Aseptic Sampling Assembly with Segmented Sub-Conduits
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional aseptic sampling techniques for cell cultures are elaborate, time-consuming, and prone to contamination, limiting the frequency and efficiency of sampling, which is critical for monitoring and optimizing cell culture processes.
Innovation Solution
A sampling assembly and system that includes a first conduit with sub-conduits and sampling kits, where each sampling kit is pre-coupled to a sub-conduit, allowing for aseptic sampling without the need for repeated attachment and minimizing residual sample carryover, utilizing pumping devices for purging to maintain sterility and facilitate multiple sampling instances.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If conventional sampling techniques are used to withdraw samples from the culture vessel, then sampling can be performed, but the risk of contamination increases and sampling frequency is limited
Solution Approach 1:
The system divides the sampling function into multiple independent sampling ports (first sampling port, second sampling port, third sampling port) that can be used separately. Each port has its own dedicated tubing and sampling bag connection, allowing multiple samples to be taken simultaneously or sequentially without cross-contamination, thereby enabling higher sampling frequency while maintaining sterility.
Solution Approach 2:
The system introduces sampling bags as intermediary containers that connect to the culture vessel through sealed sampling ports. The sampling bags act as a barrier between the sterile culture environment and the external sampling equipment, allowing samples to be withdrawn without direct exposure of the culture vessel to potential contaminants. This intermediary mechanism enables frequent sampling while maintaining the integrity of the sterile system.
2Productivity
If multiple sampling instances are performed using separate tubing attachments, then sampling frequency increases, but the complexity of operation and contamination risk increase
Solution Approach 1:
The system combines multiple sampling functions into a single integrated setup with multiple sampling ports that are permanently installed on the culture vessel. All sampling operations use this unified system with pre-arranged tubing connections to sampling bags, eliminating the need to attach and detach different tubing for each sample. This merged system simplifies operation while enabling frequent sampling.
Solution Approach 2:
The sampling ports and tubing connections are pre-installed and prepared before the cell culture process begins. The system is configured in advance with multiple ready-to-use sampling pathways, so that during operation, samples can be taken immediately by connecting sampling bags to the pre-prepared ports without any setup or attachment steps, greatly simplifying the sampling operation.
3Quantity of substance
If sampling ports are invaded repeatedly to withdraw samples, then sampling can be performed, but contamination risk and system degradation increase
Solution Approach 1:
Instead of using a single sampling port that must be repeatedly invaded, the system segments the sampling function across multiple dedicated ports. Each port can be used independently for sampling operations, distributing the wear and potential contamination risk across multiple entry points rather than degrading a single port through repeated use.
Solution Approach 2:
The system employs disposable sampling bags that are connected to the sampling ports only during the sampling operation and then removed. These single-use sampling containers prevent contamination by being discarded after each use, while the permanent sampling ports on the culture vessel remain sealed and intact for future use without degradation from the sampling process itself.
Data Source
AI summary
A sampling assembly configured to be coupled to a sample source and facilitate aseptic sampling at one or more instances in time is provided. Further, the sampling assembly includes a first conduit having first and second ports, where the first port is configured to be coupled to the sample source. The sampling assembly also includes a plurality of sub-conduits having corresponding sub-ports, where each of the plurality of sub-conduits is operatively coupled to the first conduit at respective connector junctions. Also, each of the sub-ports is in fluidic communication with the first conduit. The sampling assembly also includes a plurality of sampling kits and one or more pumping devices. Further, each sampling kit is operatively coupled to a respective sub-port of a corresponding sub-conduit. Moreover, the one or more pumping devices are operatively and aseptically coupled to the second port of the first conduit.