conventional buffer management systems are used, then buffer solutions can be stored, but liquid volume detection accuracy deteriorates due to specific gravity variations
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces the weight-based detection system with a capacitive detection system that directly measures liquid volume through capacitance changes. This substitution eliminates the intermediate conversion step that introduces errors due to specific gravity variations, providing accurate volume detection for buffer solution management.
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
Provides precise liquid volume detection and reduces costs by enhancing the accuracy and efficiency of buffer solution management in bioprocessing applications.
Implementation Method 1
The capacitive fill level sensor is configured to generate a fill level signal indicative of the amount of material within the storage volume of the biocontainer bag
Data Source
AI summary
A biocontainer assembly includes a biocontainer bag, a support frame, and a capacitive fill level sensor. The biocontainer bag defines a storage volume. The support frame includes a shelf having a support surface disposed at an oblique angle with respect to a horizontal axis. The capacitive fill level sensor is mounted to the support surface and is configured to generate a fill level signal indicative of the amount of material within the storage volume of the biocontainer bag.