Aseptic Fluid Coupling Sequence for Spill-Free Disconnection
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing fluid coupling devices in bioprocessing systems face challenges in aseptic disconnection, leading to potential biological contamination and fluid spillage during the disconnection process.
Innovation Solution
The development of single-use, aseptic disconnection fluid coupling devices that feature a specific sequence of mechanical steps for disconnection, including uncoupling a removable sleeve, rotating and translating coupling components, and closing internal valves to prevent reconnection and contamination.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If conventional fluid coupling devices are used for connection and disconnection, then operational flexibility is improved, but biological contamination and fluid spillage occur during disconnection
Solution Approach 1:
The coupling device performs preliminary actions by automatically closing the first valve in the first coupling and the second valve in the second coupling before the actual disconnection occurs. This preliminary valve closure prevents fluid leakage and contamination during the disconnection process, addressing the harmful effects while maintaining operational flexibility
Solution Approach 2:
The invention introduces an intermediary mechanism (the valve system) between the fluid path and the external environment. During disconnection, these valves act as intermediaries that close to block the fluid path, preventing direct exposure of sterile fluid to contamination sources while still allowing the coupling to be disconnected
2Object-affected harmful factors
If single-use aseptic disconnection devices are implemented, then biological contamination is prevented, but device complexity increases due to multiple mechanical steps
Solution Approach 1:
The invention merges multiple functions into integrated components: the valves are integrated within the coupling housings, the sleeve incorporates both sealing and actuating functions, and the disconnection sequence combines rotational and translational movements into a unified mechanical action. This integration reduces the number of separate components and simplifies the overall device structure while maintaining aseptic functionality
Solution Approach 2:
The coupling device performs self-service through its automatic valve closure mechanism that activates during the disconnection process itself. The mechanical movement required for disconnection automatically triggers the valve closure without requiring separate control systems or additional operational steps, thereby preventing contamination while keeping the device relatively simple
3Ease of operation
If removable sleeve is uncoupled first, then disconnection sequence is enabled, but fluid spillage risk increases during the transition
Solution Approach 1:
The critical preliminary action is the automatic closure of both valves immediately when the removable sleeve is uncoupled, before any fluid spillage can occur. This timing ensures that the fluid path is sealed during the transition period when the coupling is most vulnerable to leakage
Solution Approach 2:
The invention applies preliminary anti-action by pre-closing the valves to counteract the potential harmful effect of fluid spillage that would otherwise occur during sleeve removal. This preemptive valve closure neutralizes the risk before the disconnection process progresses to more vulnerable stages
Data Source
AI summary
Some fluid coupling devices described herein are configured for use in fluid systems for purposes of providing a single-use, aseptic disconnection functionality that substantially prevents fluid spillage when being disconnected. In some embodiments, the coupling portions cannot be functionally reconnected to each other after being disconnected from each other.