Biomolecule Purification Units With Standardized Modular Cartridges
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing biomolecule purification processes require bulky apparatus, extensive infrastructure, complex operation, high risk of operator error, and diverse spare parts due to dissimilar processing units, complicating maintenance and increasing costs.
Innovation Solution
A process utilizing a simplified apparatus with series-connected processing units, each comprising an inlet, flow-controller, mixer, and device for performing operations, allowing for efficient purification with reduced operator error and simplified maintenance.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If traditional dissimilar processing units are used for different purification operations, then each unit can perform its specialized function, but the apparatus becomes bulky, requires extensive floor space, and has complex operation and maintenance
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies universality by designing a single processing unit that can perform multiple different purification operations (chromatography, filtration, concentration, viral inactivation) through interchangeable cartridges and configurable flow paths. This eliminates the need for separate specialized units for each operation, significantly reducing floor space while maintaining functional versatility.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements nesting by placing multiple functional cartridges (chromatography columns, filters, concentrators) within a single integrated processing unit housing. The cartridges are nested inside the unit and can be individually replaced, allowing multiple functions to coexist in a compact configuration that minimizes space requirements.
2Reliability
If multiple different processing units are used for various purification operations, then each operation can be performed with dedicated equipment, but the inventory of spare parts becomes large and maintenance becomes complicated
Solution Approach 1:
The unified processing unit design with standardized cartridges means that maintenance personnel only need to learn one system architecture and one set of replacement procedures, regardless of which specific purification operation is being performed. This universality dramatically simplifies training and maintenance while ensuring reliable operation across all functions.
Solution Approach 2:
The system segments functions into interchangeable cartridges that can be independently replaced. When maintenance is needed, only the specific cartridge requiring service is removed and replaced, rather than servicing the entire processing unit. This modular segmentation reduces spare parts inventory needs and simplifies maintenance procedures.
3Productivity
If externally-prepared processing liquids are used for different processing operations, then flexibility in process optimization is achieved, but operator error risk increases when the wrong liquid is provided at the wrong stage
Solution Approach 1:
The system incorporates self-service through automated liquid delivery where the processing unit itself manages the preparation and delivery of appropriate liquids to each cartridge based on programmed parameters. The system automatically selects and delivers the correct liquid (buffers, eluents, solvents) to each cartridge without requiring manual intervention, eliminating operator error while maintaining process optimization.
Solution Approach 2:
The system uses feedback mechanisms including sensors and controllers that monitor which cartridge is installed and automatically adjust liquid delivery parameters accordingly. The control system receives feedback from cartridge identification and automatically configures the appropriate processing conditions, preventing operator error while maintaining optimal process parameters.
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 process achieves efficient biomolecule purification with lower operational complexity, reduced space requirements, lower inventory of spare parts, and lower risk of operator error, while maintaining high processing efficiency.
Implementation Method 1
a multiple inlet flow-controller comprising two or more variable flow inlet valves for producing a bioprocessing liquid from at least two other liquids to be combined in a desired ratio
Implementation Method 2
at least one of said units is a unit for performing chromatographic purification of the target substance
Data Source
AI summary
A process for purifying a composition comprising water, a target substance, impurities and optionally cells, the process comprising the steps (A) and (B):(A) preparing a liquid feedstock by performing step (Ai) and/or (Aii) on the composition:(Ai) removing at least some of the cells from the composition;(Aii) concentrating the composition by removing water therefrom; and(B) passing the liquid feedstock through an apparatus comprising at least two processing units, each such unit producing a product stream containing purified target substance and optionally a waste stream comprising at least some of the impurities, wherein each unit comprises specified components (i) to (v). The units may be essentially the same except for a device they contain, leading to advantages in terms of simplicity, cost and ease of operation, lower risk of operator error, easier maintenance and lower inventory of spare parts.