Automated Fluid Circuit for Large-Volume Cell Processing
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current systems for processing large volumes of biological cell suspensions require multiple procedures and manual intervention, which are time-consuming and inefficient, especially when handling cryopreserved products that need careful temperature control.
Innovation Solution
A system comprising a disposable fluid circuit and a reusable hardware unit with a controller that automates the processing of biological cell suspensions by calculating the number of draws and volumes from source containers based on input parameters, allowing for one-time data entry and streamlined processing.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Manufacturing precision
If multiple procedures using multiple fluid circuits are used to process large volumes of biological cell suspensions, then the target concentration of cells can be achieved, but the processing time increases and manual intervention is required
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines multiple processing procedures into a single integrated fluid circuit that can handle large volumes of biological cell suspensions continuously. The circuit includes multiple containers connected in series, allowing the system to process entire large-volume suspensions (e.g., 6-8 liters) in one operation rather than requiring multiple separate procedures and circuits to be performed sequentially with manual intervention between them.
Solution Approach 2:
The single fluid circuit is designed to perform multiple functions: it can process large volumes of cell suspension, maintain cryopreservation temperatures throughout the circuit, and automatically control the entire processing sequence. The circuit serves as both the processing vessel and the temperature control medium carrier, eliminating the need for separate temperature control systems for each procedure.
2Temperature
If multiple procedures with separate fluid circuits are used for cryopreserved products, then temperature control is maintained, but the complexity of operation increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges temperature control functionality into the single fluid circuit itself by using the fluid within the circuit as the temperature control medium. The circuit is pre-filled with temperature-controlled fluid that maintains cryopreservation temperatures throughout all processing steps, eliminating the need for separate temperature control systems for each procedure.
Solution Approach 2:
The system uses the biological cell suspension itself as part of the temperature control mechanism. The suspension is drawn from cryopreserved containers and processed through the temperature-controlled circuit, where the fluid continuously circulates to maintain proper temperatures. The process self-regulates temperature without requiring external intervention for each temperature control step.
3Manufacturing precision
If manual monitoring and intervention are performed during cell processing, then processing accuracy is maintained, but productivity decreases
Solution Approach 1:
The system incorporates automated sensors and control mechanisms that continuously monitor processing parameters such as fluid flow rates, temperature, and pressure throughout the circuit. This feedback system automatically adjusts operating conditions to maintain processing accuracy without requiring manual monitoring or intervention, allowing the system to run unattended and increase productivity.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces manual mechanical operations with automated electronic control systems. The fluid circuit is equipped with automated pumps, valves, and sensors that control fluid flow and processing parameters electronically, eliminating the need for manual operation of each processing step while maintaining or improving processing accuracy through precise electronic control.
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 system enables efficient and automated processing of large volumes of biological cell suspensions with reduced manual intervention, improving processing speed and consistency while ensuring proper handling of cryopreserved products.
Implementation Method 1
a separation device, a fluid flow path in flow communication with the separation device
Data Source
AI summary
Automated systems and methods for processing a biological cell suspension are disclosed. The systems and methods allow for the processing of large volumes of a biological cell suspension contained in or more source containers.