Automated Sequential Incubation in Continuous Fluid Processing
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current biological fluid processing systems require separation stages between successive incubation stages or manual steps for additional incubation, which are inefficient for sequential incubation processes.
Innovation Solution
A fluid processing system with a disposable circuit and reusable device that automates sequential incubation stages through a controller actuating pumps, clamps, and a separator to execute first and second incubation stages without intervening steps.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If separation stages are used between successive incubation stages, then the processing can be performed with current systems, but the processing time and operational complexity increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines multiple incubation stages into a single continuous processing loop, eliminating the need for separate separation stages between incubations. The fluid circuit allows the biological fluid to circulate through the incubation chamber multiple times sequentially, performing first, second, and subsequent incubation stages without interrupting the flow or requiring manual intervention.
Solution Approach 2:
The system maintains continuous circulation of the biological fluid through the incubation chamber, allowing uninterrupted sequential incubation. The pump continuously drives the fluid through the circuit, and the incubation chamber remains actively engaged in the incubation process throughout multiple stages without idle separation steps.
2Adaptability or versatility
If manual steps are used for additional incubation, then flexibility is maintained, but operator intervention and operational complexity increase
Solution Approach 1:
The system is designed to automatically perform multiple incubation stages without operator intervention. The controller programmatically controls the pump, clamps, and incubation chamber to execute the entire sequential incubation process autonomously, eliminating the need for manual steps while maintaining flexibility through programmable parameters.
Solution Approach 2:
The incubation chamber serves multiple functions by performing first, second, and subsequent incubation stages within the same chamber through continuous circulation. The single chamber is reused sequentially for different incubation steps, eliminating the need for multiple separate chambers or manual transfer operations.
3Productivity
If sequential incubation is implemented without separation stages, then processing efficiency improves, but system complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The fluid circuit is segmented into distinct functional zones including the pump, incubation chamber, and return pathways, allowing sequential incubation to occur within a modular continuous flow system. This segmentation enables efficient multi-stage processing while maintaining manageable system architecture through functional division.
Data Source
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AI summary
A fluid processing method and an associated system are provided. The fluid processing method includes a first and second incubation stage which are performed sequentially without any intermediate steps. The fluid processing method creates a second incubation fluid product from a biological fluid.