Beta Container Functional Element for Sterile Object Transfer
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing transfer systems for isolators in biopharmaceutical process engineering suffer from structural design limitations and inefficiencies in transferring objects, particularly due to the need for manual operations that can introduce contamination risks.
Innovation Solution
A functional element for a beta container system is introduced, which includes a transfer surface arranged within the beta port opening, allowing objects to be transferred without contacting the 'ring of concern' by using a bag to bridge the gap between the beta and alpha ports, and a movement device to vertically move the bag, enhancing the transfer process.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If objects are transferred through the beta port opening directly, then the transfer process is simple, but objects may contact the 'ring of concern' and become contaminated
Solution Approach 1:
A functional element with a transfer surface is introduced as an intermediary component between the bag and the alpha port. This transfer surface receives objects from the bag and transfers them to the alpha port, preventing direct contact between objects and the ring of concern while enabling controlled transfer through the port opening
Solution Approach 2:
The transfer process is segmented into distinct zones: the bag containing objects, the functional element with transfer surface, and the alpha port. This segmentation creates clear boundaries that prevent contamination while maintaining transfer efficiency
2Reliability
If manual operations are used to transfer objects, then the transfer process is flexible, but contamination risks increase
Solution Approach 1:
The functional element is designed to automatically receive objects from the bag and transfer them to the alpha port through gravity and mechanical interaction, eliminating the need for manual handling. The system serves itself by using the bag's movement and the functional element's structure to accomplish the transfer without human intervention
3Productivity
If the bag is freely positioned, then the system is simple, but objects may be blocked during transfer
Solution Approach 1:
The bag is made movable relative to the functional element, allowing it to be dynamically positioned during the transfer process. This dynamic positioning enables the bag to be moved out of the way to prevent blockages while maintaining a simple overall structure without complex automated positioning mechanisms
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 solution ensures safe and efficient transfer of objects by avoiding contact with potentially contaminated areas, reducing manual intervention, and preventing object blockages, thus maintaining a sterile environment.
Implementation Method 1
a movement device (90) to vertically move the bag (39)
Data Source
AI summary
A functional element for a beta container system for transferring objects, wherein the functional element has a transfer surface for transferring the objects through a beta port opening of a beta port of a beta container of the beta container system. The functional element can be arranged on the beta container in a defined arrangement, the transfer surface is arranged at least partially in the beta port opening in the defined arrangement, and a first bag section of a bag of the beta container is arranged in the defined arrangement between the beta port and the functional element. Also disclosed is a beta container system, transfer systems and a barrier system.