Aseptic Containment Filter Channel Layout for Ergonomic Access
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Existing containment means with aseptic working chambers are not ergonomically optimal for operators, as the space available in the working chamber is not utilized effectively due to the design of returning air channels and filter units, leading to suboptimal ergonomics and increased operating costs.
Innovation Solution
The design includes a returning air filter arranged at the opening of the returning air channel, which can project into the circulating air zone or merge linearly, along with a circulating air filter and decontamination arrangement featuring vaporizers and atomizing nozzles, allowing for improved ergonomics and efficient use of space by controlling air flow and decontamination processes.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of repair
If the widened inlet of the returning air channel is made larger to improve filter handling, then the ergonomics for the operator at the working position deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The returning air channel is divided into two separate channels, each with its own filter unit. This segmentation allows each channel to have a compact inlet design that does not interfere with operator ergonomics, while still providing adequate space for filter maintenance through the separated configurations
Solution Approach 2:
The filter units are positioned in different spatial dimensions and orientations within the returning air channels. By distributing the filters across multiple channels with different inlet positions, the design provides access pathways that do not compromise operator ergonomics at the working position
2Ease of repair
If filter units are installed at the inflow opening of returning air channels, then filter access is improved, but the space available in the working chamber for equipment is restricted
Solution Approach 1:
The filter units are extracted from the main working chamber volume and positioned within the returning air channels that are separate from the primary working space. This extraction allows filter access without occupying valuable working chamber volume for equipment placement
Solution Approach 2:
The filter units are nested within the returning air channel structures, which are themselves integrated into the containment means housing. This nesting arrangement allows filters to be accessible for maintenance without protruding into the working chamber space where equipment needs to be positioned
3Ease of repair
If operators must reach over filter units to access equipment, then filter accessibility is improved, but operator ergonomics and working efficiency deteriorate
Solution Approach 1:
By providing two separate returning air channels with filter units distributed across different locations, operators can access filters from different sides or positions without needing to reach over equipment in the working chamber, thereby maintaining working efficiency
Solution Approach 2:
The filter units are pre-positioned in the returning air channels at locations that are easily accessible for maintenance operations. This preliminary positioning ensures that filter changes can be performed without disrupting equipment operation or requiring operators to compromise their working position
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
This configuration enhances operator ergonomics, optimizes space usage in the working chamber, and reduces operating and system costs by ensuring efficient air flow and decontamination within the containment means.
Implementation Method 1
The laminar air flow introduced into the working chamber is guided via a returning air channel
Implementation Method 2
purified by filter units, into the circulating air zone situated above the working chamber
Implementation Method 3
a vaporizer positioned in the circulating air zone, or at least one atomizing nozzle
Implementation Method 4
the atomizing nozzle sprays the decontamination agent in the form of an aerosol with compressed air
Data Source
AI summary
The subject matter is the assembly of a containment means with an aseptic working chamber and associated decontamination arrangement. The working chamber is delimited at the bottom by a base, and above the working chamber is a circulating air zone, in which a circulating air filter with a circulating air fan is arranged. The circulating air zone and the working chamber are delimited towards the outside by a housing. At least a first returning air channel leads from the working chamber into the circulating air zone. A returning air filter is fluidically connected to the returning air channel, specifically is arranged facing the circulating air zone. The returning air filter can be arranged at the opening of the returning air channel into the circulating air zone or arranged in the circulating air channel, set back from the opening. The returning air filter and the circulating air filter are in the form of a plate filter or an exchangeable filter cartridge or a replaceable filter insert. A single returning air filter or a series of interacting returning air filters and a single circulating air filter or a series of interacting circulating air filters can be installed. Containment means in which larger volumes of air are to be processed also have a second returning air channel at or in which a returning air filter is also installed.